Glossary · Hazards and harm
Pinch point
In machine safety, a pinch point is a location where a body part can be caught between two moving parts, or between a moving part and a fixed part.
- Machine safety
- Risk assessment
- Technical documentation
In one sentence
A pinch point is a place on a machine where converging parts, or a moving and a fixed part, can catch and squeeze fingers or hands.
Example
Between the closing lid and the frame of a thermoforming machine there is a pinch point; the lid is interlocked, and a label at the hinge warns of hand pinching.
How it applies
- Machine safety: Pinch points occur at closing lids, clamps, grippers, scissor lifts, linkages and wherever a moving part approaches a fixed one. Enlarge the gap so the body part fits, narrow it so the body part cannot enter, or guard the location. The typical harm is crushing.
- Technical documentation: Pinch points are a common subject of safety signs at the machine. Use the same term and location description on the sign, in the manual and in the risk assessment.
- Maintenance: Pinch points that are guarded in operation can become accessible during setting and maintenance. State the measures for those tasks.
- Evidence: Record each pinch point with its gap dimensions and measure.
Pinch point vs. nip point
A nip point pulls a body part in through rotating or running motion; a pinch point traps it between converging parts. In US usage “pinch point” is often used broadly, so define both in your terminology.