What is conveyor guarding?

Conveyor guarding is a key safety measure to ensure safe operation and maintenance of conveyor equipment in industrial environments. By installing protective barriers, covers, and devices around your conveyor system, you’re minimising the risk of injuryin the workplace and protecting the people who operate and maintain your system. 

Essential conveyor guarding components

Protects workers from moving parts

To ensure staff safety, it’s vital to install fixed belt conveyor guarding that acts as a solid barrier between people and machinery. Where pulleys and rotating components are exposed, fencing should also be installed to isolate these hazards and prevent accidental contact. This simple measure greatly reduces the risk of entanglement and other serious injuries.

Where powered conveyors transfer goods to idle rollers, pop-out rollers should be installed. These mitigate against trapping hazards by releasing under pressure, preventing crush injuries in transfer zones. Additionally, any crossovers should be equipped with stairs and sturdy handrails, giving workers a safe way to pass over conveyors without stepping onto or across the moving system.

Complies with safety standards and regulations

Conveyor guarding requirements are outlined in AS/NZS 4024.3610, the primary standard governing the safe design, installation, and maintenance of all conveyor systems. Depending on the type of system, this may be applied alongside other conveyor guarding standards, including AS 4024.3611 (belt conveyors for bulk material handling) and AS 4024.3614 (mobile and transportable conveyors). Together, these form part of the AS 4024.1 Safety of Machinery series, which aims to minimise health and safety risks throughout a conveyor’s lifecycle, whether installed above or below ground.

Compliance with these standards also supports obligations under Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations, which require employers to identify and control hazards to protect workers and others in the workplace. Regular inspection, proper guarding, and adherence to AS/NZS guidelines ensure conveyors remain both safe and compliant.

Provides easy access for maintenance without compromising safety

Safe access for maintenance teams can be achieved through thoughtful design and proper safety integration. While fixed guards are always preferable, interlocked guards are an effective alternative that allows access for maintenance personnel while maintaining safety.

Conveyors should also feature emergency stop controls positioned within easy reach along maintenance areas, enabling quick shutdowns if needed. Where possible, design the system with maintenance in mind, such as including hinged or removable guards, slide-out components, and remote lubrication points. This approach allows technicians to perform essential work efficiently without compromising safety or compliance.

Uses durable materials suited for the environment

In mining and other heavy-duty industrial environments, conveyor guarding systems must withstand harsh operating conditions. Common durable materials include:

• UHMWPE (Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene)
• Stainless steel 316
• Galvanised steel

By combining these materials strategically, you can maximise the lifespan and reliabilityof your conveyor guarding infrastructure.

Conveyor guarding with Transmin ConveyorPro

Transmin ConveyorPro is a global provider of GuardLitePro, a lightweight, high-performance UHMWPE guarding solution. GuardLitePro is designed to fit a wide range of conveyors, from heavy-duty mining to mineral processing applications.Want to learn more about our conveyor guarding solutions? Get in touch today, and our experienced team will help you find the right fit for your needs.