At Micro Hydrotechnic Pvt Ltd, we have been dedicated to the hydraulic press industry for over four decades. Headquartered in New Delhi and operating a state-of-the-art production plant in Bawal, Haryana, we have had the privilege of providing presses to over 5,000 customers across India.
In our 40+ years in business, we have seen the enormous productivity gains these machines can enable when handled correctly. We have also seen our share of accidents over the decades when safety is an afterthought. We constantly seek new ways to maximize press productivity for customers while prioritizing operator safety.
Here are our top safety recommendations for hydraulic press owners:
Invest in Operator Training Programs
We cannot emphasize enough the importance of proper and ongoing operator training. Do not assume experienced technicians already know all the nuances of press operation. Bad habits develop over time and critical steps get overlooked without consistent training. We offer virtual and in-person training modules covering all aspects of safe setup, inspection, operation, and maintenance. Make training a regular, recurring part of onboarding new hires and upskilling seasoned employees.
Conduct Thorough Pre-Operation Inspections
Make a full visual inspection of the press essential before startup each day. Check for damaged hydraulic lines, leaks, odd smells or noises, worn parts, and any other red flags. Catching issues early prevents them from escalating into major failures down the road. We include clearly outlined inspection checklists in our operator manuals. Consistent inspections protect workers and equipment.
Follow Recommended Operating Procedures
Reinforce safe press operating guidelines like using both hand controls, allowing proper clearance, avoiding distractions, setting appropriate pressure/speed, and using all safety accessories. Create a culture where following the safety steps outlined in your training is second nature for operators. Make sure employees feel empowered to speak up if procedures are not being adhered to.
Install Safety Accessories for Added Protection
While a standard press is sufficient for some shops, we strongly advise purchasing supplementary safety guards like dual-hand buttons, safety blocks, brake monitors, kickback catchers and more. The upfront investment pays dividends in minimizing risks of operator injury or machine damage. Our safety packages bundle all recommended accessories at a discounted price.
Stay Diligent with Preventive Maintenance
Follow recommended maintenance schedules to keep your press operating optimally. Replace worn parts before failure, lubricate components on schedule, and track maintenance logs carefully. We offer maintenance training and can even provide on-site support if needed. Well-maintained equipment has fewer safety risks.
There are constantly emerging safety innovations, but instilling the above foundational practices in your shop’s culture is critical. Please reach out with any other safety questions – we are always happy to lend our decades of experience! Here’s to many years of maximizing productivity and minimizing risk.
