When Can a Company Be OSHA 1910.215(c)(7) Compliant Yet Still Experience Injuries in Corrugated Packaging?

Compliance with OSHA regulation 1910.215(c)(7) on driving flanges is crucial, yet it doesn't guarantee a workplace free from injuries, especially in the corrugated packaging industry. This regulation mandates that the driving flange be securely fastened to the spindle with a true bearing surface. However, even with strict adherence, other factors can contribute to workplace accidents.

Understanding OSHA 1910.215(c)(7)

OSHA 1910.215(c)(7) specifically addresses the safety requirements for driving flanges in abrasive wheel machinery. The regulation states that the driving flange must be securely fastened to the spindle, ensuring the bearing surface runs true. When multiple wheels are used between a single set of flanges, they can be cemented together or separated by specially designed spacers. These spacers must match the flange's diameter and provide equal bearing surfaces.

Why Injuries Still Occur

Even with compliance, injuries can still happen due to a variety of reasons:

• Human Error: Operators might not follow safety protocols correctly, leading to accidents despite compliant machinery.
• Maintenance Issues: Regular wear and tear can affect the machinery's performance, even if it initially meets the standards.
• Environmental Factors: Dust, debris, or other environmental hazards in the corrugated packaging environment can compromise safety.
• Training Gaps: Inadequate training on how to use machinery safely can lead to mistakes.

Case Study: A Real-World Example

I once worked with a corrugated packaging facility that was fully compliant with 1910.215(c)(7). Despite this, they experienced an injury when an operator, new to the job, didn't secure the flange properly due to insufficient training. This incident underscores the importance of comprehensive training programs and ongoing safety assessments beyond just meeting regulatory standards.

Mitigating Risks Beyond Compliance

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

• Enhanced Training: Regularly update and reinforce safety training to ensure all employees are knowledgeable about the machinery they operate.
• Regular Maintenance: Implement a strict maintenance schedule to check and repair machinery, ensuring it remains compliant and safe.
• Safety Audits: Conduct frequent safety audits to identify and mitigate potential hazards in the workplace.
• Incident Analysis: Thoroughly analyze any incidents to understand the root causes and prevent future occurrences.

While OSHA 1910.215(c)(7) compliance is essential, it's just one piece of the puzzle. A holistic approach to safety, encompassing training, maintenance, and continuous improvement, is necessary to create a truly safe working environment in the corrugated packaging industry.