3 Do’s and Don'ts for Industrial Ejection Curtains
Workplace safety should never be compromised. That’s why having the proper training, procedures, and equipment is essential for keeping your employees safe. Thankfully, with the help of industrial ejection kits, it’s easier than ever to safeguard your hydraulic press operations—and maximize workforce efficiency.
Industrial ejection curtains are some of the most important safety products to have in a facility. A mesh curtain stops flying debris from hitting hydraulic press operators or other workers in the area, while ensuring that the point of operation is still clearly visible. Unfortunately, even with the most innovative safety equipment, accidents can happen—especially if equipment isn’t properly handled or set up correctly. So today, let’s review three do’s and don’ts for using ejection curtains to ensure your team stays protected.
The Do’s
Properly Set Them Up
One of the most important factors in ensuring that your ejection curtains work correctly is effective installation. Take the time to train employees on how to attach them to the machine and how they work. Curtains that aren’t securely installed may malfunction, putting the operator at serious risk of injury. Fortunately, the Stronghold Bulk Mesh Ejection Curtain is an easy-to-install option that provides exceptional safeguarding.
Ensure Correct Use
After properly securing them to your machines, each operator should be thoroughly trained on how ejection curtains work, how to maintain them, and how to correctly use them. Setting aside time for training is a vital part of any industrial or manufacturing facility—and becomes especially crucial when you add new safeguards or equipment into the mix. Knowing how to use the safeguard correctly will improve overall safety around your machines and throughout your workplace.
Utilize an Interlock Device
While interlocking devices are typically optional, it’s never a bad idea to include one on all of your hazardous machines. Interlocking devices, such as the Stronghold Interlock Kit For Hydraulic Press Ejection Curtains, are the perfect companion to any moveable guard. These devices work by preventing a machine from turning on at the wrong time. They also help keep the operator from making inappropriate maneuvers and potentially harming themselves or others in the facility.
The Don’ts
Don’t Neglect Cleaning & Upkeep
Steel mesh curtains are extremely durable—and are often resistant to oil, grease, or other flammable liquids. Regardless, it’s still essential to regularly clean these solutions to optimize safety and efficiency. Over time, industrial ejection curtains collect shrapnel and grime from all the debris that they catch. In combination with grease, oil, and other liquids near the machine, these messes can cause workers to slip and harm themselves. Thankfully, steel mesh curtains are very easy to clean.
Don’t Skimp on Safety Assessments
No matter which safety solutions you use, never forget to conduct regular machine guarding assessments throughout your facility. Frequent safety assessments help to keep machines in check, identify hazards, and minimize risks in the workplace. They’re an essential part of any successful operation, working to eliminate risks before injuries can happen. Getting ahead of any hazards and dangers in your facilities is critical for creating a safer, more productive workplace. Machine safety assessments can also help ensure that your ejection curtains are in good condition and working effectively.
Don’t Invest in Bright Mesh
Steel mesh curtains are useful because they provide easy access to hydraulic presses—while affordably meeting all relevant guarding standards. However, without proper coloration, this mesh can pull the operator's focus away from the point of operation. To avoid this problem, be sure to invest in mesh that is painted black. Darker coloration will keep the operator’s full attention on the area of operation—reducing the risk of injury and misuse.
Stronghold Safety Engineering—Your Safety Partner
When you partner with Stronghold Safety, you are taking the safety of your employees and facilities seriously. With our range of high-quality industrial ejection curtains, you’ll be keeping your press operators protected from the hazards of dangerous machines. At Stronghold, we know safety—and we want to make sure that you and your employees are fully protected at all times.
From our machine guarding assessments to risk reduction consulting services, we’ll help you optimize machine operations while minimizing risks. If you’re ready to get serious about building a safer workplace, we can help! Contact us today to get started.