Who should be allowed to operate a machine?
Only people trained on that machine, checked in practice and formally approved, with records kept.
Only people who have been trained on that specific machine, shown they can run it safely and been formally approved by the employer. Everyone else should not operate or adjust it.
What authorization usually involves
- Training on the machine’s hazards, controls and emergency stops
- A practical demonstration observed by a competent person
- A written record of who is approved and for which tasks
- Periodic refreshers, and retraining after changes or incidents
Levels of access
Operating, setting up and maintaining are different jobs. Someone approved to run a press may not be approved to change its tooling. Keep the levels separate.
Backing it up with technology
Key switches, badge readers or login-protected controls can limit who starts or changes settings. They support a good training programme; they don’t replace one.
Visitors and new starters
New workers, temporary staff and visitors often face the most risk. Keep them away from machines until training is complete.
General information, not compliance advice. Related: lockout/tagout.