Main hazards

• Cuts and trapping by the tool and the reciprocating ram.
• Ejection of swarf and fragments during machining.
• Crushing or impact injuries when securing or moving heavy workpieces and tooling.
• Collisions due to mis-set stroke or stops, causing damage to the workpiece, vices or tooling.
• Noise and vibration that can cause fatigue and loss of attention.
• Contact with oils, coolants and hot surfaces after machining.
• Electrical hazard from damaged cables, faulty connections or unexpected start-up.
• Slips and falls on floors wet with coolant or oil.

Safe use

• Operate only after basic training and being familiar with the controls, indicators and the emergency stop.
• Check that guards, screens and covers are in place and in good condition before start-up.
• Set stroke, speed and feed prudently according to the material, tool and clamping.
• Clamp the workpiece with suitable vices or fixtures; verify the clamping before starting the cut.
• Fit compatible tools in good condition; secure the toolholder correctly.
• Set and check stops and travel limits to avoid impacts with the workpiece or tooling.
• Keep hands and clothing away from the cutting area; remove swarf with a brush or extraction, never by hand.
• Wear safety glasses or a face shield, hearing protection and safety footwear; gloves only for handling parts with the machine stopped.
• Remove jewellery and loose sleeves, and tie back long hair.
• Wait for a complete stop before measuring, adjusting or changing the tool.
• Use lifting equipment for heavy parts and guide manoeuvres at a safe distance.
• Avoid directing compressed air at the cutting area to prevent swarf being ejected.
• Keep the work area tidy, well lit and free of puddles.

Storage and maintenance

• Disconnect and secure against unintended start-up before cleaning, adjusting or carrying out maintenance.
• Remove swarf with a brush or vacuum after each use; clean up coolant or oil spills immediately.
• Lubricate the points specified by the manufacturer and check for play in slides and clamps.
• Regularly inspect the condition of tools, toolholders, vices and fasteners; replace damaged or worn items.
• Periodically verify the correct operation of guards, switches and the emergency stop.
• Check the wiring and earthing; do not use the machine if there is visible damage.
• Monitor the condition of the coolant: filter or renew when dirty and clean the tanks.
• Store tools and fixtures on holders protected against impacts and corrosion.
• If the machine is left inactive, cover it and protect exposed surfaces with anti-corrosion oil in a dry place.

Restrictions on use

• Do not use the slotting machine without training or without supervision while learning.
• Do not operate when fatigued or after consuming alcohol, drugs or medicines that reduce alertness.
• Do not bypass or modify guards, sensors or safety systems.
• Do not work with workpieces that are poorly clamped, unbalanced or beyond the machine’s capacity.
• Do not insert hands, makeshift tools or rags into the cutting area with the machine running.
• Do not leave the machine running unattended.
• Do not wear gloves near moving parts.
• Do not use the machine in environments with rain, excessive humidity or potentially explosive atmospheres.
• Do not carry out unauthorised mechanical or electrical modifications or fit incompatible accessories.