Flexographic platemaking

Flexographic platemaking involves transferring images onto photopolymer or rubber printing plates. This transfer may be from photographic negatives or digital computer-to-plate process. Plates can be a variety of sizes depending on the size of the printing press and the requirements of the job. During the platemaking process, plates must be transported between the processor, drying drawers, plate cylinders and storage drawers.

Potential Hazards

• Frequent or prolonged use of forceful pinch grips to:
  • Cut or trim film and masking materials using small- handled knives or film cutters .
  • Position or move film while on the platemaker (a 52" x 80" plate can weigh in excess of 35 pounds.
  • Lift and carry the plate between workstations.
• Frequent or prolonged torso bending to:
  • Reach over large platemaker tables or processors.
  • Place plates into or retrieve plates from processors trays or storage drawers.