Safe Working Practices for Roll Forming Machines

Using a Roll forming machine correctly is essential. Without taking the time to understand how the machine works and how to use it safely, you run the risk of having an accident that could damage the device or, worse, harm you or others working with you. So what are the best practices to follow to ensure that you use your Roll Forming machine properly? Here are some useful tips.

Read the manual thoroughly.

Even if you have had experience working with similar machines before, it is worth reading through the machine manual and taking part in any related training before attempting to operate your roll-forming machine. Understanding how the tool works from top to bottom will give you a far better understanding of each part. Signing up for training with an experienced technician will also mean you have the relevant skills and supervision to ensure you know how to operate it correctly.

The manual is a wealth of information when it comes to understanding how to work your roll forming machine, and it will highlight the sections that are most important for the safe and efficient operation. Reading the manual carefully will lower the risk of injury to machine operators, optimize efficiency, and ensure a quality end product.

Keep guards, covers and lids mounted to the machine when in use

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has put together guidelines to ensure the safety of machine operators, and they state that “one or more methods of machine guarding shall be provided to protect the operator and other employees in the machine area from hazards such as those created by point of operation, ingoing nip points, rotating parts, flying chips, and sparks.”

There are several parts of a roll forming machine that could cause severe injury, even death, if they were to come into contact with a person. Because of this, they have guards in place to prevent that from happening, so these guards must remain in place when operating your roll forming machine.

Covers and lids should also be used in accordance with guidelines. These will protect the roll former and ensure no debris or other potentially damaging objects get inside the machine, which could break it or affect the quality of the products made.

Pay attention to safety warnings

It is vital to ensure that anyone operating the roll former is aware of where they can find any relevant safety information and warnings and understand what they mean and have been trained to follow them in all circumstances. Stickers and signs such as “keep hands clear,” are often found on machines to give added protection and ensure that operators remain alert and vigilant when they are in use.

Don’t use the machine when alone

It is also smart to only operate a roll forming machine when there is another person present. This means that should anything go wrong; the other person will be able to assist or find help.

Follow both local and national safety codes when loading and unloading reeled coils

Operators should only use approved lifting devices or forklifts to load rolled coils onto the machine. The lifting device should match manufacturer recommendations and be monitored to ensure it is in good working order. People operating lifting equipment should be fully trained on how to do so safely.

Wear appropriate clothing

Loose clothing and jewelry could get caught in the machines moving parts that could damage the device or cause injury. Make sure anyone operating the machine is dressed appropriately. Proper protective equipment such as goggles and hard hats should also be used when working with a roll forming machine.

Disconnect the machine before making adjustments

Stopping the machine and disconnecting the power will ensure that any parts don’t move when performing maintenance. It will also mean that the roll former is less likely to fail if tools fall and get trapped inside it as these can be retrieved before the machine is reconnected to the power supply.

Look after your roll forming machine

If machines spend long periods outside, they could be subject to weather erosion, and severe weather could damage parts of the device. Rain and snow could cause metal parts to rust, and extreme heat and cold can expand and shrink parts, causing them to weaken or crack. Avoid the use of solvents when cleaning the drive rollers as this solvent type could damage the machine. Proper cleaning and maintenance should be carried out according to the manufacturers’ guidelines to ensure the machine’s longevity.

If transporting the machine, empty it of material first

When moving the roll forming machine from one location to the other, or storing it for longer periods of time, make sure all material has been removed, so that dust and debris do not gather on it and damage.

Roll Forming Machines LLC provides the marketplace which a massive range of top-quality roll forming machinery. If you consider purchasing a roll forming machine for your business, browse our range or get in touch with our customer services team today.