Service Questions with James: General Crusher Safety

As we step into the new year, it’s the perfect time to refresh our commitment to safety. As our experienced service technicians can say, they’ve seen firsthand how small precautions can prevent major accidents. Whether it’s handling tools, operating machinery, or simply managing daily tasks, safety should always be a priority. This season, let’s make it our resolution to embrace best practices, ensure our environments are hazard-free, and stay vigilant about protecting ourselves and those around us. Remember, a safe start leads to a successful year! Eagle Crusher Service Technician James will run through various safety measures to follow during start-up, operation, and maintenance. Remember, this should serve as an initial start to your safety journey, and you should always refer to your operator’s manual and site-specific documentation for more information.

Start-Up

During start-up, it’s important to always follow the instructions the factory field service technician provides or the instructions in your operator’s manual along with your employer’s site approved plan. Additionally, you should ensure the following:

• Remove Travel Brackets
  • Travel brackets are there to ensure the plant does not move during transport, but during operation your plant needs to move. If the travel brackets remain on, the plant would not be able to move properly causing structural issues, inefficient crushing, and more.
• Proper Cribbing
  • Improper cribbing could lead to instability, structural damage, and more serious issues.
• Level Plant
  • If a plant is not level, it could cause uneven wear, ineffective crushing, structural stress, and more.
• PPE
  • Operators and workers around the plant should always wear the proper PPE such as safety glasses, steel toed boots, hard hats, high visibility gear, ear plugs, and an additional gear your site may require.

Operation

While the plant is in operation, it’s imperative that you follow all safety procedures for the safety of yourself and the machine. Additionally, you should ensure the following:

• Use proper procedures instructed to you by your field service technicians and your operator’s manual.
• Follow the safety decals located on the equipment.
• If an emergency arises, use an E-Stop.

In addition to the above restrictions, it’s important that the following items never be done.

• Do not open the impactor lid while the plant is in operation.
• Do not get into the feeder/hopper while the plant is in operation.
• Do not work inside the electrical panel while it is energized.
• Do not track conveyor belts while they are in motion.

Maintenance

As with any piece of equipment, rock crushers are also in need of regular maintenance. To ensure that maintenance is done correctly, make sure you follow the instructions that were given at start-up by your field service technician and the information in the operator’s manual. When maintenance is required, please follow all the instructions, like the following:

• Lockout/tagout
  • Anytime you work on your rock crusher, you must lock out and tag out to ensure the safety of yourself and others.
• Fill out a Job Safety Analysis Sheet before every shift.
• Have a certified electrician do all electrical work.
• Keep all the walking and working surfaces clear.
• Use safety locks on the impactor lid when using and secure the impactor lid locks before operating.
• Clean up any spilled oil.
  • Oil left from spills or other actions can cause issues ranging from environmental to safety hazards to equipment damage and more.
• Use the proper PPE for the task.
  • Not only the PPE already listed in this blog but also lifting aids, harnesses, and other items if required by the site or the task.
• Do not track conveyor belts while in operation.
• Make sure blow bars are installed correctly.

Knowing the Resources Available to You

As we wrap up our discussion on safety, it’s crucial to remember the importance of utilizing the resources available to ensure safe operations around rock crushers. Whether it’s accessing equipment manuals, attending safety training sessions, consulting with experienced colleagues, or adhering to industry regulations, these resources are invaluable in promoting a safe work environment. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance or clarification when needed, as staying informed and vigilant is key to preventing accidents and maintaining efficient operations. Eagle Crusher’s Service Technicians, as well as their authorized dealers, are always available to answer any questions you may have. Let’s make safety a shared responsibility and a priority in all aspects of our work.