CNC Machine Pre-Operation Safety Checklist

This checklist ensures CNC machines are safely prepared for operation per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.212 Machine Guarding, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 Control of Hazardous Energy (LOTO), and ANSI B11.6 Safety Requirements for Turning Machines. Designed for CNC operators and machine shop supervisors.

  • Industry: Manufacturing / Machining
  • Frequency: Pre-operation (each setup or shift start)
  • Estimated Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Role: CNC Operator / Machine Shop Supervisor
  • Total Items: 23
  • Compliance: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.212 Machine Guarding, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 Control of Hazardous Energy, ANSI B11.6 Safety Requirements for Turning Machines, ANSI B11.8 Safety Requirements for Milling Machines

Machine Guarding

Guards and enclosures in place before operation.

  • Full enclosure guard / door interlock in place and functional?
  • Door interlock stops spindle when enclosure opened?
  • Chip and coolant shields in place?
  • No safety interlock bypasses in place?

Tooling and Workholding

Tool mounting, workholding, and setup verification.

  • All tools properly seated and clamped in holders/collets?
  • Chuck jaws or fixture properly tightened and not protruding excessively?
  • Tool lengths set in controller and verified against setup sheet?
  • Workpiece secure in fixture / chuck with no shift during test movement?

Control Verification

CNC controller and program verification before cutting.

  • CNC program verified against setup sheet - correct program number loaded?
  • Dry run (air cut) completed at reduced feedrate for new setups?
  • Work coordinate offsets (G54-G59) confirmed correct?
  • Rapid override at reduced setting for first piece run?

Coolant and Chip Management

Coolant system and chip evacuation.

  • Coolant level in reservoir adequate?
  • Coolant nozzles directed at cutting zone?
  • Chip conveyor or chip tray clean and functioning?

Work Area and Housekeeping

Machine area safety and housekeeping.

  • Machine area floor clean and free of oil, chips, or trip hazards?
  • Safety glasses and appropriate PPE worn by operator?
  • No loose clothing, jewelry, or unsecured hair near rotating equipment?
  • Emergency stop button location confirmed and functional?
  • Issues identified before operation start

Lockout/Tagout for Maintenance

LOTO compliance when performing maintenance or clearing jams.

  • Machine-specific LOTO procedure posted on or near machine?
  • Personal lock and LOTO devices available at machine?
  • Operator trained on LOTO procedures for this machine?

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Why Use This CNC Machine Pre-Operation Safety Checklist?

This cnc machine pre-operation safety checklist helps manufacturing / machining teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for cnc operator / machine shop supervisor professionals, this checklist covers 23 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: pre-operation (each setup or shift start).

Ensures compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.212 Machine Guarding, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 Control of Hazardous Energy, ANSI B11.6 Safety Requirements for Turning Machines, ANSI B11.8 Safety Requirements for Milling Machines. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the CNC Machine Pre-Operation Safety Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 23 inspection items across 6 sections: Machine Guarding, Tooling and Workholding, Control Verification, Coolant and Chip Management, Work Area and Housekeeping, Lockout/Tagout for Maintenance. It is designed for manufacturing / machining operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed pre-operation (each setup or shift start). Each completion takes approximately 10-15 minutes.

Who should use this CNC Machine Pre-Operation Safety Checklist?

This checklist is designed for CNC Operator / Machine Shop Supervisor professionals in the manufacturing / machining industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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