3 September 2013

Platen Guarding Safety Notice - Revised Information Sheet on Hand-fed Platens Launched

Revision 1 of Printing Information Sheet No 18 -  'Safety requirements for using hand-fed platen (die-cutting) machines' has been launched and is available on the HSE website. The information on short duration interventions has been amended only. This paragraph now includes 'access to the platen should be prevented until the clutch mechanism has been disengaged from the flywheel'. Also, 'The u- shaped trip, pressure sensitive edge and knee bar are NOT acceptable alternatives since they do not prevent inadvertent re-engagement of the clutch. If no cycle interrupt or equivalent stop control is fitted, isolation and lock off is the only safeguarding option.'
All users of hand-fed platens should familiarise themselves with the changes in PIS 18(rev 1).

The Heidelberg and Thompson Platen machine has been widely used in the Printing industry for many years, with many being converted from a printing unit to a block foiling machine.

Although there appears to be very little information regarding accidents, these machines and the level of safety features they have, has been questioned by Health and Safety Executive inspectors over the last five years.

Concerns have been raised over the level of compliance with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998, regulation 11 (guarding).

After consultation between the BPIF and the HSE, the HSE have now confirmed that both the Heidelberg and Thompson Platen machines will require additional and improved guarding arrangements, to meet regulation 11 of PUWER, to protect against crushing and contact hazards of these machines.

Click here to download the Safety Notice.