ARA Certified programs for the equipment rental segment available now
The American Rental Association (ARA) has launched its first ARA Certified programs: ARA Certified – Sales, ARA Certified – Service, and the ARA Certified Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) program. ARA Certified – Sales and ARA Certified – Service are online professional development programs designed to teach your employees fundamental knowledge about the equipment rental industry they will need on the job. The ARA Certified MEWP training program satisfies the new ANSI A92 standards approved in June 2020. “The ARA Certified programs we launched in March are a direct reflection of our association’s strategic initiatives that are focused on safety and preparing the industry for the future,” says Tony Conant, ARA CEO. “These programs establish rental industry standards, professional development, and training that you can’t find anywhere else.” The ARA Certified MEWP Train the Trainer program is a hybrid program. The classroom portion of the training is all online in RentalU (ARA’s learning management system) and then a 4-5 hour live, hands-on training session is conducted by a certified master trainer. Graduates are qualified to train others using the ARA Certified MEWP program. The hands-on training portion is presented by ARA state associations or other local settings for members without an active ARA state chapter. The initial member reaction to the ARA Certified programs is excitement for the long-awaited arrival of professional certifications for equipment rental staff. “For the past three years, I have been pushing for a certification for equipment like the event segment has with ARA’s CERP [Certified Event Rental Professional] program, and it thrills me to know that it is finally happening,” says Beth Hoff Blackmer, president, Aspen Rent-All, Basalt, Colo. “We, as individuals and businesses, are always seeking ways to grow personally and professionally. The ARA Certified programs will be a fantastic offering for owners to offer to their staff. It also promotes rental as a safe industry, which is critical in the construction field. I look forward to becoming certified and urge all in the industry to join me.” Work on ARA Certified programs for forklift operations and MEWP operator certifications for rental customers is underway and is expected to be released in 2023. You can get started with ARA Certified MEWP Train the Trainer at ARArental.org/MEWP, and with ARA Certified Sales and ARA Certified Service programs at ARArental.org/Certified.
ASSP recruiting safety instructors for three events
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) is seeking a diverse group of occupational safety and health professionals to join its team of instructors now being formed for three education events. The world’s oldest professional safety organization is a longtime industry leader in providing continuing education for workplace safety and health professionals around the world. ASSP’s call for instructors covers courses to be delivered at SafetyFOCUS Fall on Oct. 24-28; SafetyFOCUS Winter on Feb. 13-24; and pre/post courses at Safety 2023 next June. “It’s a terrific opportunity for safety and health experts to make a difference by contributing to the continuing education of their colleagues, advancing the industry, and ultimately protecting workers everywhere,” said ASSP President Brad Giles, P.E., CSP, STS, FASSP, GIOSH. “It’s truly a rewarding experience.” Courses range from half-days to three days and focus on business and leadership skills, fall protection, risk assessment and management, safety management systems, and worker well-being. Prospective instructors must identify emerging issues, develop strategies for overcoming challenges, and aim to expand attendee knowledge and professional skills. A panel of ASSP members will anonymously evaluate all instructor proposals against the following criteria: The degree to which the proposed course meets ASSP’s program objectives. Instructor’s presentation skills and teaching experience. Interest and need for the topic within the safety and health profession. Interested instructors should submit a separate application for each course, with a maximum of four per instructor. Please direct questions to ASSP’s professional development staff at safetyfocusinstructor@assp.org. Course proposals for all three events must be submitted online by May 6. ASSP will notify successful applicants by email in early June.
KEEN Utility Roswell work boot features versatility
The Roswell is a first-of-its-kind for KEEN Utility — a work boot with versatility that makes it a standout for warm conditions. With a fold-down collar and breathable canvas upper, the Roswell enables a seamless transition from the job site to off-the-clock wearability. Additional comfort is provided by a KEEN.ReGen midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam and asymmetrical carbon fiber toes that are 15% lighter than steel, while offering an unobtrusive fit. In addition to its functional good looks, this medium-duty work boot does not sacrifice when it comes to safety features required for the job. The oil and slip-resistant, non-marking, multidirectional lugged rubber outsole maximizes surface area and improves traction, while an EH-rated outsole protects the underfoot from live electrical circuits. A true blend of performance, style, and safety, the new Roswell will be available in two colorways.
EP 267: SpaceGuard and the ProGMA
In this episode, I was joined by VP of Sales and Marketing at SpaceGuard Products Ray Niemeyer. SpaceGuard provides protective guarding for multiple different applications in the material handling industry. We discuss their product offerings and the ProGMA. Key Takeaways SpaceGuard Products offers multiple different types of protective guarding for our industry. With the increasing presence of equipment, robots, and automation there is an ever-increasing need to have protective measures not only for the people around this equipment but also to protect the investments in these things. Ray explains the importance of these and how SpaceGuard is keeping up with these things in order to be able to provide the proper guarding. One way that SpaceGuard keeps up is by being a part of the ProGMA which is the Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association. The association is focused on working together to ensure that end-users are getting the best quality protection. Even though members might be considered competitors in the industry, Ray explains how they are able to work together so that they can all benefit and most importantly the end-user benefits. Their work together helps to create standards and ensure that the quality of guarding that is being delivered to the industry is up to that standard. If this was not the case then you would see inferior guarding that would not withstand impacts. Listen to the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 267: SpaceGuard and the ProGMA
Masks optional at MODEX 2022 in Atlanta
Effective March 1, 2022, the City of Atlanta no longer requires masks indoors. As a result, MODEX 2022 will be a mask-optional event for all visitors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have also updated their COVID-19 prevention guidelines. New guidance suggests people living in areas of low transmission for the virus, and who do not have underlying health conditions, can drop masking inside public places. According to the CDC, both Fulton and DeKalb counties, in which the city of Atlanta resides, are currently experiencing low levels of community spread for COVID-19. However, a national executive order still requires people to wear face masks while using public transportation throughout the United States. This includes airports, airplanes, trains, subways, buses, taxis, and rideshare services. Therefore, masks are still required for all visitors while riding MODEX shuttle buses. MHI strongly encourages you to travel to the event only after you are fully vaccinated. (Fully vaccinated means at least 2 weeks have passed since your booster after the second dose of a two-dose Pfizer and Moderna vaccine, or the booster after a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.) and that you have a negative COVID test result within 24 hours of attending the event. Testing facilities near the Georgia World Congress Center: URGENT CARE 24/7 Centennial Park: Phone: (404) 721-0111 | Address: 285 Centennial Park Dr., NW, Suite CU-2A Atlanta, GA 30313 (Across from World of Coca-Cola) CVS Minute Clinic: 439 Highland Ave., NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 (Approx. 2 miles from GWCC) https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing/covid-scheduler?symptoms=covid (GWCC Zip code is 30313) Walgreens: 595 Piedmont Ave, NE Atlanta, GA 30308 is the closest location offering tests (Approx. 1.7 miles from GWCC) https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/covid19/testing?ban=covid_testing (GWCC Zip 30313) The GWCC is among the first convention centers in the nation to gain accreditation as a GBAC Star Facility. The GWCC has taken steps to minimize the risks associated with infectious agents, such as coronavirus, and will continue to adhere to the protocols outlined in their GBAC Star accreditation. Learn more at https://www.gwcca.org/returnplan. In addition, MHI will implement protocols based on the most up-to-date guidance from the CDC, local and state authorities to help mitigate the risks associated with infectious agents such as the novel coronavirus, which may include: Increased cleaning in all show management areas Hand sanitizer stations located throughout the exhibit halls More dedicated concessions and seating areas Optional contact-free registration Designated first aid area for any immediate needs or medical issues MHI said they are confident the MODEX will be a very dynamic and productive experience for all members of the MHI and MODEX Show community. MHI reserves the right to make changes to show policies and protocols as conditions evolve over the coming weeks. Registered participants will be promptly notified of any changes and these guidelines will also be updated on modexshow.com.
SAFE + SOUND week is set
Mark your calendars! Safe + Sound Week will take place from August 15-21, 2022. Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide event held each August that recognizes the successes of workplace health and safety programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America’s workers safe. Registration for Safe + Sound Week opens in early July. The Save the Date is available to download in both English and Spanish. OSHA looks forward to your participation!
ASSP remembers deadly factory fire that spurred workplace safety
Workplace safety and health became national news more than 100 years ago this month when the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City led to the deaths of 146 garment workers – most of them women as young as 14 years old – on March 25, 1911. A few months after the tragedy came the creation of the world’s oldest professional safety organization – the United Association of Casualty Inspectors now known as the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) – a group that remains dedicated to progressively advancing the safety and health of workers everywhere, especially during the global pandemic. ASSP encourages all companies and their workers to join the Society in recognizing this anniversary by observing a moment of silence at 4:45 p.m. ET on Friday, March 25 – the exact time the first alarm was sounded – to pay tribute to the workers who died in the fire while also refocusing on creating safe work environments. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 5,000 people are fatally injured on the job each year. During the Triangle fire in lower Manhattan, fire exit doors were locked and other doors only opened inward, making it impossible for the onrush of workers to get out. The fire escape was poorly constructed and didn’t meet weight requirements. Fire department ladders couldn’t reach the upper floors of the 10-story building. Many workers died by jumping out of windows and into an elevator shaft as they fought to escape the flames. “The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire was the deadliest industrial disaster in New York City history, and it inspired our country to address workplace safety in an organized way that didn’t previously exist,” said ASSP President Brad Giles, P.E., CSP, STS, FASSP, GIOSH. “The tragedy led to a series of laws and regulations that improved workplace safety. It also caused a concerned group of insurance company safety engineers to start an organization that is now ASSP.” From its inception on Oct. 14, 1911, ASSP has grown into a global membership organization of 36,000 occupational safety and health professionals whose efforts reduce workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. But the work of safety organizations, employers, and federal agencies like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is never complete. “Whether you work at a construction site, in a restaurant, at a manufacturing plant, or in a mine, the lessons of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire should never be forgotten,” Giles said. “Keeping our workplaces safe takes an unwavering commitment from all involved. There are always advances to be made and new ideas to be shared.”
Registration opens for ASSP’s Safety 2022
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) has opened registration for its signature safety event. The Safety 2022 Professional Development Conference and Exposition will be held in person June 27-29 in Chicago. The event will also feature an online program to give occupational safety and health professionals around the globe convenient access to continuing education. “As always, our conference and expo will be a dynamic learning and networking experience that supports our mission to help protect workers in every industry worldwide,” said ASSP President Brad Giles, P.E., CSP, STS, FASSP, GIOSH. “It’s a place to find real solutions to workplace safety challenges, especially now when environments can quickly shift. We’re excited about what we have in store for attendees.” Thousands of safety and health professionals look to ASSP’s conference each year to grow their professional development and meet experts who can help them advance their careers and elevate safety at their companies. Safety 2022 will highlight best practices, industry trends, and the latest product innovations. Concurrent sessions by industry trendsetters provide practical information that can be used today and in the future to protect workers and enhance business operations. The expo will feature hundreds of companies showcasing innovative safety solutions that can help organizations reduce injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. “If your job involves the safety and health of your organization, Safety 2022 is the place to gain critical insights and knowledge to advance your work environment,” said Stephanie Gurnari, CSP, chair of ASSP’s Professional Development Conference Planning Committee. “It’s a comprehensive experience that provides significant value.” ASSP will enhance the in-person event at McCormick Place with an engaging virtual program with mobile compatibility for broad access to additional concurrent education sessions. The conference’s popular general and plenary sessions that aim to inspire, entertain and inform will be live-streamed so that in-person and online attendees experience them together in real-time. The safety and health of everyone at the convention center remain a priority. Under ASSP’s on-site safety plan, attendees must provide proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of badge pick-up. Masks are not required at this time. ASSP continues to track public health guidance and may revise its protocols as the event draws closer. Safety professionals attending in person can earn 1.4 continuing education units (CEUs) for career advancement. All registrations include 60-day on-demand access to sessions recorded for the online event that provides an additional 6 CEUs, enabling attendees to earn up to 7.4 total. Online-only registrants can earn up to 6.4 CEUs. Register online to get the discounted early rate through April 21. Groups from the same company can save on the entire conference by contacting ASSP’s Nancy O’Toole at 847.768.3466 or notoole@assp.org. ASSP is also offering an expo-only pass for the second year in a row. McCormick Place is the largest convention center in North America. The sprawling lakefront campus, featuring a network of pedestrian sky bridges and promenades, is connected to multiple hotels and located just minutes from downtown. Chicago is well-known for its architecture, museums, Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, Millennium Park and deep-dish pizza. ASSP’s global safety event began in Chicago in 1962 and was last held there in 2011. Stay informed of the latest Safety 2022 news and current safety and health protocols at safety.assp.org.
John Lynch joins Saf-T-Gard as Senior Director of Business Development
Saf-T-Gard International, Inc., a full-line, quality-oriented supplier of personal protective equipment for more than eight decades, has stacked its safety sales deck even higher with the addition of John Lynch as the company’s Senior Director of Business Development. Lynch has an extensive background in safety sales and leadership with a heavy focus on electrical safety. “We are thrilled to welcome John Lynch to Saf-T-Gard,” said Richard Rivkin, Saf‑T-Gard CEO and Chairman of the Board. “Electrical safety is a particular strength of Saf-T-Gard as its Voltgard division operates as an offsite NAIL4PET-accredited test lab for numerous utilities, telecom companies, contractors, municipalities, and industrial facilities nationwide. John’s previous working relationship with Saf-T-Gard and knowledge of the market make him the perfect fit for the role as there is a large potential for growth into new categories within our current customer base as well as several opportunities to capture new business.” “I am extremely excited and grateful to have joined Saf-T-Gard International in a new business development role,” said John Lynch. “Saf-T-Gard International is a successful 4th generation family business with a solid foundation, and I am confident that I can utilize my experience, industry knowledge, and customer/supplier relationships to realize continued future success. I look forward to growing together with the entire Saf-T-Gard team.”
KEEN Utility Vista Energy Shift
With an easy-on, easy-off laceless design, the new Vista Energy Shift from KEEN Utility builds on the success of its standout predecessor, built for fast-paced indoor manufacturing environments where convenience, comfort, and agility are critical. Featuring a breathable, lightweight 2-layer engineered mesh upper, the Vista Energy Shift is the next generation of work sneakers, delivering the perfect blend of athletic performance without sacrificing safety. Product highlights include a KEEN.ReGEN midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam and an oil-and slip-resistant outsole with water diverting channels to maximize surface area and improve traction. The Vista Energy Shift is non-metallic and features asymmetrical carbon fiber toes that are 15% lighter than traditional steel while providing a more unobtrusive fit. The new Vista Energy Shift is available in three colorways for men and two colorways for women.
EP 264: A-SAFE
In this episode, I was joined by the CEO of A-SAFE, Paul Barlow. A-SAFE focuses on protective guarding products made of polymer and providing safe products for the material handling industry. We discuss how the idea of polymer guarding came about and what the differences are, between the ProGMA and the new RackEye product. Key Takeaways A-SAFE was founded as a polymer company making varying products since the beginning including polymer pallets. One day they were told that they needed to put up some protective guarding in their facility which gave the idea that their polymer pallets put on their side looked like guarding. This sparked the idea for what led to their main product now which is the polymer guards they create. The benefits to these, as Paul explains, are their flexibility and how they can take the energy of an impact. Instead of bending the steel upon impact, the polymer can flex back into place restoring its previous form. Paul and A-SAFE are part of the Protective Guarding Manufacturers Association of MHI which is a collection of different guarding manufacturers that are focused on bringing safe products to the material handling industry. They have also recently come out with a protective guarding search tool that can help you to find exactly what you need for your specific application. Their focus is to create more awareness around the types of protective guarding that are available for our industry. The newest product from A-SAFE is RackEye which is a rack monitoring system. As Paul and I discuss oftentimes it is hard to know when your racking has been damaged. You may rely on your operators to alert you if something happens but unfortunately, not everyone will feel the need to report any issues. RackEye attaches to your racking and senses when there is an impact. This then creates an alert for your management team on where to go check the racking. The technology has been in development for some time but the great part about it is that the devices are all battery powered which means you do not have to do any special wiring. Another step in the direction of the connected warehouse. Listen to the episode below and leave your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 264: A-SAFE
How Light Curtains brighten employee safety in industrial plants
At first glance, a simple beam of infrared light would seem ineffective protection against fast-moving, dangerous industrial machinery. After all, isn’t that what heavy-duty steel guards are for? Yet, these beams of infrared light, when utilized as a component of “safety light curtains,” have prevented thousands of employee injuries and saved countless lives. Unlike other types of more bulky safeguards, such as physical barriers, light curtains make it easier to access equipment while performing maintenance or semi-automatic processes that require human interaction. Whether they are used to reduce exposure to point-of-operation hazards, or as a perimeter guarding device, being lightweight and compact makes light curtains ideal for machinery, robots, or areas that require frequent access for purposes of material feeding, maintenance, repair, setup, or the need to be adapted quickly to layout changes on a plant floor. Light curtains are defined as being presence-sensing optoelectronic devices and are often used as a component within an overall safety system in meeting nationally recognized safety regulations and standards, such as OSHA or ANSI (B11.19-2019). The most common application of light curtains is to detect people or objects passing through a perimeter boundary, or close to protect from direct contact with a machine’s point-of-operation. “Point of Operation” in this instance refers to where production material is being positioned for punching, bending, cutting, machining or where any type of hazardous motion is present. This is why light curtains are installed onto power presses and metal forming machines to protect the operator’s hands or fingers from crush injuries. Transmitters and Receivers Although light curtains come in a wide variety of designs, the two common features that make them alike are a transmitter and receiver. Transmitters units have a series of LEDs that emit an array of synchronized, parallel infrared light beams to a separate receiver unit on the other end. The receiver has a corresponding array of photo-diodes that automatically synchronize with the transmitter LEDs, in effect, “receiving” the pulses. Receiver circuitry is designed to detect only the specific pulse and frequency designated for it, preventing external light sources from being sensed. These systems can be mounted vertically, horizontally, or at any angle depending on the application. The only requirement is that the transmitter must align with the receiver when installed. It is important to note that light curtains differ from other photoelectric sensors in that they have self-monitoring circuitry. When photoelectric cells from the transmitter are interrupted by an opaque object, this event triggers an output signal that is typically fed to a safety relay device delivering redundant protection. For example, if a person steps into a prohibited zone, this safety relay would signal to the machine to stop anywhere in its cycle or stroke to prevent a potentially catastrophic accident. Light curtains should only be used on machinery that can be quickly stopped anywhere within the machine’s cycle, and should never be used on any machine with a full-revolution clutch. Once tripped, conscious action is required on behalf of the operator to restart the machine cycle after the source of the light curtain interruption is addressed. Prior Action Stations must be located outside yet within view of the protected area to prevent the inadvertent automatic or continuous resumption of the machine. Depending on the light curtain and its application, a separate enclosure may hold various diagnostic indicators, power supply, user controls, and control logic that cannot be installed within the receiver. Another light curtain design worth noting is an “active-passive system” consisting of two unique devices. One both emits and receives beams while the other device essentially acts as a mirror to deflect the beams back to the receiver. While this approach minimizes overall costs and wiring, an active-passive system reduces the intensity of the light beam and therefore normally has a much shorter operating range than a standard system. Mirrors will reduce the operating range of a light curtain by up to 18% per mirror, depending on the type of mirror installed. Blanking & Muting As mentioned earlier, light curtains come in a wide variety of resolutions and IP ratings. Other more advanced features have to do with minimizing the disruption to factory flow caused by machinery being completely shut down when light beams detect an obstruction. Two worth noting are “blanking” and “muting” — two terms that are frequently used interchangeably yet incorrectly. Muting is the temporary automatic suspension of the entire curtain while a non-hazardous portion of the machine cycle is being performed, for example, during a press’s upstroke. Blanking is more complex. Instead of muting the entire sensing field, blanking is the bypassing of only a portion of it, leaving the rest of the light curtain active. Blanking finds utility when the material is fed through the sensing field while the machine is in motion. Obviously, care must be taken to ensure the operator’s hands, fingers or arms cannot fit through the blanked portion. Minimum Safety Distance When utilizing a light curtain as a point-of-hazard safeguarding device, it is important to know and understand the stopping time of your machine. Both OSHA, ANSI, and ISO all provide formulas to calculate the safe mounting distance of a light curtain based on the stopping time of your machine. OSHA’s formula is the base requirement, while ANSI and ISO formulas represent best safety practices, and generally result in more than a 10% increase in safe mounting distance. Light Curtain Resolution The resolution of a safety light curtain is its detection capability measured as the amount of separation between its laser beams. Higher-resolution light curtains improve the detection capability that can sometimes allow for the light curtain to be safely mounted closer to a hazard. While a 14mm resolution is ideal for finger detection and can be deployed closer to the source of hazardous motion, a lower 25-30mm resolution is all that is required for hand detection. Rockford Systems strongly recommends a risk assessment prior to any light curtain installation. Status Indicator Lights Light curtains often feature status indicators clearly visible from a
KEEN Utility Birmingham keeps feet cool and supported
With a breathable engineered mesh upper, KEEN Utility’s new Birmingham is a work shoe ready to keep the feet cool and supported when conditions heat up. Product highlights include a lightweight, compression-resisting KEEN.ReGEN midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam and a KonnectFit heel-capture system provides a secure, locked-in feel. Additionally, a 100% non-metallic construction allows for easy passage for workers who may be required to go through metal detectors on the job. At the same time, the Birmingham does not sacrifice when it comes to safety. Features include asymmetrical carbon fiber toes that are 15% lighter than steel while offering a more unobtrusive fit as well as oil and slip-resistant, non-marking rubber outsole. The Birmingham will be available in two different colorways for men.
Yellow’s Peggy Arnold named finalist for Women in Trucking’s “Driver of the Year”
Peggy Arnold, a company driver for Yellow Corporation for nearly 30 years, is one of three finalists for the 2022 Driver of the Year award, the Women In Trucking Association (WIT) announced this week. The third annual award recognizes outstanding female professional drivers who are industry leaders in safety standards and service, while also enhancing the trucking profession’s public image. The award winner will be announced on March 25 during WIT’s “Salute to Women Behind the Wheel” event at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) in Louisville, Ky. Arnold will attend the event. “It’s always exciting to receive recognition from Women in Trucking, and this is a first-class accomplishment for Peggy,” said Darren Hawkins, CEO of Yellow. “We are so proud of her and grateful for the way she represents our company every day.” Based in Nashville, Tenn., Arnold has earned Yellow’s Million Mile driver award, having logged nearly 1.9 million accident-free miles as of December 2021. She has been named among WIT’s 2022 Top Women to Watch and has also been named as an America’s Road Team Captain finalist for 2022 by the American Trucking Associations. At Yellow, Arnold serves on the company’s safety team and on the Women’s Inclusion Network Employee Resource Group. Last year, she received Yellow’s Road to Excellence Award and is a certified safety trainer. “Our safety team spends countless hours helping our fellow drivers prevent on-the-job injuries, with a goal to be accident-free,” Arnold said. “I am a part of our new driver’s training program and take my job straight to the heart. Every day I do my best to train and teach to the best of my ability… I desperately want them to remember a positive experience and know that the team spirit is alive and well, so that they, too, can someday pay it forward.” Tamara Jalving, vice president for safety at Yellow, said Arnold trains new and existing drivers on collision avoidance, injury prevention techniques, terminal safety practices, and more. “She brings her passion every day to everyone she meets. I personally could not be prouder to have her represent our industry and women in trucking,” Jalving said. This is the third time that WIT will name a Driver of the Year and the first time that a Yellow driver has been a finalist. The judging panel for the 2022 award includes Tricia Tullis, general transportation manager for Walmart Transportation, Jeana Hysell, senior safety consultant for J. J. Keller & Associates, Inc., and Ellen Voie, WIT president and CEO. “Each year, we become more amazed at both the quality and the quantity of drivers nominated for this prestigious award,” Voie said.
S.A.F.E. Structure Designs
S.A.F.E. delivers custom Boeing CH-47 fall protection platforms to the Army in Ft. Hood TX
S.A.F.E. Structure Designs has announced the delivery of custom fall protection maintenance platforms to the Army in Ft Hood, Texas. The SAFETY FIRST ergonomic platforms allow technicians SAFE access to all areas of their Boeing CH-47F aircraft fleet. The set of platforms is equipped with the latest features including a seamless fit to the aircraft with zero gaps, enhanced safety handrails, and precise working deck heights to increase comfort and efficiency. These versatile platforms are lightweight and easy to move around by two technicians. Without impedances to critical areas on the aircraft, these platforms allow for maintenance access to all required areas when performing depot-level overhauls or routine maintenance on the aircraft. The CH-47 fall protection stands provide an ergonomic work environment that is SAFE. SAFE will have info on these platforms at HAI Heli-Expo 2022 in Dallas, Texas. “We are excited to supply our custom fall protection maintenance platforms to the Army in support of their CH-47 program,” said Johnny Buscema, S.A.F.E. CEO. We have spent many years on research, development, and prototyping in order to finalize what we believe to be the most ergonomic set of CH-47 stands on the market. We have had the support of Columbia Helicopters, Boeing, Army, Airforce, Special Ops, and Navy technicians around the United States providing us with critical feedback on this design.
S.A.F.E., Structure delivers custom Sikorsky UH-60 Fall protection platforms to the Army National Guard Depot
S.A.F.E. Structure Designs has announced the delivery of custom fall protection maintenance platforms to the Army National Guard in Springfield Missouri. The SAFETY FIRST ergonomic platforms allow technicians SAFE access to all areas of their Sikorsky UH-60 aircraft fleet. The set of platforms is equipped with the latest features including a seamless fit to the aircraft with zero gaps, enhanced safety handrails, and precise working deck heights to increase comfort and efficiency. These versatile platforms are lightweight and easy to move around by one technician. Without impedances to critical areas on the aircraft, these platforms allow for maintenance access to all required areas when performing depot-level overhauls or routine maintenance on the aircraft. The Uh-60 stands provide a large work platform for added safety and are used for servicing the engines, transmission, rotor head, tail boom, tail rotor, windshield, and flight controls. In fact, SAFE offers the only know UH-60 windshield stand on the market. Moreover, the windshield stand converts into a flight control-specific platform that allows the technician to stand above the greenhouse windows while facing AFT to work on the flight controls. Lastly, these platforms are painted with a special reflective powder coat for corrosion resistance. SAFE will have info on these platforms at HAI 2022 in Dallas TX. “We are excited to supply our custom fall protection maintenance platforms to the Army National Guard in support of their UH-60 program,” said Johnny Buscema, S.A.F.E. CEO. We have spent many years on research, development, and prototyping in order to finalize what we believe to be the most ergonomic set of UH-60 stands on the market. We have had the support of hundreds of maintenance technicians around the United States at Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Special Ops, and USCG providing us with critical feedback on our designs. Basically, we have spent years working out all the bugs. This support equipment is designed to provide personnel with safe and efficient access for all maintenance on the UH-60. We also offer this set of platforms for the HH-60, MH-60, Blackhawk, Seahawk, and S-70 Firehawk.” S.A.F.E. Structure Designs is a global leader in fall protection and maintenance support equipment that strives to put safety first. S.A.F.E. listens to the needs of the maintenance teams and designs custom equipment to the exact specifications that consider realistic ergonomic factors as well as efficiency. S.A.F.E provides the answers to the unique challenges of working on complex aircraft.
Vader Combo for ultimate in Anti-Fog and Full-Face Protection
Foul, nasty, or painful debris. Spark. Liquid sprayback. All can slow the most seasoned employee and, worse, bring the threat of occupational injury. So, what protection do workers want on their face when the situation hits the fan? Not a standard goggle that leaves the rest of their face exposed. Not a traditional face shield, with huge gaps that are easily penetrated and allow major neck exposure. The answer is Brass Knuckle® Vader Combo, the goggle and face shield in one, with industry-leading BK-Anti-Fog for the best visibility available. Its integrated face shield offers 180-degree peripheral vision and face coverage. Ultra-soft conditioned rubber forms a splash barrier. Because the face shield isn’t attached to a hard hat, it provides unprecedented mobility and visibility — the shield goes wherever the wearer’s head goes. Brass Knuckle has created a product primer to help industry vets more accustomed to old-style face shields better understand the differences inherent in Vader Combo. Readers are encouraged to download the fact sheet and watch the BKTV video of it at work in real-world conditions. BK-Anti-Fog exceeds the industry’s most stringent anti-fog standard and makes Vader Combo the first choice in face protection for construction, grinding, water and wastewater, jan/san, or any application with sprayback that can cause lens fog. The ANSI-rated, military-style splash goggle also includes a durable anti-scratch treatment and is D3 rated for droplet and splash protection. The built-in venting system helps reduce the potential for moisture buildup, helping to maintain clear vision. If a job exposes its workers to any kind of wetness or debris being thrown into their faces, the Vader Combo brings the necessary protection. It protects from the sun, from impact, from splash—and even from dangerous, temporarily impaired vision caused by fog.
Taylor Northeast becomes exclusive US distributor of EPIQ Mecfor equipment
Taylor Northeast (TNE), a Pennsylvania-based material handling equipment supplier, just announced that it is now the factory-authorized distributor of EPIQ Mecfor mobile equipment, products, and parts for the entire US market. As of January 1, 2022, TNE and its affiliate company, H&K Equipment, are handling all EPIQ Mecfor equipment sales, rentals, and aftermarket support within the United States. “As EPIQ Machinery continues to grow, we are excited to have this opportunity to expand our equipment and service offerings,” said Yannick Beaulé, chief revenue officer of EPIQ Machinery. A brand component of EPIQ Machinery, Mecfor manufactures customized mobile equipment for harsh working environments such as aluminum mills. With multiple operations in Quebec, Canada, and a location in France, EPIQ Machinery has a strong international footprint but was looking to increase its coverage in the United States, which laid the groundwork for its relationship with TNE. “We were drawn to EPIQ Mecfor because, as an organization, we’ve been providing this kind of highly specialized equipment to myriad heavy industries for decades,” said Kevin Koch, vice-president of Taylor Northeast. “We have been working with EPIQ Mecfor for several years, and this expanded partnership represents a tremendous opportunity for us to better serve our customers throughout the US.” Long a leader in specialized machinery, EPIQ has focused recently on creating what it has dubbed an Aluminum Hub of Excellence to increase its offerings for all aspects of the aluminum sector around the world, an aim that addresses the needs of much of TNE’s customer base. “The entire team here at TNE closely understands the challenges that aluminum producers face in finding the right piece of mobile equipment for their demanding applications,” Koch said. “There really is no other dealer in the country that is set up to address those needs the way that we are.” Chet Pawelski, a veteran of the heavy equipment industry and TNE’s EPIQ Mecfor US sales specialist, is overseeing all sales, rentals, and technical inquiries as well as advising on new and existing equipment. Buck Shirey, TNE’s EPIQ Mecfor US support specialist, is managing all US parts orders as well as service and aftermarket requests. Headquartered in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, TNE has provided sales, service, and parts for large-capacity lift trucks and specialized industrial equipment throughout the mid-Atlantic and Northeast since 1989. The company’s broad geographic reach has enabled it to begin providing unique material handling solutions to customers in all regions of the US. Beaulé noted that TNE’s extensive presence and experience were key components in their decision to select a US distributor. “TNE shares our commitment to quality and service, and we are thrilled to bring their passion and expertise to our US customers through this partnership.”
Gorbel® named one of the top manufacturers and private companies by the Rochester Business Journal
Gorbel®, an industry provider in overhead material handling, ergonomic lifting, and industrial fall protection, announces it has been named one of the Top Manufacturers and Private Companies in Ontario County. The acknowledgment, published by the Rochester Business Journal, recognizes the largest private businesses in the area. Gorbel is rated #20 in Manufacturers and #21 in Private Companies, ranked by a total number of employees. “On behalf of Gorbel, I’d like to express our appreciation for being recognized as a top manufacturer and company by the Rochester Business Journal,” says Tyler Brown, Vice President of Operations. “Gorbel is proud to have increased production, added hundreds of new employees, and successfully expanded the portfolio of products over the past year. Our hardworking, dedicated, and talented employees have made Gorbel’s continued growth possible in 2022.” Gorbel has built upon the core vision of its founder, Dave Reh, to build a company with a specialty product valued by customers, enabling employees to function in a respected, low-stress business environment. With a portfolio of overhead solutions and warehouse solutions, Gorbel creates products to enhance productivity, profitability, and safety throughout plants, warehouses, and distribution centers. Founded in 1977, Gorbel started as a small company in Western NY and has now expanded to over 800 employees, with manufacturing locations in NY, AL, AZ, and Canada. Gorbel is on the cutting edge of manufacturing; a thriving, growing company that is constantly seeking out new ways to innovate and elevate products and processes to better meet the needs of its customers. In the last few years, Gorbel has explored new ways to improve material handling. Gorbel purchased Engineered Lifting Systems out of Canada, adding their Destuff-it and Restuff-it products to Gorbel’s comprehensive line of overhead and warehouse solutions, ultimately leading to the addition of a second manufacturing location in Western NY.