The workshop, "Sweep Augers and Bin Sweeps: Tackling an Industry Challenge," will address issues relating to OSHA's "zero-entry" interpretations while bin-sweep equipment is running. Questions about what the interpretations imply in terms of compliance have been vexing to many grain companies.
"We are planning a great discussion about these issues at the workshop," said Ken Schmenk, chairman of GEAPS' Educational Programming Committee. "How is the industry responding? How are GEAPS members dealing with this issue? What modifications are manufacturers of bin sweeps making to make this equipment safer?"
The workshop will include an overview of the regulatory issues, a segment on the insurance industry's perspective, and a discussion about how grain companies are attempting to comply.
It will also provide manufacturers of bin sweeps and related equipment five to seven minutes to discuss how the equipment helps meet challenges. An invitation to apply for a spot on the program was emailed to all GEAPS associate members Oct. 11. The following ten companies applied and were accepted:
Airlanco; Brock Grain Systems; GSI Group; Laidig Systems Inc.; Milestock; North American Equipment Co.; Sioux Steel Co.; Springland Mfg.; Sudenga Industries Inc.; and Sukup Manufacturing Co.
The workshop, to be held from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Feb. 27, 2011, is open without charge to all registered Exchange delegates.
