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Specialist pigment manufacturer Silberline rely on their communication system to meet health and safety standards.
So when their existing fleet started to suffer problems with coverage in the tough factory environment, replacing it became a priority.
When one of their staff mentioned the quality of the Motorola radios he had used in a previous job, the company contacted Brentwood to ask our advice.
ATEX Standards
Silberline produce special effect pigments for automotive and industrial coatings, inks and plastics. Many of their products are metallic effect pigments such as those common on car bodywork, and involve the use of materials like aluminium dust.
Aluminium dust and other materials used in the manufacture of industrial pigments pose significant safety risks. It is highly flammable and, on contact with water or air, can be explosive. It can also build up strong electrostatic charges capable of causing large enough discharges to spark.
As a result, health and safety standards at Siberline’s UK plant in Leven, Scotland have to be impeccable. Two way radio is used as a critical communication tool to ensure operations are coordinated safely and effectively. But in an environment where potentially flammable and combustible materials are used, electronic equipment like two way radio handsets can pose risks themselves.
The company already used an ATEX phone system for the job. ATEX equipment is designed specifically for use in hazardous environments where there is a risk of explosion. They comply with Atmospheres Explosibles Directives 94/9/EC for electrical equipment, which is where they get their name from. ATEX items are also completely dust and water resistant, and often operate at lower temperatures than other two way handsets.
Digital Upgrade
When Silberline explained that their existing system was no longer providing adequate coverage for their needs, we agreed with the recommendation for Motorola ATEX models. The Motorola DP4401 Ex and DP4801 Ex are two of the best ATEX radios available on the market, and we had no hesitation suggesting both.
The DP4401 Ex is a non-display digital radio with full ATEX dust and gas protection ratings. It comes in a special non slip case with large push-to-talk button and volume control, making it easier to operate in gloves. The DP4801 Ex features an easy to read display, keypad and boasts superior signal coverage. Both offer Motorola’s advanced digital audio system, long battery life and extremely tough, robust casings. They are proven to offer superb reliability even in the toughest environments, which is exactly what Silberline needed.
Another key function of the radios used at the Silberline plant was to enable workers to raise the alarm quickly in the event of an accident. Both models we supplied came with a range of safety features as standard, including a larger than usual emergency button offering a one touch alarm.
Learn More
With more than 40 years’ experience, Brentwood Communications is one of the country’s leading suppliers of two way radios to the manufacturing and processing industries. With specialist expertise in matching hardware to the demands of the working environment, our technicians can advise you on the full range of ATEX and other safety and protection standards, as well as key safety features offered by modern digital two way radios.
Call us now on 01245 403520 for more information.