| Reducing the risk from Stanley Knives - a collaborative approach |
DESCRIPTION
Following a number of injuries (none incurring lost time) involving working with conveyor belting using a Stanley Knife, Tarmac decided a review was necessary. Two contractors, Vulcan Conveyors and Rema Tip Top (both having been involved with these incidents) were asked to look at how safety could be improved. The objective was to develop a safe system of work that minimised the use of a Stanley Knife and, when it was necessary to use one, enhanced the level of control and protection for the user.
The study concluded:
1. The only task requiring the use of a Stanley Knife was the splicing of a conveyor prior to vulcanising
2. The type of knife to be used was agreed
3. A straight edge with an upturned angle that provides protection to the non-cutting hand when scoring the belt prior to splicing was developed
Tarmac will use a glove with a level 5 cut rating and a Kevlar forearm sleeve on the non cutting hand, these gloves can be also be used when undertaking the remaining tasks. An acceptable alternative is a chainmail gauntlet with the addition of a non-slip glove over the gauntlet
A training programme to support the safe system of work has been developed.
BENEFITS
1.The risk of injury from Stanley Knives has been reduced
2. A standard, safe system of work which helps with training and monitoring of the task has been developed
3. The process achieved the ‘buy-in’ of all those involved.
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