3 Kinds of Fixed Conveyor Guarding Systems You Can Select From
Facilities managers of manufacturing plants may be wondering about the best conveyor guarding system that they should specify when new conveyors are installed at the plant. This article discusses the common types of fixed conveyor guarding systems that such facilities managers can select from.
Surrounding Fixed Guards
Surrounding fixed guards usually surround the entire perimeter of a conveyor system. However, some openings can be left in order to facilitate housekeeping activities, such as cleaning underneath the conveyor system. These mechanisms are usually connected to the conveyor system.
Surrounding fixed guards should be designed in such a way that they prevent access to hazard points that are located beneath, above and on the side of the conveyor system. For instance, the guarding mechanism should extend several inches beyond the nip point where a drum meets the moving belt. Such a guard can prevent the fingers of workers from being trapped within these moving components.
Barrier Guarding Systems
Barrier guarding systems are located away from the conveyor system, unlike the surrounding guard system described above. Barrier guards prevent access to the immediate area around the conveyor system. They are usually anchored into the ground near the conveyor system.
Care must be taken to install the barrier system at the appropriate distance from the conveyor components. Some facilities managers try to minimise space usage by placing these systems as close to the conveyor as possible. This can often result in safety citations in case inspectors find that insufficient clearance was left between the conveyor and the guard system. It is therefore advisable to refer to the applicable guidelines before you install this system at your facility. Barrier guards also have openings to facilitate housekeeping activities.
In-Running Fixed Guards
In-running fixed conveyor guarding systems are also fixed to the conveyor components. However, the key difference with surrounding fixed guards is that the in-running fixed guard moves as the component to which it is attached moves. Surround systems remain fixed in one position.
This type of fixed guard system is not suitable for all types of conveyor systems. For example, they are unsuitable for raised edge conveyor belts because the guard cannot maintain ample clearance from that moving component. This guard system is also less durable than the other fixed guard systems discussed earlier.
As you can see, each type of fixed conveyor guarding system has applications where it is best suited. It may therefore be necessary for you to talk to a conveyor system supplier before you make a final decision about the guard system that should be installed on the conveyor that you have ordered.
