Recognise the hazards at each stage

For washers and washer-extractors, drum rotation, doors and load imbalance are important. Dryers add heat and possible tilting movement. With flatwork ironers and folders, feeding linen brings hands close to drawing-in points where contact can have serious consequences.

An automated line also transfers loads between machines. Even where each machine has protective measures, interfaces may leave dangerous access or allow unexpected movement initiated elsewhere in the line. Assess the entire installation and the tasks people actually perform around it.

Protection during production

Doors and Interlocking devices should work as designed, without being defeated to speed up cycles. Check that doors and covers remain securely supported during loading and unloading. A faulty protective device needs a technical response, not compensation through greater operator attention.

When feeding ironers, use the method intended for the particular items and equipment. Training must explain which faults operators may address and which they must report. Pulling a trapped item beside moving rollers can draw the person’s hand into the machinery as well.

Heat, steam and cleaning

Surfaces, pipework and textiles may remain hot after a cycle finishes. Steam leaks and accessible hot components need control; stopping movement does not establish that a machine can safely be touched or opened without further precautions being taken.

Plan cleaning of filters, ducts and internal areas according to the manufacturer. Fibre and debris accumulation must not be addressed by entering machinery or reaching mechanisms without preparation. Cleaning products must be compatible with the equipment and managed using their safety instructions.

Intervene without relying on the stop button

Before maintenance or unjamming, apply the appropriate energy isolation, including pressure, heat and raised or tilting components. A stop button does not replace that control. Entering a drum or tunnel is a special intervention requiring its own assessment and procedure.

Record recurring faults, load changes and feeding problems: these may indicate unsuitable equipment or use. Following repair, confirm that guards and protective functions have been restored before handing the line back to production personnel for normal operation.