Good Connections Magazine

G O O D CO N N E C T I O N S | FA L L 2 0 1 4 8 Understanding Machine Hazards Helps Minimize Workplace Risks By Elizabeth Lisiecki, Product Manager, Equipment, Alpine M achines can greatly assist in improving workplace production efficiency. However, machines have moving parts, sharp edges and hot surfaces that have the potential to cause severe workplace injuries. There are a variety of hazards associated with the use of truss-manufacturing equipment. The hazards vary based on the type of machine, the machine's age and its features. It is the operator's responsibility to know and understand machine safety issues and understand how to control the risks associated with them. Here are some general machine safety tips: Setup and Maintenance ✓ Dissipate and lock out all energy before conducting any work or making any changes to the machine. Energy accumulation devices must be "bled down." ✓ Verify that you are using only factory- authorized replacement parts. Substitute parts may not be made of the proper materials, and will increase the risk of breakage or overheating. ✓ Ensure the proper programs are running to prevent breakage of work pieces or tools. ✓ Implement and follow a regular preventative maintenance program. Before and During Operation ✓ Wear proper protective gear. Eye and ear protection, gloves and steel-toed shoes are recommended. ✓ Secure loose clothing and hair. Remove jewelry. ✓ Keep machines well lubricated and cooled. Keep dust to a minimum. Watch for slip hazards around the machine. ✓ Guard against flying chips and debris. ✓ Ensure that all machine guarding and safety features are in place and working properly. Cleanup ✓ Always sweep away chips. Do not use compressed air for cleanup. Fast-moving chips can cause safety hazards and become embedded in sensitive electronic components. ✓ Recheck guarding and safety features. Do not operate machines without safety features in place. ✓ Eliminate slip and trip hazards from the work area. Machine operators must continuously watch for potential safety hazards. Special attention is required during start and stop, when feeding material, and around moving parts and parts that release energy. Always refer to the manufacturer's manuals for helpful tips and recommended procedures. A comprehensive safety program will raise awareness in the facility and significantly reduce the chances of an accident. n Elizabeth Lisiecki joined ITW in 2007 and has more than 25 years of engineering and marketing experience. She is based in the Vernon Hills, Illinois, office. Sources: • Machine Safety Guide, Industrial Accident Prevention Association (www.iapa.ca) • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) SAFETY MATTERS SAFETY TIP Always wear eye protection! Did you know that about 2,000 eye injuries occur every day in U.S. workplaces? Almost 70 percent of accidents happen because of flying or falling objects. And would you believe, most of the objects are smaller than the head of a pin? Source: Vision Service Plan (www.vsp.com)

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