Fabric-cutting machinery

• Danger areas should be clearly marked and access restricted by barriers, especially at cutting tables
• Warning signals should be fitted to indicate when blade is in motion on motorised and automatic cutting tables
• Trip guards or other devices in operation should be used to prevent access where lay up machines are in use
• Machines should be fitted with automatic adjustable guards to fully cover the exposed part of the cutting blade
• Make sure that electrical conductors in good condition
• Five-finger chain mail gloves should be available for use that fit all operators and worn at all times during cutting work and when handling blades
• Regularly check the condition of the light, guard and table fittings
• Put an effective cleaning system in operation that prevents build up of fluff, fly and off cuts
• Document a safe system of work for changing and disposing of cutter blades
• Old blades should be disposed of in a safe manner that precludes their use as DIY hand knives etc

Check the British Standards that apply to fabric cutting machinery.