There are as many hazards created by moving machine parts, as there are types of machines. Safeguards are essential for protecting operators from needless and preventable injuries. The need for machine guarding may be found in machine shops in academic departments, maintenance shops, print shops and other areas where mechanical equipment is used. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) require these safeguards when the machine parts, functions and processes may cause injury to the operator or others in the work area.

Safeguarding of moving parts is required at the point of operation, the power transmission apparatus and all other moving parts. The point of operation is the point where work is performed, such as cutting, shaping, forming or boring. The power transmission apparatus is the part of the machine that transmits energy to the area where work is performed. These components include flywheels, pulleys, belts, connecting rods, couplings, cams, spindles, chains, cranks and gears. Other moving parts include all parts of the machine that move while the machine is working.