Training - Critical To Bulk Bag Discharging Success

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One of the most overlooked keys to bulk bag discharging success is training.  This post reviews how properly trained operators facilitate a safer, cleaner and more productive bulk bag discharging operation.

Key bulk bag discharging tasks that require specific operator training:

1. Preparing the bulk bag for unloading.  In most cases this is a simple task requiring only the attachment of the bulk bag lifting loops to the lifting frame used to place the bag in the discharger.  However, when certain types of liners are involved the operator must know how to safely use the bulk bag unloader's liner tensioner to hold or wind up the liner during discharge thus preventing it from becoming entangled in downstream equipment.
2. Using bulk bag discharging equipment.  The most common cause of bulk bag discharging problems is misuse of bulk bag discharging equipment.  At best, not following the manufacturer's operating instructions results in poor ingredient yield, unecessary operator involvement to initiate or maintain ingredient flow and/or dusting.  The worst scenario is when an operator's lack of knowledge creates a safety hazard.  This is most often seen when operators reach under an unsupported, suspended bulk bag to untie the outlet and initiate flow.
   
3. Removing the empty bulk bag.  A bulk bag that has just been unloaded is full of dust laden air.  How the operator removes the bag can either maintain a dust free environment or create a dust clogged mess that in some circumstances results in a safety hazard.
4. Disposing of the empty bulk bag.  Even if a bulk bag is removed from the discharging equipment and transported to the point of disposal properly, problems can arise if an operator folds the bulk bag or otherwise expels the dust laden air in an uncontrolled manner - causing a dust clogged mess.

Of course, the first step in sucessfully training operators is to develop well thought out Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).  With precisely defined operating objectives, tasks and expectations training success is greatly enhanced.