Horizontal Injection Molding Machines

Horizontal injection molding machines take plastic pellets and convert them into molded pieces of plastic. This is done by heating plastic pellets until they melt and pouring them into a mold, then allowing the mold to cool and set.

• Opening Operator's Gate
  • Hazard: The meeting of two opposite sides of a mold creates a crushing hazard.
  • Potential Safeguards: The use of a gate between the operator and moving parts, which must be closed before the machine can operate, will keep operator's hands from entering the danger zone while equipment is operating. It is also important to make sure that no one bypasses, modifies, or removes the safeguards.

• Servicing and Maintenance
  • Hazards: Electric shock, amputation, or crushing are still a possibility during maintenance.
  • Potential Safeguards: Proper lockout/tagout procedures will secure machine parts during maintenance as well as inform other employees that work is being done. Employees should avoid removing or bypassing guards wherever possible.

• Manual Feed of Plastics Materials
  • Hazards: Burns can occur from contact with heated barrel or materials. There is the potential for limbs to be caught in the feed throat as well. Operators are also at risk for slips, trips, and falls at feeding location.
  • Potential Safeguards: Insulation and warning signs should be in use for hot surfaces. Workers can also utilize heat-resistant workwear. Installing a fixed guard on the feed throat will provide safe access to feed area.

To learn more about Machine Guarding visit our Machine Guarding Safety Online Training web page.