Reducing operator risk in every environment
STORAGE, HANDLING & DISTRIBUTION SAFER FORKLIFT OPERATIONS
HYSTER
Reducing operator risk in every environment
Work in the most intense industries on earth is not for the faint of heart. From odours and fumes to repetitive movements, heavy vibration and loud noise, businesses have their work cut out for them supporting workers in tough conditions. Even the most successful companies struggle to bring in and hang on to qualified talent when the job puts such a strain on forklift operators.
In hybrid environments, having the right systems and solutions in place can help alleviate the brunt of these day-to-day physical challenges, reduce risk of injuries or accidents, and keep operations moving. This article looks at the possibilities operations can consider for the setup of their operating space and their equipment, for teams that move between both indoor and outdoor workspaces.
Hybrid work environments When working between both indoor and outdoor spaces, having the right systems and solutions can help alleviate these day-to-day physical challenges, reduce risk of injuries or accidents, and keep operations moving. From the facilities and storage yards of building materials distributors, and manufacturers to docks and terminals, the right solutions prepare teams to reduce risk, increase comfort, and enhance productivity.
1. Harsh lighting transitions Switching from bright outdoors to dimmer indoor spaces, can cause visibility issues that raise the risk of mistakes or slowdowns. Lights can be mounted on the forklift cab or directly on the mast to avoid casting shadows that interfere with the operator’ s view.
Electric-powered forklifts generally run quieter than their internal combustion counterparts, cutting down on noise around the operator to make the workday easier on their ears.
2. Varied ground, thresholds and debris
Moving from pavement to gravel to flat flooring, and over ramps, thresholds like steel plates or scattered debris, make for a jarring ride for operators, risking discomfort and damage to their joints and back. Forklifts with increased ground clearance can help operators clear difficult terrain. Belly pans can be bolted onto the undercarriage to help prevent debris from flying up into the truck.
A full- or semi-suspension seat can help minimise body vibration to reduce operator fatigue, and hydraulic accumulators can act as a shock absorber, reducing vibration experienced by the operator. An asphalt or paved lane for forklift travel between buildings can minimize operator fatigue and truck tire wear.
3. Unpredictable environmental elements
Whether it’ s open bay doors or your operators are making trips between the indoors and outdoors all day, different environmental factors like tractor-trailer diesel fumes, temperature shifts, wind and moisture can take a toll on operators and equipment.
Windshield wipers can help clear away rain and debris for greater operator visibility. An overhead guard cover, either shaded or UVprotected, provides coverage from the sun. Enclosed cabs can keep sun, rain and snow off operators while enabling temperature control
90 PECM Issue 83