Safety first

How to safely operate and maintain your waste and recycling machinery

By Trevor Wratten, Operations Manager for the South

Balers and compactors are fantastic pieces of equipment but, like all machinery, they can present risks if not operated correctly by fully trained personnel or are in a bad state of repair.

We provide full training to all of our customers on how to safely operate our baler and compactor machines, ensuring that all employees stay safe, savings continue and the H&S inspectors are happy.

Here are our top 5 tips for baler and compactor safety:

1. Ensure that everyone who operates (or even may need to operate) the machine is fully trained and equipped with the correct PPE including gloves, goggles, hearing protection (through active noise cancellation or passive noise cancellation) and hard hats. Ensure all operators sign to acknowledge their training and understanding of how to operate the machine. No-one under the age of 18 should operate a baler or compactor.
2. Ensure all equipment guards remain in place during use and manufacturer’s operating procedures are followed at all times.
3. Have your machine regularly inspected and serviced - and NEVER attempt to fix a broken machine yourself. We offer a comprehensive range of flexible service and maintenance plans to cover all your needs.
4. Display clear signage around the machine (i.e. Dangerous Machinery, No Smoking, Do Not Climb In, Confined Space, Only To Be Operated By Authorised Personnel etc…).
5. Always ensure that the operator instructions are available to all operatives. If machine is not in use leave machine in off position.  

Balers and compactors can save you up to 90% of your waste disposal costs if used safely and correctly.

Call us for more detailed advice and guidance or training in how to operate a baler or compactor on 0800 169 3534.