A mechanical hazard is a danger arising from machinery, tools, or vehicles that can cause harm or injury.

 A mechanical hazard is a danger arising from machinery, tools, or vehicles that can cause harm or injury. These hazards can include moving parts, sharp edges, hot surfaces, and other components that pose risks of cuts, burns, crushing, entanglements, or falls. 

Key aspects of mechanical hazards:

Source:

They stem from machinery, equipment, tools, and vehicles used in workplaces or other environments. 

Types of Hazards:

Moving Parts: Rotating or reciprocating parts can cause entrapment, crushing, or lacerations. 

Sharp Edges: Tools and machinery can have sharp edges that lead to cuts or punctures. 

Hot Surfaces: Machinery may have hot surfaces that can cause burns. 

Entanglement: Clothing, hair, or other objects can be caught in moving parts, leading to serious injuries. 

Potential Injuries:

Mechanical hazards can result in a range of injuries, including cuts, burns, crushing, fractures, and even amputations. 

Prevention:

Safety measures include guarding machinery, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), following proper operating procedures, and ensuring proper maintenance of equipment. 

Examples of mechanical hazards: 

Workshops:

Moving parts on machinery, tools with sharp edges, hot surfaces on machines, and tripping hazards like cords. 

Laboratories:

Equipment with moving parts, sharp instruments, and chemicals in containers that could spill and cause cuts or burns. 

Domestic Service:

Stairs, steps, and even some household appliances can pose mechanical hazards. 

Automated guided vehicles (AGVs):

AGVs, with their moving parts, can also create mechanical hazards.