In a bid to enhance safety and efficiency in manufacturing, a leading steelmaker in the UK has recently implemented the FRANK industrial access control system from Fortress Safety at one of its facilities dedicated to cold rolling and galvanising metal strips. This implementation aims to address the challenges posed by unauthorised access, which can expose personnel to significant hazards and disrupt operational flow.
The FRANK software provides a comprehensive management system for permissions regarding machine control and access to critical areas within the facility. Designed to integrate seamlessly with existing RFID cards used on site, the system also utilises amGardpro network-enabled interlocks and control pods. One notable feature of FRANK is its capacity to log vital interaction events, recording details such as date, time, and the frequency of access. These insights can greatly support analysis regarding efficiency and productivity, helping to identify potential irregularities and optimise operational processes.
A key aspect of the installation of FRANK is its ability to link access permissions directly to the training status of employees. This was particularly pertinent in the high-risk direct fire section of the facility’s main furnace, where personnel may be exposed to hazardous gases. Previously, the system in place did not differentiate between individuals with current or expired gas awareness training, creating a loophole that could jeopardise safety. By incorporating FRANK, only those with the appropriate permissions and up-to-date training certifications are allowed entry into the gas hazard area.
Furthermore, the FRANK system has been deployed in monitoring access to the drossing robot area located by the pool pit, an essential point where heated steel strips enter a zinc bath. Prior to this implementation, access was tracked manually through a whiteboard system, which not only proved inefficient but also was susceptible to human error. The FRANK system now offers a live update status on who is present in the pool pit area, with real-time interaction data displayed in the control room, significantly enhancing personnel oversight.
The initial rollout of FRANK in these two critical areas has sparked interest in expanding the system's capabilities to other sections of the facility, with plans already in place to extend its usage. The key benefits of adopting the FRANK system have been noted, which include improved access control procedures, the availability of real-time data that can inform immediate decision-making, scalable integration options for future expansion, and compatibility with the existing RFID infrastructure.
The use of FRANK not only restricts unauthorised access but also ensures that only those personnel with the requisite training can access high-risk zones, further safeguarding the operational integrity of the steelmaking process. Additionally, the data logging features provide valuable insights into access patterns, facilitating ongoing optimisation of safety protocols and operational efficiencies across the facility.
Source: Noah Wire Services