The findings of a scientific study suggest some safety guidelines for workers carrying out maintenance or repairs on industrial machines operating in reduced speed and force mode (i.e., reduced energy). Section 189.1 (previously 186) of the Quebec Regulation respecting occupational health and safety (ROHS) provides a regulatory framework designed to prevent situations in which moving parts can cause serious or even fatal occupational injuries. Nevertheless, the provision does not indicate any specific speed, force, contact pressure or energy values to be met.

The researchers began their study by assessing current knowledge about these values. They then visited 9 companies and studied 16 situations involving work on machines in order to understand how companies go about applying ROHS section 189.1.