Step By Step Guides: How Cable Protectors Can Improve Safety

Cable protectors have two primary functions: they protect cables from damage, but they also prevent workers from falling and tripping, which is one of the most common workplace accidents.

Cable protectors are available for indoor and outdoor use. They range from multi-cable protectors that can withstand heavy loads to low-profile mats that can be used for cables and cabling with thinner gauges. This guide will help you understand the differences between different types of cable protectors and how they can improve your workplace safety.

Styles

• Drop-overs

This cable protector can be used with any type of cable. Simply place it over your cables. The protector can be used with all types of cables, including pipes and hoses. Heavy-duty models are a common sight at construction sites and on roads. They can be used to allow heavy vehicles and plants to pass over them without any problems.

• Channels

Channel cable protectors look similar to drop-overs but the cables are protected by being lined up with channels (or fed through) on the underside and the surface. This allows you to separate and organize your cabling. These are a good choice for long-term use. You can also get them in heavy-duty versions that protect cables from heavy vehicles.

• Mats

The priority in the office shifts to protecting people from the cables rather than protecting vehicles or people from the cables. You want to minimize trip hazards so a mat with a low profile will blend in almost seamlessly with your flooring or carpet. You have two options for telephone and flat data cabling: channeled or super flat drop-over mats. For power or standard data cabling, the channel is the best choice.

Many suppliers offer two options: plain black which blends well in most office environments; or bright yellow matting to draw attention and reduce the chance of someone tripping over the mat.

• Materials

Cable protectors designed for exterior use are usually made of PVC rubber or strong polyurethane plastic. Both are durable, strong, and can provide protection from vehicles and weather.

Indoors, the materials can be walked over easily because they are more flexible. To allow for smoother transitions, you will need to have a slightly inclined or cambered version. This is useful when the matting is used close to office chairs or other wheeled traffic such as dollies or trolleys.

• Sizes

There are two dimensions to consider when purchasing cable protectors. The first is the length of your cable that you want to protect. To ensure that the cable protector is completely covered, you should use a single length.

Consider the thickness of any cables you are covering. There may be a power line that runs across your floor. You might also have pipes, hoses, or hoses to cover. You may only need to cover a few phone lines in order to protect a desk cluster. You should choose the right size cable protector for your job. If you need a smaller profile, it's best to get one as it is less dangerous for trips.

• Underside

Your cable protector's underside must be able to grip the surface it is being laid on. This will protect the cable and prevent it from moving around. Outdoor cable protectors are usually very heavy and will hold their place well without any additional fixing. Indoor versions might require additional adhesion or tape down.

Additional benefits

The floor cable protector not only reduces the chance of someone tripping on cables or vehicles damaging them but also offers several other benefits.

Indoors, a cable that is being moved or tripped on can be pulled from the equipment it is attached to. This could also cause expensive or important equipment to fall onto the floor. This could lead to production interruptions, data loss, or even broken equipment. These risks can be greatly reduced by using cable protectors.

A good cable protector can also be used outdoors to protect cables from UV damage and rain. This can lead to cabling, pipes, and hoses becoming brittle.