ANSI Warning This Machine Starts Automatically Sign Stickers with Pinch Point Hand Crush Graphic

The hand crush graphic depicts the specific injury mechanism associated with automatic start pinch point hazards a hand or finger caught between moving machine parts such as gears, belts, or rollers when the machine activates unexpectedly. The graphic makes the nature of the hazard immediately clear even to workers who may not fully read the text, improving both comprehension and compliance.

ANSI Z535.4 recommends graphic hazard symbols because visual depictions of the injury mechanism are processed faster than text and better retained in memory. In high-noise manufacturing environments and facilities with diverse language backgrounds, a graphic communicates the hazard effectively regardless of language or noise level.

Post directly at the pinch point location on the machine on or adjacent to exposed gears, belt drives, rollers, and any point where automatic machine activation creates an entrapment or crush risk. Also post on the control panel and at worker approach positions so the warning is visible at the exact point of hazard.

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.212 (General Machine Guarding) addresses machine guarding including pinch point protection. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.217 (Mechanical Power Presses) covers power press pinch point hazards. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 (Lockout Tagout) addresses the automatic start component. All three apply to automatic machinery with exposed pinch points.

Danger is appropriate where automatic activation and pinch point contact could cause fatal or severely disabling injuries such as large industrial presses or high-speed conveyor drives. Warning is appropriate where the risk is significant but the potential injury is assessed as serious but not immediately life-threatening. Consult ANSI Z535.4 and your safety officer for specific equipment.