Blades! They are what make up 99, if not 100% of the machines used within this industry. They enable us to get our tasks done with maximum efficiency. However, it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Cuts, lacerations, punctures, amputations, the list goes on. These are accidents that happen a lot more frequently than you’d expect. There are videos and pictures out there of blades sliced halfway through people’s face protection and masks, showing how safety literally saved them by a few inches from a really bad injury.
This is why you should make sure that all of your employees have a clear understanding of all the safety measures and protocols that are in place, to enable maximum security for everyone.
Here are just a few to mention:
- Make sure there is good lighting around the workspace to ensure maximum visibility.
- Make sure that any unnecessary debris or equipment is put away to eliminate the chances of tripping and falling over.
- Make sure you are using the right tool for the right job. If you find you are using the wrong blade for your work, it increases the chances of becoming injured drastically.
- Make sure the manufacturer’s instructions are adhered to when using and cleaning the machines.
- Make sure to frequently check up on the condition of the blade being used. As it becomes blunter, it will need more power and force to work, which in the long run, could result in damage to the actual machine itself.
- Make sure that the people that are going to use the machines received the appropriate training needed as this will reduce the chances of an injury happening immensely.
- Make sure all safety/lock features are on and working whilst operating. This is to ensure that the maximum protection protocols are active.
- Make sure that the Proper Personal Equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses and cut-resistant gloves are worn when operating in the case that the operative ends up getting in contact or close to the blade.
- Make sure the people using the machines know what parts of the machine to touch and not touch. For example, they should know that they should never get in contact with any moving/rotating piece of equipment.
- Use a pusher/stick when using a delivery chute or a feed hopper. NEVER USE YOUR HANDS!
- Make sure hair is tied, loose clothing/jewellery is put away and everything of that sort as it is possible for these things to get stuck within the machine.
- Make sure the power supply to the machine is off when trying to dislodge something that is stuck from the machine. This is because even when the power supply is off, kinetic energy is still bounded, which can release once the item is removed.
- If you ever remove a blade from a machine, ensure that it is put in some form of storage that is visible. A storage room/system is practically necessary when dealing with blades that are not in use.
- Do not use any machines if you are feeling drowsy, unwell or are under the influence of any medication that impairs your reflexes.
Over at ToolFrance, we promise a good quality machine and take pride in all of our products. We have never had any accidents occur when using our diverse range of products. To take a look at our products, head over to www.toolfrance.com, or give us a call on UK: 02476 619267 France: +33 169 11 37 37.
