The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) today issued an updated National Emphasis Program (NEP) on Amputations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, manufacturing employers report that 2,000 workers suffered amputations in 2013.

“Workers injured from unguarded machinery and equipment can suffer permanent disability or lose their lives,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. “This directive will help ensure that employers identify and eliminate serious workplace hazards and provide safe workplaces for all workers.”

According to OSHA’s press release, the directive updates the 2006 NEP on Amputations and applies to general industry workplaces in which any machinery or equipment likely to cause amputations are present. OSHA states that “Inspections will include an evaluation of employee exposures during operations such as: clearing jams; cleaning, oiling or greasing machines or machine pans; and locking out machinery to prevent accidental start-up.”