Rolling mills

• Author: International Labour Organization
• Pages: 58-59

58

MEISI05-R-2005-02-0159-1-En.doc

10. Rolling mills

10.1. Hazard description

10.1.1. Mechanization has reduced the number of trapping points at machinery, but

they still exist, especially in cold-rolling plants and in finishing departments.

10.1.2. In any rolling mill, there is a risk of trapping between the rolls.

10.1.3. Severe injuries may be caused by shearing, cropping, trimming and guillotine

machines, unless the dangerous parts are securely guarded.

10.1.4. Injuries may occur, especially in hot-rolling, if workers attempt to cross roller

conveyors at unauthorized points.

10.1.5. The use of large quantities of oils, rust inhibitors and so on, which are

generally applied by spraying, is one of the hazards commonly encountered in sheet-rolling

mills.

10.1.6. Even in automated works, accidents occur in conversion work while changing

heavy rollers in the stands.

10.1.7. In hot-rolling, burns, eye injuries or other injuries may be caused by flying

mill scale and dust particles or by whipping of cable slings. Eyes may also be affected by

glare.

10.1.8. Cuts may occur when workers contact the edge of thin steel sheets or strip.

10.1.9. Cobbles occur when material catches in a roll and escapes into the work area

with the potential for severe injury to workers.

10.1.10. When lead-alloyed steel is rolled or cutting-off discs containing lead are

used, toxic particles may be inhaled. It is therefore necessary constantly to monitor lead

concentrations at the workplace, and workers liable to be exposed should regularly

undergo medical examination.

10.1.11. Butt welding is associated with the formation of ozone, which may cause,

when inhaled, irritation similar to that due to (NO

x

). Pit-furnace and reheating-furnace

attendants may be exposed to harmful gases, the composition of which depends on the fuel

used (blast-furnace gas, coke-oven gas, oil) and generally includes carbon monoxide and

sulphur dioxide.

10.2. Control strategies

10.2.1. Nips of rolls should be effectively guarded based on an appropriate risk

assessment, and strict supervision exercised to prevent any work which is in motion.

10.2.2. Dangerous parts should be securely guarded to prevent severe injuries caused

by shearing, cropping, trimming and guillotine machines.

10.2.3. An effective lockout/tag out programme should be planned, implemented and

monitored for maintenance and repair.