Can spindle moulders be used in schools?
A. Our advice to schools is to always work within the parameters of ‘BS4163:2007 Health and safety for design and technology in schools and similar establishments – Code of practice’ and where applicable, Local Authority guidelines. BS4163 is clear about the use of moulding machines (spindle moulders), see page 55, ‘Moulding machines should not be used in schools and sixth form colleges’. However you should be aware that BS4163:2007 does contain different advice about the use of router tables from that provided in the previous edition, BS4163:2000, page51, ‘A portable routing machine may be turned over and fitted to a proprietary purpose-made table to act as a small spindle-moulding machine using one-piece cutters. In this mode of working the portable router may only be used by a member of staff, who should be a competent person specifically trained in its use and holding a certificate to that effect issued by an appropriate body, usually the employer. It is essential that the cutter i
