How OSHA Standard 1910.212 Impacts EHS Managers in the Corrugated Packaging Industry

In the corrugated packaging industry, where machinery and equipment are the lifeblood of operations, the role of an Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Manager is crucial. The OSHA standard 1910.212, which focuses on machine guarding, directly influences the daily responsibilities and strategic planning of these professionals.

Understanding OSHA Standard 1910.212

OSHA 1910.212 mandates that one or more methods of machine guarding be provided to protect operators and other employees from hazards. For EHS Managers in corrugated packaging, this means ensuring that all machinery, from cutting machines to conveyors, adheres to these standards. The goal is to prevent injuries from moving parts, flying chips, and sparks.

Impact on EHS Managers

Risk Assessment: EHS Managers must conduct thorough risk assessments to identify potential hazards associated with machinery. This involves not just a one-time evaluation but continuous monitoring and reassessment as operations evolve.

Training and Compliance: Ensuring that all employees are trained on the proper use of machinery and the importance of machine guarding is a key responsibility. EHS Managers need to develop and implement training programs that align with OSHA 1910.212, keeping compliance at the forefront.

Incident Management: When incidents occur, EHS Managers are tasked with investigating the root causes, often related to machine guarding failures. They must then implement corrective actions to prevent future occurrences, which might involve upgrading or modifying existing guards.

Real-World Application

In my experience working with corrugated packaging facilities, I've seen firsthand how EHS Managers leverage OSHA 1910.212 to enhance safety. For instance, at one plant, we identified a recurring issue with a cutting machine where the guard was frequently bypassed. By redesigning the machine guard to be more user-friendly and conducting targeted training sessions, we significantly reduced the risk of injury.

Additional Resources

For those looking to deepen their understanding of OSHA 1910.212 and its application in corrugated packaging, the OSHA website offers detailed guidelines and case studies. Additionally, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) provides research and resources on machine guarding best practices.