As robots and machinery are becoming more common within working in confined space environments, it’s crucial to be aware of how this impacts on those working in close proximity. As machinery and robots have moving parts there’s a danger that when in motion sufficient force could result causing injury or even death. To ensure safety is maintained, it’s essential that a review is undertaken on any machinery and robots located in a confined space to identify hazards.

Robots and machinery mechanical hazards and risks in confined space 

There are a number of mechanical hazards and risks that have been identified for robots and machinery in confined space environments. With rotating shafts and moving gears, as well as pullies and sprockets, there is always a danger of entanglement. For robots and machinery that have hard surfaces moving in synchronicity, crushing can be a concern. If equipment performs a scissoring or shearing action and has a sharp edge, cutting, puncturing or severing may result if precautionary measures aren’t followed. Also, with cable or hose connections slips or falls are a major danger.

What to assess when reviewing machinery and robots for mechanical hazards

When undertaking a review for mechanical hazards in confined space here are some important points you need to consider:

• Assess any machinery and robots that have moving parts which may be reached by people in the proximity.
• Review all machinery and robots with the capacity to eject objects that could strike someone with enough force to cause harm.
• Assess any machinery or robots with moving arms that are able to reach people.
• Review all mobile machinery and robots operating in confined space areas that could be accessed by people.

Visit this link for more information on how to identify and review mechanical hazards: https://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/sites/default/files/atoms/files/vwa_machine_safety_l.pdf

To discover more about navigating hazards when working in a confined space enrol in a course with Elevated Training today.