Search Results for: safety

Waterline of Newport Pagnell has taken delivery of fifteen 12-tonne Volvo FL 4×2 rigids from Volvo Truck and Bus Centre London, Milton Keynes.

The vehicles are the company’s first Volvo trucks and are being used for the nationwide distribution of kitchen components from worktops and units to appliances and even lighting.

Group Logistics Manager, Matt Elborough says: “Driver and road-user safety, environmental impact, fuel economy, driver comfort, reliability, usability and network support were all identified as prerequisites when it came to renewing what is essentially over one third of our entire 40-strong fleet of trucks and vans.”

“In choosing the new trucks we started with a blank sheet and looked at all the options. Through this exhaustive process it was the Volvo FL that stood out as the only truck that met all of the criteria we’d defined at the outset. Needless to say, I think the Volvo iron mark on the front also does wonders for our corporate image, which is an added bonus,” he adds.

For overnight accommodation the new trucks’ day cabs are fitted with Super Sky Cab conversions by Hatcher Components of Framlingham, Suffolk and bodywork is in the form of ‘Cheetah’ fast back bodies from Cartwright Group of Altrincham for enhanced aerodynamic performance.

“We take the environment extremely seriously,” explains Matt. “Everything about these new trucks, from the fuel saving curved roof through the highly responsive and effective 6-speed overdrive I-Sync automated mechanical gearbox to the high torque at low revs 210hp engines is about efficiency and limiting our impact on the environment. This attention to detail has already been borne out in fuel figures that show we’re returning over 16mpg. This has really impressed.”

Running a low chassis frame height of 850mm above ground and with two bag rear air suspension, the new Volvo FLs have been specified with safety and comfort very much in mind. “The Hatcher conversion is the most comfortable for our drivers,” says Matt, adding, “Air suspended and heated driver seats with additional lumbar support continue that comfort theme into the cab and our drivers appreciate it. I am positive this investment has boosted their morale.”

When it comes to safety the new Volvo FLs are bristling with features and technology designed to put well-being to the fore. ”Driver safety is massively important to us as is that of vulnerable road users,” says Matt. To these ends, the new trucks are specified to FORS and CLOCS standards and include forward, rear and nearside facing cameras. Additionally, we have supplementary lights fitted in the steps on the driver’s side as well as additional lighting at the top of the box body to illuminate the loading area plus a Dhollandia tuck-away tail-lift. Furthermore, the box has been specifically tailored to precisely meet our needs in respect of safe loading and fixing.”

Dealer support from Volvo Truck and Bus Centre London at Tongwell in Milton Keynes has been pivotal in the realisation of the fleet renewal. ”The service from Tongwell has been excellent,” states Matt. ”The dealership really looked after our earlier non-Volvo trucks and I was keen to continue this relationship. Furthermore, when it came to specifying these new Volvo FLs, the dealer really helped us to arrive at something that is ideal for our needs. And with a 3-year Gold Repair & Maintenance contract I have confidence for the future.”

Uncategorised - May 27, 2016;

Logistics BusinessWaterline of Newport Pagnell has taken delivery of fifteen 12-tonne Volvo FL 4×2 rigids from Volvo Truck and Bus Centre London, Milton Keynes. <br src=

In the field of industrial automation, progress is constant and inexorable. Technologies and management systems are improving, and new automated systems are being developed. Alvey Group has long participated in this process and the company says its motto “We Help You Adapt and Evolve” is not just a slogan but a commitment.

The company has announced a technological innovation that is says “may fundamentally change the way of supplying and installing conveyor systems and cut installation time by as much as 50%”. The new technology is named EvoLink.

The Evolink solution consists of programmable boards and supervisory software, which are designed to pilot components such as conveyors.

Says Alvey: “The advantages of Evolink include much faster installation, flexibility for later changes, simplicity of the programs, enhanced programming possibilities and current consumption measurement, to name but a few. If an Evolink board should fail, it can be easily replaced by a spare one which will program itself automatically upon connection.”

Inherent in the design of Evolink is safety, featuring a dual safety circuit allowing a safety stop to be connected to any board in seconds. When a safety stop is actuated, the precise location of this event is visible on the supervisory screen.

Evolink will be used for Alvey systems, but will also be commercially available for other system integrators.

Alvey will officially introduce EvoLink at this year’s CeMAT in Hannover from May 31 to June 3, 2016. Visit them there at Hall 27, stand F26.

Uncategorised - May 23, 2016;

Logistics BusinessIn the field of industrial automation, progress is constant and inexorable. Technologies and management systems are improving, and new automated systems are being developed. Alvey Group has long participated in this process and the company says its motto <i src=

Seegrid, the pioneer and leader in vision-based autonomous industrial vehicles, has added the Subway Platform displays to its Supervisor product. The displays are designed to reduce downtime in the supply chain by providing subway-style estimated-time-of-arrival (ETA) projections and data collection capabilities at each station where Seegrid’s vision guided vehicles (VGVs) retrieve or deliver materials. The new feature is part of Seegrid Supervisor, the fleet management tool that enables users to remotely connect, monitor, and control their fleet of VGVs.

The Subway Platform concept was developed in coordination with Whirlpool Corporation, which uses Seegrid’s vision guided pallet trucks and tow tractors to help improve safety and efficiency in its manufacturing operations. Supervisor’s ETA projections improve communication and coordination between en route VGVs and their human coworkers.

“Subway Platform allows me to track our automated operations at a glance, wherever I am, without having to run a report. It displays VGV status, so assembly operators know when their materials will arrive,” says Brad St. Louis, senior engineer of the materials department at Whirlpool Corporation’s Clyde division. “Seegrid’s commitment to partnering with Whirlpool to create this valuable solution underscores a dedication to customers and automated solutions that work collaboratively alongside humans.”

Seegrid Supervisor uses web technology inside customer facilities to fill the communication gaps created from machine automation by establishing two-way dialogue between humans and their robotic coworkers. The expansion of Supervisor with Subway Platform is the latest result of Seegrid’s collaboration with customers to develop solutions that ensure flexibility, efficiency, and safety throughout the supply chain.

“Whirlpool Corporation is one of the most respected appliance manufacturers in the world, and we could not be more excited that our VGVs are operating in its manufacturing operations helping complete more orders on a daily basis,” said Jim Rock, CEO of Seegrid. “By using our vision guided vehicles and new tools like Subway Platform, Whirlpool is able to provide efficient deliverables to its customers while reducing overhead costs.”

Seegrid has more than doubled its workforce since 2014, as more companies turn to vision-based technology to replace legacy automation that relies on lasers.

Uncategorised - May 17, 2016;

Logistics BusinessSeegrid, the pioneer and leader in vision-based autonomous industrial vehicles, has added the Subway Platform displays to its Supervisor product. The displays are designed to reduce downtime in the supply chain by providing subway-style estimated-time-of-arrival (ETA) projections and data collection capabilities at each station where Seegrid’s vision guided vehicles (VGVs) retrieve or deliver materials. The new feature is part of Seegrid Supervisor, the fleet management tool that enables users to remotely connect, monitor, and control their fleet of VGVs. <br src=

Frimpeks is a market leader in the development of inks, varnishes and coatings. A relative newcomer in the low migration arena this specialist product category will be a major topic of discussion at the forthcoming “drupa” international trade fair in Dusseldorf (May 31-June 10). Frimpeks technical staff will be on hand to discuss the science behind this important shift in the ink and packaging industries in Hall 03/B35.

But what does the industry mean by “low migration”?
Low migration describes packaging materials whose chemicals will not migrate, or move, from the packaging into the product. It is particularly relevant in the food, pharmaceutical, beverage and healthcare sectors.

Materials include printing inks, coatings and adhesives which must not have any migratory chemicals which would affect the odour, flavour, appearance, taste, or the safety of the product contained within the packaging.

When printing a job that requires low-migration properties, there’s far more to consider than just loading up the press with a low-migration ink. In general, the term low migration ink refers to ink formulated without use of raw materials that have been identified as being able to pass through a substrate. Given there are so many different combinations of inks, print processes, and applications. Therefore printers are advised to work closely with their ink supplier to match up the substrate, process and application.

Frimpeks technical team offer open access to decades of experience and the laboratories in order to deliver a bespoke service to our customers. A substantial amount of research and testing is required to ensure our products are fit for purpose, in turn providing peace of mind.

Our partnership approach means our customers are encouraged to apply best practice manufacturing techniques. Understanding substrates, print speeds and the curing process are the keys to making sure the low-migration ink is fit for the application purpose. Frimpeks representatives will be on hand to discuss how they can assist print converters in a variety of aspects. For example, best practice when curing low migration inks.

Industry commentators interpret the concept of low migration in different ways. One view is it refers to the transfer of various components from the finished package into the food product. Low migration inks really refer to products that have been developed by ink suppliers to help the printer achieve desired results in accordance with current regulations. Others focus purely on producing inks that are formulated to limit migration to the minimum parts-per-billion levels through their chemical composition.

Uncategorised - May 16, 2016;

Logistics BusinessFrimpeks is a market leader in the development of inks, varnishes and coatings. A relative newcomer in the low migration arena this specialist product category will be a major topic of discussion at the forthcoming “drupa” international trade fair in Dusseldorf (May 31-June 10). Frimpeks technical staff will be on hand to discuss the science behind this important shift in the ink and packaging industries in Hall 03/B35. <br src=

A bio-mechanics study, recently commissioned by health & safety specialist, Pristine Condition, in conjunction with Tesco Distribution, has revealed ground-breaking results, and helped the supermarket retailer achieve 60% reduction in manual handling incidents.

The purpose of the study was to objectively and technically measure the manual handling risk reduction when applying Pristine Principles across a number of key Tesco Distribution Centre manual handling tasks.

Using ViSafe wireless motion sensor technology, the study measured movement and muscle activity when undertaking the tasks pre and post Pristine Condition’s manual handling training.

The tests were undertaken across a range of tasks comparing the outputs both before and after Pristine Condition manual handling training. This included the loading and pulling of cages, and loading, unloading and stacking pallets. The results were exceptional. Objective data provided by ViSafe quantified the advantage of Pristine Condition techniques in reducing risk for injury across all tasks assessed as ranging between 35% and 94%, in particular reducing muscle demand by up to 73%.

Tesco Distribution had historically followed the same route as many other companies – following HSE guidance and hierarchy of controls. However, because that approach often fails to properly address the issue of incorrect technique then predictably manual handling incidents were still prevalent, causing injury to colleagues and cost to the business.

Tesco took the initiative to employ Pristine Condition – H&S Specialist and global leader in manual handling – to create a bespoke training programme to address manual handling incidents across their Distribution Centres.

For the first time ever Pristine Condition brought Olympic weightlifting techniques to industry, dispelling many myths and fallacies, and introducing realistic, achievable Principles and control measures.

Uncategorised - May 11, 2016;

Logistics BusinessA bio-mechanics study, recently commissioned by health & safety specialist, Pristine Condition, in conjunction with Tesco Distribution, has revealed ground-breaking results, and helped the supermarket retailer achieve 60% reduction in manual handling incidents. <br src=

Paul Cooling, a driver for J. Medler Haulage of Norwich, has attributed his wellbeing to the design and safety features incorporated in the Volvo cab of the FH tractor unit he was driving following a horrific road traffic accident on 22 March 2016.

The accident, which happened on the eastbound carriageway of the A14 near Welford in Northamptonshire, saw the nearside of the cab sustain heavy impacts to both front and rear as Paul jack-knifed against the central reservation on what is arguably one of the UK’s busiest sections of dual carriageway.

“After the initial impact I remember trying to jack-knife so as not to cross the central reservation,” says Paul. While his actions almost certainly prevented him from crossing into on-coming traffic, they also meant the cab took a significant blow to the rear from his own trailer, which at the time was fully loaded with Thermalite blocks.

“I have to say I was absolutely amazed at the integrity of the cab after such a big accident,” says Paul. “Before this accident I really liked Volvo trucks. Now I love them! They’re the best truck in the world and I honestly believe I’m still here thanks to the safe design and build quality of Volvo.”

The accident forced the closure of the A14 in both directions for several hours. The westbound carriageway was shut to enable the air ambulance to land in order to attend to Paul.

Paul returned to work just three weeks later with a scar running from above his left eye up across his forehead the only sign of the horror that struck that afternoon. “I’m as fit as a fiddle now,” he says. “I had thirty stitches to tidy up the wound to my head, but the scar’s already healing over and I’m just glad to be back at work.”

Paul’s boss and Managing Director at J. Medler Haulage, Dean Medler adds: “I have to say I was surprised that Paul walked away with comparatively minor injuries after such a serious accident. We were all delighted when he returned to work within just three weeks. I believe this accident has reassured me and our drivers that Volvo trucks are indeed the safe choice and I am therefore glad that our entire fleet bears the iron mark!”

“Despite the severity of my accident, the cab of the nine-year-old Volvo FH stood up to the impact sufficiently well that, once my seatbelt was released, I was able to exit the cab via the offside door virtually as normal,” says Paul.

As for advice following his accident he adds: “Always double-check that you’re wearing your seatbelt properly and drive a Volvo!”

Uncategorised - May 6, 2016;

Logistics BusinessPaul Cooling, a driver for J. Medler Haulage of Norwich, has attributed his wellbeing to the design and safety features incorporated in the Volvo cab of the FH tractor unit he was driving following a horrific road traffic accident on 22 March 2016. <br src=

Union Industries, manufacturer of industrial rapid roll doors, has helped specialist cooked chicken manufacturer Benson Park with its recent chill store extension, which includes new state of the art cooking processes.

Benson Park was recently acquired by the well-known Cranswick Group and the project at the Hull site is its first venture in to the cooked chicken sector. The new extension has increased capacity by 30% due to quicker stock intake and has also created new jobs. Capacity has also been increased with a new cooking process, which is far more efficient and incorporates new cooking techniques.

Leeds (UK)-based Union Industries, which designs, manufactures, installs and maintains its own range of fact acting doors, has fitted two Matadoors to help Benson Park to meet its strict temperature control and hygiene standards.

Benson Park is a specialist manufacturer of cooked poultry products for the food industry. It operates from a purpose-built factory that has been designed to produce high quality cooked meat products efficiently and to the best possible safety standards. They supply well known food-to-go manufacturers with chicken in its various forms including cooked, sliced, diced and shredded.

The Matadoor is ideally suited for internal openings with high volume traffic, whether for forklift trucks, pallet trucks or personnel with trolleys and carts. Its fast opening and closing operating cycle ensures that as little of the cold as possible escapes when gaining access, meaning energy savings and cost reductions in refrigeration

In common with the other doors in the range, the Matadoor features Union’s highly-regarded ‘Crash-Out’ damage protection facility which ensures that they remain operable if the bottom beam is hit by a speeding vehicle. This proven system, which has been a central attribute of Union’s doors for over 25 years, drastically reduces repair costs and guarantees minimal down-time if the door is impacted by traffic such as forklift trucks.

Uncategorised - April 19, 2016;

Logistics BusinessUnion Industries, manufacturer of industrial rapid roll doors, has helped specialist cooked chicken manufacturer Benson Park with its recent chill store extension, which includes new state of the art cooking processes. <br src=

WABCO, a global supplier of technologies that improve the safety, efficiency and connectivity of commercial vehicles, has acquired Laydon Composites Ltd. (LCL), a manufacturer of aerodynamic devices for heavy-duty trucks and trailers. LCL generated revenues of approximately CAD$25 million in 2015 and is headquartered in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. Building on more than 30 years of experience, LCL was previously privately owned and operated.

Through the acquisition, WABCO is the only supplier that provides a full range of aerodynamic devices for commercial vehicles worldwide. Aerodynamic products reduce air drag of commercial trucks traveling long distances at highway speeds, thereby lowering fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Aerodynamic devices help commercial vehicle fleet operators to improve their operational efficiency and environmental performance.

The acquisition creates attractive growth opportunities for both companies. WABCO’s strong global presence provides customers worldwide with increased access to LCL products; likewise, WABCO expands its market access to North America through LCL’s sales network and customer relationships in the region. Both companies have similar organizational cultures characterized by world-class engineering expertise and excellence in execution.

A leading supplier of innovative aerodynamic technologies for commercial vehicles, WABCO offers OptiFlow™ SideWings for trailers in Europe. Its leading design and construction enables long-haul fuel savings of up to 5 percent and reduction of CO2 emissions by as much as 3.8 tons per semi-trailer per year. In addition, the company’s OptiFlow Tail, an aerodynamic solution for the rear of a semi-trailer, generates fuel savings of up to 1.1 liter per 100 kilometers (4.7 gallons per 1,000 miles) at highway speeds. These fuel savings help fleet operators in Europe to lower carbon dioxide emissions from tractor-trailers by up to 2.8 tons annually.



Uncategorised - April 19, 2016;

Logistics BusinessWABCO, a global supplier of technologies that improve the safety, efficiency and connectivity of commercial vehicles, has acquired Laydon Composites Ltd. (LCL), a manufacturer of aerodynamic devices for heavy-duty trucks and trailers. LCL generated revenues of approximately CAD$25 million in 2015 and is headquartered in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. Building on more than 30 years of experience, LCL was previously privately owned and operated. <br src=

Safety company Pyroban is offering users and suppliers of explosion proof forklifts guidance ahead of the introduction of the new ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU which takes effect from 20th April 2016.

The Directive, which concerns equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, replaces the current ATEX Directive 94/9/EC as part of a new, consistent Legislative Framework for EU Directives.

“The fundamental basis of the current ATEX Directive is not changed, and while this will minimise impact on manufacturers and suppliers of explosion protection solutions, it may create confusion as to exactly what this means to companies, sales people and end users,” says Steve Noakes, Engineering Manager for Pyroban, the leading explosion proof forklift conversion company. “Maintaining safety in potentially explosive atmospheres is so important that it is essential to understand what these changes consist of, both for managers, operators and company legal departments”

Under the new Directive, Essential Safety & Health Requirements (ESHRs) remain the same, the equipment categories used to define the different explosion protection levels are unaffected (3G, 2G, 3D, 2D), and the certification procedures are also unchanged. Manufacturer self-certification still remains for Category 3 equipment for use in zone 2 and zone 22 applications.

However, there will be several changes to certification under the new Directive. New products placed on the market from 20th April 2016 will state the new ATEX Directive number 2014/34/EU on documentation instead of 94/9/EC and component level certificates issued after 20th April will now be called ‘EU Type Examination Certificate’ instead of ‘EC Type Examination Certificate’. The content of the EU Declaration of Conformity is also revised in the new Directive. Components and equipment having 3rd party certification to 94/9/EC remain valid under 2014/34/EU and do not need to be re-certified.

The new Legislative Framework places a higher emphasis on market surveillance and the expectations of EU member states to better police the markets, but as the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU exists to control the requirements for producing and bringing a product into the market when new, after-sales activities will not be directly affected by the recent changes. The other notable ATEX Directive, 1992/92/EC, which affects the end user of the forklift is also not affected by the legislative changes and remains in its current form.

Steve Noakes explains further, “Although the 2014/34/EU ATEX Directive exists to govern the safe trade of Ex equipment and protection solutions by manufacturers, suppliers and importers, there are some important considerations for end users too. To ensure that safety levels are not compromised during the equipment’s service life, it is important that the end user maintains all Ex equipment adequately – as equipment becomes older the ‘Justification for Continued Use’ is the responsibility of the end user, not the manufacturer.”

Maintenance and professional audits by competent persons is considered the basis for assuring that explosion protection equipment is suitable for continued use in potentially explosive atmospheres. Companies should always use specially trained engineers to conduct safety checks, in turn helping to avoid serious legal implications in the event of an incident.

Users of Pyroban explosion protection safety solutions, can access trained engineers via their equipment dealer to carry out maintenance, repairs and servicing to help sustain safe equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres. Pyroban’s own specialist engineers are also available should a customer require additional help and support.

To further counter the potential problem of defective explosion proof forklifts being used in hazardous areas, Pyroban is also offering Ex –ASA annual inspections as part of the purchase price for all conversions completed within 2016 for use in Europe.

Uncategorised - April 19, 2016;

Logistics BusinessSafety company Pyroban is offering users and suppliers of explosion proof forklifts guidance ahead of the introduction of the new ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU which takes effect from 20th April 2016. <br src=

UK forklift-add-on supplier B&B Attachments has been awarded accreditation from Safecontractor for its commitment to achieving excellence in health and safety.

Safecontractor is a leading third party accreditation scheme which recognises very high standards in health and safety management amongst UK contractors.

Employing over 60 people, B&B is principally involved in the Material Handling sector, specialising in the supply of forklift truck attachments, with a turnover of over £9m. B&B supplies all the major players in the forklift truck industry.

The company’s application for Safecontractor accreditation was driven by the need for a uniform standard across the business. The accreditation will enhance the company’s ability to attract new contracts and its commitment to safety will be viewed positively by its insurers when the company liability policy is up for renewal.

Under the Safecontractor scheme, businesses undergo a vetting process which examines health and safety procedures and their track record for safe practice. Those companies meeting the high standard are included on a database, which is accessible to registered users only via a website.

Client-organisations who sign up to the scheme can access the database, enabling them to vet potential contractors before they even set foot on site. These clients agree that, as users of the scheme, they will engage only those who have received accreditation.

Over 210 major, nation-wide businesses, from several key sectors, have signed up to use the scheme when selecting contractors for services such as building, cleaning, maintenance, refurbishment or electrical and mechanical work.

Uncategorised - April 19, 2016;

Logistics BusinessUK forklift-add-on supplier B&B Attachments has been awarded accreditation from Safecontractor for its commitment to achieving excellence in health and safety. <br src=

Since the launch of model series T20/T25 SP in 2004, Linde Material Handling has sold over 33,000 such pallet trucks worldwide. Linde says that this makes them the clear market leader in the platform pallet truck segment in Europe and also sets a benchmark in the field of intralogistics. Linde will be presenting a number of new, customer-oriented optional features for these successful models at its World of Material Handling (WoMH) 2016 customer event.

Around the world, these platform pallet trucks with two or two-and-a-half tonne load capacity facilitate the loading and unloading of HGVs as well as pallet transfer and order picking. Linde’s unique driving concept is key to the resounding market success: The main load of the transported goods rests on the drive wheel so that braking and acceleration forces are accurately transmitted. In addition, a hydraulic damping system with tilt sensors for the lateral support wheels ensures maximum stability and driver comfort in all situations. Whether cornering, on uneven surfaces or on slopes – the operator has full control of the vehicle and the load at all times.

The new equipment options enhance driver comfort, efficiency and reliability for Linde T20/T25 SP platform trucks even more. The main innovation is the completely decoupled and damped stand-on platform. Platform and steering system form a compact unit, which is decoupled from the chassis. This has led to about 30 percent reduction in jolts and vibrations – both mechanical and human.

With this innovation, Linde takes another step towards the ergonomic unity of man and machine. This is because platform pallet trucks Linde T20/T25 SP feature proven e-Driver technology. This allows the driver to comfortably rest his back by leaning, while standing at a 45 degree angle to the direction of travel and steer the vehicle with one hand, with which he can also control all drive and lift functions. The 45-degree position provides optimum visibility of the route and load in an ergonomic body posture. In this way the driver can concentrate for a long time without getting tired and he is positioned in such a way that his health is not compromised.

LED work lights increase safety
To facilitate working in poorly lit environments, Linde has added LED work lights to its range of optional features. These lights help to make processes safer and more efficient, for example when loading and unloading truck trailers with dark interiors. The light is positioned within the vehicle contour, protected against damage, and can be switched on and off with a single move of the hand.

In addition to process safety and driver comfort, customers particularly appreciate the high uptime and power of the platform pallet trucks. Both are assured by the truck’s 3 kW AC traction motor. Its high torque ensures powerful start up. After less than five metres, the vehicle reaches its maximum speed of 12 km/h. The trucks and their new optional features will make their debut at Linde’s WoMH in Offenbach, Germany which will take place from 9-25 May. Visitors to this customer event will be offered the opportunity to test-drive the vehicles themselves.

Uncategorised - April 19, 2016;

Logistics BusinessSince the launch of model series T20/T25 SP in 2004, Linde Material Handling has sold over 33,000 such pallet trucks worldwide. Linde says that this makes them the clear market leader in the platform pallet truck segment in Europe and also sets a benchmark in the field of intralogistics. Linde will be presenting a number of new, customer-oriented optional features for these successful models at its World of Material Handling (WoMH) 2016 customer event. <br src=

For many businesses, operating an open stores policy is deemed to be the best way of ensuring staff have the required equipment to do their job. However, when using manual counting and logging processes, it is incredibly difficult to manage how many pairs of gloves, boots or hi-vis jackets have been issued, whether they are fit for purpose and equally whether they suitably fit the individual wearing them.

While free access may seem like the best solution in providing employees with their PPE equipment and materials, in reality it presents a number of issues:
1. When freely available, people have a tendency to take more than they need as part of a ‘just in case’ scenario
2. Loss of productivity as individuals leave their role to go in search of equipment
3. No reliable documenting process – resulting in no trackable usage patterns or, traceability
4. Businesses are dependent on manual counting processes leaving room for human error

Dispensing PPE – a potential solution
Designed for dispensing PPE and other consumable items, automated vending technologies bring a wealth of opportunity to businesses by providing 24/7 access and availability to PPE and other critical items and helping to improve control and accountability throughout an organisation.

Through the simple introduction of automated dispensing processes for example, a business is able to document if and when each and every individual within an organisation collects a new piece of equipment. Time can be reduced in the search for relevant and suitable equipment, materials and supplies as access to the vending machine is controlled by the individual’s key card or a fob. Every Apex device is an internet device controlled by the Trajectory Cloud which stores the individual’s job and health and safety requirements. With the ability to log items being dispensed, intelligent automated dispensing solutions can automatically generate time and date stamped documentation – providing the employer with a clear and auditable trail of their fulfilment of legal safety requirements.

With the ability to log transactions, automated dispensing technology also provides a solution to stock replenishment issues, sending automated stock alerts and re-order notifications to suppliers, which eliminate out of stock conditions and emergency orders. As inventory quantities are maintained by the Trajectory Cloud in real time once the system has been configured there is no risk of running out of stock or ordering the wrong equipment, which in turn helps to maintain productivity and safety while reducing the costs associated with latency, ordering incorrect or last-minute supplies.

Apex Supply Chain Technologies is the only automated dispensing technology provider to date that is powered by Trajectory Cloud. These simple and elegant Connect n’ Go systems plug into a standard electrical socket, connect to the Internet via Ethernet cable, Wi-Fi or cellular connection and are ready to go. The Apex proprietary Trajectory Cloud platform provides 24/7 visibility, alerts and reporting through a browser, anytime, anywhere, allowing businesses to improve productivity, visibility, reliability and accessibility of stock and mission critical supplies and materials as well as track usage patterns and trends.

Boosting employee accountability and reducing costs are two more benefits that automated dispensing technologies and solutions can bring to the industrial working environment. Indeed, with many businesses seeking to reduce the unnecessary usage of materials – the implementation of automated dispensing solutions will help to avoid hoarding and unnecessary waste, as well as largely eliminate the need for back-up inventory. In fact, it is not uncommon to see a usage reduction of up to 30% and inventory reduction as much as 50% as a result.

Needless to say, without the effective control and management of assets, initiatives to help improve productivity and reduce costs cannot be fully realised. Automated dispensing technology is one proven solution that can help businesses to not only minimise downtime and eliminate stock-outs, but also perhaps more importantly, maintain the safety of operations and improve the accountability of a company’s health and safety policy in the process.

Uncategorised - April 18, 2016;

Logistics BusinessFor many businesses, operating an open stores policy is deemed to be the best way of ensuring staff have the required equipment to do their job. However, when using manual counting and logging processes, it is incredibly difficult to manage how many pairs of gloves, boots or hi-vis jackets have been issued, whether they are fit for purpose and equally whether they suitably fit the individual wearing them. <br src=

As an established EU-OSHA partner, Toyota Material Handling will collaborate again this year with the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA). The 2016-2017 campaign ‘Healthy Workplace for All Ages’ will promote a sustainable working life for every generation.

With safety as the number-one priority, Toyota Material Handling Europe has been a campaign partner fully supporting the EU-OSHA campaigns for more than 6 years now. Previous collaborations include the 2010-2011 campaign on ’Safe Maintenance’, the 2012-2013 operation, ’Working Together for Risk Prevention’, and the 2014-2015 campaign ‘Healthy Workplaces Manage Stress’.

With the 2016-2017 ‘Healthy Workplaces for All Ages’ campaign, Toyota Material Handling and EU-OSHA strive for a working environment that is healthy and productive for employees of all ages. Stimulating active ageing and keeping workers engaged until the end of their career brings numerous benefits. Firstly, employees are healthier and more motivated, while staff turnover and absenteeism are significantly lower, which leads to higher productivity. Secondly, valuable skills and work experience can be shared within the organisation and used to create a greater pool of talent and skills.

The campaign will therefore share policies or programmes that enable employees to work up to or past their retirement age, as well as emphasize the benefits of different generations working together.

“Our own diverse workforce of different ages and types of jobs make this a very relevant campaign for us. With a large portion of our employees being over 50 and a majority of them working as a service technician in a physically demanding job, their health remains a top priority,” comments Peter Damberg, Senior Vice President HR and Sustainability. “By encouraging these employees to stay with Toyota Material Handling until their retirement and making sure their knowledge is transferred internally, a workforce for the future can be built. We therefore look forward to continuing our cooperation with EU-OSHA and the campaign partners to ensure a healthy working environment for all ages.”

Uncategorised - April 15, 2016;

Logistics BusinessAs an established EU-OSHA partner, Toyota Material Handling will collaborate again this year with the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA). The 2016-2017 campaign <i src=

Advanced logistics operator, Arcese, has chosen a tailor made loading bay solution, designed and installed by industry leader Thorworld Industries, for its new facility in Daventry (UK).

The Arcese Group, one of the leading private logistics operators in Europe, runs hubs throughout the UK and has recently expanded its operation with the acquisition of its new depot. The sizeable new premises, with its impressive specification of both yard and office space, was considered an ideal hub for Arcese, being in close proximity to three of its major clients. However the building, in its existing form, lacked a suitable loading ramp facility.

Keen to address the situation at speed Keith Luetchford, Director at Arcese, was integral to the decision-making process that would guarantee the installation of high quality loading bay equipment, expertly designed for the most effective performance. Keith wanted to make use of the premise’s existing external canopies, but preferred to avoid the cost of installing a permanent solution within a leased building. He was also looking for high quality and specific size specifications, as he goes on to explain:
“We knew we needed a loading bay of considerable quality, as any equipment installed would be in continuous use, facilitating extremely heavy loads for up to 18 hours a day. Precise size was also a key factor, as our requirements were for a loading system designed to fit within the existing external canopies. This, we understood, would necessitate a bespoke construction.

“To achieve this we had to find an expert manufacturer, so after conducting initial internet searches to explore the possibilities available to us, we invited Thorworld to visit our new premises and discuss the best options,” he adds.

The nature of Arcese’s business and the design of its building meant that any bespoke loading equipment needed to be semi-permanent to deliver the best overall solution. Planning permission was not necessary for the installation of this equipment, so Keith and the team agreed that ‘the right semi-permanent solution’ would enable Arcese’s new operation to be up and running in a relatively short time-frame.

Furthermore, by choosing a Thorworld’s modular solution, there was the flexibility to dismantle and relocate the equipment at the end of the building’s eight year lease, if necessary.

“A semi-permanent solution was entirely correct for our needs, furthering our positive opinion of Thorworld’s sales and engineering teams, whom we found extremely knowledgeable and professional,” confirms Keith.

“They listened to our needs and designed a solution, which not only provides the same service as a permanent/concrete loading bay, but is more cost effective. We were extremely impressed with Thorworld’s initial designs, with only a couple of tweaks needing to be made to create our perfect loading solution.”

Keith gave Thorworld the green light to proceed with manufacture; creating finished apparatus that features three dock levellers with a double width ramp for use on one side of Arcese’s premises, and a single dock leveller and single ramp for use on the other. With operator welfare a priority, the equipment also accommodates rear loading, considered safer than side loading, and features anti-slip surfaces for additional safety.

“We’ve been truly impressed with the design and quality of the loading solution. Thorworld’s entire approach, from design to implementation has been smooth, considerate, and professional,” concludes Keith.

Responding to Keith’s comments about his positive experience, John Meale, Managing Director at Thorworld Industries said: “A modular loading dock solution can deliver the exact function a business is looking for, but with the additional attributes of cost-effectiveness and flexibility, all without compromising on quality or safety standards.

“We’re delighted to hear that everything has gone to plan with the Arcese installation and that the project was achieved in time, and on budget,” adds John.

Uncategorised - April 14, 2016;

Logistics BusinessAdvanced logistics operator, Arcese, has chosen a tailor made loading bay solution, designed and installed by industry leader Thorworld Industries, for its new facility in Daventry (UK). <br src=

Dust, debris, dirt – the deadly 3Ds for those working environments where cleanliness is most certainly next to godliness.

In food and drink factories, cosmetics manufacturing, health-focused facilities or pharmaceutical environments, the constant drive for improved hygiene goes right alongside ever-better product purity and quality. Which means every product application within that working environment must adhere – and contribute to – the strictest demands of hygiene.

The Society of Food Hygiene and Technology notes: “Poor equipment design may lead to an unacceptable build-up of debris or by allowing untreated ingredients to accumulate to a level at which they may cross contaminate the processed food.”

Fear of contamination is a constant threat – one that could potentially cause a full-scale shutdown of an entire facility and heavy loss of reputation – so products that are fit-for-purpose, but also contribute to the hygienic demands of a facility, are essential. And in turn, those deadly 3Ds, which need constant monitoring, can be kept in check.

Add, then, to those perilous 3Ds the Food Standard Agency’s (FSA) number one hygiene problem in food manufacturing: moisture.

Wetted zones encourage bacteria, including the Contamination Alert’s most frequent unwelcome visitor, listeria. Good food and drink manufacturing practice will involve the cleaning of lines and areas for about one-third of every 24-hour cycle. Therefore, products with a water-resistant tolerance to the necessities of the wipe-down and the jet-wash are also essential.

In the past, the barriers used in sensitive environments had the potential to cause more problems than they solved. Take a steel barrier: when brand new it is strong, shiny and aesthetically pleasing. But over time it will corrode, it will flake, it will become abrasive and untidy-looking. Add a watery wash-down to the steel mix and, of course, you have a fast track to rust and a hazardous new contamination threat to a sensitive environment.

Polymer-based barriers solved the rust problem over a decade ago. They were wipe-clean, non-toxic and chemically-resistant, so boosted industries where steel barriers were almost too problematic to deal with.

The polymer barriers had instant appeal and real success. The Senior Maintenance Manager of Haribo said in 2011: “We like the hygiene aspects of the barriers as well as its strength and good looks. The metal barriers currently in use in the dispatch areas have nooks and crannies which could harbour dirt.”

But the new polymer-based barriers weren’t yet a perfect solution from a hygiene point of view. There were still some ingress points where the 3Ds could collect. There was still a possibility of water infiltrating an unsealed system. And wherever water collects inside a system it soon becomes stagnant – and a breeding ground for dangerous microorganisms.

So the secret code for barriers that could truly be called hygienic was a difficult one to crack. Hygienic facilities required an absence of ingress points, sealed joints, water resistance, a tolerance to wash-down chemicals and the wipe-down, non-toxic surfaces that did not corrode, flake or require repainting. All these factors had never before been combined into a single barrier system.

Design Engineer at A-SAFE, the inventors of the world’s first polymer-based barrier system in 2001, Tom Costello takes up the story: “Old polymer-based barriers definitely performed better than standard steel for sensitive environments, but the old-style products weren’t the ideal solution in these areas.

From our point of view, we knew we had to somehow solve the issue of dirt and debris collecting in ingress points and water infiltrating the product. So over a two-year period we developed complex hygiene seals and reduced water ingress points through the use of strategically placed rubber seals.”

The new hygienic barrier system, released in 2015, was called iFlex. Existing A-SAFE customers, such as Thomas Roh, the Occupational Safety Specialist at confectionery experts, Ritter Sport weren’t resting on their safety laurels and were highly expectant of the new system: “We highly appreciate the quality of A-SAFE products. They are easy to install and very durable. Barriers that were installed eight years ago in our transit area show no signs of erosion. This is an area with lively forklift traffic where the barriers are often hit. Since the installation of A-SAFE barriers damages are decreased in the building and at our facilities. Now we are looking forward to the new iFlex Barrier Range, of which we have heard a lot recently. Especially for us as food manufacturers, the hygiene sealing of the new barriers is particularly important.”

Since the launch of iFlex, a host of blue chip companies have benefited from the specific hygiene advantages of the system, including: United Biscuits, The Body Shop, Sainsbury’s, Nestlé, McCain Foods, Mars, L’Oreal, KP, Dr Oetker, Coca-Cola and more.

The hygienic supply chain is an ever-improving, ever more sophisticated part of food, drink and pharmaceutical logistics. Intelligent companies are constantly focusing on tweaking best practice and asking for more from their suppliers. And where hygiene is concerned, iFlex proved that any barriers can – and must – be overcome.

Uncategorised - April 14, 2016;

Logistics BusinessDust, debris, dirt – the deadly 3Ds for those working environments where cleanliness is most certainly next to godliness. <br src=

The 2015 fiscal year was a special one for industrial truck manufacturer, Linde Material Handling: for the first time in corporate history, customers ordered more than 100,000 forklift and warehouse trucks within one year. Shortly before year-end, it was leading manufacturer of wood-based panels and wood materials, Kronospan, who broke through the six-digit barrier with an order for three electric Linde E80/900 forklifts.

“We are very proud of this extraordinary sales result,” expounded a delighted Massimiliano Sammartano, Vice President of Sales & Service Marketing & Operations at Linde, a couple of days after the publication of the KION Annual Report 2015. “We see this record as appreciation by our customers for our ongoing commitment to offer them the best possible support with their materials handling tasks by providing just the right products, services and software solutions.”

The three new heavy electric forklift trucks in Kronospan’s fleet are destined for the company’s locations Burgos and Salas de los Infantes in northern Spain. There the Austrian company, a family-owned business with 14,000 employees worldwide and about 40 locations around the globe, operates a production line for melamine-faced panels. A total of 15 industrial trucks with load capacities of between 2.5 and 12 tonnes are used to transport wood fibre packages up to six metres long and 2.5 metres wide in-between the production area, drying chamber, rack warehouse and shipping area with truck loading bay. “We chose electric forklifts for the first time because they are clean and quiet in operation, whilst offering almost the same performance capacity as diesel trucks,” says Carlos Navarro, Sales Manager at Kronospan. The trucks’ product features convinced Kronospan to choose Linde. “We trust in the safety, reliability, efficiency and productivity offered by the Linde brand and we certainly appreciate the company’s high standard of service.”



Uncategorised - April 8, 2016;

Logistics BusinessThe 2015 fiscal year was a special one for industrial truck manufacturer, Linde Material Handling: for the first time in corporate history, customers ordered more than 100,000 forklift and warehouse trucks within one year. Shortly before year-end, it was leading manufacturer of wood-based panels and wood materials, Kronospan, who broke through the six-digit barrier with an order for three electric Linde E80/900 forklifts. <br src=

Doosan has launched a completely new, electric 80-volt 2.2-ton to 3.5-ton capacity range of 4 wheel forklift truck models.

The latest additions to the 7-series range “continue to follow the Doosan tradition of delivering simple, powerful performance, while most importantly ensuring the best possible value for our customers,” said the company. “While maintaining reliability and durability, the new models significantly improve ergonomics for the operator’s comfort, all-round visibility and maneuverability. The expanded range, now including XL long wheelbase variants with increased battery capacity, means that Doosan has the most modern and widest ranges of electric counter-balance trucks to suit any electric truck application.”

Safety was at the forefront of the design brief, and increased serviceability and modern styling with the latest electronic control system were high priorities from the company’s global dealers and customers.

Benefits stated by Doosan include: “The ergonomically designed operator compartment keeps the operator in complete control at all times; improving productivity, reducing stress and fatigue. The new cell offers improved visibility and the latest design in ergonomic hydraulic controls. Thanks to the improved durable chassis design, along with additional stability system, Doosan’s new 7-series electric trucks exceed the highest demands in safe operation. In addition, a redesign of the masts has provided greater visibility through the mast, with the rear grab handle accompanied by a horn and panoramic mirrors increasing safety and all-round visibility.”

For most warehouses and production facilities, efficient storage is crucial, and these latest 7-series electric trucks have been specifically designed to meet this demand. The new 4 wheel models have a brand new steer axle “which has been innovatively designed to minimise the turning radius and can now achieve a superb 93.2° steer angle”. In addition to this, the newly designed round shape of the counter-weight enables the truck “to move comfortably in and out of narrow spaces, reducing damage costs while maximising storage potential”.

In addition, the new range are also rated as safe for outdoor use. The new sealed controllers are rated to IP65 and the motors rated IP43, with an increased IP54 rating available soon.

Uncategorised - April 8, 2016;

Logistics BusinessDoosan has launched a completely new, electric 80-volt 2.2-ton to 3.5-ton capacity range of 4 wheel forklift truck models. <br><br> The latest additions to the 7-series range <i>“continue to follow the Doosan tradition of delivering simple, powerful performance, while most importantly ensuring the best possible value for our customers,”</i> said the company. <i>“While maintaining reliability and durability, the new models significantly improve ergonomics for the operator’s comfort, all-round visibility and maneuverability. The expanded range, now including XL long wheelbase variants with increased battery capacity, means that Doosan has the most modern and widest ranges of electric counter-balance trucks to suit any electric truck application.” </i><br><br> Safety was at the forefront of the design brief, and increased serviceability and modern styling with the latest electronic control system were high priorities from the company’s global dealers and customers. <br><br> Benefits stated by Doosan include: <i>“The ergonomically designed operator compartment keeps the operator in complete control at all times; improving productivity, reducing stress and fatigue. The new cell offers improved visibility and the latest design in ergonomic hydraulic controls. Thanks to the improved durable chassis design, along with additional stability system, Doosan’s new 7-series electric trucks exceed the highest demands in safe operation. In addition, a redesign of the masts has provided greater visibility through the mast, with the rear grab handle accompanied by a horn and panoramic mirrors increasing safety and all-round visibility.” </i><br><br> For most warehouses and production facilities, efficient storage is crucial, and these latest 7-series electric trucks have been specifically designed to meet this demand. The new 4 wheel models have a brand new steer axle <i>“which has been innovatively designed to minimise the turning radius and can now achieve a superb 93.2° steer angle”</i>. In addition to this, the newly designed round shape of the counter-weight enables the truck<i> “to move comfortably in and out of narrow spaces, reducing damage costs while maximising storage potential”. </i><br><br> In addition, the new range are also rated as safe for outdoor use. The new sealed controllers are rated to IP65 and the motors rated IP43, with an increased IP54 rating available soon.

In the technological race for the first fully mirrorless truck, the upcoming introduction of MirrorEye by Dutch company Orlaco is poised to add a new dimension. This intelligent camera system is to be introduced to the market in 2017 and, it is claimed, will not only replace the side mirror, it will also improve overall performance.

MirrorEye consists of two High Definition (HD) cameras placed on either side of the cabin. The driver can view the camera images on a split screen HD monitor in the window stile, providing him with an optimum view of road users alongside the truck or at an acute angle behind the truck.

Night vision, automatic panning and overtaking detection
Although other players in the automotive industry have joined the race to be the first to introduce a mirrorless truck, Orlaco says it has a few surprises up its sleeve for when the system is introduced to the market next year. The distinctive feature that MirrorEye has to offer is night vision to give drivers a better view of surrounding night traffic. It also includes a panning function: the cameras automatically adjust when turning or reversing, providing drivers with a better view whilst performing these manoeuvres. Finally, MirrorEye will alert the driver as to whether the adjacent lane is occupied by another road user when he needs to change lanes.

Improving road safety
“It was never our objective to replace the mirror,” explains Orlaco CEO Henrie van Beusekom. “What we wanted to do was improve road safety, which is something we have been working on for years and MirrorEye is a new, big step forward. What we do is utilise all the technological possibilities to provide drivers with extra vision when they need it the most, i.e. at night, in bad weather conditions and during specific manoeuvres. We are convinced that this will lead to a decrease in serious accidents involving trucks.”

About Orlaco
Each year, Orlaco produces more than 150,000 camera systems for earth moving machinery, trucks, cranes, forklift trucks, the shipping industry and emergency vehicles. Orlaco exports its products to 72 countries and boasts a clientele that includes all the major transportation brands and sector suppliers.

The development of MirrorEye was carried out in collaboration with Stoneridge. Orlaco and this leading international supplier of information systems for company vehicles, trucks, buses and cars, have collaborated with each other in the past. In the coming years, they will introduce various innovative camera and monitoring systems to the market. Stoneridge will be responsible for the system and display inside the truck while Orlaco will provide the cameras.

Uncategorised - April 7, 2016;

Logistics BusinessIn the technological race for the first fully mirrorless truck, the upcoming introduction of MirrorEye by Dutch company Orlaco is poised to add a new dimension. This intelligent camera system is to be introduced to the market in 2017 and, it is claimed, will not only replace the side mirror, it will also improve overall performance. <br src=