What preliminary action should you take before starting work on machinery alignment?

Before beginning work on machinery alignment, it is crucial to conduct a risk assessment. This preliminary action helps identify potential hazards associated with the machinery and alignment tasks. A risk assessment allows a technician to evaluate the environment and the specific equipment in use, ensuring that necessary precautions are taken to prevent accidents or equipment damage during the alignment process. This practice reflects a proactive approach to safety and reliability, highlighting the importance of understanding and mitigating risks before any physical work is initiated.

While taking a quick reading may provide some initial measurements, it does not address the broader safety considerations that must be prioritized. Familiarity with the machinery manual and reviewing prior maintenance records can also be helpful but, ultimately, these actions do not take the place of an essential risk assessment that safeguards both personnel and machinery.