Dashpivot Article – Examples of Pinch Points

Examples of Pinch Points

Why is it Important to be Aware of Pinch Points?

Before any examples of pinch points can be given, it is necessary understand why it is important to be aware of them.

Pinch points are areas where it is possible for a part of the body to get caught between moving parts, between stationary parts and moving parts, or between material and a part of the machine. Recognising these points is crucial in industrial workplace settings, where machinery and heavy equipment are predominantly used to complete work activities. Awareness of pinch points helps prevent injuries and also ensures smooth operational flow, which is essential in maintaining efficiency and safety in the workplace.

Identifying and mitigating pinch point risks plays a critical role in reducing equipment-related incidents, which are a significant cause of unplanned work stoppages. Enhanced awareness of these dangers also aids in compliance with safety regulations and standards, helping avoid legal and financial repercussions. Moreover, training workers to recognise and manage pinch point hazards increases their competence and confidence, leading to a more engaged and safety-conscious workforce.

You can learn more about what pinch points are here.

Common Examples of Pinch Points in the Workplace

What are some examples of pinch points? Below are common examples of pinch points that workers are most at risk of encountering in industrial work environments:

Conveyor Belts

One of the most prevalent pinch points are found around conveyor belts. These belts can catch clothing, limbs, or tools if not properly shielded. Workers involved in the maintenance, operation, or cleaning of conveyor systems must be vigilant about the moving parts and the points where materials are loaded and discharged.

Hydraulic Doors and Covers

Hydraulic doors and machine covers also pose significant pinch point risks. These mechanisms often move with considerable force and have the potential to cause severe injury if body parts are inadvertently placed in their path. Ensuring these are fitted with proper safety guards and sensors can mitigate the risks involved.

Gears and Rollers

Gears and rollers, commonly used in manufacturing and processing industries, present multiple pinch points. These components must mesh together tightly to function, creating areas where fingers, hair, or clothing might get caught. Regular maintenance and safety training are essential to prevent accidents in these areas.

Automated Robotic Arms

In automated sections of facilities, robotic arms that perform repetitive tasks can become a hazard, especially if the operational area is not clearly defined or protected. The points where robotic arms interact with other machinery or parts are particularly dangerous. Implementing robust safety protocols and using physical barriers can help minimize exposure to these risks.

Forklifts

The operation of forklifts, especially when maneuvering in tight spaces, involves several pinch points, primarily around the mast and lifting mechanism where loads are raised and lowered. Operators must be trained to maintain a clear area around the forklift to prevent crushing injuries to themselves or others.

Pneumatic Systems

Pneumatic systems, which use compressed air to power machinery, often contain pinch points at connection joints and where hoses meet tools. The rapid movement of pneumatic tools and parts can easily trap hands or fingers if not handled with care. Proper training and use of quick-release couplings can help reduce these risks.

Material Handling Equipment

Equipment used for lifting and moving materials, such as hoists and winches, frequently involves pinch points. These points can occur at hooks, chains, or slings where materials are attached. Ensuring all lifting devices are properly maintained and that loads are secured can prevent accidents in these areas.

Press Machines

Press machines used in forming and shaping materials can create severe pinch points between the press plates or molds. These machines require rigorous safety measures, including the use of machine guards and safety interlocks to prevent access to dangerous areas during operation.

Sliding Gates or Doors

Sliding mechanisms, often found on large industrial gates or doors, create pinch points where the moving parts overlap or close. Workers can inadvertently place their fingers or hands in these areas, leading to injuries. Installing sensor-based safety systems that halt movement when a potential obstruction is detected can be an effective preventative measure.

How to Educate Team Members on Pinch Points

Educating team members on examples of pinch points, as well as identifying and handling pinch points, is essential to maintain a safe working environment. Here are some practical strategies to enhance awareness and ensure safety practices are consistently applied:

Implement Regular Training Sessions

One effective strategy to educate team members about pinch points is to implement regular training sessions. These sessions should cover the identification of pinch points, the risks associated with them, and the safety protocols to follow to avoid accidents. Training should be interactive, possibly incorporating simulations or practical demonstrations to help team members understand the real-world implications of pinch points.

Hold a Toolbox Talk on Examples of Pinch Points

To effectively conduct a toolbox talk on pinch points, start by organizing a brief meeting with your team members at a common time, ideally at the beginning of a shift or just before a critical task. The setting should be informal yet focused, allowing for open communication and interaction among all participants.

Begin the toolbox talk by clearly defining what pinch points are and discussing their common locations within your specific workplace environment. It’s helpful to use diagrams or photos to visually represent these areas, making it easier for team members to identify similar hazards in their daily operations. Emphasize the types of injuries that can occur and the immediate consequences of such accidents.

Encourage participation from the team by asking them to share any personal experiences or close calls related to pinch points. This peer-to-peer learning can be very impactful as it relates real incidents to the team, highlighting the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety protocols.

Conclude the session by reviewing best practices for avoiding pinch point injuries, such as proper machine use, personal protective equipment, and the importance of reporting potential hazards. Ensure the talk is concise but comprehensive, leaving team members with a clear understanding of how to handle pinch points safely.

Utilize Visual Aids

Visual aids such as posters, warning signs, and color-coded diagrams can effectively remind team members of the dangers associated with pinch points. Place these aids in high-risk areas or common spaces where they are easily visible. Visual reminders can prompt ongoing awareness and caution, helping to reinforce the training and discussions provided in more formal settings.

Incorporate Pinch Point Safety into Daily Operations

Make pinch point safety a part of daily operations by incorporating it into pre-shift briefings and routine safety checks. This ongoing emphasis helps keep safety top of mind and ensures that it becomes a natural part of workplace culture. Managers and team leaders should regularly reference pinch points during these briefings, discussing any new risks identified and reviewing the procedures for reporting and responding to pinch point hazards.

You should ensure that you document all your strategies. You will need to review them in the future to ensure they are still adequately protecting workers. Below is an example of a toolbox talk on pinch points that has been documented using a toolbox talk form:

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Toolbox Talk Pinch Points Template Side 1

Toolbox Talk Pinch Points Template Side 2

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Use customisable toolbox talk forms to educate your team on pinch points

Toolbox talks are an effective way to provide examples of pinch points to your work team and reinforce their understanding of pinch points. You should use this toolbox talk pinch points template for your next pinch points toolbox talk.

It is designed with all the required fields and sections. You can detail all your discussion points, record safety issues raised by your team, assign action items, and take meeting attendance. Photos and other attachments can be added to the form. It can also be customised to suit any other requirements.