Posted By Danny Swygart Some points to consider: Is the opening accessible or is it safe by position? Would access be required for unblocking or maintenance procedures? Is there a safe system of work / isolation procedures in place if access is required?

Posted By Danny Swygart I agree with Chris that this "should" be the case, however in practice you will quite often find that it is not. You should refer to the manufacturers information but still risk assess it yourself. Ironing these things out at the purchase stage with your supplier saves a lot of hassle.

Posted By Ian Kenning When you say new, do you mean brand new or a new bit of kit you have aquired. I agree with the rest if it is brand new then the manufacturers/designers have responsibilities under the CONDAM regulations. If however, it is just a new bit of kit to you and a few years old then you will have to carry out a full risk assessment including Production processes and maintenance/breakdown requirements. This seems to be a dangerous bit of machinery without a guard even at five foot high. a fixed guard is the best guard with interlock keys that isolate and exhaust the system of energy when opened. (Fail to safety not to Danger). A safe sytem of work will be required and permit to work, especially when removing a fixed guard. If as you say it is big enough to fit a body through it must also be reachable to the hands/arms of the average person. Dont forget warning signs. Hope this Has helped. Ian Kenning.