Conveyor systems are cost-effective and efficient but can be dangerous, so safety training is crucial. Workers should avoid standing on the conveyor, wear appropriate clothing and eye protection, and position themselves away from moving objects. Retarders and alarm systems can also help prevent accidents. During maintenance or repair, the system should be shut down completely and only trained professionals should work on it.
Conveyor systems are found in all types of industrial environments, from warehouses to factories and even construction sites. While these systems are exceptionally cost-effective and efficient, they can also be dangerous, so conveyor safety must be a top priority for all workers surrounding the machinery. Whenever possible, employees should undergo conveyor safety training so that everyone near the machinery understands the system’s hazards, procedures, and emergency shutdown options. All operators should receive additional training on efficient and safe use of the machine, as well as basic maintenance.
One of the most important conveyor safety tips is to prevent people from sitting, standing, or otherwise remaining on the conveyor at any time. These systems are designed to transport materials and objects, not humans in most cases; clothing and limbs can become entangled in the carrying system, potentially causing injury or death, as well as damage to the machine itself. Loose clothing should never be worn around the machine and long hair should be tied back. Many companies require the use of hard hats and eye protection as part of carrier safety procedures.
Proper positioning while using the carrier system is also important. This means workers should avoid standing in areas where they are likely to be hit by objects being carried on the conveyor belt. Some conveyor safety features are built into the machine; retarders are metal sledges between sections of rollers that will slow down objects as they move along a conveyor system. If the conveyor is an unpowered system that relies on gravity to move objects, retarders should be strategically placed within the system to slow objects down and protect workers from fast-moving objects. Workers should ensure that they can see items arriving along the conveyor system at all times; if this is not possible, alarm systems such as alarms should be installed.
One of the most common safety hazards on a conveyor system occurs during maintenance or repair procedures. To ensure conveyor safety, the entire system must be shut down completely and, if possible, disconnected from power sources, before carrying out any maintenance. Only trained professionals should work on conveyor systems, as the risk of injury still exists even if the entire system is turned off. No objects or materials should be left on the conveyor system during repair or maintenance, as this leaves open the risk of objects moving unintentionally along the conveyor.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
