Blog | Falcony

Common Safety Issues in the Manufacturing and Industrial Sector

Written by Arttu Vesterinen | Sep 26, 2023 5:00:00 AM

The manufacturing and industrial sector plays a crucial role in the global economy, but it also presents a range of safety challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the well-being of workers and the community. Here are some of the most common safety issues faced in this sector:

Machine Guarding and Lockout/Tagout Procedures

Inadequate machine guarding and poor implementation of lockout/tagout procedures can lead to serious injuries when workers come into contact with moving parts or energy sources.

Fall Hazards

Elevated workspaces, platforms, and machinery can result in falls if proper safety measures, such as guardrails and personal protective equipment, are not in place.

Hazardous Materials Handling

Exposure to hazardous chemicals and improper handling of substances can cause health issues and environmental pollution. Proper storage, labeling, and training are essential.

Confined Spaces

Working in confined spaces without proper ventilation and safety protocols can lead to asphyxiation, exposure to toxic gases, or getting trapped.

Fire and Explosion Risks

Manufacturing environments often involve flammable materials, making fire prevention measures, emergency response plans, and employee training crucial.

Noise and Vibration Exposure

Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise and vibration from machinery can lead to hearing loss and other health problems.

Electrical Safety

Poorly maintained electrical systems and inadequate training can result in electrocutions and fires.

Workplace Ergonomics

Improper workstation design and repetitive motions can lead to musculoskeletal disorders among workers.

Heat and Cold Stress

Extreme temperatures in manufacturing settings can cause heat-related illnesses or cold stress, especially if appropriate controls and protective clothing aren't provided.

Lack of Training

Inadequate training on machinery operation, emergency procedures, and safety protocols can lead to accidents and injuries.

Fatigue and Long Hours

Extended work shifts without proper breaks can lead to fatigue, impaired decision-making, and an increased risk of accidents.

Lack of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Failure to provide appropriate PPE, such as helmets, goggles, gloves, and respiratory protection, can result in serious injuries.

Complacency

Long periods of incident-free operations can lead to complacency, where safety protocols are ignored or shortcuts are taken.

Chemical Exposure

Exposure to harmful chemicals can result in respiratory problems, skin irritation, and long-term health issues. Proper handling, storage, and use of chemicals are essential.

Crane and Hoist Safety

Improper use of cranes and hoists can lead to load drops, collisions, and accidents. Training and regular inspections are crucial for safe operation.

Material Handling and Lifting

Incorrect lifting techniques and overexertion when handling heavy materials can cause strains and injuries to workers.

Machinery Maintenance

Inadequate maintenance of machinery can lead to sudden breakdowns, malfunctions, and safety hazards.

Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs)

In certain industrial processes, workers might be exposed to EMFs, which can have health implications if not properly managed.

Forklift Operations

Poorly operated forklifts can lead to collisions, tip-overs, and injuries. Proper training and adherence to safety guidelines are essential.

Pressure Vessel Hazards

Poor maintenance and monitoring of pressure vessels can lead to explosions and leaks, posing significant risks to workers and facilities.

Respiratory Hazards

In environments with dust, fumes, or toxic gases, lack of proper respiratory protection can result in respiratory illnesses.

Work at Heights

Working at elevated heights without proper fall protection equipment and training can lead to severe injuries or fatalities.

Emergency Preparedness

Inadequate emergency plans and drills can hinder response efforts during accidents, fires, or other unforeseen events.

Manual Handling of Heavy Loads

Improper techniques for manually handling heavy loads can result in back injuries and strains.

Chemical Spills and Releases

Improper containment and response to chemical spills or releases can lead to environmental contamination and health risks.

Contractor Safety

Ensuring that contractors adhere to safety protocols and understand site-specific risks is crucial to prevent accidents and incidents.

Lack of Safety Reporting and Incident Analysis

Failure to report near-misses and incidents can hinder the identification of potential hazards and necessary safety improvements.

Training and Language Barriers

In multicultural workplaces, language barriers can hinder proper training and communication of safety procedures.

Automation and Robotics Safety

With the rise of automation and robotics, ensuring the safe interaction between humans and machines is essential.

Conclusion

Addressing these common safety issues requires a holistic approach. This includes investing in training programs, conducting regular safety audits, implementing robust safety protocols, and fostering a culture of vigilance. By prioritizing safety, the manufacturing and industrial sectors can create a safer environment for their workforce while also enhancing productivity and sustainability.

Are you looking for a tool to monitor nonconformities or any other issues in your organisation? Falcony | Observe ticks all the boxes for issue management, is easy to customise, enables real dialogue and is a lot more. 

We are building the world's first operational involvement platform. Our mission is to make the process of finding, sharing, fixing and learning from issues and observations as easy as thinking about them and as rewarding as being remembered for them.‍

By doing this, we are making work more meaningful for all parties involved.

More information at falcony.io.