Thermoforming Machines

Machine Shop Safety Quick Links

Always Follow the Manufacturer's Instructions and Recommendations for Safe and Proper Use.

• Is overhead material handling equipment used to load roll stock?
• Is the overhead material handling equipment appropriately rated for the weight of the stock?
• Is the operator aware of potential pinch points at the roll and frame?
• Is the operator aware of struck-by hazards when moving the material?
• Is appropriate PPE required?

Thread-up Process (pinch points, crushing, amputation, degloving, scalping)

• Does the unwind stand have a fixed barrier guard or an interlocked (movable) guard?
• Are presence-sensing devices used to stop machinery motion when employees enter hazardous areas?
• Is the rotating shaft properly nested in its groove?
• Is the rotating shaft properly guarded (fixed cap) or is the area barricaded to prevent access?
• Is appropriate PPE required?

Form Station (reaching into/over guarded areas)

• Are hot surfaces insulated or isolated from accidental contact?
• Are gases and vapors emitted from decomposing plastic adequately ventilated?
• Is exposed electrical wiring on adjacent heating oven components what may cause shock covered?
• Are potential crushing, pinching, amputation, or degloving hazards guarded?
• Is stored energy properly locked/tagged out, blocked, pinned, or jacked?
• Is appropriate PPE required?

Trim Station (crushing, amputations, cuts, electrical shock, burns, excessive noise, PTO)

• Are adequate lockout/tagout procedures followed during servicing, cleaning, and maintenance?
• Are blades properly guarded?
• Are chains properly guarded?
• Are live electrical circuits properly covered or insulated?
• Are proper tools available for sharp edges/blades?
• Is appropriate PPE required?

Stacker (crushing, amputation, struck-by, falls)

• Is there a top fixed-guard on low-profile machines to prevent reaching in from the top?
• Are adjustable guards in place to prevent access to discharge parts area?
• Is the operator workstation positioned so as to prevent access to hazardous areas?
• Are guard robots (or other automation) used to prevent entering or reaching into the space during operation?
• Does the platform have an approved guardrail system installed?
• Is appropriate PPE required?

Manual Packing and Inspecting (falls, slips, trips, sharp objects, awkward body positions)

1. Do platforms greater than 4’ high have guardrails installed?
2. Are secure steps and/or platforms provided to prevent movement?
3. Are steps and platforms provided to elevated work areas?
4. Is appropriate PPE required?

Contact Information

Robin McCall-Miller, Occupational Safety Program Manager

• Call: 540-231-2341
• Email: rmmiller@vt.edu