Tips for staying safe on the manufacturing floor

Objects falling from above can pose a serious danger for any manufacturer. Employees on the manufacturing floor are at risk of injury from flying objects when tools are pushed, pulled or pried and become airborne, especially if there are multiple floors in the facility. Here are a few applicable safety precautions to pass on to an on-site risk manager and/or employees compliments of MMA's team of certified safety professionals:

General Precautions

• Always wear a hard hat and carefully maintain it. Excessive exposure to paint, some cleaning agents, sunlight and heat can all weaken hard hats. Wash them using warm water and never store them in the back window of your car.

• Stack materials to prevent sliding, falling and collapse.

When Working at a Height

• Do not work under moving loads.
  
  
• Barricade hazard areas and post warning signs of the dangers on the jobsite.
  
  
• Inspect hoists to make sure that wire rope, lifting hooks and chains are in good condition.
  
  
• Use toe boards, screens and guardrails on scaffolds to prevent objects from falling.
  
  
• Use debris nets, catch platforms or canopies to catch or deflect objects.
  
  
• Never exceed the lifting capacity of hoists.
  
  
• Secure tools and materials to prevent them from falling on others below.
  
  
• Never put hand tools in your pocket. They could slide out and injure a co-worker when you bend over.

Power Tool and Machine Precautions 

• Wear safety goggles and face shields when operating machinery or tools that cause flying particles.
  
  
• Inspect tools to ensure that the protective guards are in good condition before each use.
  
  
• Do not use power tools unless properly trained on how to do so safely.

Air Compressor Precautions

• Reduce the amount of compressed air used for cleaning to 30 PSI.
  
  
• Only use this machine with the appropriate guarding and protective equipment.

Remember, your employees’ safety should be a top priority. If you have any doubt about safety on-site—regarding falling objects or any other issue—please contact an MMA manufacturing expert today.