1.0 Safety
1.1 Introduction
Manual mills were traditionally used by skilled machinists. Prototrak was designed to replace these
manual machines and at the same time enhance productivity by adding CNC control.
But, unlike Machining and Turning Centres that can be operated even with unskilled staff (in some
modes), Prototrak is designed to be used exclusively by skilled or experienced machinists.
The safe operation of the SMX Mill and ProtoTRAK SMX CNC depends on its proper use and the
precautions taken by the operators.
1.2 Safe Operating Information
This machine must only be operated by trained and experienced operators. Any other users should first
be subjected to a risk assessment by a responsible, trained person.
This machine is designed for the milling of cold metal within the stated capacity of the machine with axes
movement occurring by manual use of handwheels, electronic handwheels or CNC control.
This machine must not be used for machining flammable materials (e.g. magnesium, titanium) without
undertaking a risk assessment and incorporating any additional safety measures identified.
It is designed to be used in a standard workshop environment only.
It is the responsibility of the employer, machine owner or machine controller to ensure that this machine
is installed, operated and maintained in accordance with the Provision and Use of Work Equipment
Regulations (1998) or equivalent local regulations.
In particular, the responsible person must:
Undertake a Risk Assessment on the use of this machine, paying particular attention to the
specific characteristics of the Prototrak system, especially:
o Unrestricted operating mode selection
o Guarding height and access to the work zone
Generate and apply Safe Operating Procedures for the use of the Prototrak machine
Provide any additional training or safeguarding identified by the risk assessment.
All operators and maintenance staff must read and study this Safety, Installation, Maintenance Service
and Parts list manual before operating or undertaking any maintenance or repair work on the machine.
Electrical and Mechanical maintenance must only be conducted by trained and experienced machine tool
engineers who fully understand the hazards of working with machine tools.
The electrical supply to the machine must be isolated and locked out before undertaking any maintenance
or repair work on the machine. Ideally, power should be isolated and locked out at the distribution board
supplying the machine. If not possible, isolate and lock out using the machine isolator on the electrical
cabinet at the back of the machine.
All operators must read and study the ProtoTRAK SMX CNC Safety, Programming, Operating, and Care
Manual (document 25040). The machine must not be operated until operators understand the operation
and safety requirements of this machine.
The cutting tool must not be raised above the table guards without additional guarding measures such as
a cutter guard.
The guard vision panels must be replaced in accordance with the stated schedule.
When operating this machine, always observe the following safety precautions
Do not operate this machine without knowing the function of every control key, button, knob, or
handle.
Always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and safety
shoes.