What represents a major risk of injury to workers when dealing with machinery?

Unintentional startup of equipment represents a major risk of injury to workers when dealing with machinery due to the potential for sudden and unexpected movement. This can happen if safety protocols are not followed, such as failing to lockout/tagout equipment before servicing or repairing it. When machinery is inadvertently activated, workers may be caught off guard, leading to serious accidents, including severe injuries or fatalities.

In industrial environments, where heavy machinery is involved, ensuring that equipment is completely shut off and secured before maintenance starts is critical. This is why lockout/tagout procedures are vital to safety measures across various industries. Properly implementing these safety protocols significantly reduces the risk of accidents caused by unexpected machine operation.