Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data indicate that approximately three-fifths of all work related amputations involved a worker's finger or arm getting caught or compressed by a piece of machinery such as a press or conveyer (BLS, 1997). Injury statistics compiled by OSHA indicated that 49 percent of the injuries from mechanical power presses resulted in an amputation.

Power presses are used to work on metal or other material with cutting, shaping, or combination dies attached to plungers, platens, or slides (rams). A press consists of a stationary bed or anvil, and a slide. The slide has a controlled reciprocating motion toward and away from the bed surface and at right angles to it. It is guided in the frame of the machine to give a definite path of motion. Power presses are used in a wide variety of industries to punch, shear, and form metal and other materials.

The types of power presses covered here include the following:

Important: Whenever working on or around any piece of machinery or equipment, an effective lockout/tagout program and eye and face protection must be provided for employee protection.