The IB IL 24 Safe 1 module in Phoenix Contact's InterBus Inline system provides an emergency cut-out safety relay, safety door guard and post switching device for strips and safety mats.

The IB IL 24 Safe 1 module in Phoenix Contact's InterBus Inline system provides an emergency cut-out safety relay, safety door guard and post switching device for switching strips and safety mats. It considerably reduces conventional cross-wiring of safety functions. The module can be used in applications up to safety category 4 as defined in EN 954-1.

The safety terminal safely switches off the power to subsequent output modules in the InterBus Inline system.

It is suited to one- or two-channel emergency cut-out as well as safety door installations.

There is a complementary safety circuit breaker - IB IL 400 Safe 2 - for use in the system's 400V power circuit.

This switch safely cuts the three-phase current to the Inline motor circuit switch.

In conjunction with the safety relay, this circuit breaker can be used in emergency cut-out applications up to safety category 4 of EN 954-1.

Scientific Technologies has introduced the MCJ4700 Safety Light Curtain, which can be integrated into the design of small machines.

Scientific Technologies has introduced the MCJ4700 Safety Light Curtain. An ultra-compact transmitter and receiver (26mm x 28mm, 1.02in x 1.1in) allow the MCJ4700 to be easily integrated into the design of small machines. Response time as fast as 8msec and resolution as small as 12mm allow the MCJ4700 to be mounted closer to danger points on a machine.

The jointed segment design allows for 'U' shaped guard zones that would otherwise require the use of mirrors, or three conventional safety light curtains for adequate protection.

Solid mechanical joints between the segments means that there are no exposed cables between segments to accidentally snag or cut.

This design also allows for 'L' shaped guard zones that provide horizontal protection to prevent a machine operator from placing their body between the vertical segment and point of hazardous operation.

The MCJ4700 Series are available in standard segmented lengths from 3in to 71in.

Features include MPCE monitoring for control reliability, exact channel select to one or more fixed locations within the sensing field, and floating blanking which allows up to two light curtain beams to be disabled at any location in the sensing field.

Additional features include: two-digit diagnostic display; two solid-state safety outputs; start/restart interlock mode; auxiliary outputs (NPN and PNP); and remote reset.

Low ESD models and a devicenet interface are available.

Adequately safeguarding a compact machine is a challenge for many machine builders and users.

Safety light curtains are often too large to be mounted on the machine.

Additionally, standard safety light curtains are limited to providing a single vertical or horizontal guard zone, which is inadequate for many applications.

The new MCJ4700 Series Safety Light Curtain from STI meets these challenges.

With headquarters in the heart of Silicon Valley, STI was founded nearly 30 years ago and employs more than 350 people.

STI has been selected twice by Forbes and three times by Business Week as one of the 'world's best small companies.' STI's safety products are used to protect workers around machinery, automated equipment and industrial robots.

Their products serve a wide variety of applications and markets, including semiconductor, automotive, electronics manufacturing, packaging and consumer markets.

Brammer says that more should be done to encourage the use of low vibration hand-held power tools.

More should be done to encourage the use of low vibration hand-held power tools, according to Brammer. The industrial maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) product distributor wants to raise awareness of their availability. It wants to champion their use and help manufacturers to raise the profile of their low-vib tools, including sanders, grinders, disc cutters, hammer drills, chipping hammers and needle guns.

The differences between standard and reduced vibration power tools are marked.

For example: standard Bosch GWS20-230 230mm angle grinder: 5.5 m/s squared (principal axis vibration) and new Bosch GWS21-230HV 230mm angle grinder with side and trigger handles vibration damped: less than 2.5 m/s squared (principal axis vibration).

Long-term power tool use can lead to health problems such as hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), which the Health and Safety Executive says can be 'severely disabling'.

It affects the nerves, blood vessels, muscles and joints in hands, wrists and arms.

Over-exposure to hand-held power tools can also lead to vibration white finger, where the tips of the fingers turn white then red, and are painful on recovery.

Brammer tools and maintenance division manager Ian Lofthouse said: 'This is going to be a hot topic, and with health and safety more important then ever more should be done to get people to start using low-vib power tools.

'One of our key customers, which must have thousands of its employees using hand-held power tools, is now looking at the HAVS issue very closely.

We are in a position to help them tackle it by encouraging the power tool manufacturers to push their low-vib versions.' It is estimated that around five million workers are exposed to HAVS, and the introduction in 2005 of the Control of Vibration at Work 2005 regulations requires employers to reduce the risk of prolonged exposure to vibration.

'That means it's not just something employers might like to do,' Lofthouse said, 'it's a requirement, and we believe we can help our customers fulfil it.'

An emergency stop switch which can be connected to the AS- Interface Safety at Work network has been introduced by IDEC Electronics.

IDEC Electronics has introduced an emergency stop switch which can be connected to the AS- Interface Safety at Work network. This contains the standard safety slave functions that can be monitored by any ASi Safety at Work Master unit. The ASi Estop employs the XA (16mm hole fixing) and XW (22mm hole fixing) types which have improved safety features over conventional emergency stops.

If the contact block is removed from the operator the main NC contact will be forced to open.

Also, on a conventional emergency stop when at the locked position, because of the internal spring pressure it can tend to move to the normal position if subject to excessive force or shock.

With the XA/XW it works the other way, the energy tends towards the safe off position.

If the contacts happen to be welded, the force applied to the button will always directly open the contact.

The ASi Estops can be supplied in black/yellow control boxes which are the AS-Interface cable piercing type or the M12 connector type.

Jackson Safety has launched CE approved ViewMaster polarised safety glasses by Smith and Wesson.

Smith and Wesson brand CE approved ViewMaster polarised safety glasses has been launched by Jackson Safety , the West Midlands, UK subsidiary of US based Jackson Safety Inc, personal and industrial safety equipment manufacturers Famous for its Customer Loyalty, the Smith and Wesson line has achieved this acclaim for the 'comfort factor' of its eyewear. Designs such as the ViewMaster concentrate on maintaining pantoscopic angle and position of tangential wear. Combining these parameters results in a streamlined 'swept line' providing maximum comfort, style and safety.

Together they create a sealed security enclosure about the wearer's face without even feeling it or knowing it is there.

The ViewMaster safety glasses with polarised lenses provide 99.9% UV protection and have been designed specifically for general industrial eye safety usage both indoors and on site.

Employees enjoy protection from reflected glare along with reduced eye strain and enhanced vision.

They are ideal for use by plant and agricultural equipment drivers, offshore and shipping operatives, machinery operators and a wide range of other users who may be affected by reflective glare in their course of their work.

The classic streamlined frame is made from durable GS7 nylon with ergonomically designed temples and pressure pads to enhance comfortable and precise fit.

Finished in a metallic grey finish with the Smith and Wesson brand on the left temple, these spectacles also come with a handsome silk-like microfibre carrying pouch which doubles as cleaning cloth.

These new spectacles meet DIN EN 166 EC Health and Protection Directive on Personal Protective Equipment 89/686/EEC and exceed the American national standards Institute ANSI Z87.1+ high impact standards and requirements.

What is a polarised lens?

When three dimensional light from the sun hits a reflective surface such as water, snow, a wet road or a windscreen it becomes polarised or profusely two dimensional often called reflected glare, i.e.: more intense than surrounding light.

This results in unsafe conditions, and increases eye strain by creating a bursting effect on surrounding colours.

For example, on the surface of water, reflected glare becomes a barrier that keep you from seeing down into or across clear water.

A quality polarised lens eliminates all reflected glare that hits the lens and a portion that hits from other angles, thereby helping to eliminate eyestrain and allowing you to see safely your surroundings in natural state.

This allows those working on water to view above and below the water surface, by eliminating reflection.

Actiserve has been re-appointed as the exclusive UK didBOX distributor to the forklift truck industry.

Actiserve has been re-appointed as the exclusive UK didBOX distributor to the forklift truck industry.

Nick Townshend of Actiserve views the reappointment as a strong vote of confidence in Actiserve's commitment to serving customers.

Nick says, 'The reappointment as distributor and the move to our new offices are firm statements of our strategy of building long term relationships with our customers'.

After assessing Timet Birmingham's requirements, its forklift truck supplier recommended the Didbox system.

Timet is claimed to be the world's largest fully-integrated titanium manufacturer and distributor. Their Birmingham UK site, like many large organisations, had a need to limit and control access to their forklift trucks. It had also been experiencing a number of thefts where its own forklifts had been used to move the stolen materials and required additional security and immobilisation on their fleet.

After assessing Timet Birmingham's requirements, its forklift truck supplier recommended the Didbox system (distributed in the UK by Actiserve) on the basis that it was cost-effective, easy to install and would provide instant data retrieval of driver usage against date and time as well as providing an additional level of security against unauthorised use of the vehicles.

Timet has reported that its drivers have not had any difficulty adjusting to using the system and that in the event of truck damage or other incidents, the data downloading facility has given valuable insight and aided their investigations.

Mike Newbould, Production Strategy Manager for Timet in Birmingham, said: 'Timet has a large number of drivers in three plants.

The Didbox system has allowed us to restrict where the drivers operate and has proved to be a robust and reliable solution to our problems.'

didBOX (distributed in the UK by Actiserve UK), a driver identification and access control system dedicated to forklift trucks, now offers a full 60 month warranty.

didBOX (distributed in the UK by Actiserve UK), a driver identification and access control system dedicated to forklift trucks, now offers a full 60 month warranty.

Didbox is claimed to be reliable and robust in the most arduous forklift operating conditions.

As a result of its record the company is now able to extend the warranty to 60 months for both the Didbox unit and the wand reader.

Foss Manufacturing has announced its Fosshield antimicrobial technology, the premier fibre technology that safely and effectively inhibits the growth of destructive and odor-causing bacteria.

Foss Manufacturing, designer and manufacturer of non-woven fabrics and specialty synthetic fibres, announced its Fosshield antimicrobial technology, the premier fibre technology that safely and effectively inhibits the growth of destructive and odor-causing bacteria, mold, mildew and fungus. A unique bicomponent polyester fibre that includes a silver and copper-based, inorganic antimicrobial additive in the outer layer, Fosshield is the optimum choice for those companies looking to enhance value and performance by providing permanent, natural, and effective antimicrobial protection in textile products. The threat of germs and fungus poses increasing concern, and microbes like bacteria, mold and mildew can quickly spread to cause odor, discolouration and deterioration on a range of surfaces if left unchecked.

When woven-in, Fosshield enhances the value of any textile by combating the growth of these microbes, thereby extending product life and maintaining a hygienically clean surface.

Fosshield is produced via a patented fibre technology.

Unlike other antimicrobials that are applied via topical coatings, the additive in Fosshield is extruded as part of the fibre sheath during manufacture, providing the most effective exposure to damaging bacteria and fungi.

Equally as important, it will not wear or wash off.

Fosshield utilises two of nature's own antimicrobial solutions as its active ingredients.

The synergy of silver and copper ions in combination has achieved reduction rates of greater than 99.99 percent against a broad range of undesirable bacteria, fungi, mold, and yeast.

The additive, from AgION Technologies, employs a proprietary method of encasing silver and copper ions in a zeolite cage, allowing for controlled release only when needed, resulting in long-term antimicrobial action on demand.

This EPA-approved antimicrobial is chemical-free, non-toxic, safe for prolonged contact with human cells, non-leaching, environmentally safe, and does not contribute to the growing concern of antibacterial resistance.

Fosshield can be blended with a variety of other fibres, ranging from cotton to rayon, polypropylene to nylon.

Fosshield fibre looks and processes like virgin Pet staple fibre.

It will not adversely affect yarn spinning or weaving.

Additional additives such as fire retardant, stain resistance agents, pigment and UV stabilizer can be added during the manufacture of Fosshield.

Foss Manufacturing offers custom colour matching for all of its fibres, including Fosshield.

The CR:262 sound level meter from Cirrus Research Plc enables employers to comply with the latest Noise at Work Regulations.

The CR:262 sound level meter from Cirrus Research Plc enables employers to comply with the latest Noise at Work Regulations. The instrument is categorised as 'Integrating Averaging Class 2' for Type 2 Broadband Measurements in the 26 - 140dB range. The applications include: Assessment of noise in the workplace Measurement of environmental noise General purpose noise measurements and assessments Selection of hearing protection It provides safety officers with an accurate measurement tool that is easy to use and requires no set-up procedure, user training or reference to an operating manual prior to use.

It simplifies the procedure of providing up-to-date noise measurements and risk assessments as required by current legislation.

The hand-held instrument weighs only 450 grams and has only three pushbuttons to calibrate, start and stop measurements.

This makes it an ideal portable tool for use in the working environment, including outdoors, typically for track or roadside locations where there is a need to record the sound levels of passing trains or vehicles.

After initial calibration and selection of measurement range, the user can select either numerical or graphical screen displays.

During measurement, all current parameters with a quasi-analogue bar graph representing the current sound level are shown on screen.

On completion of measurement, all of the parameters can be viewed at the same time.

The final measurement is also stored, and automatically displayed when the instrument is next switched on.

The CR:262 can also be upgraded to the +Version which includes additional functions and features including: Up to 100 measurements stored in memory with 1 sec time history Measurements download to PC for use with latest version of Deaf Defier 3 software to facilitate analysis and reporting Record and store data over fixed periods of 1, 5, 10, 15 and 30 minutes plus 1, 8 or 12 hours as well as a specific user defined time scale The instrument upgrade can be carried out by the user after purchase of a unique key which unlocks the full range of additional functions available.

The CR:262 can be supplied as a stand-alone sound level meter, or incorporated into a measurement kit comprising meter, acoustic calibrator, windshield and carrying case.

An RS232 PC connection cable, Deaf Defier 3 software and appropriate unique code is also provided for the + Version upgraded kit.

The brand new 52m Bronto, an access hire attachment, is to be shown for the first time at SED.

The brand new 52m Bronto, an access hire attachment, is to be shown for the first time at SED. Alongside this will be the new British made 17m Ascendant. This platform is based on a light 3.5 tonne chassis and has up to 12m of outreach.

With these in mind, Facelift is inviting visitors to SED in May, to watch these machines as they are demonstrated for the first time.

Slashing prices by 40% and with a fixed UK delivery charge of GBP1.99, Safety Signs' catalogue has been inundated by the small orders market.

Slashing prices by 40% and with a fixed UK delivery charge of GBP1.99, Safety Signs' catalogue has been inundated by the small orders market. It's main attraction is the simplicity of it's layout and a highly effective site search. Sales Director Karen Bradley has admitted the response from construction and small business has taken her by surprise.

SafetySignsCatalogue.Com is the online store for long established UK sign company Linden Signs.

The new Wolf rechargeable, lightweight R-50 safety torch, ATEX Certified to Zone 1, was originally designed for the European firefighting market.

The new Wolf rechargeable, lightweight R-50 safety torch, ATEX certified to Zone 1, originally designed for the European firefighting market, is now becoming the preferred choice for offshore gas and oil operators around the world. The R-50 incorporates new technology in the form of ultra lightweight, high capacity lithium - ion rechargeable cells, coupled with state-of-the-art battery control technology, which notably improves performance and reliability, eliminating memory effect, thus reducing total 'cost of ownership' by extending the life-cycle of the product. The outstanding beam from its LED light source penetrates smoke to a level never previously experienced, and with two levels of light output the torch provides up to six hours duration.

Ergonomically designed with easy single-handed switching, the robust R-50 is also low maintenance, with quick component replacement.

For additional safety, battery state-of-charge is shown as a bar of high intensity red LEDs, each one extinguishing as the battery charge diminishes.

In emergency the R-50 can be recharged to 90 per cent capacity in 90 minutes.

Wolf Safety's rechargeable R-50 safety torch, is in use with Grampian Fire and Rescue, Avon Fire and Rescue, Essen Fire Brigade, and the Brigade Sapeurs-Pompiers de Paris, to name but a few.

And now Qatar Gas is using R-50 torches at their LNG Plant in the largest gas field in the world; while STATOIL, the major Norwegian offshore oil operator, is replacing existing lamps with the outstanding R-50 for use in the harsh environment of the North Sea.

The SHS3 Safety Hinge Switch from Bernstein implements numerous features which the user has been demanding.

SHS3 Safety Hinge Switch The SHS3 Safety Hinge Switch from Bernstein implements numerous features which the user has been demanding. For instance, the switching point of the SHS3 is freely settable in an angle range of 270deg. But the most important innovation of the SHS3 is the opportunity to re-adjust the switching point even after it was set.

This is a feature that no other product on the market can offer.

Another novelty is the modular structure: using the same hinge, it is now be possible to build a system with a right or left end stop.

In addition, both front installation and interior installation between the profiles can be realised.

But no matter which type of installation is needed, the switching point can be freely set over the entire angle range.

And the SHS3 has much to offer as regards switching technology.

Being equipped with two forced opening safety contacts and a signal contact, it allows for a layout up to control category 4 according to EN 945-1 in a redundant system.

Bernstein's new SHS3 has been developed as a full load hinge and has a protection of IP 67.

Few subjects are regarded as more urgent in safety technology than the integration of safety into the PLC.

Few subjects are regarded as more urgent in safety technology than the integration of safety into the PLC. Companies from mechanical and systems engineering are familiar with the problem: Most of their customers would much rather not have a separate PLC for control and safety, particularly if they are also based on proprietary solutions as they offer little investment security in view of rapid technological developments. In the past, too many systems have turned out to be technological dead ends, this situation is entirely different in the case of programming based on open standards.

For Bernstein developers, this meant that from the outset the target specification stated that the solution should firstly integrate both safety and control applications and secondly that it should be completely based on open standards.

With the Safe LogiControl Bernstein is presenting a product that fulfils these requirements the freely programmable PLC that integrates both safety and control applications and permits the construction of systems in accordance with Cat.

4 as defined by EN 954-1 or SIL3 as defined by IEC 61508.

A functional Safe LogiControl will be the highlight of the Bernstein trade fair stand at SPS/IPC/DRIVES 2005.

KW-Software is our strategic partner in the development of Safe LogiControl.

Within the framework of this partnership, the company supplies the widely used programming system SAFEPROG, the runtime system SafeOS, secure firmware management and sequence services and the secure and certified function modules of PLCopen.

Anyone using Safe LogiControl can therefore fall back on a familiar program environment conforming to IEC 61131 that is widespread on the market for the purpose of adapting it to their own applications.

There is also the advantage that there is no need to learn a new programming interface or therefore retraining of staff.

In addition to this, both safety and control programming operations can be performed with one single interface.

The application program can be downloaded via the Ethernet connection or added via a plug-in memory card.

Hinged machinery guards and covers as well as safety fence doors may be found in every type of industry.

Hinged machinery guards and covers as well as safety fence doors may be found in every type of industry. The Bernstein safety hinge switch SHS represents the consequential integration of a safety switch in a load-bearing hinge for industrial applications. Designed to facilitate mounting onto profiles and doors the slim profile of the SHS, even when fully closed, allows the hinge to be readily mounted where space is con-strained.

The operating angle is a full 180deg, the switching point can be set between 0deg and 180deg.

Traditional safety switches with separate actuator keys are often exposed to high de-grees of mechanical stress, in particular when mounted on the closing edge of guards where accumulated tolerances can cause misalignment.

The SHS hinge switch opens new doors with the safety contact mounted internally, inaccessible to the user and therefore providing excellent tamper protection.

2 SHS each with a forced disconnect safety contact allow safety category 4 systems to be configured subject to the required risk analysis and safety contact monitoring.

One or more SHS may be used dependent on the category of safety protection re-quired.

Matching hinges without safety contacts are also available, allowing the style to be standardised for general use.

Connectors as well as fixed cable versions with axial and radial (rear) mounting are available.

The light barrier type OSS2 system comprises a fail-safe control unit and a single safety light barrier.

The light barrier type OSS2 system comprises a fail-safe control unit and a single safety light barrier. The German Accident Prevention and Insurance Association has issued the system an EC type examination Type 2 in accordance with EN 61 496-1 / IEC 61 496-2. With a maximum range of 20 m the system is suited for securing complex plants and facilities.

Up to three safety light barriers can be connected to one fail-safe control unit Type 2.

It is possible to, eg, furnish a conveyor system with a three-beam safety barrier.

The system is available for operating voltages from 24 VDC as well as 24, 115 and 230 VAC.

The output circuit has two integrated safety relays with positively driven contacts that securely interrupt the plant in case of danger.

The fail-safe control unit can be programmed on the input side to automatically restart the safety system or to restart manual.

An EDM function monitors the power contactors and a pollution signal makes it easy to carry out preventive maintenance in hazardous areas.

An extensive range of accessories with posts, mirrors etc.

facilitates installation of safety light barriers to existing plants.

The German Accident Prevention and Insurance Association has issued the safety single light barrier an EC type examination Type 4 in accordance with EN 61 496-1 / IEC 61 496-2.

The German Accident Prevention and Insurance Association has issued the safety single light barrier an EC type examination Type 4 in accordance with EN 61 496-1 / IEC 61 496-2. The OSS4 safety light barriers are available in two styles: Automatic restart: approximately 0.1 seconds after the reestablishment of the light beam, the light barrier is active. Manual restart: after initial activation and after an interruption of the light beam the light barrier must be reactivated from an external switch.

The OSS4 light barriers are available in 24 VDC as well as 24, 48, 110 and 230 VAC versions.

With a maximum range of 40 m the OSS4 can be used to easily yet securely safe-guard robots, feeders or handlers or even secure an entire production line.

An exten-sive range of accessories with posts, mirrors etc.

allows the quick realisation of multi-beam safety system.

The compact design in an aluminium housing, the simple termination with screw-type plug connector, protection against ambient light, such as signal lamps, welding sparks and other sources of ambient light up to 30,000 lux and a permissible operat-ing temperature range of - 20degC to +50degC allow this light barrier range to be used in rough environments.

A feedback loop (EDM) can be configured for the lock-out style.

Both styles (auto-matic restart / manual restart) have a test input which allows the operator to verify the safety chain of the entire plant or machine.

Magnetic sensors offer numerous benefits - reliable operation over temperatures ranging from - 40 degC to +150 degC, wear and noise free, resistance to vibrations.

Magnetic sensors offer numerous benefits - reliable operation over temperatures ranging from - 40 degC to +150 degC, wear and noise free, resistance to vibrations. These properties make them especially appealing for a broad variety of applications including: monitoring position, detecting angle and direction of rotation, and speed measurement. To eliminate the need for compromise, Bernstein is now offering customers the option of magnetic sensors designed specifically for their own requirements.

After initial definition of the application, available space, operating distance, frequency, and ambient temperature etc.

Bernstein will analyse the system requirements, in association with its partner, SSG Allegro, in order to develop and implement a technology concept, including the encapsulation, application-specific design, system integration, construction and production.

The M18 photoelectric program has been expanded trough a diffuse reflective which includes an analogue output for a range up to 200 mm.

The M18 photoelectric program has been expanded trough a diffuse reflective which includes an analogue output for a range up to 200 mm. A change of the emitted light is converted into an analogue output signal (0-20 mA, 4-20 mA, 0-10 V or 0-5 V). The sensor is programmable (characteristic line, sensitiv-ity) by the customer, who can adapt the sensor to his particular application.

To the existing typical housings of the M18 photoelectric sensors, a special smooth housing O 20 mm stainless steel has been added.

This innovative sensor is suitable for appli-cations in food and beverage industries.

Bernstein designs and manufactures electromagnetic sensors for a broad range of applications.

Bernstein designs and manufactures electromagnetic sensors for a broad range of applications. These high-quality electromagnetic components are based on reed-contact and electronic (Hall, magnetoresistive) technologies. For industrial applications the particular advantage lies in the physics of the technology as there are a number of nonmagnetic metals that allow magnetic fields to penetrate unhindered.

That is why an electromagnetic sensor can be completely encapsulated in a pressure-resistant metal housing.

They can also be concealed in pipes or tubes and even behind metal surfaces (eg aluminium, brass, stainless).

Electronic solenoid switches equipped with either magnetoresistive or Hall elements are becoming increasingly popular in a range of applications.

They can be used to record positions, angles or rotary speeds.

The greatest inherent advantage is that they are insensitive to shock, impact, vibration and are absolutely resistant to wear.

High operating frequencies, long operating distances, broad operating temperature ranges and excellent repetition accuracy make these switches to an invaluable proc-ess component.

Irrespective of the magnetically sensitive element deployed, with this type of sensor a magnetic field generated by permanent and DC magnets always triggers the switching operation.

Reed contacts have always played an important role in electromagnet sensors.

They do not require an external power source and with the proper contact protection they can directly switch AC and DC current loads.

This type of contact has an extended operating temperature range from -30degC to +150degC.

With its new analysing electronics Bernstein has developed an innovative programmable control system for automation engineering applications.

With its new analysing electronics Bernstein has developed an innovative programmable control system for automation engineering applications. This new system pro-vides the user with a high degree of flexibility and a broad range of configuration op-tions. The PCS can be used with a menu controlled operating system for rotary speed que-ries, analogue signal evaluation, level or position analysis and operating point evaluation.

Standard sensors, NAMUR sensors, analogue sensors with 5/24 V current or voltage outputs can be used as sensor inputs.

The input signal parameters can be pro-grammed through the menu or the PCS can learn the required operating points/rotary speeds.

This feature allows the operator to set or program the system while in opera-tion so that tolerances can be reduced to a minimum.

The unit is equipped with five potential-free relay contacts to be used as outputs.

The analysing electronics can, if necessary, be divided among two functional units, so that the user has two separate configurations at his disposal.

This innovative feature provides a high degree of flexibility in configuration and installation.

Despite the broad range of functions, the PCS and the analysing electronics can be operated without previous experience.

Bernstein designs and manufactures a modular system of float switches which can be combined and configured to create a switch that ideally meets customer specifications.

Bernstein designs and manufactures a modular system of float switches which can be combined and configured to create a switch that ideally meets customer specifications. Float switches provide a reliable and cost-effective acquisition of level information in containers with stagnant or flowing liquids, such as water, oils, alkaline solutions and similar substances. A float switch comprises a connector element, a switching tube with 1 to 4 reed contacts and the float.

The float is equipped with an integrated ring magnet and rises and falls with the level of the fluid.

The magnetised contact reeds trigger a signal as soon as the float reaches the sensing range of the reed contact.

The range of Bernstein float switches ranges from miniature versions to heavy-duty and pressure-resistant versions.

The particular advantage of these float switches is, that the switching contact can directly - when furnished with the proper protection - switch loads, eg relays, signal lamps or even small pumps.

The STS4 safety switch in conjunction with the STS4/B actuating element functions according to the identification principle with a six-digit safety code that is only issued once.

As certified by the German Trade Association for Precision and Electrical Engineering, the STS4 safety switch in conjunction with the STS4/B actuating element functions according to the identification principle with a six-digit safety code that is only issued once. This non-contact system is extremely tamper-proof. The switch complies with Control Category 4 as defined by EN954-1, with its response range it is insensitive to mechanical tolerances and is therefore suited for monitoring safety areas in semi-automated industrial plants that are separated by safety walls and doors.

Should the application require a re-alignment of the sensor (active surface), the switch can be quickly and easily modified on site.

Omron Scientific Technologies has introduced the MA-S Series Magnetically Actuated Safety Interlock Switches and Actuators.

Omron Scientific Technologies has introduced the MA-S Series Magnetically Actuated safety interlock switches and Actuators. Both switch and actuator feature stainless steel housings for robust, corrosion-resistant operation in harsh environments. The NEMA 6 enclosure and large variety of available stainless steel-housed contact configurations satisfy any number of demanding application requirements.

The non-contact MA-S Series is designed to operate with guard door misalignment of up to 10mm while providing a minimum of one million actuations in temperatures up to 125degC (257degF).

Handl Solutions supplies its No Skidding vinyl anti slip tape to North Sea oil rigs for use on slippery exterior hand rails; it offers good slip resistant properties in both wet and dry conditions.

Handl Solutions supplies its premium grade No Skidding vinyl anti slip tape to North Sea oil rigs for use on slippery exterior hand rails; the tape offers good slip resistant properties in both wet and dry conditions and provides a comfortable feel to bare skin. Also at sea- No Skidding coarse anti slip grit tapes are now being used by an 'Americas Cup' yacht builder based on the South coast. This tape is made with tough Silicon carbide grit, an abrasion resistant compound offering a longer lasting durable anti slip surface.

The stones are embedded in a super strong cross linked all weather film with a premium pressure sensitive adhesive, this durability makes No Skidding tape suitable for slip prevention in the most extreme environments.

A variety of agents, including some hand protection products, can contribute to contact dermatitis among workers.

A variety of agents, including some hand protection products, can contribute to contact dermatitis among workers. Contact dermatitis is a major problem for employees in many industries. Dermatitis is most often seen among workers involved in activities such as construction, healthcare and cleaning.

A common factor for these activities is the need for hand protection, primarily in the form of rubber gloves.

When contact dermatitis occurs, the first instinct is to blame it on the gloves.

More often than not, however, the reason for the allergic reaction is not contact with one agent but a combination of rubber and another source.

As more information on the dangers of latex allergies is made available, rubber frequently becomes the prime suspect in cases of work-related dermatitis.

In reality, chemicals such as detergents and cleansers, and metals such as nickel or chromium, could be the culprits, as these irritant agents can and do cause contact dermatitis.

These substances can also react with the rubber in gloves, resulting in varying degrees of skin irritation.

In most cases, gloves can prevent reactions.

But in certain situations they can aggravate a skin condition.

Soap or skin cleansers can also cause contact dermatitis.

Skin cleansers designed for and labeled as 'heavy-duty cleansers' or 'waterless hand cleansers' contain solvents and abrasives.

Meanwhile, liquid soaps contain preservatives.

Reactions can occur if these agents are not fully rinsed off, leaving residues on the skin.

Wearing gloves, or occlusion of the hands, after applying soaps and cleansers can also trap the residues, resulting in the skin being further exposed to the irritant solvents and preservatives.

Meanwhile, chromate sensitization - resulting from exposure to wet cement - has long been known to cause contact dermatitis among construction workers.

Wearing gloves when handling wet cement can help prevent the condition.

The two allergic reactions discussed above are both irritant contact dermatitis cases, where the allergy itself is not caused by the glove material used but from agents such as chemicals or frequent contact with water.

On the other hand, many healthcare workers are at risk of developing natural rubber latex allergy as a result of the gloves they wear or come into contact with.

In fact, US statistics suggest that between five and 20 per cent of healthcare workers have developed a latex allergy of some sort, often due to repeated exposure.

Latex-related allergy is also one of the most common causes of disability among healthcare professionals.

Allergic reactions to natural latex rubber can occur in varying degrees of severity, ranging from a mildly irritating rash to completely debilitating anaphylactic shock.

There are at least three causes of allergic reactions: natural rubber proteins, glove powder and rubber accelerators.

At first, natural rubber proteins can cause contact dermatitis which may progress with no warning into a Type I allergic reaction (immediate hypersensitivity).

This is a group of disorders in which a rash appears immediately after exposure and fades away within minutes to hours.

The reaction may immediately progress to hives and may spread to other parts of the body especially the face with edema, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, laryngeal edema, difficulty breathing, tachycardia and bronchospasm.

The reaction can be life-threatening.

In fact, Latex allergy is listed along with insect stings, medications, shellfish and peanuts as one of the top five causes of life-threatening anaphylaxis.

If the glove is powdered, the proteins which migrate to the surface of the glove material during curing become adhered to the glove powder.

The glove powder, normally cornstarch, with the Latex proteins attached can easily become airborne and may then be inhaled.

This will make the situation worse and increase the risk of suffering anaphylaxis.

Meanwhile, rubber accelerators are chemicals used to speed up the manufacturing process of rubber.

These chemical ingredients are present in almost every elastomeric or unsupported glove made.

In particular, the accelerators thiurams, carbamates and benzothiazoles can cause allergic contact dermatitis (Type IV allergic reaction - Delayed hypersensitivity).

This type of dermatitis is an itchy skin condition caused by an allergic reaction to a material - for example, natural rubber and nitrile gloves - after chronic skin exposure.

This allergic reaction arises a few hours after exposure and only affects the area the glove material touched.

There are a number of ways to avoid the risk of allergic reactions from gloves.

These include: - Don't blame an allergic reaction on the gloves alone; Search for the true culprit.

- Protect yourself with gloves when you are working with irritants - for example, water, chemicals, metal process fluids, cement, hairdressers' products, detergents, food stuffs, epoxy resins, etc; - and choose powder-free and accelerator-free nitrile gloves instead of natural rubber gloves.

UK representative for German, Swedish and Dutch fume, dusts and all forms of airborne contamination equipment will exhibit the systems at a UK manufacturing show.

Flextraction, the Melton Mowbray, specialist solution provider capturing at source all forms of airborne contamination - dust, fume and oil mist is exhibiting at the Southern Manufacturing and Electronics Exhibitions at Thorpe Park, Surrey, UK, from 7-8 February 2007 on stand P32. The Company who are sole UK representatives for TEKA , Germany, localised extraction arms manufacturer - Fumex AB, Sweden, localised extraction arms and filters - Kiekens Products, The Netherlands, industrial high vacuum cleaning systems, will be exhibiting and demonstrating a wide range of their products including; TEKA's Caremaster SF, a BIA european standard approved mobile one way welding fume filter designed for many types of industrial fume extraction. This extractor has a fan capacity of 2,500m3/h with a low operating noise level of 75dB(A) with a dust collection efficiency of around 99,9% using a class W3 filter for when high alloy steel with >30% nickel based alloys are involved.

It is very user friendly incorporating a large access door for easy filter changing and has both an audible and visual alarm when the filter needs changing.

LF 790 mobile filter for extraction of gases, fumes and dust from Fumex.

Designed for use in laboratories, hospitals, pharmaceutical and electronic component manufacture, laser branding as well as welding it is a highly efficient 0-70 l/second airflow, low noise level up to 56dB(A) at 100% unit which can be used with a wide range of gas and particle filters.

Filters are easy to change and it is lightweight 25kg and compact.

Also on show will be a Fumex LFK 175 single station local fume extractor designed to remove, fumes, gases and dust from the work station using a Terfu 75mm diameter arm with a maximum airflow of 0-80 l/second.

Using a H13 filter is 99.99% efficient for 0.3 micron particles.

Details of other equipment from Flextraction, including their own brand products will be available on the stand.

Optifit is a new and highly versatile full face Air Purifying Respirator (APR) Mask from Willson, the leading respiratory protection equipment brand from Bacou-Dalloz.

Optifit is a new and highly versatile full face Air Purifying Respirator (APR) Mask from Willson, the leading respiratory protection equipment brand from Bacou-Dalloz. It is not only designed to offer excellent respiratory protection against a range of contaminants, depending on the filter type fitted to it but also comes in three sizes so it will fit comfortably on almost any face shape or size. This makes the Optifit APR the ultimate multi-purpose respirator within the working environment.

Optifit is specified to the highest levels, all with wearer comfort, functionality and safety uppermost in mind: * Full face polycarbonate visor giving excellent all-round vision even in difficult working conditions * U-shape seal makes correct positioning easy and is comfortable for long periods * Ultra-light silicon flange aids wearer comfort but is also tough and resistant for long term shelf-life * Three sizes - small, medium and large - will fit most faces comfortably and allow use by a range of workers * Built-in speech diaphragm enables easy communications with fellow workers * Silicon exhalation valve facing the mouth ensures no re-inhalation and aids communication * Five point harness with safety buckles for easy disconnection * Lateral adaptor accommodates workers who wear prescription spectacles.

The Optifit APR mask has an RD 40 connection to the filter and comes with a free choice of filter from Willson.

With few component parts, the Optifit is easy to dismount and assemble for regular cleaning and testing purposes.

A compact carrying case to help protect the Optifit against everyday wear and tear or accidental damage is also available in Blue or Black.