Steel strapping and steel strapping equipment are used to secure material bundles on pallets for transportation and storage. Steel strapping sealers crimp and cut the straps in order to create a tight seal around the weight. While steel strapping sealers are an efficient securing method, they can be dangerous if not handled properly. It is critical to follow safe operating procedures.
Recognise the Steel Strapping Sealer
A steel sealer is a portable instrument used to crimp and cut steel strapping banding to secure loads. Most sealers have two main handles that, when squeezed, leverage the crimping/cutting components. Sealers are usually powered by hydraulic or battery-powered electric motors. The crimping inserts have circular indenters that push together to seal overlapping strap sections. Meanwhile, the strap material is sliced with a steel blade located in the sealer head. Understanding the tool’s functioning will aid in avoiding pinch points and cuts while in use.
Prior to Use, Inspect
Each day, thoroughly examine the entire steel strapping sealer before use. Look for:
Housing cracks
crimping inserts that are damaged or worn
Parts that are loose, missing, or broken
Strange noises from the motor, hydraulic leaks
Inadequate blade retraction
If powered by electricity, the battery charge level
Other evident symptoms of excessive wear/damage
Any sealer that is not in excellent working order should not be used. Component failure puts the operator at considerable danger of tool failure and personal injury. Remove damaged sealers from service as soon as possible so that experienced personnel can fix them.
Protective Equipment
Working with a steel sealer can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from cuts to crushing. Personal protection equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times for safety. This includes the following:
Full finger cut-5 resistant gloves
Side shielded safety glasses
Boots with steel toes
Shirt with long sleeves and trousers
Make sure that no clothes, hair, or jewellery gets caught in the moving sealer pieces, and tie back long hair. This protective equipment serves as an important safety barrier for tool operators.
Setup of a Safe Work Zone
Prior to usage, completely cleanse and ready the steel strapping operation work area. Remove any slip/trip hazards or impediments that could lead to falls into working sealers. Provide enough space for bundles to move in and out of the area smoothly. If numerous operators are working on large loads at the same time, make sure there is enough throughway space around the sealers. The lighting must be sufficiently bright to allow for clear strap positioning and sealing accuracy. Before replacing damaged strap coils, all machinery should be turned off. Finally, when sealing, keep a first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher handy.
Correct Operator Stance and Hand Positioning
Maintaining appropriate posture while strapping pallets helps to avoid awkward movements that can pose a safety concern. Face the load squarely. For stability and balance, keep your feet shoulder width apart. Instead of bending at the waist, bend your knees slightly. To maintain tension, make sure your non-dominant hand is holding the strapping coil. Place the dominant hand across the top of the sealer, palm firmly on the rear handle. When the second hand is incorrectly positioned on the crimping side, pinch points become more dangerous. Lean slightly away from the instrument to increase separation margin. For consistent crimping pressure, use precise handle motions.
Tool Upkeep and Storage
Follow all steel strapping sealer maintenance instructions in the owner’s manual. Inspect, clean, and lubricate components as directed on a regular basis. Check the sharpness of the blades and replace dull blades as soon as possible using the appropriate spare part replacements. When not in use, properly store the powered sealer by disconnecting the battery, engaging the safety locks, and covering the equipment to prevent dust buildup. Fully recharge electric battery-powered sealers before they run out of electricity. When not in use, put manual sealers in a securely closed cabinet. Proper care encourages continued safe operation.
Steel strapping tasks can be incident-free by learning how to operate steel strapping sealers, sealers hazard-free prep spaces, wearing suitable PPE, and following safe operating procedures. When working with tensioned steel strapping, however, keep attentive and use extreme caution because injuries can develop quickly if protocols are not followed. Seek extra training from manufacturers and supervisors to improve your knowledge of dealing with steel strapping sealers for safe loading.