Molding Safety Checklist
June 9, 2022
Inspection
Inspect the press and surrounding areas including all auxiliary equipment for the following:
- Is the area clean and free of all potential hazards?
- Is other electrical equipment that could be hazardous during the operation locked out?
- Are the correct mold straps used to strap the mold together?
- Did you perform the daily inspection on the hoist/crane?
Holes in Platens
- Are the holes in the platen in good condition? Will they be able to hold the mold?
Mold Clamps
- Are the clamps the correct size for the mold?
- Are the clamps cracked or bent?
- How many clamps are needed to hold the mold?
- Are the clamps spaced evenly? It is essential that the clamps are placed properly.
Clamp Installation
- Make sure the bolts for the clamps are the correct size and grade.
- Make sure you are using the proper grade of bolts.
- Are the bolts in good condition?
- Check the manufacturer’s torque information to see how much torque needs to be placed on the bolts.
- Don’t rely on air pressure to torque bolts properly!
Closed-Toe Mold Clamps
For basic applications use mold clamps that have a slot to accept the bolt. They never fall off the bolt.
Open-Toe Mold Clamps
Take great care when handling open-ended clamps. They may slip and fall to the floor or down the chute when the tech is trying to bolt it in.
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