Product category:
Machine Safety Components
News Release from: Pilz Automation Technology | Subject: Safety training
Edited by the Engineeringtalk Editorial
Team on 13 February 2004
Training realises full potential of
safety system
BMW Group has made a significant investment in a modern production facility to assemble the new Mini at its Oxford plant.
BMW Group has made a significant investment in a modern production facility to assemble the new Mini at its Oxford plant Many new challenges were presented to the maintenance staff, including how to operate and maintain new systems that include more advanced technologies than some of the existing systems
This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 27 Jun 2006 at 8.00am (UK)
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Safety systems are put to the test
Pilz has developed a structured method for inspecting the safety-critical elements of plant and machinery to enable the suitability of the safety measures to be validated.
An example of this is the machinery safety systems, which, for the new Mini, are controlled by a network of Pilz Automation type PSS programmable safety systems.
To use these systems to their fullest potential it was recognised that it would be necessary for the maintenance staff to understand how the high-integrity safety functions are provided, and to be able to use the time-saving built-in diagnostics and status indication to assist in plant operation, maintenance and troubleshooting procedures.
The PSS systems installed at BMW Group's plant at Oxford provide many important benefits for plant operation and it was agreed that Pilz Automation should prepare suitable training programmes to ensure that all maintenance personnel have the necessary skills and competencies.
Further reading
Courses cover safety standards and products
Having sold out many of its training courses during the first half of the year, Pilz Automation Technology has now published its course timetable for July to December 2008.
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A programme of three-day training courses was devised and the courses were held on site at Oxford, as it would be possible to gain practical knowledge with the actual equipment installed, and operational experience would be obtained as quickly as possible.
The training also included a module covering the design of electrical hard-wired safety-related control systems using safety relays.
Martin Tinson, Manager - Training Programmes, states: "We need to ensure that our maintenance engineers continue to remain fully competent in the use of the equipment, with particular reference to safe working practices, and to maximise improvements in efficiency by effective use of the diagnostic capability of the systems".
He continues: "Everyone who has completed the course has enhanced their professional skills and practical knowledge with an understanding of new concepts and techniques in machine safety-related controls.
They will be able to maximise the use of the diagnostic capability of the PSS system and are equipped to identify and resolve plant stoppages more rapidly.
The maintenance staff have universally praised the clarity and effectiveness of the training course presentation and the quality of the training materials and equipment".
Pilz Automation recognises the importance of continuing personal development and offers a range of training and education programs, interactive workshops and seminars to equip delegates with an understanding of regulations and standards relating to work equipment, as well as the principles and use of safety-related control systems.
In addition to a programme of standard courses that can be attended at the Pilz training facility or at customer's own site, there is also provision to offer courses designed to meet individual company requirements.
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