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Many sites face the same challenge. When drum handling equipment fails or is not matched to the task, schedules slip, teams wait, and the cost of lost productivity rises quickly. The good news is that these issues are preventable with the right approach.

In our blog, we look at the common causes of downtime in drum handling and explain how quality engineering, regular servicing and correct equipment selection make a measurable difference. We also cover our bespoke quick-release system, which saves time every time a task changes, and our hire service that keeps operations moving during repairs.

If you are responsible for productivity, safety or equipment reliability, you will find practical value in this article.

📘 Read the full blog: https://lnkd.in/eNBdbqGA

Hart Door Systems, the Newcastle upon Tyne-based manufacturer of several industrial door brands such as  Speedor the high-speed door is confident of another successful year writes Chris Dobson.

Despite international uncertainties on the political front and the ever present debate on climate change, the company believes its leading brands such as Speedor and Typhoon will continue to be in demand.

The company has had many successes at home and abroad during 2025 not just through our Speedor range of high-speed doors but through its range of high quality shutters too. Both these leading brands  deliver a choice of solutions for industry and commerce. The fundamentals delivered by Hart are quality throughout manufacture to installation as well as service back-up to comply with changing national and international safety standards.

Further, Hart is cognisant of Climate Change and the issues arising and the need to keep both Hart’s and our clients’ carbon footprints to a minimum by using the latest manufacturing technology to streamline the manufacturing process.

Looking more closely at the Speedor brand, as Britain’s original manufacturer of the automatic high speed door, Hart has always led the way with developments in commercial door technology by being aware of issues facing industry. The Speedor high speed door is a good example of a robustly engineered door system for frequent use in high-traffic situations.

This rapid roll door is robust, requires low maintenance and delivers exceptional wind resistance in exposed areas. While its high-speed opening and closing action improve efficiency, the energy-saving potential of this rapid roll door is high, controlling internal temperatures, escaping dirt, odours and noise.

Special features include; moisture-controlled electrics, mechanical components shielded from dust and dirt, and a unique guide system offering exceptional wind resistance up to class 5 as defined by DIN EN 12424.  There are several options with the Speedor brand namely ECO, Storm,  Mini, Conveyor and Cleanroom which together strengthen Hart’s overall high-speed door offer.

Speedor Storm is Hart’s bestselling door, ideal for challenging applications where reliability is essential. Its increasing success is based on its improved, rugged, design predominately for external use up to 8m x 6m/6m x 8m) often in robust operating conditions with high wind loads.

The company has  always had quality as its prime driver. Success is not just in high-speed doors but shutters such as our new Typhoon range, the fundamentals are quality throughout manufacture to installation and service to comply with changing national and international safety standards.

Hart Door Systems is a global business supplying a range of door and shutter systems to sectors such as automotive, agriculture, communications, consumer foods, energy, environment, exports, food, logistics, manufacturing, power, sport, transport and utilities.  To underline its global success Hart’s doors can found in nearly 40 international airports, from Newcastle upon Tyne to the Falklands, from Aruba to Vladivostok. This is a remarkable achievement.

www.hartdoors.com

EEMUA Asset Integrity Leadership Certificate course – for new and established leaders in industrial engineering – starts 2 March 2026 – https://bit.ly/3YBRBX6. The AILC course equips people in industrial engineering Leadership roles to effectively consider relevant data, and take proven, practical steps to ensure that company assets perform reliably – benefitting business efficiency and industrial safety through improved planning and execution; and helping avoid incidents and major accidents on COMAH/Seveso III sites and other high hazard industrial installations.
Required, developed and verified by industry, EEMUA’s AILC course specifically covers leadership areas that national regulators focus on – Leadership mindset, Team engagement, Decision making, and Influence.
In-depth, part-time, EEMUA’s AILC courses utilise blended methods for flexible and effective learning and use of Leaders' time and is tailored to the industrial engineering needs of each Leader, site and company – with a workbook that builds from Day-1 to realise immediate, practical benefits. To find out more please visit https://bit.ly/3YBRBX6.
Free from shareholders and owners, EEMUA is the industrial engineering community’s not-for-profit association that invests all its revenue into sharing practical, 'how to' guidance resources, events, training, and more ~ all developed and verified ‘by industry, for industry'.
Please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to make EEMUA’s many resources work best for you and your team.

The company SPM Special Machine is an Italian manufacturer rapidly gaining recognition worldwide for its innovative design and engineering of special electrical equipment intended for hazardous areas where flammable gases, vapours or explosive dusts may be present (such as petrochemical plants, refineries, mines, offshore platforms).

In this article, we will present some of the key products developed by SPM Special Machine, ranging from cable reels to slip rings, and finally the products specifically designed for mining applications, such as medium-voltage junction boxes and the ATEX motor-driven cable reel system.

Explosion-proof cable reels can be equipped with either spring-driven or motor-driven systems (electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic).

The cable drum is manufactured entirely from stainless steel and is designed to handle flexible power, control, or data cables.

A roller guide system or a cable distribution system ensures uniform winding and unwinding of the cable.The slip ring consists of low thermal-resistance sliding contacts housed inside a flameproof enclosure (certified Ex d, ATEX, IECEx).

The electric motor is a heavy-duty torque motor Ex d, which automatically manages all phases of cable winding and unwinding.

Another area of expertise for SPM Special Machine is spring-driven cable reels.With a construction entirely in AISI 316L stainless steel, these products are suitable for long travel distances and medium-power applications, and can be installed either vertically or horizontally.

SPM Special Machine Srl – Collettori rotanti elettrici e avvolgicavo

Explosion-proof slip rings are electromechanical devices that allow the transmission of power, signals, or data between a fixed part and a rotating part, specifically designed and certified to operate in environments with an explosion risk caused by flammable gases, vapours, or potentially explosive mixtures.

They are essential in industries where even the smallest internal spark could trigger an explosion—such as chemical and petrochemical plants, refineries, offshore platforms, and marine cranes.

The company offers a complete range of explosion-proof slip rings, capable of covering a wide variety of requirements in terms of current ratings, number of electrical circuits, and data-transmission performance.Key advantages of SPM Special Machine explosion-proof slip rings compared to competitors 

• Low thermal power generated by the sliding electrical contacts;
• Current ratings up to 1200 A per active phase;
• Operating voltage up to 20 kV;
• Modular ring configuration for power, auxiliaries, digital/analog signals, data, and even fiber-optic transmission (FO-Ring), with a total number of rings up to 200 ;
• Very compact Ex db enclosures, treated with dedicated protective coatingsExplosion-proof classification of the SREX series (SREX150 / SREX300 / SREX506 / SREX690);
• Ex d → flameproof enclosure (gas)* Gas group: IIB* Temperature classes: T4 / T5;
• Certification schemes: ATEX / IECEx.

The main strength of the SREX explosion-proof slip ringsThe excellence of the SREX series lies in the innovative sliding contacts, patented by SPM Special Machine.

These ring-and-brush assemblies are manufactured using high-quality materials, engineered to withstand harsh environments such as marine and mining applications, and feature very low thermal power dissipation, allowing their integration into extremely compact Ex d enclosures.

All these technical solutions are highly appreciated by SPM Special Machine customers during installation and operation in their plants.

SPM Special Machine Srl – Collettori rotanti elettrici e avvolgicavo

A major innovation for the mining market developed by SPM Special Machine is the ATEX explosion-proof medium-voltage junction box rated at 20 kV.

This flameproof medium-voltage junction box is an enclosure designed for connecting and branching MV cables in hazardous areas (Zones 1, 2, 21, 22) where explosive atmospheres may be present, whether due to flammable gases, vapours, or combustible dusts.

The JBEXs junction box series from SPM Special Machine is ATEX-certified with Ex sb protection according to IEC 60079-33 (Special Protection “sb”).

They are built either in stainless steel for marine environments or in carbon steel with special coating for mining environments.

ATEX classification and main technical characteristics of the JBEXs 

II 2 G Ex sb IIC T6 Gb;  I M2 Ex sb I Mb  Ambient temperature range: −20 °C to +50 °C

Rated operational voltage: 20 kV

Highest system voltage: 24 kV

Frequency: 50/60 Hz

Rated current: up to 630 A

Unique advantageUnlike traditional medium-voltage junction boxes with Ex eb protection, which are typically limited to 11 kV, the JBEXs can be safely used at higher voltages, up to 20 kV.This capability represents a significant advancement for hazardous-area MV systems.

Thanks to these special features, the JBEXs is rapidly gaining popularity among SPM Special Machine customers especially for mining applications (category I M2), where operational voltages of 20 kV are commonly required.

SPM Special Machine Srl – Collettori rotanti elettrici e avvolgicavo

In the figure, a power supply system with a conductor bar can be seen, where a motor-driven cable reel for hazardous areas is installed for medium-voltage tunnel applications.

The system supplies a tunnel boring machine (TBM) with an approximate power of 3 MW, using explosion-proof junction boxes with Ex db protection.The EX protection type of the system is Ex h – ATEX category I M2, and the same design can also be developed according to the IECEx scheme.

The special motor-driven cable reel consists of a painted steel drum, on which a robust, flexible medium-voltage cable (12/20 kV) is wound.

The drive system is powered by a motor-gearbox assembly and the cable winding and unwinding operations are controlled by a dedicated electrical control panel.

The core component of the motor cable reel is the slip ring, which is housed inside an Ex db flameproof enclosure.

This high-performance slip ring is designed for heavy-duty environments and is significantly more compact than competing products.Its uniqueness lies in the fact that the active parts are not air-insulated, but instead isolated through a multi-layer insulation system, enabling the slip ring to reliably withstand high voltages up to 24 kV and maximum currents of approximately 680 A.

This high-voltage slip ring with insulated active parts is a patented technology of SPM Special Machine, allowing the company to meet new challenges in markets requiring extreme engineering solutions..

SPM Special Machine Srl – Collettori rotanti elettrici e avvolgicavo

• Company cut corners to speed up roof repair work.
• Man fell through fragile skylight.
• Despite incident, company carried on with the job the day after.

A construction company in Hampshire has been fined £80,000 after a man fell more than 15 feet through a fragile skylight during roof repair work. 

The 29-year-old sub-contractor sustained multiple fractures as a result of his fall at The Tanneries Industrial Estate in January 2024.  As a result, he was unable to work for months, and has not regained full use of one leg.

J Smith Construction Services Limited had started the roof repairs at the site in Titchfield in December 2023, but the work had been progressing slowly.  In an attempt to speed up the project, the company planned to work over the weekend of 13-14 January 2024 and took on extra workers to help, including the sub-contractor.

The company did not arrange for scaffolding to be erected at the open edges of the roof, nor make adequate arrangements to prevent or mitigate falls through fragile areas of the roof.  As there was nothing to prevent or reduce his fall through the skylight, the man fell from the height of the roof to the solid floor below.

Despite this serious incident, J Smith Construction Services and the remaining sub-contractors returned to complete the work the following day, with no additional safety measures in place.

Working at height remains one of the leading causes of workplace injury and death and HSE has detailed guidance on working safely at height, working safely at height including roof work. Health and safety in roof work

An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that the company had failed to take appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of the workers on the roof.

J Smith Construction Services Limited of Southampton, pleaded guilty to breaching The Work at Height Regulations 2005, Regulation 6(3).  The company was fined £80,000 and ordered to pay costs of £2,630 at a hearing at Southampton Magistrates Court on 4 December 2025.

Company director, Mr Joseph Smith, who had been present throughout the works, pleaded guilty to Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974, s.37(1). At the same court hearing, he was given a three-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay costs of £2,630.

After the hearing, a HSE spokesperson said: “These sentences should send a clear message to employers that HSE and the courts take a failure to comply with health and safety legislation extremely seriously. 

“Too many workers are injured or killed every year as a result of falls from height during construction work. These incidents can be prevented if reasonably practicable measures such as scaffolding or netting are put in place to protect workers.” 

This HSE prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyer Karen Park and paralegal Helen Hugo.

1. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is Britain’s national regulator for workplace health and safety. We are dedicated to protecting people and places, and helping everyone lead safer and healthier lives.
2. More information about the legislation referred to in this case is available.
3. Further details on the latest HSE news releases is available.
4. HSE does not pass sentences, set guidelines or collect any fines imposed. Relevant sentencing guidelines must be followed unless the court is satisfied that it would be contrary to the interests of justice to do so.  The sentencing guidelines for health and safety offences in Scotland can be found here.

MSA Safety, Inc. (NYSE: MSA), a global leader in safety solutions, announces the launch of the Gas Detection Hub, a brand-new digital knowledge platform designed to help safety professionals move beyond reactive risk management and create a proactive, insight-led safety culture.

Developed by MSA Safety to help empower safer through smarter worksites, the Hub provides a central destination for expert insight, practical resources, and the latest thinking in gas detection technology. Aimed at safety managers, operational leads, engineers, and decision-makers across key industries, the Hub is now live and free to access with a simple one-time registration.

“The Gas Detection Hub was built with one clear objective: to help safety professionals make informed decisions in high-risk environments by giving them the tools, knowledge, and confidence to enhance worksite safety,” said Danny Stranks, MSA Safety Connected Sales Manager. “From real-world case studies to in-depth whitepapers and technical explainers, the Hub offers content that’s not only insightful but also offers the clarity and perspective to help you navigate complex changes.”

The Gas Detection Hub is a dynamic, growing ecosystem of high-value content. Visitors can expect a mix of resources, including:

• Expert blogs and leadership insight
• Product information and application guidance
• Customer stories and case studies
• On-demand video explainers
• Industry whitepapers
• Updates on the latest safety standards and connected technologies

            New content is added regularly so that professionals always have access to fresh, relevant information aligned with the latest developments in gas detection and safety.

Global reach, local relevance

The Gas Detection Hub is accessible worldwide, with content tailored to regional needs and industry priorities. Whether working in oil and gas, utilities, manufacturing, or any sector where gas detection is important, the Hub serves as the go-to destination for education, expert advice, and connected safety innovation.

One sign-up. Unlimited access.

With a one-time registration, users gain full access to all content and future updates, removing barriers to engagement while encouraging ongoing interaction with MSA’s knowledge ecosystem.

The Gas Detection Hub is now live and is available with information important to gas detection safety. To sign up to the Hub, click here.