The development of safety devices has been an evolutionary process.  Early  machines were built to make a product. Only after operators were injured did manufacture  prorealize that safety devices were required. Early attempts to add safety devices covered as identified from a history of accidents.  As time passed and different types of  accidents occurred, new and better safety devices were added to machines. 
           The machines being produced today are generally  considered  safe.  However, with changes in technology new sets of circum-stances could result in accidents totally un-predicted by today’s manufacturers.

           This evolutionary process had meant that machines in use today are operated with varying degrees of safety. Machine owners, familial with their machine condition, operating procedures, and personnel, must take the responsibility for updating those machines not fully equipped with current safety devices.

            Table 2-4 provides a checklist as a guide in helping Injection Molding companies establish comprehensive information to meet thier individual needs.

            Examples of safety rules for Injection Molding follow:

            1. Do not operate the machine unless you have  been instructed  in  its operation and safety devices.

            2.Be certain all safety devices are working properly before operating the machine.

            3. If any safety equipment is missing, damaged, or inoperative, notify your supervisor immediately and do not operate the machine.

            4. Report any hazard to your supervisor, matter how minor it is.

            5. Report any open receptacles, junction boxes, bare wires, oil leaks, or water leaks to your supervisor.

            6. Keep oil and water off the floor around the machine.

            7. Keep the platform and work area clean.

            8. Use safety devices provided and do not pass, change, or otherwise make inoperative any such safety device or equipment.

            9. Shouting or horseplay is strictly forbiden.

           10. Never block fire extinguishers, fire exits, or other emergency equipment.

           11. Use only tools and equipment that are in good condition.

           12. When lifting, keep your back straight and lift with yourlegs. If the load is too heavy, get help or notify your supervisor.

           13. Report all injuries to your supervis immediately.

           14. Wear safety shoes and safety glasses all times.

           15. Follow  directions  for mold setup as posted on the setup sheet. No unauthorized deviations are to be made.

           16. Be sure barrel and mold temperatures are maintained. Report deviations  to your supervisor.

           17. Maintain correct hydraulic-oil temperature and level.

           18. Check to see that the nozzle tip is properly seated in the mold before starting.

           19. Check pressure gauges for proper settings. 

           20. When in doubt, ask your supervisor running.

           21. Never climb on the machine while it is running.
           22. Whenever you leave your machine, be sure it is turned off.

           23. At the start of each shift, be sure the machine is operating properly and that molding parameters are set properly.

           24. If the machine must be shut down, plastic materials should not be left in a plasticizing cylinder heated to operating temperatures.

           25. Material should never be left in the mold. Remove the molded parts and sprue before shutting down the machine. 
           26. Before working on the machine or between plates, be sure proper lockout procedures have been followed.

           27. When purging material from the plastizing cylinder or changing materials, be sure the compatibility of materials being used. Check with your supervisor for this information.    

           28. Follow all posted danger and caution signs.