TIP OF THE MONTH: Safety first
“Safety first” is a phrase many of us know from the 2013 comedy fiction series. Unfortunately, safety in and around machinery is no joke, but a serious matter that deserves our constant attention. Apart from the immediate suffering and rehabilitation, accidents result in an enormous cost due to lost working hours and disrupt the organisation through the loss of personnel and the damage that needs to be addressed.
It goes without saying that we use the necessary personal protective equipment to carry out our work, yet far too often on construction sites gloves and eye protection are omitted during operations, for whatever reason. In addition to personal protective gear, the use of appropriate lifting aids is also a crucial way to prevent injuries. It would not be the first time someone trips when jumping from a low height (for example, climbing down without a ladder) or injures their back after realising that a load is just a little heavier than expected. Incorrectly assessing tasks where tools or materials may come loose is another common cause of injury. A short discussion to define the working method and to identify and mitigate risks before starting a job is never a bad idea.
Visibility on site is a very important factor in preventing collisions. Making yourself visible and establishing visual contact with the machine operator is not only courteous, but can also save your life. Machines used in the recycling industry are generally equipped with numerous safety features such as emergency stops, pull cords and protective guards on moving parts. In addition, delayed start-up and shut-down sequences allow bystanders time to move away safely if necessary. The most important rule remains: stay clear when machines are in operation.
To avoid accidents between machines themselves and between machines and people, other measures can also be implemented, such as audible warning signals while driving and sensors that detect nearby personnel.
In this context, the site layout can also be adapted by using, for example, conveyor belts to stock larger volumes, thereby reducing or eliminating traffic around the processing area. We can also make use of adapted equipment, such as cranes with elevating cabs for improved visibility in recycling applications, or machines with increased stability thanks to wider undercarriages or stabilising outriggers. Air quality in the working environment and dust levels in the processing area may also make filtered cab air or misting systems necessary.
Well-trained personnel who understand what machines are capable of and what the associated risks are are less likely to suffer injuries and take better care of both the equipment and themselves. Ask your supplier about the possibilities to make your operations safer and more reliable.
In short, accidents always happen when you least expect them—but please let them result only in material damage and not in human suffering. Safe travels and make it home safely!
