Food packaging solutions protect workers

As computerized systems, software, and hardware technology continue to develop today, most industries have started to integrate more automation into production facilities. Robots and other automated systems are critical parts of even the smallest manufacturing or processing plant. Because of the increased use of automation, the way the human workforce operates has changed over the last ten to twenty years. Production line workers who previously spent their days performing repetitive manual duties can now dedicate their time and skills to higher-level projects. At Forpak, we support this change in the food industry with our innovative food packaging solutions. Our designs provide automated systems for conveyor belt packing lines, including sorting, laning, stacking, transfers, and rejection capabilities. We also provide custom designs engineered for specialized functions and facility spaces when needed.

FOOD PACKAGING SOLUTIONS

Not only do automated food packaging solutions eliminate the risk of human contamination, improve packing precision, save time, and support sanitation in a food handling facility, they also protect worker safety in a number of ways.

PROTECTING WORKERS

Removing workers from roles that can be accomplished faster and more accurately with automated technology protects workers from the following:

INJURIES FROM REPETITIVE MOTION:

The traditional factory assembly line requires a significant amount of repetitive motion. Workers often develop chronic injuries and conditions from those daily repetitions, such as carpal tunnel, tendonitis, and bursitis. Automated systems can perform those repetitive motions, preventing potential long-term injuries.

BACK INJURIES:

Many factory jobs require workers to lift heavy materials, often over 50 lbs., frequently. While workers might adjust to these conditions and develop more ergonomic ways of moving heavy objects, back injuries are still the most common workplace injury in many industries. Automated systems can reduce or eliminate the need for workers to move heavy materials in a facility.

INJURIES FROM FATIGUE:

With increased use of automation, workers have significantly fewer physically demanding jobs. The physical demand on workers prior to the integration of automated systems often led to fatigue-related injuries towards the end of a production shift. Automated systems help keep workers more alert and less exhausted throughout the day.

EXPOSURE TO HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS:

There are many kinds of facilities where hazardous or extreme conditions are required for production or are a result of the manufacturing process. In the food industry, workers can often be exposed to freezing temperatures and processing elements such as boiling water. Automated systems ensure less harm and safer workplace settings while maintaining better accuracy.

COVID-19:

Finally, automated systems have proven highly effective in protecting workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to automation, facilities can keep workers at a distance, which prevents the spread of the virus and allows for greater sanitation between shifts.

To learn more about our automated food packaging solutions, contact Forpak at (952) 491-6975 or support@forpak.com. Request more information online or request a quote to get started with us today.