Potential Hazards with Press Brakes

September 5th 2007

Press Brake OperationWhen the press brake is set-up and running, and your operator is experienced with the sheets and steps involved, it seems like a pretty easy process. The operator is doing fine with the foot pedal and you can go back to taking care of business.

What about the safety of your press brake operator? While you go back to business, there are many ways the skilled operator could become injured. Here are the official guidelines from OSHA:

  • Although most press brake operations do not require the operators to place their hands or any part of their body into the point of operation, exposure to point of operation injuries still exists. Sometimes as the piece part bends up, a hazard may be created between the part and the front face of the slide.

  • Operating controls, especially foot pedals, introduce the possibility of accidental cycling.

  • In forming large pieces, the operator must hold the stock and cycle the press with a foot pedal. As the work stroke begins, the stock will move up or down, creating a hazard.

  • Power transmission components should be totally enclosed.

  • The work area should be neat with non-slip floor preparation.



    • For ultimate safety while operating a press brake, there is always the AKAS II Automatic Press Brake Safety System. With the Fiessler safety laser light guard protecting your operators, you can go back to business with peace of mind.

    Posted in Press Brake Safety |