DESCRIPTION
A redesign of the batch heater drum at MQP’s Ettingshall Asphalt Plant has been implemented to make the access and egress to the inside of the drum safer when essential fabrication or maintenance work was required.
Access to the batch heater drum had previously only been possible via the drum spigot plate and was therefore classified as a confined space. To eliminate this hazard, the front plate of the batch heater drum was redesigned so the complete front plate could be lifted, pivoted and safely secured to allow “walk in access” to the drum. This modification eliminated the confined space classification.
BENEFITS
- More efficient maintenance
- Reduced downtime
- Reduced hazards associated with access and egress
- Eliminated confined space working
- Any emergency rescue from drum will be significantly easier