What You Should Know About Electrical Control Panels
Electrical control panels more than save you money. Of course, they do that. However, did you know they keep your employees safe, too?
We see common hazards when it comes to unsafe applications in today’s workplace. Just one element to our electrical control panels is safety. Panels combined with pneumatic and electrical safety products can give your employees a safe place to work in.
Electrical Control Panels Master Safety
Safety components are just one element of the benefits electrical control panels provide. Below are some ways electrical panels can support injury prevention in the workplace.
• Two hand anti-tie downs keep employees out of the work area
• Prevent employees from getting into pinch points
• Light curtains, safety mats and area sensors safely stop equipment
• Safety PLC’s and safety-related drives monitor themselves for failure modes
• Safe torque off, safe operating stop and safely limited speed functions operate motors safely
• Redundant electronics maintain a safe work environment
• Control motion force and speed more accurately than pneumatics
In What Industries Can Panels Improve Safety?
Nearly every industry can benefit from electrical control panels. However, the most common industry control panels are used in is manufacturing. Here are a few common applications where electrical control panels have been known to keep people safe:
- Filling
- Food
- Material handling
- Product testing
- Compressor controls
- Pneumatic circuit controls
- Motor controls
- Relay panels
- Timeclock/timer based control
Tips For Keeping Workers Safety with Electrical Control Panels
While electrical control panels greatly increase employee safety, there is electricity running through them. This means that it is important to be aware of safety protocols that must be used when operating these machines.
Protective Gear
It is important to wear clothing and protective gear that is flame resistant. It is also advised that you wear a hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, leather gloves, special work shoes and a face shield. You should also remove any jewelry that would be considered a conductive material.
Be Aware of Your Environment At All Times
Being aware of your environment means that you are aware of hazardous materials in the area, live circuits, and individuals working near you. Being unaware of any of these elements could result in injury to your employees. Inattentiveness is one of the most harmful hazards in any work environment.
Keep Some Space
OSHA recommends that there is a minimum of three feet between electrical panels and any other structures. This allows for a working space in case of an emergency. They also recommend that an appropriate covering is used to protect the panel. These coverings ensure the safety of employees and longevity of your panel.
Contact Us
Do you have questions on what electrical control panels could automate for you? Contact our specialists by email or phone to ask them your questions!