There are an estimated 13,455,000 workers that are at risk for fatal and non-fatal injuries each year in the manufacturing industry. Many of these injuries are related to machinery that needs fixing or updating.
For a metal manufacturing company, having sharp-cutting machinery can mean the difference between clear cuts, satisfied customers, and sloppy work. If you are using the objects at home, having up-to-date machinery and tools is a matter of quality and safety. How can you tell if your machinery needs replacing?
Continue reading for 5 ways to recognize that your metal cutting machinery is out of date and what you can do to ensure the safety of those using it.
Table of Contents
1. Regularly Inspect All Sharp Cutting Machinery
A manufacturing company is required to have regular safety inspections of all its equipment. This would include keeping track of how old the equipment is, how many hours it’s been in use, and what it’s been used for. All of these combine to give a general idea of how long a blade or piece of machinery can effectively cut.
For those self-employed or using sharp cutting services at home, establishing an inspection routine can help maintain high safety standards as you work.
2. Is it Broken or Dull?
When a machine stops running, you know that something in it needs fixing. It may be harder to tell with a bit or a blade. As part of inspections, check for chipped teeth, rounded edges, or bent metal.
All of these are the first signs you will have that a part needs replacing as soon as the first signs of deterioration show up.
3. Using Expired Equipment
Depending on the tools you are using, such as a saw blade, they may have an expiration date. Some metals and compounds break down over time. If you use one of these tools past the expiration you run the risk of having it break quickly.
Always check for an expiration date and stick to it if you are using equipment or tools that have one.
4. Not Working With the Latest Technology
The use of computer-based software combined with a metal manufacturer can turn out mass-produced services for a fraction of time and cost. CNC Machining Services is one example of a company that completes tasks with the use of pre-programmed machinery.
Using these types of computer programs to cut small or complex designs can also cut down on worker-related injuries.
5. Substituting Parts
Not having the right parts on hand when a blade breaks or a machine needs fixing can be frustrating. It is tempting to stick a similar part or give it a temporary fix until the right part comes in. However, losing work time for a broken machine is not a good reason to potentially put yourself or your employees in an unsafe situation.
Safety First
Now that you have a better understanding of how to tell if your sharp cutting machinery needs replacing, fixing, or a general update, make sure that you follow through. Staying safe is important, as is the time you are spending on your work or projects.
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