First and foremost, it is a legal requirement. Employers have a legal duty to ensure that the machinery they provide is safe for employees to use and that it is maintained in good working order.
Failure to do so can result in penalties and fines, as well as a potential liability in the event of an injury or accident. Secondly, it is the moral and ethical responsibility of employers to ensure that their employees are safe and protected from harm while at work. Providing machinery that is safe to use and maintaining it in good working order is an important aspect of this responsibility.
Thirdly, ensuring the health and safety of employees through machinery can also have a positive impact on the business. For example, reducing the risk of injury can lead to less absenteeism and increased productivity. Additionally, providing safe machinery can also help to improve employee morale and engagement.
Lastly, considering health and safety in machinery can also lead to better and more efficient designs. For example, ergonomic designs can make machinery more comfortable to use and can reduce the risk of injury, while HEPA filters can make machinery more effective at cleaning and sanitising.
Features of health and safety standards in machinery
Health and safety are a top priority for cleaning machinery manufacturers. As technology advances, manufacturers are incorporating new features into their machines to ensure the safety and well-being of those who use them.
One major area of focus for manufacturers is the use of HEPA filters. These filters are designed to capture harmful particles and bacteria, making them an essential feature for cleaning machinery used in healthcare facilities, hospitals, and other sensitive environments. HEPA filters can remove particles as small as 0.3 microns, which means that they can capture even the smallest particles of dust, dirt, and bacteria.
Another important aspect of health and safety in cleaning machinery is ergonomic design. Manufacturers are now paying more attention to the design of their machines, ensuring that they are easy to use and reduce the risk of injury. For example, many machines now feature adjustable handles and lightweight designs, making them more comfortable to use for extended periods of time. Additionally, machines with ergonomic designs are typically easier to manoeuvre, reducing the risk of strains and sprains.
In addition to HEPA filters and ergonomic designs, many manufacturers are also incorporating other safety features into their machines. For example, some machines now have sensors that detect obstacles and automatically stop the machine to prevent accidents. Others feature automatic shut-off mechanisms, which turn off the machine if it is not used for a certain period.
Also of critical importance is the need to ensure all your machinery is well maintained and serviced. Neglecting this important area can also open your business up to liabilities. As well as safety aspects, by ensuring you are diligent in this area is also likely to save you future repair and downtime costs in terms of breakdowns and issues.
In summary, considering health and safety in machinery is important from legal, moral and ethical, business and design perspectives. Employers have a legal duty to ensure that the machinery they provide is safe for employees to use and it is their responsibility to provide safe machinery to protect their employees from harm. It can also lead to better and more efficient designs which result in increased productivity and improved employee morale.
If you would like to learn about our range of machinery and the different health and safety features that can help ensure your obligations the industry now demands, chat with our team today on 1800 177 399 or email sales@abcopro.com.au