Caught-in / between in Waste management
Caught-in or between hazards pose a significant risk to employees working around heavy machinery and compacting equipment in waste management facilities. Implementing robust safety protocols is essential for small teams to prevent life-altering injuries and ensure a secure working environment.
About 69% of related real accidents concentrate in these types.
Key prevention
- Ensure all heavy machinery and compactors are equipped with functional guards and safety interlocks that prevent operation when access points are open.
- Enforce a strict energy control program that requires equipment to be fully de-energized and locked out before any maintenance or clearing of jams occurs.
- Establish clear physical barriers and designated walkways to keep personnel at a safe distance from moving parts and automated sorting systems.
- Provide comprehensive hands-on training that emphasizes the specific pinch points and crush hazards unique to your facility's equipment.
- Maintain high visibility in the workspace through adequate lighting and the use of proximity sensors or alarms to alert workers when machinery is in motion.
Related accident cases
A worker was caught while cleaning around a secondary pulverizer. This incident occurred during work involving pulverizers and crushers.
During crushing and shredding operations, an employee was caught in a power take-off device, resulting in a fatality.
During crushing operations, a worker's hand became caught between a stone and the side of the crusher while attempting to move rocks.
A caught-in/between accident occurred during repair work on crushing and grinding equipment. The incident is presumed to have been caused by the accidental impact of a pry bar during maintenance.