Power Press Inspection Services

Power Presses are machines that use a significant amount of force to shape or deform materials. They can be very dangerous if not used properly, and there are several hazards associated with using them.

Some of the most common hazards associated with Power Presses include:

• Crush injuries. This is the most common type of injury associated with power presses, and can happen when a worker’s fingers, hands, or arms are caught between the moving parts of the press.
• Amputations. Crush injuries can also lead to amputations, a serious and often life-changing injury.
• Cuts and lacerations. The sharp edges of the materials being worked on can cause injuries that can be minor or severe, depending on the depth and location of the cut.
• Eye injuries. Flying debris or sparks from the press can cause eye injuries, such as corneal abrasions or even blindness.
• Noise-induced hearing loss. Power presses can be very noisy, and prolonged exposure to noise can lead to hearing loss.
• Electrical shock. Power presses can be electrically powered, and there is a risk of electrical shock if the equipment is not properly maintained.

This is why it’s so important that you have an in-depth power press risk assessment plan in place, and that you’re working with a competent and independent organisation, like the BES Group, to maintain power press safety at your site.

A Power Press inspection checklist should include the following items:

• Visual inspection. This will include checking for any damage to the press, such as cracks, dents, or missing parts.
• Safety guard inspection. Safety guards should be in good condition and should be properly installed.
• Electrical component checks. The electrical components should be in good condition and should be properly wired.
• Hydraulic system checks. The hydraulic system should be in good condition and should not leak.
• Operating controls checks. The operating controls should be in good working order and should not be damaged.
• Emergency stop button test. The emergency stop button should be in good working order and should be easily accessible.
• Signage inspection. The signage should be clear and easy to understand.

Most importantly, an inspection of a power press should only be carried out by qualified individuals with the right experience and expertise, like the BES Group.

In the UK, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) states that power presses with certain guards must be inspected every 6 months. Power Presses with fixed guards, or enclosed tooling, should be examined every 12 months, by a competent person.

During this process, existing power press control measures should be examined to ensure they’re still effective.

To find out how to ensure complete power press safety with proper maintenance speak to us. We’re here to answer your questions, no matter what.