What should be done after making repairs to machinery before it is put back in operation?

After making repairs to machinery, it is crucial to replace all guards and shields before putting the equipment back into operation. Guards and shields are safety features designed to protect operators and maintenance personnel from moving parts and potential hazards. Ensuring that these components are correctly reinstalled not only complies with safety regulations but also helps to prevent accidents and injuries during equipment use.

When machinery is repaired, it may have been disassembled, and guards could have been removed to access internal components. Failing to replace these guards can expose operators to risks they are trained to avoid. This step reinforces the importance of workplace safety and proper operational procedures, thereby promoting a culture of safety awareness among workers.

While inspecting the work area, testing the machinery for functionality, and notifying other workers are all important steps in the maintenance process, they do not specifically address the critical safety aspect that guards and shields offer, making replacement of these components a priority before any machine is put back into service.