Machine Watch

Some may be aware and some may have seen some of the articles recently published on the topic of the SPI/ANSI B151.1-1997 safety standards for machines. The grace period on the standard expires on 22 July 2000.
This is not going to go into full explanation of the standards but you should be aware of them and you may obtain a copy from the American National Standards Institute New York, New York.  The literature sales department 212-642-4900 or at www.ansi.org.

The SPI web site does have some information to look at and new controls or standards they are considering @ www.plasticindustry.org.  From the machine suppliers point, the machines since July 22, 1998 should include the new standards, but they had a 1-year grace period so it would be wise to check with them. This would be via the purchase date of the machine, i.e. when did the PO go through. The machinery suppliers themselves can assist you in the standards and any modifications you may need to make to your older machines to bring them up to spec.  Please note there are exceptions to the rules due to cost and configuration of the machine controls, i.e. hydraulics and electric's of the machine circuitry.

One fact in the new specs is ventilation in the plant. This is to be the exhaust / collection / ventilate system, that is in place to exhaust / collect any fumes etc from the operator, or as the spec says the machine.  (Read the spec)
Should you not have a system in place you may want to visit your welding supply shop and see what they have in the way of portable units that are used for welding fumes. These units suck in air and filter it though a variety of filters thus cleaning the air itself.

It could be an option in stating up a press or of purging out the press when we usually generate fumes / smoke / smells. Further, a procedure need be in place for this operation, as well as the shut down in a safe manner.  It may be time to review those shut down procedures or start a very loose set of procedures for the startup, shutdown and changeover within your operation. It would be wise to have the operators review and sign off on the procedures and than set a standard of review and updates on a yearly basis involving the plant personnel.

There are exceptions to the rules, so getting a copy and studying it could be in your best interest. Should you want to get involved with the new specs now in writing contact the SPI machinery division and see what you can do.

Thanks for the time

Steven L Silvey
Senior Tech Service
General Polymers Division
Ashland Distribution