Did you know that, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), “Industrial machinery mechanics and maintenance workers experience rates of injuries and illnesses that are much higher than the national average”? Maintaining industrial machinery can be incredibly dangerous. Shock, fire, and serious accidents threaten industrial mechanics everyday. What simple tips keep high-risk industrial environments safe?
Make the Most of Protective Products and Gear
Some of the most common, and dangerous, hazards facing industrial maintenance workers include electrical and fire hazards. Workers can dramatically reduce the likelihood of electrocutions, burns, and other serious injury through careful wire management. Rubber grommets, for example, redirect cords, cables, and wires away from jagged metal pieces inside equipment and machinery. Heavy-duty grommets withstand high temperatures and pressures, making them ideal for use in an industrial setting.
Similarly, cable ties group and fasten bundles of electrical wiring using a series of teeth and a pawl. Nylon cable ties, also commonly referred to as zip ties and hose ties, are available in different colors to enable workers to easily identify wires and equipment. Industrial mechanics may also use flame-resistant stainless steel cable ties in high temperature environments.
Workers should not, however, rely on protective tools and fasteners alone. The BLS recommends that industrial maintenance workers, “Use protective equipment, such as hardhats, safety glasses, steel-tipped shoes, and hearing protectors.”
Practice Proper Lifting
Electricity can pose a number of serious risks. Some of the most common injuries result from lifting and repetitive strain. In fact, according to the BLS, repetitive strain injuries account for one in four missed work injuries. Workers can avoid strains, sprains, tears, and other serious injuries from improper lifting by using the right equipment and tools. Forklifts, platforms and swivel casters, leveling feet, and industrial handles, for example, reduce strain and prevent overuse injuries. Leveling feet safely raise heavy equipment, and can even stabilize machinery on uneven flooring. Industrial handles give workers a safe means of opening heavy-duty cabinets, doors, and compartments, without risking injury.
Industrial workers face a number of different threats everyday. Industrial mechanics can be safe by keeping electrical wiring organized and intact using rubber grommets and cable ties, and lifting equipment and machinery with forklifts, leveling feet, and industrial handles. Read more blogs like this.