W hen you consider that high-speed industrial conveyor belts move at speeds as fast as 600 feet per minute, you know these commonly used pieces of equipment can represent a significant workplace hazard. Keep in mind that once a piece of clothing or a body part makes contact with a moving conveyor belt or a roller, entanglement can happen within seconds. And the force generated by the system is far greater than what most people can resist. Remember: By the time a trapped crew member realizes what has happened, the hazardous machine might already be pulling him or her into moving equipment parts. Ordinary movements The risks posed by conveyor systems are particularly worrisome when you consider that potentially fatal incidents oftentimes start with small, ordinary movements such as reaching across a belt to reposition an item, leaning in to clear a jam, or cleaning underneath a conveyor that’s still running. And once someone’s clothing, hair, or body part gets stuck in a moving conveyor component, the force of the machinery takes over and can cause a significant injury. Common injuries Common conveyor- related injuries include the amputation of fingers, hands, or arms; crushing injuries to limbs or the torso; deep lacerations or fractures; and scalping injuries when hair gets caught in rotating parts. (What are some of the most common causes of conveyor-related incidents?) Recent investigations of conveyor-related injury incidents conducted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration have identified several common causes, including: • missing, broken, or inadequate safety guards • lack of adherence to lockout/tagout procedures • inaccessible, broken, or insufficient emergency stop devices • failure to investigate previously reported equipment problems Fortunately, there are several things we can do to reduce the chances someone here will suffer a conveyor- related injury. For instance, you should tie back long hair, remove jewelry and wear tight-fitting clothing near conveyors – loose- fitting items can get snared in rotating parts within seconds. Avoid pinch points In addition, keep clear of pinch points – locations where two mechanical parts come together – that can trap fingers, hands, or clothing. These dangerous areas are often found near drive pulleys, belt idlers and tensioners. It’s also important to follow lockout/tagout procedures before cleaning, servicing, or repairing a conveyor. And never walk, sit, or stand on a conveyor. Instead, use a designated walkway or platform. Thanks for your attention. And remember, let’s stay safe out there! Subject: Static electricity While we’ve all felt static electricity when we’ve touched a doorknob after walking across a carpet, we might not immediately recognize the significant danger posed by static electricity in the workplace. For instance, a static spark could ignite flammable vapors and cause a massive explosion. What to focus on Here are three things to keep in mind to reduce the risks posed by static electricity. 1. Bond containers. Before transferring flammable liquids between containers, bond the two containers by attaching a bonding strap or a wire to both of them. Doing so will ensure there’s no difference in the electrical potential between the two containers, so no sparks will form. 2. Use suitable equipment. Select conductive or static- dissipative hoses, footwear, containers, tools and safety equipment when transferring hazardous liquids. 3. Reduce the flammability of the atmosphere. Before transferring hazardous substances or otherwise engaging in activities that could produce static electricity in an explosive environment, ensure ventilation levels are adequate and take steps to control the volume of combustible dust in the air. Today’s safety meeting ✔ Topic: Conveyor safety ✔ Today’s Date: __________________ ✔ Attendee Signatures: Tailgate talk Supervisor’s safety toolbox SafetyAlert FOR SUPERVISORS 4 Safety Alert for Supervisors August 31, 2026