Author: zmurphy

Understanding OSHA Machine Guarding General Requirements

Machine guarding is a critical compliance measure dictated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) aimed at preventing workplace injuries and fatalities. OSHA‘s detailed machine guarding standards, outlined in section 1910.212, mandate that any machine part, function, or process capable of causing injury must be effectively safeguarded. This directive serves to shield operators and all personnel from the inherent dangers of moving machinery, securing a workplace environment that is safer and optimally productive.

Let’s dive into why OSHA compliance is imperative to your business, effective machine guarding options, and the role of barrier guards in the workplace.

Risks and Consequences of Non-Compliance

Ignoring OSHA regulations can have severe implications for businesses. Non-compliance can lead to heavy fines and legal action as well as preventable accidents that can cause serious injuries. Beyond the immediate legal and health impacts, there’s a significant risk to a company’s reputation and operational efficiency, potentially leading to downtime and loss of trust among customers and stakeholders. This is why barrier guards must be in place.

Exploring Effective Machine Guarding Options

Implementing effective guarding solutions is vital, and there are several types to consider, each suited to different types of machinery and safety needs.

Machine Enclosures

Designed to completely shield both the machine operator and surrounding area from high-risk operations, machine enclosures are essential where there is potential for flying debris, sparks, or excessive noise. This type of guard ensures that any hazardous conditions at the point of operation are contained within the enclosure, dramatically reducing the risk of injury.

Hybrid Guards

Hybrid guards offer a versatile solution by combining the strengths of different guarding technologies. These guards may include electronic safety devices, T-slotted aluminum extrusions, or powder coated steel posts in order to maintain stringent safety standards for complex machinery. They are particularly useful in environments where machinery needs frequent adjustments or monitoring.

Perimeter Guards

These guards are crucial for defining safe operational areas, especially in large industrial settings. By establishing clear boundaries, perimeter guards prevent unauthorized access and ensure only trained personnel engage with high-risk machinery such as milling machines, power presses, and any other potentially dangerous moving parts or conveyors. This separation not only protects untrained staff but also helps organize workflow by minimizing unnecessary interruptions.

The Role of Machine Guarding in Workplace Safety

By integrating robust machine guarding systems, businesses protect their employees while fostering a culture of safety that is evident throughout every aspect of their operations.

Staying Compliant with OSHA Standards

Adhering to OSHA’s machine guarding standards avoids company penalties, and foster a culture of safety for you and your employees. Compliance helps organizations ensure that all operational practices meet safety benchmarks, which is vital for legal protection, worker confidence, and maintaining industry standards.

Protecting Yourself and Employees

Effective machine guarding significantly reduces the risk of accidents. By installing appropriate guards, companies demonstrate their commitment to employee welfare, which can boost morale, increase productivity, and reduce costly downtimes associated with workplace injuries.

Ergonomics and Accessibility

Well-designed machine guards improve the ergonomic setup of machinery, making it safer and more comfortable for operators to perform their tasks. Ergonomic improvements can lead to better job performance, fewer work-related injuries, and a more engaged workforce, all of which contribute to a safer and more productive workplace environment.

Faztek’s Commitment to Safety

As industries evolve, so does the need for comprehensive safety solutions. Faztek stands at the forefront of providing innovative guarding solutions tailored to meet diverse industrial needs. With Faztek, gain peace of mind knowing you have partnered with a leader in safety who is as dedicated to safeguarding your workforce as you are. Explore our extensive range of guarding solutions and contact us so we can help you achieve OSHA safety compliance and create a safer, more efficient workplace.

A sliding door track system serves a vital function in any industrial space. This blog explores how C-Rails enhance sliding door systems with their durability, versatility, and easy installation.

Benefits of Faztek C-Rails

C-Rails stand out in the industrial sliding door system market for their robust design and heavy-duty features. Here’s how these C-Rails can transform the functionality of your workspace:

• Corrosion resistance with anodized aluminum construction: This design withstands the conditions of industrial environments, ensuring long-term durability and resistance to wear and tear.
• Precision steel rollers for smooth operation: The heavy-duty rollers allow the doors to operate smoothly without sticking, minimizing effort and reducing system stress.
• Lightweight and robust design: Despite their strength, these rails are lightweight, rendering them easier to install and maintain while supporting substantial loads.
• Cost-effective: The durability and ease of maintenance of a C-Rail make them a cost-effective choice for long-term industrial use.
• Pre-drilled track for easy installation: The convenience of pre-drilled tracks simplifies the installation process, allowing for quick setup and minimal downtime.

The C-Rails features are engineered to enhance the operational efficiency and safety of industrial doors, meaning they’re an indispensable component of any sliding door at your facility.

Versatile Applications

The adaptability of C-Rails brings various configurations that can augment the functionality of a space. Here’s how they serve diverse needs:

• Industrial sliding glass doors:C-Rails are engineered to support seamless movement, boosting the functionality and efficiency of door mechanisms in busy commercial environments.
• Material handling and pick-and-place operations: These rails are instrumental in optimizing the efficiency and accuracy of material handling and pick-and-place operations, crucial for maintaining productivity in industrial settings.
• Part shuttles: The robust design supports their use in part shuttles to facilitate the smooth and reliable transport of components across the facility floor.
• Customizable solutions for unique requirements: Faztek’s commitment to versatility means these rails can be tailored for any application to meet your industrial needs.

Whether for moving parts or securing passageways, Faztek provides reliable solutions, catering to the complex demands of modern industrial applications.

Proper Installation

Proper installation is crucial to maximizing the benefits of C-Rails. Here’s a detailed guide for optimal setup:

Slide orientation: The correct orientation of the three-roller slide is essential. Install it in the rail to distribute the load evenly between the two outside rollers. The orientation marks on the slider will guide you in aligning it correctly with the load direction. The mechanism functions efficiently under the weight it’s designed to support.

Lubrication – rails and bearings: The rollers are made of zinc-plated carbon steel sheets, and the rails are composed of anodized aluminum alloy. While the rollers are internally lubricated, it’s important to always keep a layer of grease on the rails for  smooth operation. As a guideline, it’s recommended to reapply fresh grease every 50,000 cycles to maintain optimal performance and prevent wear.

Preload adjustment: Adjusting the preload is key to a stable and smooth operation. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the center roller, adjusting it while holding it still with an open-end wrench. Set the roller to a position that achieves the desired preload so the slide moves smoothly along the rail without feeling loose. Once adjusted, tighten the screw while holding the roller flat with the wrench to secure the setting.

Following these installation insights ensures your Faztek C-Rails operate at their best, providing reliable and efficient service in your industrial setups.

Simplify Your Sliding Door Setup with Faztek

Faztek C-Rails offer an unparalleled blend of performance, versatility, and ease of use, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to upgrade their industrial sliding door solution. Whether setting up new doors or upgrading existing systems, Faztek is here to meet the demanding needs of modern industrial applications.

Ready to transform how you manage access and mobility in your facility? Explore our downloadable PDF for more detailed information, contact us for personalized assistance, or shop C-Rails to start enhancing your operations today.

When it comes to construction and assembly, finding suitable materials that are efficient, affordable, and straightforward to use has always been a challenge. These hurdles are why Faz-Tube, a boltless aluminum framing system, emerges as a standout solution compared to traditional steel tubular framing or simple wood construction pieces. Characterized by its lightweight panels and minimal component requirement, this system streamlines the construction process without compromising strength in lightweight applications, making Faz-Tube aluminum extrusions an excellent choice for designing small enclosures and other projects.

Overcome the Challenges of Traditional Framing Systems

Traditional steel tubular or wood construction have been used as a standard for years, but their drawbacks include increased labor, many components, and significant time investments. The boltless aluminum framing system addresses these challenges head-on, offering a streamlined alternative that drastically simplifies the assembly process. By minimizing the need for numerous components and tools, Faz-Tube emerges as a game-changer for those on the assembly line and safety managers alike, enhancing efficiency and safety without compromising cost, durability, or strength for small or lightweight applications.

The Science Behind Faz-Tube

Engineered for Seamless Integration and Efficiency

Faz-Tube’s components consist of modular framing and tubing connectors for effortless integration. The genius lies in the integrated ridges within the Faz-Tube excursion, these ridges “bite” into the connector generating tension for quick and secure connections without additional hardware. The only tool you will need to connect the pieces is a soft-faced mallet.

Faz-Tube’s Versatile Shapes and Schematics

The Faz-Tube system features square, single-flanged, and twin-flanged profiles, catering to various applications. Square profiles are ideal for environments requiring cleanliness and prevent dirt accumulation. Single-flanged is perfect for building doors or adding panels; twin-flanged profiles ensure panels are securely held in place, which is particularly useful for vertical applications like small safety enclosures.

Faz-Tube vs. Traditional Materials

The Lightweight Advantage of Faz-Tube

Choosing Faz-Tube’s boltless aluminum framing system introduces a significant shift away from heavier materials when they’re not always necessary. When components are lighter, everything from shipping logistics to maneuverability on the shop floor becomes more streamlined. This efficiency leads to quicker assembly times, allowing projects to move forward at a pace that heavier steel tubular or older aluminum systems can’t compete with. In environments where time is as critical as quality, expediting processes without compromising structural integrity lightweight application is invaluable.

Cost-Effectiveness and Efficiency

The boltless design stands out for its direct impact on the bottom line. The need for specialized labor decreases by simplifying the assembly process, directly reducing project costs. Additionally, the minimized component list means less waste and more efficient use of materials, further driving down expenses. The system’s versatility also plays a key role here; adapting and reconfiguring structures with the same components across multiple applications or projects maximizes investment and reduces the need for frequent purchases of new materials. This efficiency isn’t just about saving money upfront—it’s about creating a leaner, more adaptable workflow ready to meet future challenges with minimal additional input.

Durability and Modern Aesthetics

The benefits of Faz-Tube extend into its long-term performance and appearance. The quickness and ease of constructing applications are the cornerstone of the system. Being corrosion resistant fights the rigors of industrial environments far better than traditional materials that cannot withstand the wear and tear that aluminum excursion can. This resilience ensures that investments in the boltless aluminum framing system continue to pay dividends in reduced maintenance and replacement costs over time. Moreover, the sleek, modern look of the aluminum brings a visually appealing aspect to functional spaces. In today’s world, where the aesthetics of a workspace can influence employee satisfaction and brand perception, having a system that looks as good as it performs is a notable advantage. It demonstrates that practicality and style aren’t mutually exclusive. Instead, they can complement each other to enhance the overall quality of the working environment.

Faz-Tube’s Diverse Range of Applications

From Simple Structures to Complex Designs

Faz-Tube’s range of applications includes picture frames, simple guarding systems, and custom pop-ups. This easy-to-assemble aluminum framing system exemplifies how simplicity meets functionality, catering to diverse construction needs with efficiency and modern style. 

Tips for Designing with Faz-Tube

Designing with this boltless system involves understanding its profile and your project’s requirements. Faz-Tube only comes in 1” X 1” profile so selecting the right profiles and planning your design can maximize the system’s benefits, ensuring a seamless fit for your construction needs. Take advantage of our free design services to take your project to the next level. For many lightweight applications, Faz-Tube can be the perfect fit blending efficiency, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. 

Take the Next Step with Faz-Tube

For those looking to elevate their construction and design projects, boltless aluminum framing may be the perfect fit for you. Consider this innovative solution for your next lightweight project and witness the transformation it brings.

Explore our range of Faz-Tube products or contact our team for more information on implementing this groundbreaking solution in your projects.

Email insidesales@faztek.net for more information. 

 

In the bustling world of manufacturing, where machinery never sleeps and productivity is paramount, one principle reigns supreme: safety. It’s more than a priority; it’s the core of every operation. Every person who steps onto the factory floor knows the importance of proper machine guarding. Such commitment means one size does not fit all as it relates to guarding. That’s where Faztek makes its mark, offering customized guarding solutions meticulously tailored to meet your equipment’s needs and operational flow.

This blog explains the precision of Faztek’s custom machine guarding. Here, every guard and barrier is not just a safety feature; they’re carefully crafted pieces of a larger puzzle designed to integrate seamlessly with your unique manufacturing environment. Join us as we explore how Faztek’s approach to customized guarding solutions transforms standard safety protocols into a robust, personalized safety framework, ensuring your facility operates smoothly and safely.

Custom Guard Design and Planning

Creating a safe work environment is a deliberate process that begins with a smart, well-thought-out guard design. At Faztek, we excel in translating your safety requirements into practical, efficient guarding solutions. Our approach is hands-on and collaborative, offering free consultations and detailed planning assistance to make sure your safety measures are compliant and perfectly tailored.

Understanding Your Equipment and Guarding Requirements

Our process starts with a deep dive into the types of machinery and moving parts in your facility. Whether it’s high-speed rotating equipment, press machines with dangerous pinch points, or automated assembly lines, each piece has certain guarding needs. We meticulously assess the operational risks and design guards that provide optimal protection without hindering your operational efficiency.

Tailored Guarding Solutions

Below is our range of guarding solutions:

• Machine Enclosures: Such enclosures encapsulate specific machines or operation points as the first line of defense, ensuring operator safety without compromising machine accessibility.
• Hybrid Guards: This flexible solution combines two or more safety products, like mesh screens with electronic sensors, to address your operation’s complex or varied safety needs.
• Perimeter Guards: These barriers are essential for delineating work zones, restricting unauthorized access, and maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

Material Selection for Durability and Function

Choosing the right material is crucial for the effectiveness and longevity of your guards. We offer a selection of materials, such as robust steel for high-impact protection, lightweight aluminum for ease of handling and corrosion resistance, and transparent Plexiglas for visibility and light penetration. Faztek selects the material based on your specific environmental conditions, usage requirements, and safety standards.

Integration with Safety Interlocks and Control Systems

To enhance the functionality of our guards, we integrate them with advanced safety interlocks and control systems. From light curtains that create invisible safety barriers to interlock switches that ensure safe access points, our electronic safety devices can operate independently or seamlessly with your guarding solutions. This automation integration turns a passive guard into an active safety system, providing additional protection and peace of mind.

Custom Accessories

Recognizing the distinct nature of every industrial setup, Faztek brings an array of custom accessories designed to complement and enhance your machine guarding systems. It’s not just about the primary guarding solutions; it’s also about the minor details that perfect the functionality and adaptability of your safety measures.

We curate a range of custom accessories to address each aspect of your guarding solution.

• Locks and Latches: Security is of prime importance, and we design our locks and latches to keep your guarding systems secure while providing easy access for authorized personnel. Whether preventing accidental openings or ensuring the guards remain in place during operations, these components are vital for maintaining the integrity of your safety barriers.
• Leveling Feet: Uneven floors? No problem. Our leveling feet can be adjusted for further stability and firmness, eliminating wobbles or misalignments that could lead to safety gaps or operational inefficiencies.
• Hinges: Flexibility in access is crucial for maintenance and operational functionality. We build our hinges with smooth movement and durable performance, resulting in guards that are accessible yet steadfast when closed.
• Panels: Whether you want transparent panels for visibility, mesh for ventilation, or solid panels for maximum protection, we customize each to fit into your guarding system seamlessly. Every panel plays its role in safety while meeting your operational needs for visibility and access.

These custom accessories are far from being mere add-ons. They are integral components of a cohesive guarding system, each serving a specific function that enhances the overall effectiveness and usability of your safety measures.

Why Choose Faztek as Your Guarding Partner?

With Faztek, you receive more than just a safety guard; you get a comprehensive, custom-designed solution focused on functionality, durability, and simple installation. Our goal is to make your workplace safer without complicating your processes, which means your operations run more smoothly and your team stays better protected.

With over 35 years of experience in machine guarding, Faztek is not just a provider; we’re a partner in your workplace safety journey. Here’s why Faztek stands out:

• Safety-driven designs meet and exceed machine guarding OSHA standards.
• Efficient lead times signify swift implementation of guarding solutions.
• On-site support services seamlessly integrate guarding systems.
• Competitive pricing makes safety an accessible priority for all.

Invest in Safety with Faztek

Faztek’s commitment to safety is unwavering. With a range of machine guarding solutions, from perimeter guards to comprehensive enclosure systems, Faztek is equipped to handle the safety requirements of any industrial setting. Request a quote today and take the first step toward a safer workplace. Or, if you’d like to speak directly with an expert, call 260-482-7544.

Safety isn’t only about compliance; it’s about creating an environment where productivity and well-being go hand in hand. Trust Faztek to bring that vision to life in your facility.

Download our guarding solutions guide here and start your journey to a safer, more efficient workspace today.

When it comes to industrial safety, standard and custom electronic safety solutions can be the difference between a near-miss and a disaster. While out-of-the-box safety devices are a good start, customizing these solutions to the specific needs of your operation elevates the level of protection you offer your team. 

This blog explores how custom electronic safety devices are not just an addition to the workplace but are fundamental to creating safer, more responsive industrial environments.

The Quest for Machine Safety: A Factory Manager’s Tale

Imagine a factory renowned for its top-notch production and automation. At its helm is Bill, a seasoned operations manager known for his sharp eye for efficiency and unwavering commitment to safety.

Bill’s day begins as always with the familiar hum of machinery and the sight of his dedicated team busy at work. Behind the usual bustle, a nagging thought has troubled him for weeks: the factory’s safety measures are good but not perfect. In this setting, safety isn’t just a priority; it’s a necessity. “Good” is simply not good enough.

Not long after, a close call near the conveyor section leaves everyone shaken. It’s a timely reminder that the current safety control systems only give basic protection. Bill needs more.

His search led him to explore various options: 

• Safety light curtains can stop machinery the moment unexpected movement is detected. Are they enough on their own? 
• Area scanners comprehensively monitor preset danger zones. Will they work in his factory’s dynamic environment? 
• Pressure mats make emergency stops easy, but are they enough as a standalone measure?

Bill grew frustrated. Each solution, while beneficial, seems only to be a piece of the puzzle he’s trying to solve. He needs something fast, efficient, and, most importantly, custom-made to safeguard his employees and factory.

The Standard vs. Custom Safety Controllers Debate

Faztek sees a lot of people like Bill as industrial safety options continue expanding and evolving. The question arises: should you opt for standard safety solutions that broadly address common hazards, or should you invest in custom solutions tailored to the unique aspects of your workplace?

The Case for Standard Safety Modules

Standard electronic safety solutions have their place. They are tested, proven, and quick to implement. These solutions are designed to meet general safety standards and are ideal for businesses with straightforward operational processes or limited budgets. Standard solutions present a quick and cost-effective way to address the most common workplace hazards. However, the one-size-fits-all approach may only cover some nuances of every specific setting.

The Need for Custom Safety Solutions

On the other hand, custom electronic safety solutions present a different value. Every workplace has challenges, from the facility’s layout to the type of machinery used and even the workforce’s skill level. Custom solutions consider your unique variables to build a safety system more precisely aligned with your workplace. Such solutions could mean designing safety guards that fit unusual machine sizes or integrating hybrid electronic safety devices for a more responsive mechanism.

 

Tailored safety solutions can be built from scratch or seamlessly integrated with existing systems and processes, minimizing disruption and improving operational efficiencies. Let’s not forget that different industries face varying and continually changing regulatory safety requirements. Custom safety solutions can help keep facilities compliant and safe over time.

Why Aren’t Custom Safety Solutions the Norm?

Customizing safety solutions is a complex task that demands a high level of expertise and a deep understanding of industry needs and safety standards. Many providers lack the resources or specialized knowledge to offer such tailored solutions. Generally, manufacturers focus on broader market solutions that appeal to a wider audience and are more economically viable for mass production.

Balancing Efficiency, Cost, and Safety

The decision between standard and custom solutions often comes down to balancing efficiency, cost, and the level of safety required. 

Custom safety solutions have an edge over standard options for keeping your workplaces safe. These custom solutions slot in neatly with how you already work, making you less likely to have disruptions caused by safety issues. They might cost a bit more upfront, but think about the long game. By reducing accidents, you’re also cutting costs resulting from workplace injuries and the downtime that comes with them.

And here’s something to consider: it’s a big morale booster when your team sees that you’ve put in the effort to invest in safety solutions that are just right for their workspace. They feel more confident and are likely to follow safety rules more closely, and that’s a win for everyone’s safety culture.

4 Electronic Safety Devices of Note

Customizing your safety approach begins with understanding the tools at your disposal. Here are four key electronic safety devices shaping the future of industrial safety:

Device	Purpose	Function	Key Benefit	Customizability
Safety Light Curtains	Create an invisible safety barrier	Halt machine operation when light beams are interrupted	Immediate accident prevention	Tailor height and length to fit precise machinery dimensions
Area Scanners	Monitor predefined areas for unexpected entry	Shut down the machine when a person or object enters the danger zone	Comprehensive monitoring of hazardous areas	Adjust the scanning area to specific operational zones
Pressure Mats / Safety Mats	Act as safety triggers for emergency stops (e-stops)	Activate an e-stop when stepped on or when pressure is removed	Enables immediate action in high-risk areas	Set pressure sensitivity for foot traffic, operation conditions, and machines
Safety Switches	Versatile switch options: contact, non-contact, locking, and non-locking switches	Convert standard machine guards into active safety functions	Easy to integrate into new or existing safety systems	Many options are available based on operational risks and machinery types

 

Two Is Twice as Nice as One: Hybrid Safety Solutions

While each device offers safety, the true power lies in using a combination. Hybrid safety solutions integrate two or more devices and provide a more comprehensive safety net. It’s not about layering safety measures; it’s about creating a cohesive system that accounts for multiple hazards and operational nuances.

Hybrid solutions represent a thoughtfully constructed system where each component is critical, addressing multiple hazards and adapting to the needs of your workplace. This integrated strategy ensures a broader and more robust safety net, enhancing overall protection and reducing the risk of accidents.

A hybrid system can offer immediate responses to imminent dangers and ongoing monitoring for emerging risks by combining devices like light curtains, area scanners, and safety switches. Comprehensive coverage is crucial in creating a safer work environment where employees and management can have confidence in the safety measures in place.

A Custom Approach Offers Maximum Safety

In industrial settings, where every operation is unique, a one-size-fits-all approach to safety simply doesn’t cut it. Customizing safety solutions means not just meeting the minimum safety standards but exceeding them to safeguard the work environment effectively. Investing in customized safety is an investment in your team, productivity, and peace of mind.

Remember, in the world of industrial safety, the right choice is the one that provides the most comprehensive protection for your most valuable asset: your people.

Where to Start Looking for Custom Electronic Safety Devices

Faztek’s expert team excels in crafting tailored electronic safety device solutions, including custom and hybrid systems, perfectly aligned with your needs. We are committed to working closely with you, diving deep into the intricacies of your facility to perform a risk assessment and understand the specifics of your machines. 

This hands-on approach allows us to identify the most effective path to safety. With complete ownership of every stage of operation, Faztek offers unparalleled benefits to our clients. You’ll experience more robust quality control and fast turnaround times. Faztek’s streamlined process and commitment to excellence mean you get the best safety solutions customized for your workspace.

Contact us to see how Faztek can help your team.

Prefer to call? We’d love to hear from you! 260-482-7544

If you can conceive it, the team at Faztek Industrial Solutions can create it. Dedicated to custom designs and fabrication, Faztek partners with businesses, medical providers, data centers, manufacturers and do-it-yourselfers to come up with solutions that make sense. 

“We can serve anyone from maintenance departments to engineers to rocket scientists to the DIYer. You can quite literally do whatever you want, as long as your mind can think it up,” explains Chief Operating Officer Derek Melchi. “Our biggest niche is machine guarding. If someone has dangerous machinery and wants to ensure their people are protected, they’ll come to us and we will make a guard.” 

“What’s great about our business is that if our customer’s need something to be a certain size, or an exact size and exact shape, we can make that happen,” adds Faztek Chief Financial Officer Matt Rupp. 

Founded in 2001 as a supplier of aluminum framing, the company has expanded its offerings to include material handling carts, custom workstations, safety guarding and aisle containment. In recent years, Faztek has worked with entrepreneurs like Justin Kuhn who need help bringing their ideas to life. 

After the deadly shooting at a high school in Parkland, Florida in 2018, Kuhn had an idea that would help keep students safer. Metal detectors were an obvious solution, but are expensive. In addition, traditional systems are triggered by anything metal: laptops, phones and belt buckles, as well as guns and knives, so each alarm required human intervention. Kuhn’s solution involved a screening device that has the ability to discern between common items and those that may pose a threat. But that didn’t solve the issue of manpower. 

“Schools do not have the resources or manpower for all entrances and exits, so I thought, ‘You really need to put in a camera and integrate it with a metal detector.’ When that metal detector went off, instantly it would snap a photo and it would send that photo to the school resource officer or safety team,” explains Kuhn. “They receive a text notice instantly and can then go and check on the situation.” 

The problem, he then learned, was that each school entrance was different. He needed customized panels that would help funnel students through the metal detectors. Not only did Faztek come up with something functional, but the designers were able to fabricate something that looked good, too. 

“I reached out to the team at Faztek and they couldn’t have been better. They were great to work with,” Kuhn stresses. “They offered an affordable product that was very nice looking. Every system that I did was custom, as every school had a different setup. The designers and team over at Faztek always did their best to make the configuration work. It was very important to have that correct.” 

“Sometimes customers come to us with detailed designs and simply want us to tweak it a little bit, and other times they show up with a drawing on a napkin and we turn that into a design,” says Melchi. 

What sets the company apart from its competitors is a commitment to exceptional customer service, fair pricing and a dedication to delivering quality products quickly. 

“We pride ourselves on our lead times. Our standard turnaround times are anywhere from three days to a week,” says Rupp. “We have a saying around here, ‘It’s not the big-eating-the-small kind of world anymore. It’s the fast eating the slow.’ We have to do whatever is necessary to be the fastest.”

In order to better meet the needs of its customers, Faztek is expanding. In June, leaders broke ground on a new $6 million headquarters and production facility on Bluffton Road.

It will double the size of the current building and have an initial capacity of 60,000 square feet with the potential to expand to 100,000 square feet. It’s expected to open in the spring of 2024. 

As for entrepreneur Justin Kuhn, he eventually sold his company, EntryShield, but the new owner continues to work with Faztek to design and manufacture custom panels for school security systems. “It’s honestly been a great partnership. It’s wonderful that the new owners and company are still using them. It worked well for me because it was right in my own backyard, and I could pick up the product and take it to schools. Even though the new company is out of Arkansas, they are still staying with Faztek which I think says a lot,” says Kuhn. 

From BusinessPeople.com