Mechanical Power Press Safety

Mechanical Power Press Safety

Mechanical power presses are known to present many dangers to the workplace.  However, when used and maintained properly, mechanical power press safety can be greatly improved.  Let’s look at some free and low-cost ways to improve the safety in your mechanical power press work environment.

Implement Proper Training

As is true in all high-risk work environments, providing proper training to your employees can minimize your workplace risk.  Mechanical power presses present their own sets of dangers, and all employees who work on or around the machines should be trained in power press safety.  The following should be addressed to ensure safety:

• Employees should be aware of light curtain capabilities.  Particularly, employees should realize that a light curtain does not guarantee safety, and intense safety protocols and attentiveness need to be maintained around a mechanical power press at all times, even if the press utilizes a light curtain.
• As an additional safeguard, employees should assess the need for barriers and use barriers as needed.
• Proper lockout and/or tag-out procedures should be maintained at all times.
• After use, the machine should always be returned to the correct settings and configurations.

Safety Signs

Safety signs can always minimize risks, and in the mechanical power press operation, signs can help make employees aware of or remind employees of the inherent risks existing in the power press workplace.  The signs should always be affixed to stable, unmovable parts of the machine or machine area.  For example, safety signs should never be placed on barriers because barriers are moveable (and often moved).  Instead, affixing the sign on a wall above the power press would be a better location.

Listen to the Experts

As new legislation is passed regarding the safety of mechanical power presses, the press should be updated.  This includes updating all controls and electrical components that have been addressed by legislation as potentially dangerous.  Additionally, seek the assistance and suggestions of your in-house experts:  Request the assistance of your mechanical power press operators to address any possible dangers that may exist in the machine and/or the operation.  Your operators will be the best source of knowledge about your particular machine’s imperfections, missing parts, or dangers, so make sure you communicate regularly with your personal experts.

Investigate Improvements in Automation

Much of the work formerly completed hands-on can now be completed with increased automation.  When using the mechanical power press, your operators may now be able to automate some tasks and increase their safety.  Therefore, encourage employees to use automation and to request products that may make automation possible.  The higher the automation ability in your operation, the fewer accidents and fatalities possible.

In conclusion, the mechanical power press can be addressed in your safety protocol.  Providing your employees proper training, posting safety signs, seeking expert opinions, and investigating automation possibilities can help your employees maintain a safe work environment and safe procedures.