Controls increase work safety and machine availability
Whether it's a lathe, a circular saw or a pillar drill: when handling processing machines, numerous safety regulations must be observed to protect the operating personnel. The employer has a duty to ensure that his employees use the work equipment safely. Regular machine inspections are an important measure in this regard.
"So-called metal-cutting work equipment such as lathes, saws or milling machines should be inspected every twelve months - and by a person qualified to do so," says Christian Thielmann, an expert on the Certification of machines at TÜV Rheinland. The inspector must check, for example, whether a machine complies with the current and appropriate state of the art in terms of safety technology, whether the protective devices function faultlessly and whether there are any defects due to wear or damage. "If necessary, the inspector will make recommendations for the safe, legally compliant operation of the work equipment. The employer must also immediately rectify any deviations from the regulation," says the expert.
Document tests
Due to the complexity of the issue, machine operators should rely on the expertise of independent service providers and its inspection service. "As independent experts, we have no connection to the operation and manufacturer of the machines and no economic interest in conversions and material replacement, so an objective assessment is ensured," explains Thielmann. Each machine inspection is carefully documented by the experts and discussed with the operator. The documentation records specific allocations to the machine, the condition on the day of the inspection and possible defects. In addition, there is the final assessment and, if desired, recommendations for action. The report must be kept in a safe place: In the event of damage, it serves as proof that the employer has fulfilled his legal duty of care.
Source: TÜV Rheinland
