What action must a worker take if they find that a machine's guard has been bypassed?

When a worker discovers that a machine's guard has been bypassed, the most appropriate action is to lock out the machine immediately. Locking out the machine is a critical safety measure that ensures that the machine cannot be operated until the guard is properly restored. This action protects not only the worker but also others in the vicinity from potential accidents or injuries that could arise from the unguarded machine. It establishes a clear safety protocol to prevent anyone from inadvertently starting the machine while it is in a hazardous condition.

While notifying a supervisor is also an important step, it should occur after the machine is securely locked out. Continuing to work with caution in the presence of a machine that has a compromised guard poses an extreme risk. Reporting to maintenance is necessary for resolving the issue, but it should follow the immediate action of locking the machine out to ensure safety first. Therefore, locking out the machine is the priority to mitigate danger effectively.