Production& manufacturing units rely on a wide range of equipment and machines to get work done. Whether it is a packaging a machine, or equipment used in food processing units, certain risks and complications are inherent in nature. In recent years, businesses have been investing in machines that rely on technologies and features, such as interlocks, to reduce workplace risks. In that context, machine guarding and lockout / tagout services are relevant and necessary. In case of a mishap, or workplace incident, companies have to prove that the cause is not their fault. Workplace safety in manufacturing units and industrial setups is an aspect that businesses cannot afford to ignore, and while it is necessary to test and review situations as they emerge, proactive steps do matter.
Finding the cause
Investigating mechanical failures and workplace mishaps related to equipment is always complicated. While minimizing reputational damage and financial loss is an important aspect for most companies, they also want to be sure that workplace safety is not compromised with. In case of a mishap, most businesses in industrial setups hire companies to do the investigation. This has two benefits –
- Firstly, investigation by a third-party service is more unbiased and will focus on all relevant aspects. The findings will be acceptable to other parties involved, such as the insurer.
- Secondly, the expertise of professional companies cannot be denied. They employ the best engineers – mechanical, electrical, electronic, with industrial hygienists, compliance experts and occupational safety professionals to get things checked.
Understanding machine-related accidents
In case of machine-related accident, it is not always the machine at fault. Sometimes, the engineering or settings of the machine could be the reason for a mishap, while employee faults cannot be overlooked either. In many cases, it has been found that guards were adjusted or removed, which lead to the accident. Many services also rely extensively on occupational safety professionals to ensure that the investigation is fair and has a detailed outcome, which can be used for taking necessary preventive and corrective steps.
Final word
Today, testing workplaces for equipment safety or noise pollution is not a choice anymore in most industries, thanks to numerous compliance requirements and laws. Businesses are likely to benefit a lot more from hiring testing services for their industrial setups and manufacturing units, who can also offer advice on how to ensure occupational safety and stay compliant, beyond the obvious job of investigating incidents and mishaps.
