Heavy Machinery Revision Work is Nearly Complete – New Standards Are Coming
The field of heavy machinery has recently seen a significant movement in its standards and regulations. For the past few years, industry experts and manufacturers have been working around the clock to make sure that these machines are up to the current, and most importantly – safer, standards.
Overall, this effort has been a success, although there hasn’t been a full overhaul of the engineering regulations governing these devices and components. That being said, the process has seen its successes, with the work on revising machinery standards coming to a close and new standards being on the brink of being in place.
Its worth noting that the process of revising machinery rules and regulations is long and complex. Multiple agencies and organizations need to collaborate and agree on the different measures and process in order to reach a consensus. Each agency looks at the measures from their own lens, for example, the Environmental Protection Agency focuses on the environmental impact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention focuses on people’s safety, the Department of Labor makes sure that the work environment is safe, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health focuses on safety on the job site, and so on.
It’s not just the government agencies, though. The process of revision and approval also involve the large manufacturers themselves. Companies like Caterpillar, Komatsu, Hitachi Construction Machinery, and John Deere, who are inspired and choose to anticipate regulations with new and safer designs and features.
So what are some of the changes that this process of revision has brought us in the field of heavy machinery?
For one thing, new safety standards, such as ISO/TEC 2372 are being incorporated into the newest equipment. This safety standard focuses on making sure that appropriate safety measures are in place at construction and onsite worksites and that they are up-to-date. Another key improvement is in the engines, where manufacturers are moving away from diesel and toward more efficient and enviro-friendly options, such as natural gas and biofuel.
The incorporation of technology is also a key element in the new standards. Automation, sensors, and electronic displays are being incorporated, making the user experience better and more comfortable. This technology could, in effect, mean fewer incidents in terms of safety on the job site as it allows operators to keep better track of all the pieces at work.
Finally, the new standards put an emphasis on ergonomics. The new models are focusing on operator comfort and safety, adding features such as auto-leveling and adjustable side-view mirrors for better visibility.
Overall, the process of revision has gone well and the new regulations – due to be unveiled soon – look to make a big difference in how we work with heavy machinery. The changes are sure to bring safety benefits as well as increased efficiency, and a revamped user experience.
With the new standards, heavy machinery operators can now look forward to improved reliability, better safety, and smarter, more efficient designs. This can only mean that the the job of heavy machinery operators will be made easier, safer, and more convenient going forward.
