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September-October 2015

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palletcentral.com PalletCentral • September-October 2015 27 Housekeeping Plan Consistent and thorough housekeeping is important, as is documenting the process and procedures. For example, combustible dust that accumulates on surfaces can cause a deflagration, other fires, or an explosion. Pallet storage is also an issue with requirements established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Code Council (ICC). Following the NFPA and ICC guidelines on pallet storage should be a critical component of any housekeeping plan. Daily cleaning, or more if needed, should be done at all work stations and under all equipment surfaces (including under the green chain for all sawmill operations). It is important to ensure that all dust collection equipment is secure, operating properly, and no leaking is occurring. The bins under enclosure-less dust collection systems should be emptied daily. All ignition sources must be turned off or removed during dust removal. It can be blown down with less than 15 psi air pressure or vacuum using an approved vacuum. As an insurance provider, we recommend at least semi-annual cleaning of the entire building. The outside housekeeping is equally important. Maintain sawdust and scrap piles at least 100' away from the building. If sawdust and chips are being blown into trailers, make sure the area is maintained in a cleanly fashion. Keep in mind that if motors are encased in dust, it can decrease the life expectancy of the component by half. It's a good idea to complete a housekeeping checklist and retain the documents for at least one year. Electrical Preventive Maintenance A preventive electrical maintenance program is designed to avoid anticipated failures. Electrical systems, if installed by a licensed electrician, are usually well designed and properly installed. However, as soon as an electrical system is installed it begins to deteriorate. By completing routine inspections, testing and servicing equipment regularly, identifying replacement intervals, and scheduling downtime to perform maintenance and/or replacement, you can reduce your risk of electrical hazards. As you develop an Electrical Preventive Maintenance program, you should consider the following: • Size of building(s)—10,000 square feet vs 100,000 square feet • Operation within each building—warehouse, light manufacturing vs. heavy manufacturing • Type of equipment in building(s)—light fixtures, light machinery vs. large, heavy manufacturing machinery • Age of electrical equipment • Consequences of a failure—minor inconvenience vs. high "Consistent and thorough housekeeping is impor tant, as is documenting the process and procedures." —William Johnson, PA & IN Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company

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