Risk analysis and assessment of vertical and incline small winder systems and peripheral activities.

Abstract

This research uses a risk analysis approach to study the design, installation, operation, maintenance, inspection and testing of small winder systems and peripheral activities. A review of the SAMRASS database was used as a first step in identifying the small winder applications that are most prone to accidents, and to identify the most significant hazards and risks related to them. Subsequent investigations on selected mines using a risk assessment based process, in line with the requirements of the Mine Health and Safety Act, provided an objective, well understood means of investigating limitations in equipment specifications and current operational and maintenance procedures. The risk assessment process was augmented by site observation of work practices to identify human factors that may contribute to accident risk.