Power cables and cords are used in many grain handling facilities. They can be found on equipment such as portable generators or mobile conveyors. Power cables and cords are often located in harsh environments with inclement weather and vehicle traffic. This can damage their flexible insulation and expose employees to live electrical conductors resulting in electrical shock. Cables and cords are also commonly located on walking and working surfaces which poses slip, trip, and fall hazards. Fortunately, there are ways to protect power cables and cords against damage, reduce shock hazards, and prevent slips, trips, and falls.
Cord and cable protection is available in a wide variety of options. Dropover guards provide quick and easy protection for cables and cords. The guard is simply placed over top of the cable or cord. This allows vehicles and pedestrians to safely cross without damaging the equipment. They also offer slip resistance and high visibility markings to help eliminate slips, trips, and falls.
Channel protectors provide the same durable protection but with the added benefit of allowing cables and cords to be organized into different channels. Both dropover and channel protector guards are rated for large vehicles including payloaders and trucks.
Remember, safety doesn’t have to be difficult, simple steps such as protecting electrical cables and cords can prevent injuries and save lives.
Source: Joe Mlynek is president of Progressive Safety Services LLC, Gates Mills, OH: joe.mlynek@progressivesafety.us, and content creation expert for Safety Made Simple, Inc., Olathe, KS; joe@safetymadesimple.com