Industrial facilities have unique health and safety hazards. That’s why it’s important that you work with a custom machine builder like Paramount Tool Company. Our team understands how to meet demands for efficiency, production, and safety.
Here are 5 safety and health hazards in manufacturing to watch out for.
1. Extreme Temperatures
Industrial equipment can overheat and become a fire hazard. Are your machines protected?
It’s important that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance. This includes lubrication.
When two mechanical parts move against each other, they create friction. Under extreme conditions, this friction can be enough to start a fire. Dirt, grease, and oil-based fluids can then feed a fire so it burns longer.
Keeping up on maintenance will help ensure your industrial machines remain safe. It’ll also help prevent mechanical breakdowns and loss of production time.
Worried about petroleum oil igniting in extreme temperatures? Consider switching to fire-resistant hydraulic fluid like water glycol. Water glycol has normal operating temperatures between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. While water glycol isn’t fireproof, it resists fire better than oil-based fluids.
2. Laser Radiation
Laser stands for . Industrial lasers are powerful tools but they can also be dangerous in the wrong hands.
In factories, workers may use lasers for industrial welding, cutting, and sealing. If mishandled, lasers and laser equipment can injure the eyes and skin.
The severity of the injury depends on the duration of exposure. Other factors include how much laser radiation got absorbed and the radiation wavelength.
Here are some ways to reduce the risk of laser radiation exposure.
- Design laser hazard controls to remove or reduce any risk of injury to the eyes or skin.
- Use proper engineering controls to remove or reduce harmful laser radiation exposure.
- Use backstops and shields to protect workers from laser radiation exposure.
- Provide employees with personal protective equipment, such as eyewear, gloves, and clothing.
- Have maintenance and training programs in place.
To learn more about safe laser applications, request an estimate with our team.
3. Arc Flash
An arc flash is an unintended electrical discharge that’s lightning fast. This can cause serious injury or death as it moves through the air between conductors. An arc flash may also move from a conductor to the ground.
So, what’s the best way to avoid arc flashes?
De-energize industrial equipment before starting work.
But what if turning off the power creates a bigger hazard than leaving it on? In that case, the industry standards put in place will protect your employees and facility.
4. Noise Exposure
Do you need to raise your voice to talk to someone 3 feet away? If so, the noise levels in your facility may exceed 85 decibels. At this level, OSHA requires employers to set up a hearing conservation program.
affects 22 million American workers. This is according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As such, it’s important that you do everything in your power to mitigate the effects of noise exposure.
As a custom machine builder, we can also help you come up with quieter solutions for automation. This will help you create a safer work environment for your employees.
Learn more: How to stay safe when operating machinery >>
5. Production Scrap
Disposing of scrap metal is just as important as what happens during production. Especially since it affects your worker’s health and safety.
The right equipment and controls will keep workers safe while handling production scrap. This is why it’s important that you call our custom machine builders. They’ll plan your industrial automation system from start to finish.
Request an Estimate Today!
Our would be more than happy to help you start your next project. To request an estimate for any of our services, call Paramount Tool Company at (616) 582-5300. We’d love the opportunity to work with you and your team!