DISTRIBUTION DEALER BULLETIN B22DB92082
0123X5XX-5-134
October 2, 1992


SUBJECT: SAFETY IN PARTIALLY AUTOMATED LAUNDRIES

Dear MILNOR Dealer:

This article, prepared by the Institute of Industrial Launderers, covers safety considerations for partially automated washing systems, such as those with tilting washer-extractors from any manufacturer.

You should know about these points when working with a customer on a new laundry -- or when existing customers have changed previously safe arrangements. Tilt assists, powered doors, and shuttle conveyors provide many productions advantages. They also reduce fatigue, and this in itself aids safety. But laundries need to make wise use of railings, warning signs, etc. (In fact, these should be used for fully automated systems with tunnels, also.)

And keep in mid that MILNOR machines offer several key advantages to help plants combine safety with partial automation. Examples:

-- Our powered loading door is controlled by an operator. Human attention helps avoid surprises.

-- Two hands are required to control cylinder rotation while the washer-extractor is unloading. This helps prevent the operator from pulling at goods while the cylinder turns.

-- Two hands are required to control tilting, also, to help protect hands and arms.

-- Tilting washer-extractors are equipped with conveniently located safety supports, for use when working beneath a tilted-back machine.

-- Safety controls are external to the microprocessor, to help prevent movement of the machine without human intervention.

-- The shuttle must be summoned by the operator, thus helping prevent surprises. It also has warning devices, plus kick plates that stop the shuttle if it come in contact with any object.

-- While it travels, the shuttle provides clearance for personnel loading washer-extractors.

As the article says, automation can be benefit a laundry in many ways. It's critical, though, to focus not only on production, but also on employees safety. If you want more copies of the reprint -- for prospective and existing customers -- just use the order form.

Sincerely,

PELLERIN MILNOR CORPORATION

James W. Pellerin
President

JWP/ebd