ABSTRACT
Machinery and equipment have been evolved to meet a need whether for producing, changing or moving materials and components. Initially they were essentially functional with scant regard for the health and safety of those using them. But attitudes have changed and all work equipment must now be designed and built so that it does not put the user at risk of damage to health or injury. However, equipment does not work by itself – it needs someone to work it, drive it or, in the case of robots, tell it what to do. It is at this interface between equipment and operator that the risks to health and injury arise.
