When Can a Company Be ANSI B20.5.9.3 Compliant Yet Still Experience Injuries in Corrugated Packaging?

In the corrugated packaging industry, adherence to safety standards like ANSI B20.5.9.3 is crucial for preventing workplace injuries. However, even with compliance, accidents can still occur. Understanding why this happens can help companies enhance their safety measures beyond the basic requirements.

What Does ANSI B20.5.9.3 Require?

ANSI B20.5.9.3 specifically addresses the guarding of nip and shear points on machinery. The standard mandates that these points must be guarded unless alternative safety measures are in place. For specific conveyors, section 6 of the standard provides detailed guidance. But compliance alone isn't a guarantee against accidents.

Why Injuries Still Occur

Even with guards in place, several factors can lead to injuries in a compliant setting:

• Human Error: Employees might bypass safety protocols or use equipment incorrectly, leading to accidents.
• Maintenance Issues: Guards might be removed during maintenance and not replaced promptly, exposing workers to hazards.
• Inadequate Training: If workers aren't properly trained on the use of machinery and the importance of safety protocols, they may not follow them effectively.
• Equipment Failure: Even compliant machinery can fail, leading to unexpected hazards.

Case Study: Real-World Application

I once consulted for a corrugated packaging facility that was fully compliant with ANSI B20.5.9.3. Despite this, they experienced an injury when a worker attempted to clear a jam in a conveyor without de-energizing the system. This incident highlighted the need for robust training and strict adherence to lockout/tagout procedures, even when guards are in place.

Enhancing Safety Beyond Compliance

To reduce the risk of injuries, companies should consider the following strategies:

• Regular Safety Audits: Conduct thorough safety audits to identify and rectify potential hazards beyond what compliance checks cover.
• Comprehensive Training Programs: Implement ongoing training that not only covers the use of machinery but also emphasizes the importance of safety protocols and the consequences of non-compliance.
• Incident Analysis: After any incident, perform a detailed analysis to understand the root cause and prevent future occurrences.
• Employee Engagement: Foster a safety culture where employees feel empowered to report potential hazards and suggest improvements.

By going beyond the minimum requirements of standards like ANSI B20.5.9.3, companies can create a safer working environment. Remember, based on available research, individual results may vary, and it's essential to tailor safety strategies to the specific needs and conditions of your workplace.