Efficient Use of Conveyors and Chutes in the Workplace

To minimise manual handling of items, conveyor belts and chutes are effective solutions. These systems can move loads of various sizes both horizontally and vertically, reducing the need for unnecessary handling.

Conveyors vs. Chutes

1. Chutes

Chutes are designed to move items only in a downward direction. They are ideal for transporting materials from one point of a building to another without the need for physical handling.

2. Conveyors

Conveyors offer more flexibility, as they can navigate around corners and can often be repositioned as needed. There are various types of conveyors:

• Roller Conveyors: These use a series of rollers to transport items.
• Powered Conveyors: These are driven by motors and can be adjusted for different needs.

Safety and Maintenance

To ensure safety and efficiency, conveyors must be well maintained and used correctly. Key safety measures include:

• Keeping guards in place to prevent clothing or fingers from being caught in the machinery.

Applications in Industry

Conveyor systems are commonly used in various industries to transport raw materials and products through different stages of a process. They can improve efficiency by reducing the need for repetitive lifting and carrying, which are common causes of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

In many cases, workstations are integrated along the conveyor line, allowing workers to:

• Pick parts or materials from the moving belt.
• Receive products in a buffer area where the conveyor stops until activated again by the worker.
• Return completed products back onto the conveyor.

Designing Effective Workstations

To maximise the benefits of conveyor systems and minimise risks, workstation design should consider:

• Height and build of the individuals working at the conveyor.
• Type of operations to be performed at the workstation.
• Characteristics of work objects, including their size, shape, weight, variety, and amount.
• Whether tasks can be performed sitting to reduce physical strain.

Properly designed workstations and well-maintained conveyor systems can enhance productivity while ensuring worker safety and comfort.