Whether you’re working with duct forming lines or roll forming machines, accidents can happen regardless of experience level. Here at Mestek Machinery, we’ve been thinking about relevant information we can share to our customers to properly handle our metal fabrication machines, and apply these rules of thumb to all parts of their shop. By building a standard of safety first, last and always, here are some of the building blocks to help you get started:
The Importance of Training
Initial training or an orientation process should be implemented immediately after the installation of certain types of machinery. Utilizing things like video content, pulling internal experts for all of your machines and written materials to study are all great ways to learn a new machine. Any certifications that may be needed should be obtained within this period of time as well. In the case that you have a new hire, take the first few days of their employment for them to ask questions, especially if it is their first manufacturing job. Having experienced employees pair off and help new hires is also a great way to not only get to know the machines safely but can help with acclimating as well.
Further Education
There are workers on any floor that have probably been working for tens of years to the point where they can operate a machine with almost no thought at all. With technologies advancing year over year, it’s nice to have a refresh every few years to make sure everyone is in top form.
Know OSHA Standards
OSHA — or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration — is the overarching authority for all things manufacturing and construction related. To keep your employees safe and to keep out of trouble, make sure to be in the know on the things they highlight for sheet metal fabrication. Some obscure rules like the walking/working surfaces, electrical hazards and machine guarding can cost you a pretty penny if your shop isn’t up to par.
Have The Right Equipment
As technology advances, safety features on machines are starting to become the norm, and in many cases, are required. Make sure to check if there are any add-ons that can be retrofitted to older machines, and check if it is worth it to replace the machine altogether if it poses a large enough risk. A good example of built-in safety features on a machine is the Roto-Die Light Curtain Safety System which is an option to Mestek Machinery’s press brake machines. These light curtain safety systems can also be purchased so that they can be retrofitted to any Roto-Die Hydraulic Bender.
Know (And Use) Your Resources
No matter the machine, there is usually an aftermarket team there to help if something seems off or astray with your machine. However, having designated experts within your shop for different machines, processes, and techniques for different points of view and experience levels as immediate and in-person resources gives your shop a big boost. The OSHA website updates their standards every 3 years, so don’t be afraid to reach out to other people in the industry at trade shows, read trade magazines, user manuals, and white papers — whatever you can get your hands on will help.
In conclusion, it’s easy to prioritize and make simple changes around your shop that could make a world of difference with conduct and safety.