TAMPERING OF SAFEGUARDS Tampering with safeguards renders them ineffective or massively impairs their function. As a consequence, machines are used in a way that was not intended, or protective measures defined by the manufacturer are defeated. How tampering takes place is irrelevant in the first instance. Accident statistics show that many companies underestimate the risk of tampering. Both the machine manufacturer and operating company are legally obliged to comply with specifications to protect the operator. With this in mind, there are relevant standards that need to be considered and implemented, both in the manufacturer's design of the machine and when operated by the operating company. Should an employee be injured when operating a machine, both parties must expect to face consequences under criminal law. Particularly if the accident was caused by a safeguard that has been tampered with. CANADIAN AUTOMATION VOLUME 4, ISSUE 2 8