The Tech Box
Deadline Approaching for 2024 Innovation in Safety Achievement Award Nominations
Celebrating Innovation in Workplace Safety
The Fibre Box Association (FBA) Safety and Health Committee's 2024 Innovation in Safety Achievement Award submission deadline is March 7. We are continuing to honor groundbreaking safety advancements in the corrugated industry. This award highlights plants or companies implementing creative solutions to enhance team member safety and well-being. Click here to submit your nomination.
Driving Safety Through Innovation
The Innovation in Safety Achievement Award encourages continuous improvement by recognizing inventive approaches to addressing workplace hazards and improving safety outcomes. Eligible innovations may include devices, processes, techniques, or software that successfully mitigate risks and enhance workplace safety.
2023 Innovations In Safety Submissions
Last year saw impressive advancements in workplace safety, demonstrating the industry's commitment to team member well-being. Our previous year's impactful innovations included:
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Double Backer Belt Changing Safety Innovation (Georgia-Pacific, Martinsville, VA): A threader/winder machine designed to eliminate manual belt handling, reduce labor hours by 92%, and improve safety.
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Single Facer Gap Check Enhancement (Georgia-Pacific, Augusta, GA): A tool enabling operators to check machine gaps safely from outside, eliminating exposure to thermal hazards and pinch points.
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Eliminating Manual Threading on the Corrugator's Hotplate Section (WestRock - Town Mt Royal Plant): A threading assist device reducing thermal and nip point hazards during manual threading.
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Robotic Prefeeder for Folder/Gluers (Accurate Box Company, NJ): A robot that removes ergonomic risks by automating manual box feeding, increasing throughput, and minimizing human error.
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Light Curtain for Conveyor System (Georgia-Pacific, Batavia, NY): An automated safety measure that halts conveyor movement when a light curtain is breached, preventing slip and pinch hazards.
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Pedestrian Safety in T-Car Aisles (Georgia-Pacific, Spartanburg, SC): A system with pause stations and indicator lights improves pedestrian safety.
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ElephantWall Topple Barrier System (Georgia-Pacific, Albion, MI): A load-rated barrier preventing massive paper rolls from falling onto employees or equipment.
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Yard and Fleet Truck Lighting Safety (Greif, Inc., Massillon, OH): Additional lighting improves visibility for nighttime operations, reducing risks for drivers.
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Clamp Truck Distance Sensor (Greif, Inc., Mason, MI): A Keyence distance sensor alerting operators to prevent premature lowering of roll stock, ensuring safety.
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Robotic Arm Sheet Feeder (Royal Containers, Brampton, Ontario): A robotic system that eliminates ergonomic hazards and increases production efficiency.
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Milton's Journey to Wellness (WestRock, Milton, ON): An ergonomic program integrating stretching, injury prevention, and wellness initiatives to reduce musculoskeletal disorders.
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Hogger/Shredder Automatic Timer Shutoff Switch (WestRock, Maple Heights, OH): A timer shutoff and interlock switch ensures safe machine operation and prevents accidents.
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Shipping Yard Shuntable Stand (Georgia-Pacific, Albion, MI): A front-mounted trailer stand eliminating pedestrian hazards in the shipping yard.
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Lock Tag Verify Program Enhancements (Georgia-Pacific, Denton, TX): A digital Lockout/Tagout system improving safety compliance and tracking.
Award Criteria & Selection Process
Nominees must demonstrate the successful implementation of an innovative safety solution that has delivered measurable improvements, such as reduced injuries or enhanced employee engagement. The FBA safety committee members will review nominations based on uniqueness, execution, and impact.
Recognition and Industry Influence
The top three awardees chosen by the FBA Safety Committee will receive a certificate of achievement and the opportunity to present their innovation in an FBA webinar, inspiring further advancements in workplace safety. All submissions will receive industry-wide recognition and be shared by the FBA.
By celebrating these pioneering safety initiatives, the FBA is helping our industry foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. The 2024 Innovation in Safety Achievement Award is a valuable tool for the industry to share best practices and safety enhancements, showcasing a commitment to protecting our workforce through inventive solutions. Click here to submit your nomination.
Chase Kammerer is the Technical Services Manager at Fibre Box Association (FBA). If you have technical questions about the corrugated industry, you can reach him directly at ckammerer@fibrebox.org.