SAFEGUARDS

SAFEGUARDS
The manufacturer of the “Super Axe” has developed a
modification that includes a double action to interlock the
blade control, minimising unintended operation.
Install the modification provided by the manufacturer.
RE-ISSUED
May 2013
Owners and operators of machines with a similar operating
mechanism should check their machines to see if similar
modifications are required.
that any axe blade control systems are properly labelled and
cannot be inadvertently activated.
All operators should be trained in the operation of log
splitting machines.
Safety Procedures should include a system of work
to shutdown or isolate the axe control system before
attempting to free a log stuck on the axe blade.
HAZARD OF ELECTRIC TREATMENT TABLES (OR BEDS)
Safety procedures
should be regularly monitored and
WITH POWER ASSISTED LIFTING
MECHANISMS
Owners and operators of log splitters should make sure
reinforced
OBJECTIVE
that
any axe blade control systems are properly labelled and
cannot be inadvertently activated.
To raise awareness of the potential dangers
with electrically
treatment
Allassociated
operators should
be trained adjustable
in the operation
of logtables
or
beds
with
power
assisted
lifting
mechanisms.
splitting machines.
BACKGROUND
Safety Procedures should include a system of work
small child
was fatally
injured
as system
a resultbefore
of
to A
shutdown
or isolate
the axe
control
being
crushed
between
the
moving
linkages
attempting to free a log stuck on the axe blade. of an
electrically powered height adjustable table, while
the table
was inshould
operation.
Safety
procedures
be regularly monitored and
reinforced
Most tables (or beds) incorporate scissor type linkages
that introduce trapping, crush and shear points.
This incident may be unique to the leg operated axe control
of These
the Whitlands
Engineering
Axe”
are more
evident at“Super
the lower
table height
A stirrup
fits around
the operator’s
right leg,
with
positions,
where movement
of upper
the linkages
towards
movement
of the legcomponents
causing the is
axe
blade the
to either
raise
other stationary
usually
fastest.
or lower.
When a log stuck on the axe blade, the operator used
both hands try and lever the log off the axe blade, as
the operator moved, the machine accidentally operated,
crushing three fingers of the worker’s left hand between
the log and the machine table.
ACTION REQUIRED
The An
manufacturer
of the
has developed
a
example of
an “Super
electricAxe”
treatment
table with
assisted
liftingaction
mechanisms
modificationpower
that includes
a double
to interlock the
blade control, minimising unintended operation.
RISK CONTROL MEASURES
Install the modification provided by the manufacturer.
• Moving parts of appliances should be positioned
or enclosed
to prevent
access with
by any
person,
or
Owners
and operators
of machines
a similar
operating
any partshould
of a person,
so as
to prevent
injury.
mechanism
check their
machines
to see
if similar
Where
guards
or
enclosures
are
provided,
they
modifications are required.
should have adequate mechanical strength and
onlyand
be operators
detachable
a special
tool.make sure
Owners
of using
log splitters
should
• Access to the table or bed should be restricted
to the operator
and patient only. This might be
FURTHER
INFORMATION
achieved
the placement
of physical
For
furtherthrough
information
please contact:
barriers or by ensuring that only operators and
patients have
SafeWork
SA access to treatment areas.
GPO Box 465
• ADELAIDE
Under no circumstance
should a child be present
SA 5001
in a room in which electrically adjustable treatment
tables or Offices
beds exist except
Country
Berri,
- as aMount
patientGambier,
on the appliance
Port Lincoln, Port Pirie and Whyalla
- as an age appropriate child who can be safely
accommodated
in a playpen
Help
Centre
Bookshop
• Library
For theand
operator,
visibility beyond and below
100
Waymouth
Adelaide
the tabletop in Street,
most cases
is restricted. During
table height adjustment, the operator must
365 255 and ensure that
Telephone:
check below1300
the table-top
Website:
www.safework.sa.gov.au
children (other than those being treated at the
time), are not in the vicinity of the table (or bed).
• Issued:
Any operating
controls should be positioned so
July 2011
Review:
the opportunity
for unintentional activation is
July 2013
avoided.
• Employers who operate these appliances must
ensure adequate training is given to operators
and employees on how the appliance works,
load limits, and all designer or manufacturer
built-in safety features. This includes power
source isolation, thermal overload protection,
and reset procedures.
• Massage table manufacturers and suppliers,
employers and employees and owners who
operate these appliances must assess these
hazards and implement appropriate control
measures to eliminate or minimise the risks
from these hazards.
Revised and re-issued: May 2013
Review: May 2015
CONTACT DETAILS
SafeWork SA: GPO Box 465, ADELAIDE SA 5001
Country offices: Berri, Mount Gambier, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie and Whyalla
Library and Bookshop: Ground floor, State Administration Centre
200 Victoria Square, Adelaide
Help Centre: 1300 365 255
www.safework.sa.gov.au
This information is provided to offer
guidance on a particular aspect of
legislation. It is not to be taken as a
statement of law and must not be
construed to waive or modify any
legal obligation.