Thermal hazards
Some parts of machines can become very hot and cause burns or start fires and explosions in flammable atmospheres.
Types of machinery
- Engine exhausts, hydraulic pipes – burns and scalds from contact with hot surfaces and material.
- Operator cabs and work platforms – health effects from heat or cold stress.
- Combines, grain drying and handling equipment – fire and explosion due to overheating of parts or materials being processed.
- Electrical control and switchgear – potential source of ignition.
Operator errors
- Removal of cowls and covers over hot parts.
- Lack of maintenance of cab structure and ventilation equipment.
- Allowing build up of crop debris around engines and moving parts.
Design points
- Ensure hot surfaces such as exhausts and hydraulic pipes are protected from unintentional contact.
- Assess whether the machine will be used in a potentially explosive atmosphere and ensure ATEX compliance.
- Provide cabs and enclosures with adequate ventilation.
- Consider heating and air conditioning to improve operator efficiency and comfort.
- Make sure surfaces around hot parts do not allow the build up of dust and flammable debris.
- Provide emergency fire fighting equipment where residual risks remain.
Operator instructions and training
Instructions for using this type of machinery must include clear guidance on:
- The need to keep covers over hot parts in place
- Maintenance requirements for cab ventilation systems
- Additional requirements for cleaning to control debris build-up.
Find out more
- Standard BS EN ISO 4254-1 – Agricultural machinery safety – General requirements
- ATEX and explosive atmospheres