Flexography, as a printing method based on flexible printing molds, requires precise cleaning of ink transfer elements to maintain high quality and repeatability of prints and efficient machine operation. Paying attention to the safety of the cleaning chemicals used is crucial, both for the health of the operators and for the efficiency and effectiveness of the cleaning processes of the elements used in printing.
Learn 10 key safety considerations when using cleaning chemicals in flexography.
1. complete technical documentation
A fundamental step in ensuring safety is complete and always up-to-date technical documentation provided by the chemical manufacturer. The key document is the safety data sheet (SDS), which details the chemical composition, physical and chemical properties, and how to handle exposure to the chemical.
2. ability to read a safety data sheet
Knowing and being able to read SDSs is critical to the proper use of chemicals. The information contained in SDSs allows you to use them in an informed manner and make decisions about safety and process performance.
3 UFI number
It is a unique 16-character code (UFI) is a key element in identifying products containing hazardous substances. It makes it possible to quickly identify the mixture and respond effectively in case of emergencies.
4 Compliance with applicable boothards
Cleaning chemicals used in flexography should comply with applicable safety and environmental boothards. Ensuring compliance with boothards such as REACH ensures that risks to human health and the environment are minimized.
Effective and safe! Learn how we can help ensure the safe use of chemicals
5. compliance with health and safety regulations
Ensuring compliance with occupational health and safety (OHS) regulations is a key consideration when using chemicals in flexography. Compliance with EHS regulations ensures that any chemicals used in the printing process are applied in a way that minimizes risks to the health of operators and the working environment.
As part of compliance with health and safety regulations, it is necessary to provide adequate training for employees, which includes how to safely handle chemicals, recognize potential hazards and deal with accidents or exposures. In addition, regular safety audits and risk assessments should be conducted to monitor and improve procedures related to the use of chemicals at work.
Health and safety compliance also requires the provision of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers, such as gloves, safety goggles and dust masks to protect them from potential hazards associated with exposure to chemicals.
Compliance with OSH regulations not only ensures the safety of employees, but also increases the efficiency of the work process by minimizing the risk of accidents and occupational diseases. Therefore, compliance with OSH regulations should be a priority for all companies operating in the flexo industry.
6. biodegradability and environmental performance
Biodegradation is the process by which a material breaks down and is broken down by microorganisms into naturally occurring substances, such as CO2, water and biomass. Preferring chemicals that are biodegradable and free of hazardous substances is key to minimizing environmental and operator health impacts.
7 Non-flammability
Cleaning chemicals used in the printing process should be free of flammable substances, which minimizes the risk of fires and ensures safe working conditions. Incorporating this into safety procedures ensures that both operators and the printing infrastructure itself are protected from the potential dangers of flammable chemicals.
8 Safe packaging
Properly securing chemical packaging plays a key role in ensuring safety in the flexo process. The use of a variety of packaging sealing methods, such as induction sealing, sealing with a seal on drums and numbered crimp seals on DPPLs, effectively prevents unauthorized access to the contents and minimizes the risk of uncontrolled spills or leaks of chemicals. It is also a guarantee of safe delivery of chemicals, which should always be accompanied by ADR documentation.
9 Labeling
The label plays an informative role. It contains key information about the type of product, its characteristics, use and supplier. In addition, it contains important pictograms, warning slogans: H-phrases (hazard statements), P-phrases (precautionary statements), UFI and expiration date. Clear labels containing the above information on the product and the necessary precautions for use are important for proper storage, transportation and use of chemicals.
10. safety for the operator and the parts being washed
The use of safe chemicals that do not pose a health risk to operators and do not have a negative impact on the components being washed - photopolymer plates, anilox rollers and press parts- is key to extending their life, ensuring a safe and efficient printing process.
Cleaning chemicals in flexography and its safe use requires a conscious approach, based on full technical documentation, knowledge of health and safety boothards and regulations, and the selection of appropriate chemicals. Only in this way can the safety of people, protection of the environment and efficiency of the printing process be guaranteed.
