MACHINERY & MACHINE SAFETY
WAREHOUSING, HANDLING & STORAGE
THE IMPORTANCE OF EQUIPMENT SAFETY FOR AUTOMATED RAIL-DEPENDANT STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS (ASRS)
1. Access control: The safety locking MGB2 system can be used to control access to hazardous areas of machinery and equipment, such as conveyors or ASRS. Only authorized personnel with the correct key can unlock the access door and gain entry to the machine. This prevents unauthorised personnel from accidentally entering hazardous areas while the machine is in operation.
M
achinery safety is a critical aspect of any industrial operation, particularly when it comes to Automated rail-dependent Storage and Retrieval systems (ASRS). The hazards present on this type of equipment are significant and therefore any designer and operator must pay extra-special attention to the safety measures in place.
To ensure the safe operation of these machines, organisations must comply with safety guidelines such as the European Standard BS EN 528:2021 - Rail Dependent Storage and Retrieval Equipment. Safety Requirements For S/R Machines - which outlines the safety requirements for rail-dependent storage and retrieval systems as found in the majority of modern warehouses. The standard covers a range of safety considerations, including the design of the overall system, the materials and components used, and the installation and maintenance of the equipment. It aims to ensure that ASRS’s are safe for operators and other personnel who work in the same area as the system. The standard covers several key safety aspects including control system safety: the standard requires ASRS to have reliable control systems that ensure the safe operation of the handling system. This includes emergency stop controls, access interlocks, and other safety devices. An easy way to ensure compliance with the relevant sections of the standard is through the use of interlocking devices c/w access control such as the MGB2 solution from machinery safety experts Euchner. There are several ways in which the MGB2 can be used in warehouses to improve machinery safety:
2. Escape release: The Euchner MGB2 system includes an escape release function that allows personnel to exit hazardous areas quickly in case of an emergency. The function can be activated from inside the hazardous area, allowing personnel to exit quickly and safely.
3. Tamper-resistant design: The Euchner MGB2 system has a tamper-resistant design that makes it difficult for unauthorised personnel to bypass or disable the safety system. This ensures that the safety system is always operational, even in the event of a malicious or intentional attempt to manipulate it.
4.Seamless integration to the Euchner CKS ‘Key-in-Pocket’ solution, preventing unintentional start-up of the equipment while personnel are in the dangerous areas.
Ultimately, the importance of machinery safety in rail-dependent storage and retrieval systems cannot be overstated. These systems involve the use of powerful drive systems and pose a significant risk if they are not
properly designed, installed, and maintained. It is important to note that machinery safety is not a one-time consideration. Rather, it is an ongoing process that requires regular testing and maintenance to ensure that the system remains safe and reliable over time. By staying up-to-date with the latest safety standards and best practices, and by implementing a regular testing and maintenance program, it is possible to ensure that rail-dependent storage and retrieval systems and gantry cranes continue to operate safely and efficiently. In conclusion, machinery safety is critical for ASRS to ensure that they operate safely and effectively. Standards like BS EN 528 provide guidelines for the design, installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of ASRS to ensure that they meet safety requirements. Additionally, advances in safety technology like the Euchner MGB2 / CKS2 can be used to improve safety within storage and retrieval systems by controlling access to the hazardous areas through the use of the machines control system. By implementing these safety measures, ASRS operators can minimize the risks associated with automated material handling and ensure a safe working environment for their personnel.
Euchner
www.euchner.co.uk
26 MARCH 2023 | FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS
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