Mechanical Safety Requirements for Packaging Machinery
Introduction
Properly working machinery is paramount for nearly any industry, yet this is especially true for activities which involve the packing of goods for further sale to the public. In order to ensure the safety of the public and of those who use the packaging machinery itself, industry standards have been created to both define the features and requirements necessary for the safe usage of this machinery.
Definition and Characteristics
The definition of packaging machinery safety requirements is quite broad, as it encompasses anything related to securing the safety of personnel, goods and the machinery itself. This includes, but is not limited to, requirements related to employee safety, electronic and mechanical safety systems, and other characteristics. General requirements focus on activities like the design, manufacture and installation of the machinery, maintenance and inspection of the equipment and features which reduce the risk of danger.
The most common characteristics for this type of machinery involve emergency shut down systems, the use of location control systems, operator eyesight protection devices, design and installation processes and procedures, emergency exit routes and safety signals, mechanical interlocks, electrical interlocks and overload prevention devices.
Design and Installation Process
The first step for ensuring the safe operation of any packaging machinery is the establishment of proper design and installation processes. Design requirements must minimise the risk of any potential danger, whilst also providing as much operator safety as possible. This includes, but is not limited to, ergonomic design of the machine, electrical design, power sources and the installation of safety guards and enclosures. The overall design must also minimise the potential for any unexpected malfunction.
Installation requirements must also include procedures related to the installation, testing and initial operation of the machinery. This includes, but not limited to, control systems, the use of personal protective equipment and training for personnel.
Maintenance and Inspection
In order to ensure the safe operation of any packaging machinery, regular maintenance and inspection is highly recommended. This should include, but is not limited to, periodic checks on the machinery to ensure proper functioning and a review of any safety-related procedures and documents.
Emergency Shut Down Systems
In order to minimise any risk of physical injury or damage to property, an emergency shut down system must be integrated into the overall design of the packaging machinery. This system must be able to be activated in the event of any danger, and must include an emergency stop button or system.
Location Control Systems
When used in conjunction with the emergency stop system, the use of location control systems is also recommended. This helps to ensure the safety of the personnel working with the equipment, as this automatically cuts off power should the operator’s safety be in jeopardy.
Operator Eyesight Protection Devices
In order to minimise any potential risk to an operator’s eyesight, it is important to install the necessary protection devices. These can include shields, guard rails, barriers and/or other systems which limit any potential exposure to dangerous/noxious substances.
Mechanical and Electrical Interlocks
The design of any mechanical and/or electrical systems must also include the use of interlocks. This helps to reduce any unintended motion of parts, which in turn increases the overall safety of personnel and property.
Overload Prevention
In order to prevent any potential equipment overload, a number of overload prevention measures must be established. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of a current-limiting device and/or overload protection devices.
Conclusion
Whilst the design, installation, maintenance and inspection of any packaging machinery are all important activities, it is also crucial to ensure that the proper safety requirements are met. This includes, but is not limited to, the establishment of emergency shut down systems, the installation of location control systems, the use of operator eyesight protection devices, the incorporation of mechanical and electrical interlocks and the installation of overload prevention devices.
