TOOLBOX TALK 56/60
TOPIC: MAINTAINING MACHINERY
OBJECTIVE: TO ENSURE MAINTENANCE OF MACHINERY

Click here to read the PDF version

Some things to know before you give your talk.

You need to tell your crew about the hazards involved when they maintain machinery.

Most injuries involving machinery fall into three categories:

• Caught in moving machinery – gears, levers, rollers, conveyors.
• Injured by power sources – springs, hydraulic pressure and electricity.
• Falls from or bumping against – usually caused by slippery or makeshift work surfaces.

Machine safety tips

• Before working on any machine, turn off and lock out its source of power.
• Don’t lubricate running machinery unless remote lube points are provided and the work can be done safely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Don’t assume that you can do your work quickly without anyone noticing the equipment is off. Someone could turn on the power without realizing you are located in a dangerous position.
• Don’t overlook sources of potential energy. Springs under tension or decompression, pressurized hydraulic systems, electrical batteries all can activate mechanical components without warning unless the power sources are isolated or neutralized.
• Make sure you are standing on a slip free work surface.
• Dress adequately for the job: (No loose clothing or rings which can snag on equipment, wear eye protection including side shields to protect from dirt, oil, hydraulic fluid, flying objects, etc.

Try this for show and tell! Show locks and lockout devices that can be used and discuss your own company’s specific lockout program.   Questions you can use to get them talking: What equipment on this job should be locked out before working on it? Has anyone ever had an accident, or know of one, involving someone lubricating a machine? Don’t be reactive, get proactive with HSEC Online®