It is common that when we acquire new machinery we do not consider an extraction system as part of the investment. Generally, we see machine vacuuming more as a luxury, when it should be a necessity. In the absence of adequate extraction, several problems arise, among which we can highlight 3 main ones: health, stoppages in production for cleaning, and mechanical failures of the equipment.

The human resource that integrates your company is a core part of its operation and, as managers and directors, it is our responsibility to guarantee a work environment free of dust, particles, clouds of smoke, etc. that positions the health of your staff as a priority. There are several studies on the damage caused by the inhalation of dust and fumes of animal, vegetable or mineral origin, which are even cataloged in the Federal Labor Law, article 513, in the “Table of Occupational Illnesses”. According to information published by the Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation,

“Sawdust can cause numerous health problems for the worker. Significant respiratory problems such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory problems. Sawdust can also cause dermatitis, hives, as well as lung, gastrointestinal, and nasal cancers.”

The risks and consequences of continuously working in an environment contaminated by dust and fumes are many and fully identified. Now, more than ever, we know the importance of taking care of our respiratory system, as well as the staff that is part of our team.

stoppages in production

How much time does your staff allocate to cleaning or unscheduled stoppages? The answer is probably a lot. We recently tackled a situation where a company spent 1 hour cleaning every time they used their industrial brush during a normal 8 hour shift. The dust covered the floor and prevented the operator from continuing with his production and created bottlenecks.

Unplanned production stoppages cause delays in material delivery, loss of money, non-conformity in the quality of the final product, etc. With an adequate extraction system, it is possible to reduce, or even eliminate, these risks in your company. There will be other situations that will arise when acquiring new equipment (dust collector and duct system), but your maintenance will stop being corrective and will become preventive.

Mechanical failures in the equipment

If you have reached the point where you are pondering whether or not to acquire an extraction system, it is because you probably need it. “Quick” and “easy” solutions do not exist. You have invested in high-tech equipment and it is not an option that has aspiration, it is a necessity.