A plant shutdown is more than simply flipping a switch to “off.” It also means shutting down a significant operation safely and with as little risk as possible to machinery and personnel. Before performing a plant shutdown, take note of this checklist that keeps everyone safe.

Check or Have a Shutdown Plan

As with any major operation, you need to have a plan. Your business or company should have a previously dictated protocol on what should be done in the event of a plant shutdown and who is responsible for checks and steps.

Arrange Barricades

Setting up barricades in high-danger or high-sensitivity areas should be prioritized. This ensures that employees, workers, and staff do not enter these areas before and during the plant shutdown. Barricading off these areas minimizes the risk of personnel getting into accidents.

Equipment Check

Before proceeding with the plant shutdown:

  1. Have a team check all electrical equipment to ensure that belts are not too worn or have tears.
  2. Look into any machinery to check for proper lubrication and that the bearings are in working order.
  3. Most importantly, check that the power connections are not loose and that any cooling fans are working. If needed, you also need to ensure that critical equipment and utilities are isolated during the shutdown.

Fire Security Check

The most important concern during a plant shutdown is ensuring that the building’s fire and safety protocols remain intact. The fire and security systems will be relied upon with the plant shutdown. Ensure that teams are patrolling the shutdown plant, any combustibles or flammables such as trash, gas, and other materials are isolated and ensure that all security systems and fire alarms are working. Check that the sprinkler and fire extinguishing systems are operational and conduct regular watch rounds.

Apart from other details depending on the plant’s purpose, all these should be a part of any good company’s plant shutdown checklist. The shutdown can proceed safely by ensuring equipment is operational, security and safety redundancies are functional, and all personnel knows their responsibilities and restrictions.

KC Supply emphasizes the importance of safety in all plant procedures, including shutdowns. Find more informative checklists and reminders at KCSupply.com.