Drive Mechanisms will be enclosed to prevent access to the inherent hazard. Drive Mechanisms include, but are not limited to:
- Timing Belt Drives
- Chain Drives
- Plastic-Belt Drives
- Gears
- Drive Shafts and Coupled Shafts
- Sprockets
- Pulleys
Fixed guards are preferred. If access to the drive mechanism is frequent (≥ 1X/shift), a movable, interlocked guard is more appropriate. Fixed guards that provide visibility of the drive condition support maintenance efforts. Hazard Notification should be placed on the guard, and on the drive area exposed when the guard is removed.
Drive mechanisms are accessed mostly by trained personnel with technical knowledge to maintain and repair.
