Types of Perimeter & Access Machine Guarding
June 19, 2024
Types of Perimeter & Access Machine Guarding
As a business leader or facilities manager, ensuring the safety of your work environment is paramount. With numerous industrial and commercial operations facing unique safety challenges, finding reliable and affordable safety solutions for perimeter and access machine guarding becomes essential.
In this informative blog article, we will explore the different types of perimeter and access machine guarding to help you make informed decisions that safeguard your employees and manufacturing assets.
Protect Access to Hazardous Work Areas
In any industrial or commercial setting, there are certain areas that pose potential hazards to workers and visitors. These hazardous work areas require effective guarding solutions to prevent accidents and injuries.
Perimeter and access machine guarding serve as physical barriers, restricting access to dangerous zones and machinery, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
What Are Light Curtains and Grids?
One of the most common types of perimeter and access machine guarding is the use of light curtains and grids. These devices utilize infrared beams to create an invisible protective barrier around hazardous machinery or areas.
When this barrier is broken, such as when a person or object enters the protected zone, the machine automatically stops or triggers an alarm, preventing potential accidents.
Light curtains are particularly beneficial for operations where frequent access is required, as they provide a non-intrusive yet highly effective solution for safeguarding workers from moving machinery and other hazardous processes. Moreover, they are versatile and adaptable to various applications, making them suitable for a wide range of industries.
Long Range Devices Protect Large Access Points
In facilities with large access points or entryways, such as loading docks or warehouse doors, long-range perimeter guarding devices come into play. These devices use advanced sensor technologies to cover a broader area and are capable of detecting movement or unauthorized entry from a distance.
By employing long-range devices, you can efficiently secure expansive access points without compromising safety or productivity.
Mirrors Help Guard Perimeters with Fewer Devices
In certain work environments, installing numerous guarding devices may not be practical or efficient. In such cases, mirrors can be an effective alternative to enhance visibility and surveillance.
By strategically placing mirrors, blind spots can be minimized, allowing workers to have better visual access to hazardous areas without the need for additional guarding devices. This cost-effective approach ensures safety without obstructing the workflow.
Muting Enables Safe Material Entry and Exit
In industrial settings where materials need to be loaded and unloaded frequently, traditional guarding systems may hinder the efficiency of these processes.
Muting technology offers a viable solution by temporarily disabling the guarding system while materials are entering or exiting the protected area. This way, the flow of materials remains smooth, and safety is not compromised.
By incorporating muting capabilities, you can strike a balance between safety and productivity, making it easier for your workforce to carry out essential tasks efficiently.
Implementing Perimeter and Access Machine Guarding
With the diverse range of perimeter and access machine guarding solutions available offers ample opportunities to tailor safety measures to your specific work environment. From the versatile light curtains and grids to the effectiveness of long-range devices and mirrors, and the efficiency of muting technology, each type serves its unique purpose in protecting your workforce and assets.
Remember, the safety of your employees is a top priority, and investing in the right perimeter and access machine guarding solutions can lead to a more secure and productive work environment. So, take the time to assess your needs, consult with experts, and implement the most suitable safety measures for your business.
Safeguarding your workplace is not just a legal obligation, but a moral responsibility to ensure that everyone can return home safely at the end of the day. With the right knowledge and tools at your disposal, you can create a workplace that fosters productivity while prioritizing the well-being of your most valuable asset - your people.