Conveyor Belt Safety Precautions Safety Considerations for Operating Automated Conveyor Systems

Regardless of what type of conveyor your business uses, there are some conveyor belt hazards to be aware of to help reduce conveyor-related injuries. It's important to know some useful conveyor belt safety rules. In this article, we'll cover important considerations regarding operating automated conveyor systems.

Keep Hair, Body Parts, and Clothing Away from Conveyor Belts

Whether it's long hair, body parts, or loose clothing, anything not properly restrained could get caught in the conveyor belt, potentially causing serious injury. One of the key conveyor belt safety rules you should implement is ensuring that anyone working near conveyor belts keeps their hair tied back and removes jewelry such as rings, necklaces, watches, and bracelets. Additionally, employees working near conveyor belts should be mindful of their accessories and avoid wearing loose clothing.

Never Climb On or Stand on Conveyor Belts

Workers must not stand, sit, climb, or walk on conveyor belts. Safety is paramount, and these behaviors are extremely dangerous (even if they appear fun). Conveyor belts are not designed for people to walk or climb on. There are many pinch points in any conveyor system that could catch people or clothing, creating risk of serious injury—even with conveyor pinch point guards installed. In addition to injury risks, this can cause belts to come off track, damaging the entire system.

Ensure Personnel Are Clear of Conveyors Before Starting Up

Conveyor systems should be used after training employees, and ensure personnel are clear of conveyors before startup.

Don't Remove Conveyor Guards or Move Safety Barriers

Guards can be removed during maintenance to inspect machinery, chains, gears, and moving parts. To ensure worker safety, please ensure that automatic conveyor systems are only operated when all conveyor pinch point guards and covers have been successfully reinstalled.

Know Where Stop/Start Controls Are and How to Use Them

Any employee using conveyor belts should know where to find the system's emergency stop and start controls. This way, employees will be prepared to respond appropriately in case of any emergencies or other issues.

Make Conveyor Belt Safety Training a Priority

If your business involves conveyors, all employees should be familiar with safe conveyor belt usage before starting work. Additionally, existing employees should receive regular refresher training on conveyor safety rules and should all understand how to stay safe.

Don't Abuse Control Devices

Only trained employees should use conveyor belt control devices. Regularly inspect conveyor control devices to ensure no one is abusing, modifying, or disconnecting them. They are an important safety component of the conveyor system.