The United States Postal Service runs on its ability to quickly sort, process, and deliver mail to the right locations, relying on processing and distribution centers that run on machines.
As we implement our network optimization plans, more facilities, like the sorting and delivery center will receive automated processing equipment for the first time. It’s extremely important to know how to stay safe with powered machines and equipment.
Safeguarding machines is the first line of defense to ensure the safety of employees operating powered machinery and equipment. Several measures are in place to protect employees from contact with dangerous moving parts or other hazardous conditions.
Safeguards include barrier guards, safety devices, shields, emergency stops, awareness barriers, and warning signs. Any of these safeguards may be used singularly or in combination. Every employee working on, or around powered machinery and equipment needs to know and adhere to the following fundamental machine safety rules:
- Never remove or tamper with machine safeguards.
- Report problems with machine safeguards to your supervisor immediately.
- Never leave machines unattended with parts still moving. Some parts may still move after the machine is turned off.
- Operate equipment only when guards are in place and properly adjusted.
- Do not use unauthorized or damaged guards.
- Check that all machine perimeter guards are in good condition and entry doors are functional and locked.
- Do not wear loose clothing, jewelry, or long hair around machines, doing so increases the risk of being caught in the machinery.
- Do not attempt to remove jams from moving parts with the machine still running.
- Recognize and observe warning signs.
- Know where emergency e-stops are located and use the e-stop to shut equipment down if you or a coworker is in danger.
- Stop and de-energize machines completely before attempting to clear jams or debris.
- Only allow trained and authorized employees to repair and maintain the machines.
- Verify all safety guards are in place after maintenance or repairs, before restarting the machine.
Authorized maintenance technicians are responsible for ensuring all hazardous energy sources of powered machines and equipment are shut down and secured before performing maintenance and repairs.
The technician must follow Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) procedures, which require specific steps depending on the machine and source of energy. Specialized LOTO equipment include locks, locking devices, and tags to identify who is working on the machine. Only authorized personnel are allowed to work on machines that require a LOTO procedure or to remove locks or tags from equipment.
Ergonomics is another aspect of machine safety in Postal Service operations. Sorting and processing equipment often requires the need to manually feed or induct mail trays or parcels onto conveyor belts or other induction points.
After mail is processed by a machine, it may require manual sweeping or unloading into containers or onto pallets. Conveyors and induction points on machines are designed or modified to allow a good working height for the operator when loading and unloading mail.
This is often improved by equipment such as container tilters and pallet lifters that can reduce ergonomic risk factors, such as repetitive awkward posture and forceful exertions. Something as simple as using a pole to clear a jam or pulling mail closer can improve ergonomics of the machine task. Job rotation or better work practices may also be beneficial.
The Postal Service goes to great lengths to make sure powered machinery and equipment used within its facilities is designed, built, installed, and operated to ensure the safety of employees. All employees must be trained and instructed on how to operate each piece of equipment safely before using it for the first time.