Hydraulic presses are powerful and generally reliable tools but also carry a variety of inherent health and safety risks for operators. In this article, we will discuss ways to reduce the risks associated with using a hydraulic press in the workplace and keep your business compliant with health and safety regulations.
Provide Better Formal Training For Operators And Maintenance Personnel
The first step to reducing risk when using a hydraulic press is to thorough and up-to-date training for operators and maintenance personnel. Outline the specific hazards and risks involved with your hydraulic applications so that workers are aware of operational best practices before they begin operation. Your training should inform workers on proper use and maintenance practices, as well as how to recognise and address any potential issues with the machinery during operation.
Integrate Additional Safeguards To Protect Workers
In addition to providing comprehensive operator training, you can introduce additional safety components into your hydraulic systems to protect workers from potential injury. For instance, you can install pressure relief valves on equipment that can prevent overheating by discharging excess pressure automatically if the temperature gets too high. It is also worthwhile utilising ‘safety interlock systems’ to control access during operation and maintenance procedures so that only trained and authorised personnel can operate machinery – thus reducing the risk of accidental injury or damage to hydraulic equipment.
Create Barriers To Help Safeguard Against Unavoidable Risks
Some operational risks are unavoidable, so in these cases, best practice involves risk mitigation. A cost-effective way of doing this is to create physical barriers around machinery – e.g. on a production line – that will help safeguard operators and other workers against unavoidable risks while using a hydraulic press in the workplace. Establish clear visual warnings around machinery so that employees and visitors know what areas are off-limits during operation. Document your written procedures for the safe use and handling of your hydraulic machinery, and outline specific steps people should take when operating the press safely. Last but not least, supply appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) as needed so employees feel secure working with hazardous machinery.
Promoting A Culture Of Health And Safety Awareness And Hazard Recognition
Rules and procedures will only go so far as to safeguard your workforce. To fully mitigate and minimise the risks associated with a hydraulic press, efforts should be taken to instil a culture of greater mindfulness and health and safety awareness around all machinery and production equipment. Using a hydraulic press in the workplace can be dangerous under any circumstances, and there is no room for complacency.
Operators and health and safety managers should regularly inspect the machinery to ensure it is properly maintained and encourage workers to proactively use protective equipment such as eye protection, gloves, and safety tools – going beyond ‘letter of the law’ compliance where necessary. Educating employees on how to identify common hazards and how to react quickly and appropriately in emergency situations is another essential part of achieving safe working conditions – minimising the risk of injuries. Implementing these measures will help businesses prevent serious accidents and facilitate efficient and productive working practices.
Taking Action To Keep Your Business Compliant: Reduce Risk At The Source
By implementing these safety best practices into your workplace, you can ensure that your business remains compliant with HSE safety regulations while reducing risk at its source—the hydraulic press itself. For more information about hydraulic health and safety, and how to incorporate better safety standards into your hydraulic designs, please contact Hydrastar today at 01353 721704.
