What Are Machine Tools, and What Happens When Machines Malfunction?

Machine tool maintenance and repair encompass a broad range of services. Equipment used to repair machine tools as well as some of the products shaped and honed by these companies, including sharp pieces of sheet metal, are hazardous.

How do machine tools work? When working properly, machine tools often remove materials for small-scale production, service, or repair purposes. To cut down on machine tool repairs and avoid critical injuries, officials should carefully lubricate all machine parts. Regularly checking machines’ alignment and oil levels, if applicable, will also help eliminate unnecessary repairs or malfunctioning equipment.

Are Workers Risking Critical — Or Even Fatal — Injuries?

Sometimes, accidents are inevitable. Although worker safety is in part management’s responsibility, machine tool repair service workers (especially those working in relatively small environments!) also need to use common sense and carefully adhere to all safety measures. Wearing the proper personal protective equipment, for example, is critical. Steel toe boots, gloves, hardhats, and safety goggles go a long way to keep workers safe. Typically, all equipment is designed to meet strict standards by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). “Protective hats for head protection against impact blows must be able to withstand penetration and absorb the shock of a blow. In some cases hats should also protect against electric shock,” The U.S. Department of Labor explains.

Are machine tool repair service workers in danger? Working with machines is, simply put, dangerous. In order to avoid injury, management should carefully make certain all machines and machine parts are regularly inspected and strictly enforce the use of personal protective equipment.