WORKSAFE WA has issued a reminder on the importance of adequately guarding power take-offs (PTOs) after noting a number of serious injuries involving unguarded power take-offs.
According to WorkSafe WA, guarding of the moving parts of any machinery is crucial, but power take-offs are an area of particular concern, particularly in the agriculture industry.
Common reasons for injuries involving PTOs involve clothing and body parts being caught in unguarded rotating shafts. These incidents can result in amputations.
Three different guards are required for PTOs in order to make all the moving parts safe. These include guards on the power output coupling, the implement power input coupling and the power take-off shaft.
WorkSafe WA says the guards must meet the relevant Australian Standard and be the correct size and length for the application.
Additional safety measures should be taken when working with PTO equipment. Procedures include disengaging the power drive, stopping the tractor engine, ensuring controls are in neutral and the hand brake is applied, removing the engine key, and waiting for all movement to cease before attempting to clear blockages. Blockages need to be cleared with a tool.
Guards should be checked regularly for wear and damage, and damaged guards must be replaced before the PTO is used.