SWINBURNE TAFE’s Centre for New Manufacturing (CNM) has addressed a training gap in the complex area of machine control system safety compliance.
Engineers, technical staff and even operators who design, install and maintain manufacturing equipment are playing a key role in ensuring that automated machines meet a myriad of safety requirements.
To support them in this role, , in collaboration with Higher Education’s Electrical Engineering department and with support from Pilz Safe Automation, launched a study of the skills gaps in the engineering industry. The aim is to develop training programs that initially included practical workshops and eventually incorporated design safety subjects into undergraduate and diploma courses.
The report’s findings were presented at the annual Safety in Action Conference held in Melbourne. The CNM’s Warwick Howland, who coordinates the training as part of the centre’s newly formed Australasian Centre for Automation Safety, said that safety training in the manufacturing industries has failed to keep pace with rapid developments in technology.
According to Howland, the current Australian Standard (AS4024.1) has acted as an authoritative guide to achieving machine safety, with courts using it to determine whether employers and machinery suppliers have legally met their obligations. However, he says that a concern arises in that many of the standards are voluntary, in some cases overlap, and include conflicting requirements.
For further information call Warwick Howland on 03 9214 8723.