4 Key Reasons To Opt For Lockout/Tagout Procedure In Conveyor Systems

Lockout/tagout procedures are a key part of safety during conveyor system installation and repair, as they prevent accidental machine startup, protect against exposure to hazardous components, enhance maintenance and repair, and reduce downtime. 

Norpak Handling, a major distributor of conveyor rollers, chain conveyors, belt conveyors, and other systems in Port Hope, Ontario, explores these reasons in detail below.

Why Lockout/Tagout Is Important For Conveyors?

Prevents Accidental Startup

When the conveyor is turned off for inspection, maintenance, or repair, there is a risk of it accidentally starting again, making it a huge health hazard for technicians. However, with the lockout/tagout procedure, the source of power is isolated, ensuring that such accidental startups never happen.

Protects Against Exposure To Hazardous Components

A conveyor system can have multiple energy sources, ranging from mechanical and electrical to even hydraulic. These can pose a safety risk when technicians are performing their routine maintenance or repair. Lockout/tagout procedures are vital here as they isolate these power sources, so that no components end up crushing or harming a worker.

Enhances Maintenance And Repair

With lockout/tagout procedures in place, workers are truly rest assured that all components that can pose threats are isolated and inoperable as they perform their task. This leads to a more effective maintenance and repair routine, helping in the overall efficiency of the operation.

Reduces Downtime

Apart from being dangerous to workers, conveyor system accidents can also be very detrimental from an operational standpoint. Thus, lock/tagout procedures prevent these costly accidents and ensure that the downtime is well and truly minimized.

Conclusion

In closing, lockout/tagout procedures are important not just from a safety standpoint, but also from an efficiency and performance standpoint. 

To learn more about conveyor systems, reach out to us at Norpak Handling today. Our massive inventory of general conveyor systems includes conveyor rollers, belt conveyors, chain conveyors, and more. Specializing in customized material handling solutions, you can get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can boost your business operations with our equipment and skills.

FAQs:

What is the lockout/tagout procedure?

The core principle of lockout/tagout procedures involves isolating components that can accidentally restart and pose a safety hazard.

Are lockout/tagout procedures mandatory?

Yes, they are mandatory in most industrial settings and overseen by governing bodies such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).