Reference Book
Safety and health are important considerations in the printing industry. This
fact holds true for school graphic programs, training laboratories, small printing
presses, and large printing firms. Many accidents are caused by carelessness
and ignorance and can be prevented if all employees are well informed in
preventive and protective safety measures.
Safety regulations
The five specified hazard areas in most printing presses are mechanical,
chemical, noise, fire, and light. Careful adherence to regulations, good house
keeping, and a healthy attitude towards safety can make the facility a safe and
pleasant work space.
Mechanical hazards:- Many on-the-job physical injuries are the result of
mechanical hazards that can be controlled if,
- machines are properly guarded
- energy isolating devices are locked out and tagged out during mainte-
nance. - workers properly use personal protective device.
- workers are trained to handle materials, tools and equipments safely.
Chemical hazards:- There are several types of chemicals or products that are
toxic or hazardous. Chemicals can enter the body through the skin, by inhalation
or by injection. Wear personal protective devices appropriate to the level of
hazard. Organic solvents, platemaking chemicals, ink mist, gases and fumes
are the different types of chemicals or agents that pose hazards to workers in
the printing industry.
Noise hazards:- Unwanted and extensive loud noise is found in many industrial
facilities. Excessive noise can lead to permanent hearing loss. Best way to
protect against ear damage is to control the noise.