Page 3 - July 2021 Track N Times

FEATURE STORY

Pinch Point Identification

By Brad Goettsch, Manager Rail Grinding

There is a new initiative at Loram to develop a Pinch Point Identification and Training program. A team has been

formed and we will be looking into the best ways to recognize these locations across all types of Loram equip-
ment. Then a Training program will need to be developed so all employees will have the same knowledge base
regarding Pinch Points.

A pinch point is a point on a machine where a person or a part of their
body can get caught in between moving parts. Gears, rollers, belt drives,
and pulleys are all examples of typical pinch points in the workplace.

"Pinch point" means any point other than the point of operation at
which it is possible for a part of the body to be caught between the mov-
ing and stationary parts of the equipment.”

A Pinch Point is produced when two objects come together and there is a possibility that a person could be
caught or injured when coming in contact with that area. Pinch points commonly impact fingers / hands but can
impact any area of the body. The injury resulting from a pinch point could be as minor as a blister or as severe as
amputation or death.
Common Causes of Injuries from Pinch Points

• Not paying attention to the location of hands and feet
• Walking or working in areas with mobile equipment and fixed structures
• Loose clothing, hair or jewelry getting caught in rotating parts or equipment
• Poor condition of equipment and guarding
• Dropping or carelessly handling materials or suspended loads
• Not using the proper work procedures or tools
• Reaching into moving equipment and machinery

Injuries from pinch points can be eliminated with the proper control efforts. Working through the 5-Step Pro-
cess, employees and supervisors will need to determine whether the pinch point hazard can be completely elimi-
nated or perhaps substituted for something less dangerous.

Safety Controls for Pinch Points

• Machine Guarding: Verify all guarding is in place and effective
• Personal Protective Equipment: Heavy-duty leather gloves, metacarpal guards, forearm guards, etc. Note:
Do not wear gloves around rotating machinery.
• Pre-work inspection: Identify potential pinch points before starting work
• Lockout/Tagout: Always verify the equipment is de-energized before starting any maintenance work
• Alertness: Drowsiness leads to inattentive work habits and shortcuts
• Always review operating manuals and work procedures before starting work, pinch points may also be
identified in these documents

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JUNE 2021
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