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    Machine Safety

    Don't Get Wrapped Up in Workplace Injury: Stretch Wrapper Safety

    Ian McHaffiePosted on May 11, 2023

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    Even when it’s done correctly, wrapping can be a difficult and strenuous job for your employees. This is especially true when your team is still wrapping by hand. Hand wrapping is a common cause of back injuries and is associated with other risks.

    When it comes to preventing workplace injuries, using the right protection equipment and taking preventative measures is crucial. Workers in various industries face potential hazards every day. Wearing appropriate protection equipment  can greatly reduce the risk of injury.

    Switching to a stretch wrapper could help your team stay safer. These machines include safety features designed to protect operators and reduce the number of injuries on the floor. When your team is properly trained to use them, they can improve safety and productivity.

    Stretch Wrappers Reduce Back Strain and Injuries

    Back injuries are relatively common in plants that still use hand-wrapping processes. Your team members have to complete several tasks that can cause strain, such as bending over and reaching down, carrying a 10-pound roll of film, and pulling with enough force to tie the pallet together. Hand wrapping is also connected with repetitive motion injuries, one of the most common safety hazards in the warehouse.

    A stretch wrap machine eliminates these risks. The machine will apply the force to tie the pallet together, and there’s no need for your employees to move the film rolls from place to place. Instead, the film is loaded into the machine.

    Stretch Wrapper Machine Reduces Risks of Lifting

    Stretch wrapper machine can also improve safety and the risks of injury by eliminating the need for employees to life. Usually, workers must lift film rolls over their heads to secure the top of the load. This can cause strain on the back and arms. It also poses a risk of injury if an employee loses grip and drops the roll.

    A stretch wrapper eliminates these worries since it can secure the top of the load without the same risky lifting process.

    The Turntable Stretch Wrapping Machine is an effective solution to put an end to employees running in circles

    Hand-wrapping procedures require employees to circle the pallet, sometimes several times to get the load wrapped properly. For some employees, this may result in dizziness. A dizzy spell could lead to a fall or other injuries.

    Another common cause of falls is tripping, and it’s easy to stumble over debris on the floor while you’re manually wrapping. Some hand wrap even requires the worker to circle the pallet walking backwards, increasing the likelihood of tripping and falling. While it is important to keep workspaces tidy, it isn’t always possible during a job. 

    A stretch wrapper uses a turntable to rotate the pallet and wrap everything up tight, so there’s no need to worry about anyone getting tripped up and taking a spill.

    The turntable stretch wrapping machines allows you to wrap your pallets with the greatest ease. No forklift trucks or other heavy lifting equipment is needed. There are variety of turn table wrapping machine with add on's that enable you to wrap all kind of pallets, dolly's & trolley's, panels and many more.

    Improve Your Productivity with the Right Stretch Wrapping Machine

     

     

    Options to Mitigate Machine Risks

    There’s no question that automatic stretch wrapping machine can be much safer than hand wrapping, but the machines do come with their own risks. The good news is that most of them can easily be reduced.

    Guard barriers for auto stretch wrap machine help keep your employees even safer. A post and chain, a cage, electronic eyes or a guardrail system keep workers from getting loose clothing or hands caught up in moving parts.

    It’s important to take note of the features on the machine itself, such as an automatic stop. This allows the machine to detect when the film breaks and then stop itself. Operators won’t have to try to reattach film to a rotating load, which could result in injury.

    Roller guards should also be installed, to prevent loose clothing or the operator’s hands from being pulled into the system when the film delivery system is working.

    Train Your Team

    One of the most important elements of stretch wrapper safety is training employees. Your team should be able to easily match load sizes to the turntable, and be aware of proper protocols for moving a portable stretch wrapping machine.

    Other aspects of training include reminding your team never to step onto the platform or to move between the mast and the load.

    The soft safety bumper on the rotary arm wrapping machines, the film loading system, remote control options in stretch wrap robot keeps your team safe.

    When everyone is on the same page, you’ll be able to keep your team safer and happier.

    Ian McHaffie

    Ian McHaffie holds the position of Machine Sales Specialist at Fromm Packaging Systems Canada, bringing his deep knowledge and expertise in automating packaging lines to the role. Ian's proficiency in creating efficient, automated packaging solutions is matched by his customer-centric approach, making him a valued partner to his clients. Fluent in both English and French, Ian excels in understanding the unique needs of each customer, ensuring that he provides solutions that not only meet but exceed their expectations, with a constant focus on achieving customer delight. Ian's approach to sales is deeply rooted in his ability to connect with customers, offering tailored advice and support that leverages his extensive knowledge of packaging automation. His bilingual skills enhance his effectiveness in serving a diverse clientele, enabling him to communicate complex solutions in a clear and accessible manner. Ian's commitment to excellence and his dedication to customer satisfaction are central to his role at Fromm Packaging Systems Canada, where he continues to make significant contributions to the success of the company and its clients.

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