While the risk of working close to moving parts on any machine is always apparent, and although most operators around the world are required to follow strict safety regulations, accidents still occur. The new Atlas Copco safety concept targets the potential risk of getting too close to the rotating drill rod while the drill rig is in operation.
The firm’s new slim-line guard does not impair visibility or interfere with either the drilling operation or the rig’s performance. Neither is it, says Atlas Copco, a hindrance to serviceability as it can be easily opened using a standard wrench. Moreover, the lower section of the guard is made of rubber, allowing for flexibility when drilling in different positions and in difficult formations.
On drill rigs that can be used for toe-hole drilling, the guard incorporates an extension on one side of the boom to give extra protection to the operator while the boom is in the horizontal position. Parallel with this, the boom systems on the rigs have been strengthened to accommodate the extra weight of the guard.
Developed in accordance with the new EU standard, EN 16228, the protective guard was due to be available on Atlas Copco surface drill rigs that are sold to affected countries and that are scheduled for delivery after 30 November 2014.
