A client in the agricultural sector approached ST&L with safety concerns regarding a fertiliser mixing and bagging line. A recent PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) assessment, conducted by a third-party company, had identified several issues. However, that company did not offer services to implement the necessary safety improvements. The client needed a partner who could not only provide expert advice but also design and install practical solutions to mitigate the identified risks. They contacted ST&L to manage the corrective actions and ensure the machinery met all necessary safety standards.
Why our Client Made Contact with ST&L:
The Client had a PUWER assessment carried out by another external company on a fertiliser/mixing/bagging line, and this raised some safety concerns. The Client contacted ST&L to assist them with the improvements and corrective actions as the original PUWER assessment company did not offer this service.
Project Objectives:
- Implement a strategy to manage the risk reduction and control of hazards for the machine.
- Liaise with The Client’s operators and production staff to design and develop practical and usable solutions that minimised the impact on the process.
- Design and manage the installation of machinery guarding and upgrading of the SRP/CS (safety-related parts of the control system).
ST&L Scope of Works:
- Liaison with the client to develop a project plan for the implementation of corrective actions.
- Development of a Statement of Requirement (SOR) document outlining the proposed design of the guarding, interlocking and access solutions.
- Presentation of the SOR to the Client with Project, Engineering, H&S and Operational personnel.
- Update and final sign-off of SOR.
- Quotation produced for corrective actions.
- Design, manufacture, install and commission final solution involving the selection, programming, validation, pre-testing of a modular safety PLC controller.
Key Benefits Achieved:
- Enhanced Safety & Compliance: All identified hazards were addressed, bringing the machinery into full compliance with PUWER regulations and significantly reducing the risk of accidents.
- Minimal Disruption: By collaborating closely with the client’s operators and production staff, ST&L developed solutions that were practical and had minimal impact on existing workflows and productivity.
- Turnkey Solution: The client benefited from a comprehensive, end-to-end service, from initial project planning and design to final installation and commissioning, saving them the time and complexity of managing multiple contractors.
- Future-Proofed Control System: The upgraded modular safety PLC controller not only solved the immediate safety issues but also provided a flexible and reliable system for future operations.
Ensure Your Machinery is Safe and Compliant
If you have received a PUWER assessment that raises concerns or simply want to proactively manage your machinery safety, ST&L can help. We provide a complete service to help you implement the corrective actions needed to ensure a safe and productive workplace.
