Anyone that has been to the beach is well aware of the fact that sand makes it back with you when the day is done. Just as fugitive material (dust, spillage, carryback) can overtake an operation. Fugitive material can be everywhere, just like beach sand makes its way into bags, on towels, in the cooler, on kids, on snackfood (note the sand all over my son's crackers in the photo on the right - ew), in your hair, and more. Need proof? Take a look at the bottom of the shower/tub after cleaning up from a beach-filled day.
Fugitive Material is Overwhelming
What might start out as a "minor" issue or headache can quickly get out of hand. Fugitive material looks a little different for everyone. Even though it tends to have the same side effects, there are different types of fugitive material and each must be treated differently in order to successfully combat/prevent it.
Carryback
Carryback, material that sticks to the conveyor belt past the discharge point, can negatively affect conveyor components and pile-up underneath the conveyor.
Disadvantages:
- material loss
- puts workers in harm's way when performing manual cleanup
- increased maintenance expenses
- buildup on rolling components leads to belt mistracking
Carryback, like wet sand, tends to stick to everything it comes in contact with.
Dust
Airborne dust escaping from conveyors is a serious problem.
- harmful environment for those working around it
- negative neighborhood relations
- environmental concerns
- Increased chance of regulatory noncompliance and expensive fines
Dust, just like sand, has the ability to get everywhere - on your clothes, in your mouth (lungs!), and more.
Spillage
Material escaping the conveyor isn't normal and shouldn't be accepted.
Disadvantages:
- safety hazard to those working around conveyors...increased risk of slips/trips/falls
- lost material
- additional cleanup time and expense
- potential for unexpected downtime
Proper 
and 
are essential to prevent spillage. Any sags/gaps along the belt's line in the transfer zone provide opportunities for material to escape. And just like "escaped sand" from the beach will end up in condo beds, suitcases, and vehicles, spillage left unresolved will soon take over areas of your operation.
While sand and fugitive material have a lot in common, they aren't equally welcome. At least sand is fun! 🏖️
We are actually at the beach this week so wish me luck on keeping the sand where it belongs! If I bring any sand back to Illinois, I would like it to be intentional and in a mason jar accompanied by unique seashells. 🐚
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