Non-woven felting

Felting machines should have:

isolation controls, inching buttons and emergency stops fitted and within easy reach of all sizes of operatives
cross-lappers correctly guarded or fenced to prevent easy access
where large rolls of materials are doffed automatically - warning signals in operation and retaining barriers in place to prevent contact with employees
material cutting and trimming devices guarded
conveyor systems guarded at access and nip points and at any hazards that arise when movement is in reverse
where employees need to access machines or equipment at height - steps and ladders are substantial and of a safe design, hazard permits used and specific employees named and trained for the work
spare and replacement cutting and trimming blades stored safely
all in-running nips properly guarded to prevent access
dust and fume extractor units in operation and recorded inspections made at weekly intervals
system in place for checking the function of all isolation, emergency stop and control buttons prior to daily start up
documented safe system in force for lifting and handling material at both feed and doff areas
safe system or work permit in force for removing, fitting and sharpening blades and only named, trained and competent operators work at the machines
where hot parts, steam and presses are used - employees follow a documented safe system for adjustments and valve controls
where dust and fumes have been identified as a hazard - documented safe systems followed eg RPE, vacuum cleaning, extraction units etc
when dust bags require emptying - a written safe system of work is followed and employees supervised regularly
where employees need to access machines or equipment at height (eg dust bag collars) - steps and ladders are substantial and of a safe design, hazard permits used and specific employees named and trained for the work

Spare keys should not be available.

Check the British Standards that apply to felting machinery.