What type of devices are used on machinery for protection?

Guards are essential safety devices installed on machinery to protect operators and personnel from potential hazards. They create a barrier that prevents access to moving parts, sharp edges, and other dangerous areas during operation. By being a physical obstruction, guards significantly reduce the risk of injury from accidental contact with machinery while allowing the machine to function as intended.

In contrast, warnings alert individuals to hazards but do not provide physical protection; they rely on user awareness and compliance. Disconnects serve to cut off power in emergencies but do not provide a safeguard while the machinery is operating. Labels convey important safety instructions or warnings but lack the physical protective capabilities that guards offer. Thus, guards are specifically designed to ensure the safety of individuals working around machinery, making them the most effective choice for protection in this context.