In the mining and heavy machinery industries, choosing the right support system for equipment is essential for safety and efficiency. National Plastics & Rubber offers robust solutions with our Timba™ Blocks, a modern alternative to traditional timber supports and wooden blocks. Here, we explore the limitations of timber and highlight why Timba™ Blocks are the better choice.
The Dangers of Using Timber Supports
Wood, dunnage, and other types of timber have long been used as makeshift jacking devices and machinery supports. While timber might seem convenient and readily available, it poses significant workplace safety hazards.
Unreliable Structural Integrity
Timber used for support is often sourced without consideration of its composition or origin. This means its structural integrity is questionable at best. Timber is highly susceptible to environmental conditions:
- Brittleness in Extreme Cold: Cold temperatures can make timber brittle and prone to cracking.
- Moisture Absorption: In hot and humid conditions, timber absorbs moisture, which can weaken its structure.
The risks of timber splitting or cracking under pressure and it’s unpredictability makes timber a poor choice for supporting heavy equipment.
Can Wood Be Load-Bearing?
The short answer is no—unless it is specially engineered for the task. Timber and dunnage are not inherently designed to bear the significant weight of machinery or mining equipment. Using wood as a support medium introduces risks that could lead to equipment instability, sliding, or collapse. Such failures can result in severe injuries or even fatalities.
Risks to Employees
Relying on timber blocks poses clear risks to the safety of workers, both in workshops and on job sites. Equipment can slide or fall off unstable wooden supports, potentially causing serious injury or death. This concern is not hypothetical; state coroners across Australia have linked numerous workplace accidents and fatalities to the use of inadequate support systems in the mining industry.
The Solution: Timba™ Blocks
Our Timba™ Blocks are engineered to address the safety and reliability concerns associated with traditional timber supports. These blocks offer:
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality polyurethane, Timba™ Blocks are designed to withstand extreme conditions without splitting, splintering, or warping.
- Chemical Resistance: They are impervious to fuel, oil, and other chemicals that could degrade wooden supports.
- Lightweight and Easy Handling: While strong and durable, Timba™ Blocks are also lightweight, making them easier and safer to handle and position.
- Load-Rated Assurance: Unlike random pieces of wood, Timba™ Blocks are load-rated for safe use.
These features make Timba™ Blocks a reliable and secure alternative for supporting heavy machinery in the most demanding environments.
Supporting Heavy Equipment? Consider Stacko™ Block Kits
For those requiring additional support for larger machinery, National Plastics & Rubber also offers Stacko™ Block Kits. These kits provide modular, load-rated solutions that can be customised for various applications.
Choosing the right support solution can make a significant difference in workplace safety and equipment longevity. National Plastics & Rubber is committed to providing superior alternatives to traditional timber supports.
Contact us today to discuss your requirements and explore our full range of durable, load-rated solutions for your operations.
