In any manufacturing facility, safety is the top priority. However, despite best efforts, accidents can still happen. According to recent reports, an estimated 8 percent of workplace fatalities come from this industry. This figure means there’s still a long way to go before manufacturers can boast a perfect safety record.
That is why routine maintenance inspection is critical in keeping your facility safe. By regularly checking and repairing equipment, you can prevent accidents before they happen. Here’s a look at what areas you need to keep in check to ensure a safe manufacturing facility:
Equipment
Especially in today’s tech-driven manufacturing facilities, a lot of equipment gets used in production. From electrical components to conveyor belts, each machine goes through a lot of wear and tear. That’s why having a regular maintenance schedule for all your equipment is essential. Otherwise, you run the risk of accidents happening due to faulty machinery.
But how often should you be inspecting your equipment? There is no single answer to this question, as it depends on how often your machine gets used. For example, if a device is in operation 24/7, you’ll need to check it weekly, if not daily. On the other hand, a monthly check would suffice for tools getting used only during business hours.
It would be best if you also kept an eye out for any changes in the equipment’s performance. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to schedule an inspection sooner rather than later. This way, you can prevent any issues from worsening and causing accidents.
Floors
Slips, trips, and falls account for 15 percent of all workplace injuries. These are due to common hazards you can commonly find on floors, such as slippery surfaces, loose tiles, and trip hazards.
And to prevent these accidents from happening, you need to ensure your floors are always clean and free of any obstructions. It would be best if you could also check if your flooring can handle the weight of heavy machinery. If not, it might lead to the floor collapsing and causing an accident. Investing in quality flooring is thus essential in any manufacturing facility.
Aside from that, you must inspect your floors regularly and repair any damage immediately. It would help if you also considered conducting a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and put preventive measures in place.
Regular inspections of floors allow you to identify these hazards to correct them before someone gets injured. In doing so, you can create a safe environment for your employees.
Pipes and Plumbing
Other common areas of concern in manufacturing facilities include pipes and plumbing. These can present a slipping hazard if they’re leaking and can also burst and cause injuries if they’re not in good condition.
Keeping an eye on your pipes and plumbing is essential to ensure there are no parts that need repair or replacement. It would be best if you could also perform pressure checks now and then. Compliance with ASME hydrostatic test requirements will allow you to maximize safety in your facility.
In general, you should schedule a maintenance inspection for your pipes and plumbing at least once a year. But if you notice any leaks or other issues, it’s ideal to call for an inspection sooner. By taking care of these problems as quickly as possible, you can avoid more significant accidents from happening down the line.
Roofing
The roof is another area of the manufacturing facility that needs regular inspection. Roofs can leak over time, leading to water damage inside the building. In addition, roofs can collapse if they are not properly maintained.
With regular inspection, you can identify these potential hazards and correct them before someone is injured. Working with a professional roofing contractor ensures that your roof is in good condition and can withstand the elements. They can also provide you with a roof maintenance plan that includes regular inspections.
By having a routine roof inspection schedule for your facility, you can avoid accidents and ensure the safety of your employees. So don’t wait for an accident before you start paying attention to your facility’s roofing. Schedule an inspection today and create a safe environment for everyone in your facility.
A proactive approach to safety will help you avoid accidents in your facility. Regular inspections allow you to identify potential hazards and correct them before they cause any harm. In doing so, you can create a safe environment for your employees and minimize the risk of accidents happening in your facility. So, don’t wait for an accident to happen. Schedule a maintenance inspection today.
