Baler Safety: The Basics Training Course

Balers are widely used to compress cardboard, plastic, metal, and other materials to save space, improve recycling efficiency, and reduce disposal trips. While highly effective, they present significant hazards, making proper selection, operation, and maintenance essential for safe use. In this training, you will learn about the different types of balers, the different hazards associated with them, and how to use them safely. No one wants to compress more than they bargained for in a baler!

Different types of balers, vertical, horizontal, and specialty, serve different workplace needs, and choosing the right one depends on material volume, space, power requirements, loading method, and repair considerations. Before operating a baler, workers must complete a thorough pre-operation inspection, confirming that all mechanisms are functioning correctly. Operators must also wear appropriate PPE such as gloves, goggles, and hard hats. Safe operation involves loading materials evenly, avoiding overfilling, keeping hands away from the chamber, monitoring the machine during use, and following proper procedures for bale removal.

Common issues such as jams, leaks, and electrical problems require immediate shutdown and adherence to manufacturer instructions and lockout/tagout practices. Regular maintenance, including daily cleaning, fluid checks, and routine inspections, helps prevent failures and ensure long-term safety. Regulations require all balers to have secured access points, trained personnel, compliance tags, and lockable power disconnects, with vertical balers having some additional requirements. Following key dos and don’ts, such as never bypassing safety systems or leaving a baler unattended, helps keep operators protected.

This training will help you in choosing the right baler, using it safely, and following all guidelines for use. Overall, safe baler operation depends on preparation, consistent safe practices, and proper shutdown, ensuring these powerful machines are used effectively without putting workers at risk.

This program is available with Spanish and French closed captions.