Conveyors can present some pretty serious risks because moving parts like the belt or rollers can catch clothing or loose objects, but a few simple habits can prevent most problems and keep everything running smoothly. Let’s take a look at some important conveyor safety tips.
Keep people clear of moving parts
Guards should always stay in place around belts, pulleys and pinch points. Reaching into a moving conveyor to clear a blockage is never worth the risk, even if it looks as though you could reach in quickly. You always need to stop the machine first and make sure it’s isolated and locked off before you reach in. This applies to cleaning and adjustments too.
Don’t wear loose clothes around the machinery, and remove any jewellery and tie up long hair. Emergency stop buttons need to be easy to reach and tested regularly. In systems using pneumatic conveying, pressure must be released safely before maintenance begins. Installers such as this one www.aptech.uk.com/pneumatic-conveying-systems can also advise on safe access and system layout.
Make safety part of the routine
Things like spilt materials and clutter around the conveyor can create hazards or get pulled into the machinery, so keep things clean and tidy. On top of this, all staff working around conveyors should know how the system works and what warning signs to look for.
So, creating these clear procedures and using a bit of common sense should keep you and everyone around you safe. Conveyors are invaluable pieces of equipment, but only when nobody is taking shortcuts around them.
