OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry course

How should fixed machinery be secured?

1. Loosely anchored to allow movement

2. Securely anchored to prevent walking or moving

3. Only secured if it is very large

4. Fixed without anchoring is acceptable

The correct answer is: Securely anchored to prevent walking or moving

Fixed machinery should be securely anchored to prevent walking or moving during operation. This is crucial for maintaining stability and ensuring the safety of workers in the vicinity. Proper anchoring mitigates the risk of equipment displacement, which can lead to accidents such as collisions or falls, and helps in reducing vibration that could potentially damage both the machinery and surrounding structures. When machinery is securely anchored, it operates more safely and effectively, contributing to an overall safer work environment. This practice is aligned with OSHA standards, which emphasize the importance of equipment stability as part of a broader approach to occupational safety. By ensuring machinery is securely anchored, employers are actively taking steps to protect their employees from hazardous conditions that may arise from equipment instability.