Posted By James K I am hoping that someone out there in the world of the engineering workshop will be able to assist me. We are in the process of installing a shot blaster for steel. At this stage I am unsureof the make model etc etc. I have been asked to outline the possible hazards associated with this piece of eqiupment. There are the ones that stand out such as noise and dust etc Has anyone got documentation that could assist me to identify the possible hazards with thistypeof machine. I know that the risk assessment that I will complete when the machine is in place will be site / machine / person specific but I am hoping that someone has this type of machine already and will be able to give me a heads up on the possible hazards. Thanks in advance for your help. Jim

Posted By James K Thanks Chris. What I was after was maybe some of the generic hazards associated with the shot blasting process. I would imagine that all of them have some generic hazards. But I do take your point that it is nearly impossible to create the RAs until I know the exact type etc

Posted By Melanie Fellows Sorry, they were the risks - these are the hazards; The shot blasting process as a whole. The failure of the “dead mans handle” system. Failure or contamination of the “blasters” air supply. Exposure to metal shot under pressure. Exposure to significant levels of dust. Lighting failure within the booths. Uncontrolled release of pressure, broken pipes etc. Slips, trips and falls within the booths. Falling work pieces. Failure to hear premises alarm systems Hopefully these should be of help. Mel

Posted By Donk Don't forget Fire, we had a fairly large fire due to the accumulation of dust. Poor housekeeping's and maintenance was to blame.

Posted By Chris Jerman Regardless of the type: cabinet, hanger, table, or pipe etc as they get older they all let the occasional piece of shot out of the enclosure. Consider the siting of the machine and the ease with which an eye protection zone may be formed. Spilled shot will get everywhere eventually too and if the floor is smooth (metal plated) you will have an ice rink to walk on. Remember that shot blasting equipment is by its very nature, self destructive and without exemplary maintenance it will start to leak fairly quickly. Operator training is often overlooked _ I'm not talking about simply how to make to work, rather the everyday maintenance and understanding of 'hotspots' and wear etc. Good list of hazards from Melanie too. Chris

Posted By John J James, One hazard to be aware of is static build up while using the blaster. Ensure the cabinet/equipment is suitably earthed along with the user, John