Nov 25, 2024

Testing of overhead cranes

As a part of periodical testing,  we do load test of cranes. But, we have to test the slings, ropes, D shackles, etc also which are used for material handling. It is better to replace these items every year if operations are done in corrosive atmosphere and do examination separately for service life.

We have to check these accessories before use everyday with a checklist.  Even we have to do functional checks for upper and lower limit switches, gravity limit switch, overload current trip, anticollision sensors, etc.

We have to check the condition of shaft between motor and rope drum for any signs of degradation. 

If the surrounding environment is  corrosive, we can see pits. 

Operators need to be trained on use of daily checklist before use of the crane.

Any abnormal sound during long travel and cross travel is an indication of wheel damage/misalignment of rail tracks.

We should check condition of busbars. Loose connection of current collectors may lead to operational problems. It is better to have shrouded busbars for operational safety. Having current indicators will help to identify power supply, immediately to the user.

Visible display of safe work load helps to avoid overloading. 

In case of cranes operation with remote, we shall ensure that the frequency set for remote is unique and doesn't cause operation of other cranes in its range. 

Nov 24, 2024

Vehicle parking on public roads - associated hazards

It's a common scene anywhere in most of the places to find vehicles parked in public roads. 

Establishments and residential properties do not provide sufficient parking areas for occupants and visitors. Coupled to this is the space occupied by hawkers and street vendors.

Outside parking hinders movement of vehicles. This impact will be visible in emergencies. Access by emergency services will be limited preventing them from their duties. 

Sometimes,  I feel that all those encroachments shall be handled by destructive methods to prevent others in following such practices.


Nov 23, 2024

How do I behave after an accident

Every scary moment makes the person wiser and will be so for sometime. Once the memory becomes sluggish,  again the person will be in previous ways, till encounters or ends with another bad moment. 

So what to do?

Our behavior in every moment shall be cautious and alert as though we had a bad experience just a moment before. We need not be stressful and spoil health.  Just be aware of what can happen with a wrong action. 

Nov 13, 2024

Are you doing justice to your job

We joined in our job knowing well about the location,  responsibilities,  hours of work and salary. 

But, many complain about location, inadequate pay. They don't work fully in the working hours. Though, some may be present physically, but don't discharge their duties. Others, even do not be available. 

Coming to HSE field,  it is a noble profession. Not doing our job means, we are responsible for the accidents and incidents that affect the employees and public,  damage to the environment and may have potential to affect the public, and property loss leading to wastage of natural resources. 

Karma in Hindu mythology says, "what you give is what you get".

If I take salary and don't discharge my responsibilities effectively,  the salary taken will not help me or my family.  It will ruin the family, which we may not realize.  Or, by the time,  we realize,  already it would have impacted us.

But, many selfish fellows don't understand and feel victimized.  They don't have ethics, though they preach.

Such fellows are burden to the organization and society and shall be thrown out.

Else, organization will suffer. 

Nov 1, 2024

Walking 5000 steps in 1 hour than in 30 minutes burns more calories

LINK

Walking 5000 steps in one hour with intermittent breaks requires more energy for every resumption of walking thus burning extra calories to complete same 5000 steps in one hour than continuous walking. Looks convincing. 

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/how-walking-5000-steps-in-1-hour-burns-more-calories-than-walking-same-steps-in-30-mins/articleshow/114622577.cms