Avoid the dust with remote controlled solutions
20/01/2022
- This case study was written by Mr. Clement Charpentier, Marketing Manager of BLASTRAC, for the EDI Special Publication 2021 – Decontamination of hazardous substances.
The use of remote controlled equipment in the demolition industry is more and more common. With dust being progressively forbidden from any jobsites, remote controlled equipment can help to contribute to a safer working environment, less fatigue on the body and a measurable increase in production. Taking the danger of harmful substances seriously can drive innovation!
A SAFER WORKING ENVIRONMENT
The big advantage to use a wireless remote control is that the operator is not in direct contact with the operation of the machine. This means that the operator can control the machine safely, without being in contact with harmful dust, noise and vibration.
The big advantage to use a wireless remote control is that the operator is not in direct contact with the operation of the machine. This means that the operator can control the machine safely, without being in contact with harmful dust, noise and vibration.
It also gives assurances that the dust collector which is connected to the machine is working properly. For example, the operator can check that the filters are not clogged up and/or check if the Longopac bags need to be replaced.
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH RISKS
Another benefit of using a remote machine is that it causes less fatigue than a manual machine. Between manually pushing a machine of 600 kg with vibrations all day long, or controlling it from a remote control, the choice is easily made! Basically if you play video games with joysticks, you will learn very quickly how to operate our machines with a remote control.
Most of the time, the remote control includes an LCD display that provides the operator with information relating to the machine, such as working speed, amps, troubleshooting and more. After “playing” with the remote and the machine a few times, you will quickly become an expert!
INCREASE IN PRODUCTION
When working with remote controlled equipment, productivity is improved because of the increased machine hours per day. The operator can move dust hoses the power cord, and the dust collector. It is also possible to inspect the floor and prepare the next set of tools – all whilst the machine is still running and doing the job.
It is very easy to have a consistent and homogenous result by setting up the travel speed, working speed and the working depth (if possible) of the machine. Even when changing operators, the results will remain the same due to the application of the same settings.
A remote-controlled machine gives the operator a lot of freedom and full maneuverability over the machine. It helps to improve the entire working process! By using a remote controlled machine it is possible to contribute to a safer operation, with less occupational health risks. It increases the global efficiency of the machine whilst improving the working conditions of the operators and preserving their health. There are many advantages for both the operators and the employers to invest in this type of equipment!
