To help manufacturing companies prevent accidents and remain within the law, Pilz Safe Automation offers on-site Plant Assessment services performed by trained experts in process and control machinery.
Investigations of machine-related accidents often find that the machinery was inadequately-guarded, says Pilz. Other contributory factors include faults with safety-related control systems and too heavy a reliance on operating procedures.
To help manufacturing companies assess their machinery and work equipment, Pilz offers a Plant Assessment service. Hundreds of such assessments have now been performed, and it is highly likely that these will have helped to prevent numerous accidents, says Pilz.
Plant Assessments are conducted by Pilz consultants who the company says have a detailed knowledge of machinery and the relevant safety regulations and standards. If highly-specialised machinery or equipment is involved, Pilz ensures that a consultant with the relevant competence is used.
For every item of plant that is assessed, the consultant prepares a report that presents an analysis of the hazards and countermeasures – which are typically guarding, interlocks and control circuits. Should any unacceptable risks be identified, the report suggests appropriate improvements that should be made.
Where necessary, and if requested by the client company, a further detailed risk assessment can be undertaken, including a risk control recommendation. Furthermore, cost estimates can also be provided for upgrading the machinery or equipment to meet current standards, or Pilz can put the client company in touch with system integrators and engineering companies.
In those situations where significant numbers of machines require attention, the Pilz consultant can assist with prioritising the actions in accordance with the risks present.
Client companies use Plant Assessments for a variety of reasons. For example, some do so because they are unsure of the current safety status of their plant in relation to today’s standards; others use the Pilz consultants as a means of releasing internal resources for other projects, perhaps relating to production or quality.
Contact Pilz Safe Automation on 03 9544 6300, email safety@pilz.com.au or visit www.pilz.com.au