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Brakes on direct-drive power presses

Summary A manufacturer asked how mechanical power-press rules applied to direct-drive presses. OSHA said their operating characteristics matched part-revolution clutches, so the cited rule required a self-engaging brake activated when the drive disconnected.
Document
Federal opinion letter
Agency
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Document number
1975-11-07
Date issued
November 7, 1975
Status
Active
Status last verified October 10, 2026
Topics
Workplace Safety OSHA 1910 Machine Guarding Power Presses
Source
View the official document

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About this page: The full text below is the official document from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Ezel adds the plain-English summary and tracks the document's status. The official source linked on this page is authoritative for any reliance.

November 7, 1975

Mr. Charles S. Jones
Safety Supervisor
FMC Corporation, Chain Division
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Mr. Jones:

This is in response to your letter dated September 30, 1975, concerning direct drive presses.

Within the definition of "direct drive", in 29 CFR 1910.211(d)(7), direct drive presses match the same operational characteristics of "part revolution clutches." Therefore, since direct drive is classified with part revolution it shall meet the requirements contained in 29 CFR 1910.217(b)(7) (Mechanical Power Presses) by having a self-engaging brake that is activated when the drive is disconnected.

Thank you for your interest in occupational safety and health. If I may be of any further assistance, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

John K. Barto, Chief
Division of Occupational
Safety Programming

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