Timber iQ June - July 2018 // Issue: 38 | Page 45

FEATURES “The efficiency and economic factors are usually deciding factors, but when manual operations are implemented, the safety structure is usually built around the function to ensure the safety of employees.” Says Wainwright, “Automation obviously reduces the risk of exposure in respect to injuries to persons simply by removing the human being from the danger area. However, automation has its limitations and there are some things which just have to be done by people. “Machinery and equipment maintenance is a particular area where risk of injury may occur due to handling of heavy parts or objects, limited or difficult access, hand tools and sharp objects or failure to properly isolate energy sources (resulting in unintentional starting of the machine). Strict rules and regulations are in place to address these risks, but their success is dependent on individual compliance and / or adequate supervisory enforcement,” he explains. While employee health and safety in every sector is vital, industries, like the sawmilling sector, which necessitate close proximity and interaction with heavy and potentially hazardous equipment and duties, are even more compelled to heed regulations governing health and safety, not only in service of their bottom line, but to do right by their staff, whose duty it is to ensure their own adherence to company policy. Health and safety is everyone’s business and as the adage goes, ‘better safe than sorry’. Partnering with Selectively sourced hardwoods from around the world Oak | Kiaat | Mahogany | Iroko | Larch | Walnut | Saligna | Meranti | Beech NEW PRODUCTS AVAILABLE: Thermal Treated Oak and Thermal Treated Poplar D irect importers and stockists of Exotic Hardwoods – over 40 species available Hardwood decking available in Balau & Massaranduba Range of plywoods, including Birch, Marine, Pine, Commercial and Exotic Order any volume from one plank to one bundle to a truck load of wood Supplied rough or machined to the customer’s requirements. We support suppliers who offer FSC timber and timber sourced from well-managed, sustainable plantations. Eco Timber Traders delivers throughout the Kwazulu Natal and Gauteng regions. Durban Johannesburg 14 Progress Rd New Germany Unit 7 Citrus Industrial Park Citrus Street, Laser Park, Honeydew Tel: +27 (0)31 705 5546 Email Hans: [email protected] Tel: +27 (0)11 7946330 Email Rob: [email protected] Browse: www.ecotimbertraders.co.za