EP 185: Fire Safety with the FPI Consortium
On this episode, I was joined by Sarah Swan of The FPI Consortium. Sarah is a Senior Code Specialist at The FPI Consortium and we actually connect recently at ProMatDX. Sarah left an interesting comment about fire safety during a presentation and I had to seek her out for the show. We discuss fire safety for the warehouse and how codes can change and consider when doing a new project. Key Takeaways The FPI Consortium is a life safety consulting company that helps you to manage all of the life safety codes and potential issues that may arise in your facility. This includes ensuring that any projects are up to code and will not give you any issues when it comes to dealing with the city. It is extremely important, as you will hear Sarah discuss, to ensure that everything you are doing meets the proper codes and standards not only for the sake of getting your project done but also for the safety of human lives. The FPI Consortium has many years of experience and extensive knowledge of the code system and ways to ensure your project can be supported and explained to local code officials. One of the most extensive and sometimes pretty unknown parts of our business is the number of codes that go into building out our warehouses and the solutions that go inside them. Even though they may not be so visible and hopefully systems like sprinklers are never used, it is incredibly important to follow them. Sarah and I discuss some of the issues that could arise if the codes are not adhered to properly. We also discuss some instances where you may change something within your operation such as the commodity you are using that could impact your compliance. Sarah gives a great example of this in the episode where a company switched from metal to plastic as their primary material. With technology developing so rapidly in our field I was curious to know if fire codes are keeping up. I have heard of some concerns regarding fire suppression in ASRS systems and Sarah explains that there is fire test being done but they are mostly proprietary. She also breaks down how the coding process works and how it can take a few years for the codes to catch up but insurance companies are typically more up to date. The big concern is that when the codes do catch up, you may run into a problem when expanding on ASRS or other systems. This is where The FPI Consortium would be able to come in and properly explain the situation to the local governance. Listen to the episode below and leave a comment with what you learned. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 185: Fire Safety with the FPI Consortium
Continental Wireless Cameras provide exceptional Vision and Safety for Truck and Off Highway
Designed for small/medium trucks, ag, construction, and material handling Ideal for use on articulated equipment Specialized camera for forklift applications Continental, a global supplier of systems, components, and tires to automobile and truck manufacturers, and a trusted provider of OE-engineered aftermarket parts, has added a new line of wireless cameras and monitors to its performance-proven range of cameras systems. The new cameras are ideal for use on articulated equipment or vehicles where long cable lengths are not preferred. Available in 12V and 24V configurations, Continental’s new wireless cameras offer a wide range of applications in small and medium trucks, agricultural and construction equipment, and material handling applications. The line also incorporates a camera designed specifically for forklift applications. A clearer connection Continental’s new cameras and monitors feature a unique code-pairing technology that allows for simple installation and setup of the system. The code-pairing also helps to reduce interference and maintains a stable video connection with a barrier-free transmission distance of up to 130 yards. The cameras are built to handle rugged operations in the harshest conditions. They feature an IP 69K housing design that’s water and dust-proof, and resistant to shock up to 100g. Versatile mounting options allow for easy installation on all types of vehicles and equipment. Continental offers two 120-degree wide-angle wireless camera options: A single view model with a resolution of 728 X 488 pixels and a quad view model delivering 756 X 504 pixels. Both cameras can be used as stand-alone pieces or in a group of up to four cameras to provide a complete view around the vehicle or equipment. Both cameras include four LEDs to enable IR night vision. A third camera is specially designed for forklift applications. It features a 45-degree wide-angle view and three LEDs to enable IR night vision. Two remote-controlled 7-inch monitors are offered to interface with the cameras as required by the customers. Duvin Nath, Continental Automotive Aftermarket Product Manager, announced the new line of camera systems, noting, “Continental recognized the need for customizable camera solutions that are often required for specialty OEMs and fleets. This line of wireless cameras and monitors was developed to meet those application needs. It offers a wide range of installation options that can provide operators with an extra level of vision to make their work easier and safer.” Nath added, “We are particularly excited about our special forklift camera. Forklift operators always have a challenge when they handle the pallets that are out of their eyesight while the forks are raised. Our new cameras are specifically developed to help them increase the awareness of their surroundings.”
EP 183: Don’t Fork it Up with SIERA.AI
On this episode, I was joined by the Co-Founder and CEO at SIERA.AI, Saurav Agarwal. I was very excited for this episode because the safety technology that SIERA.AI is bringing to the market is game-changing. Just in time for National Forklift Safety Day, I am happy to present this episode to you where we discuss SIERA.AI’s different offerings including collision avoidance for forklifts which is much needed in the industry. Key Takeaways SIERA.AI is focused on improving safety for the material handling industry or simply, as Saurav states, they keep you from forking it up. They do this by recognizing that safety is oftentimes reactive instead of proactive. By addressing the issue of safety being reactive they are helping to ensure that all aspects of safety are not only prevented but also done in a more productive way. It starts with something as simple as the checklist and audit process. As we discuss, oftentimes the checklist process is very messy because it is on paper and there can be many papers to check for a full operation with multiple forklifts and 5 days or more of operation. The time consumed by supervisors to audit these checklists can be massive so they have made the checklist digital so that they are recorded in a much better way digitally and easily accessible for auditing purposes. Now, the most exciting part of SIERA.AI’s offerings is the collision avoidance system. We have certainly seen this technology in the consumer world on cars but SIERA.AI is bringing it into the warehouse to help reduce the staggering number of safety incidents that occur in the workplace. Saurav shares some incredible numbers of how many accidents actually occur and how they have prevented 11,000 incidents in just the last year. There are two versions that can help you avoid collisions in your warehouse. The first is an alert system that will give the operator a notice that they are close to an object and the next version is one that will actually override the operator and stop the machine when it detects a collision coming. The threshold for collisions can be adjusted by the company to ensure that it works within your standards. When these incidents occur, everything is recorded so that it can be reviewed which includes photos and videos of the incident. A huge advancement for reducing safety incidents in the warehousing space. One of the most impressive things about the system is the ease of implementation. The system sounds very robust but according to Saurav, it is very simple to add to any material handling equipment. There are two units that are installed, one the size of an iPad and one the size of an iPhone. From these two devices, you can get all of the great technology that SIERA.AI is offering and continue to get the updates as the technology grows and your business changes. This is one of the best things about their solution because you can constantly be improving your safety setup which is the ideal way to handle your safety culture. Very excited to see what comes next from SIERA.AI. Listen to the episode below and let us know if you’ll be looking at this technology for your operation. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 183: Don’t Fork it Up with SIERA.AI
KEEN Utility flexes innovation and American Ingenuity with Troy Work Boot
Newest American Built Boot integrates KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX Technology with premiere safety features This summer, KEEN Utility brings innovation and American ingenuity to the forefront with the introduction of the Troy work boot. Featuring KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX technology, the ergonomically engineered system designed to offer multidirectional flexion where you need it most, the Troy makes bending, crawling, squatting, kneeling and other knee-down work up to three times easier. Part of the brand’s American Built collection of boots and shoes, this six-inch boot is assembled with pride in KEEN’s Portland, Oregon manufacturing facility using the finest materials from around the world. The Troy features a lightweight LuftCell air-infused PU midsole for weightless comfort and all-day support as well as a LuftCore air-injected heel for enhanced cushioning and shock absorption that helps reduce the impact on the body with every heel strike. Combining quality with performance and comfort, the Troy features a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane which allows water vapor out without letting water in and an antimicrobial lining to help keep the boots odor-free. The Troy meets ASTM EH standards along with MARK II non-slip standards and features an oil- and slip-resistant rubber outsole. The boot offers ASTM-rated toe protection with left and right asymmetrical carbon-fiber safety toes that are non-metallic, 15% lighter than steel, and feature a roomier, more unobtrusive fit. “We are excited to introduce the Troy and its innovative, lightweight KEEN.BELLOWS FLEX technology,” says Robin Skillings, Senior Director of Marketing at KEEN Utility. “This is game-changing technology. Not only is it designed to more easily bend with your foot, it solves the issue of the typical drying and cracking seen with an all-leather upper in the high flexion part of a work boot. It works with you, never against you.” This medium-duty work boot is designed for both indoor and outdoor work environments including industries such as carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, electrician, and other construction trades where both work below the knee and safety are key. Available in two colorways, the Troy will be available at retailers nationwide beginning in June 2021 and can be found online at www.keenutility.com.
Raymond celebrates National Forklift Safety Day with focus on operator training
President and CEO Michael Field serves as chair, reinforces training with connected technologies June 8 marks the 8th annual National Forklift Safety Day, drawing attention to the importance of training programs and their necessity for successful operations. This year’s National Forklift Safety Day chair, Michael Field, president and CEO of The Raymond Corporation, will speak on how operations can use intelligent warehouse solutions to train operators and pedestrians in a warehouse setting. This year’s National Forklift Safety Day event will take place virtually on June 8, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. ET. “Whether you’re bringing on new workers, reassigning responsibilities or adjusting processes to keep up with demand, education is vital to an operation,” said Michael Field, president and CEO, The Raymond Corporation. “Raymond is committed to helping operations foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement through the optimization of data, people and processes that help maximize efficiency and reinforce training.” Raymond will continue supporting the National Forklift Safety Day initiative with a LinkedIn Live event on June 9 at 12 pm ET. Raymond’s Vice President of Customer Solutions and Support Dave Norton will discuss how next-generation learning technologies, like virtual reality, help educate lift truck operators and pedestrians on best practices in material handling environments. Register for the free event, here. For more information about Raymond’s forklift operator training, forklift technician training, and other training programs, click here. More information and updates about National Forklift Safety Day will be available on ITA’s website at www.indtrk.org/national-forklift-safety-day.
Propane Council announces Mission Zero Pledge, shares free resources for Forklift Safety Day
Take pride in workplace safety and sign PERC’s Mission Zero Pledge In honor of Forklift Safety Day, celebrated June 8, the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) is encouraging material handling professionals to take its new Mission Zero Pledge and commit to a safe, incident-free workplace. By signing the pledge, material handling professionals will add their name to a list of businesses working toward zero incidents–and will receive a $5 Amazon gift card for their participation. “A strong safety culture is something to take pride in, and this pledge is designed to recognize crews across the country who are already working hard to maintain a safe workplace each day,” said Matt McDonald, PERC director of off-road business development. “At PERC, we take pride in supporting propane users. We believe that together, through ongoing training, education, and engagement opportunities, we can achieve zero accidents.” In addition to the pledge, PERC’s safety landing page is home to a collection of free safety resources including a toolkit for safety directors and forklift dealers, a downloadable safety poster, and PERC’s forklift trivia challenge. Additionally, material handling professionals can watch an eight-part video series emphasizing important safety protocols for those working with or around propane forklifts and access information on how propane suppliers can offer support. To sign the pledge and learn more about forklift safety, visit Propane.com/SafetyFirst.
National Monitoring Center celebrates 20-Year Anniversary
National Monitoring Center, a third-party monitoring center, proudly announces the 20th anniversary of the company’s founding. In those years, NMC has evolved from a single 10,000 square foot facility to two fully redundant leading-edge monitoring centers located in California and Texas. “We are thrilled and honored to have reached this milestone,” said Woodie Andrawos, president of, National Monitoring Center. “Our longevity in the monitoring business is testimony to our continuing investments in technology, personnel, and relationship-building. Our customers have always been our first priority, and this objective has informed every step we have taken as an organization.” NMC was founded in June 2001, shortly before the events of 9/11 changed the country and the security industry forever. Beginning in January 2002 with their first 150 accounts operating out of California, the company continued to grow rapidly over the next several years. 2007 marked one of many significant milestones when NMC built a second central station in Texas mirroring the California facility and allowing for full redundancy and geodiversity to better serve their customers. Over the next several years NMC continued to update and evolve its facilities and offerings, building a new center in California in 2013 to house monitoring, support, and education operations. In 2018, the company merged with Netwatch, opening up new business opportunities and bringing a vital new offering, Proactive Video Monitoring, to their customers. In 2021, with the business has grown to hundreds of thousands of accounts, NMC continues to lead the industry in delivering monitoring services that proactively protect users while supporting business development objectives for dealers. “This continues to be an exciting industry, with the fast-moving technology that helps people and organizations maintain a lower risk profile,” said Andrawos. “We’re looking forward to our next 20 years.”
EP 181: Going Up with Custom Industrial Products
In this episode, I was joined by Jake Jakobson of Custom Industrial Products for the latest in our partnership with Material Handling Wholesaler. Jake is a Manufacturing Engineer at Custom Industrial Products and came on the show to talk about their VRC’s or Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors. We also discuss the safety that these types of conveyors bring to the workplace and how safety is thought about during the product development phase. Key Takeaways Custom Industrial Products if focused on developing custom vertical reciprocating conveyors for all types of applications as well as mezzanines. Jake explains how they can design these products for multiple applications. In the warehouse, they help companies to maximize their space by utilizing vertical square footage that might not have been realized in the past. Their VRC’s also help to create a safer environment. A vertical reciprocating conveyor or VRC is essentially a lift that can be utilized to transport heavy loads from one level to the next. Jake explains that it is different from an elevator because of the way it is built and operates it falls under a different set of codes. Since they are custom built there is a lot of flexibility in what you can do with a VRC especially when it comes to capacity. I found it pretty amazing that they can build them to handle up to 100,000-pound loads. With that type of capacity, you can really effectively move a lot between levels and safely. The VRC has multiple safety precautions in place and helps to reduce other dangerous situations that arise with other options for moving loads between levels. Jake goes into the other options and the danger they can bring. If you are lifting loads with a forklift from one level to the next, you open yourself up to too many dangers, including having openings on your mezzanine where individuals could potentially fall from. We also discuss how safety is thought of when developing a product. Jake explains how safety is thought of in the process and how they need to be cautious of the code’s dependence on the state the VRC will install. Listen to the episode below and leave a comment with your top safety tip below. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 181: Going Up with Custom Industrial Products Share on Facebook
TVH Americas keeps you covered with ClearCap™
TVH in the Americas (TVH), a leading provider of quality replacement parts and accessories for the material handling and industrial equipment industries, now offers ClearCap™ Forklift Covers. These covers feature a simplistic yet effective design to keep your operator comfortable and safe no matter what kind of environment they are working in. ClearCap™ Covers are manufactured with Ultra Tuff SG weather-able polycarbonate. The low-profile dome in the viewing area ensuring the operator’s field of view stays clear as day no matter what environment they operate in. It even features ribs and gutters to prevent water from pooling and blurring the operator’s vision and eliminates cascading water during maneuvers. ClearCap™ Covers are durable, reliable, and easy to use for any operator. For those working outdoors in hot and humid environments, TVH offers a light tint version of the ClearCap™ Cover to keep operators protected from long hours of exposure to bright sunlight. The tinted cover blocks 100% of UV light transmission. These features ensure operators are protected from both inclement weather and dangerous UV exposure, keeping them comfortable, safe, and productive. Installation is a breeze, as the forklift covers mount easily onto your machine with cam lock buckles and nylon straps. There is no drilling or tapping required, and installation takes only seconds. TVH is proud to offer over 20 different sizes of ClearCap™ Forklift Covers that fit a wide variety of different makes and models. These simple and affordable solutions are the perfect answer to your need for protection from inclement weather when operating your equipment outdoors.
Warning System uses Flashing LED to alert workers of approaching traffic
To help prevent accidents at aisle ends and other high-risk intersections, Rite-Hite has introduced the Safe-T-Vu™ Warning System, a rack-mounted device that uses a flashing red LED-illuminated chevron to alert workers when traffic is approaching from other directions. Part of any facility’s best safety practices, Safe-T-Vu uses unidirectional microwave sensors to detect approaching traffic. When an object is within sensing range, the red LED-illuminated chevron flashes in the direction of the traffic. This warning system has an adjustable detection zone and sensitivity, depending on the workspace. Up to 10 units can run from a single power source. “The ends of aisles and other tight corners that impair visibility in a facility can be dangerous, especially in areas where workers and materials handling equipment are present,” said Andy Olson, Rite-Hite marketing manager. “Safe-T-Vu provides an easy solution to help make those areas safer by providing a clear signal if workers should stop and wait or proceed past the aisle with confidence.” Safe-T-Vu has a durable, heavy-duty construction that can withstand harsh environments and impacts. Designed for indoor use up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, Safe-T-Vu uses magnetic mounting to allow for quick attachment to metal racking and includes additional mounting points for non-metallic surfaces. A strong tether is included with the unit in the event of an accidental impact. Safe-T-Vu also has an additional sensor that flashes yellow chevrons to indicate if the unit’s mounting location has been hit. When enabled with Rite-Hite’s IIoT platform Opti-Vu, Safe-T-Vu helps safety managers collect data on traffic flows. This step can help managers make data-driven decisions to improve traffic, offer training, and ultimately reduce the chances of an accident.
The Crosby Group acquires Speedbinders.com
Innovative load binders for safer and more efficient load securement The Crosby Group, a global provider in lifting, rigging, and load securement hardware, has announced that it has acquired Speedbinders.com (“Speedbinders”). US-based Speedbinders is a designer and manufacturer of pioneering load binders for heavy-duty load securement. The Speedbinders products not only provide faster tie-down and release times for drivers, but also safer load securement with reduced strain and injuries. Robert Desel, CEO of The Crosby Group, said: “We are thrilled to expand our best-in-class load securement portfolio with Speedbinders. The Torque Drive technology’s dual focus on enhancing worker safety and improving productivity for drivers is a winning combination for the industry.” Desel continued: “Speedbinders will provide additional opportunities for our valued channel partners, and together, we will bring this innovation to end-users worldwide.” Speedbinders’ solutions include Torque Drive load binders which use a portable power drill to secure loads, eliminating the need for repetitive, manual operations common with lever and ratchet binders. Steve Helline, Founder of Speedbinders added: “It has been an incredible journey to see this business from concept to significant adoption and now a partnership with a world leader in load securement. I can’t think of a better steward of my business going forward and I look forward to supporting the continued adoption of Speedbinders in the market.”
Essential safety reminders to protect your crews and your bottom line
Brush up on important safety reminders this Forklift Safety Day Forklifts are key to workplace productivity but introduce a variety of hazards—many of which can be mitigated with an educated, proactive workforce. In fact, studies show that roughly 70 percent of all forklift-related accidents could have been avoided with proper training. While Forklift Safety Day provides an opportunity to celebrate workplace safety each year, safety is something that should be top of mind for material handling professionals 24/7, 365 days a year. A simple way to keep crews informed and engaged is by conducting ongoing safety meetings. Here are a few important forklift safety tips to share with crews this June—and throughout the year. Critical forklift safety reminders Complete a routine check of equipment before operating and notify management of damages or problems. Wear personal protective equipment as provided by the employer including hard hats, protective footwear, and high-visibility clothing. Always wear a seatbelt while operating a forklift. It’s important for operators to buckle up while operating a sit-down forklift, as overturned forklifts are a leading cause of forklift-related accidents. Wearing a seatbelt can save operators from being crushed by a machine’s overhead guard or roll cage in the event of an accident. Keep loads within the forklift’s weight capacity. By exceeding the weight capacity of a forklift, employees can greatly increase the risk of tipping the machine. These load capacities can be double-checked in the equipment’s operating manual and are also listed on the machine itself. Operate at a safe speed, use the horn when vision is obstructed, and use caution on grades or ramps. Operators should use the horn to alert pedestrians or other forklift operators nearby to avoid an unnecessary collision. Take corners and turns slowly to minimize the risk of tipping. Set the parking brake, lower the forks, and set any controls to neutral when finished operating. Safely parked machines reduce the risk of unintended movement when left unattended. If a forklift is parked on an incline, employees can further secure the machine with wheel blocks. Different forklift fuels require different safety procedures. It’s important for crews to be aware of fuel-specific safety measures, depending on what they use on-site—this will not only help them get the most out of their equipment and workday but will help prevent potential injuries, too. With 90 percent of Class 4 and 5 forklifts across the United States being powered by propane, it’s important to share proper propane safety practices. Best practices for handling propane cylinders Wear protective gloves. Keep open heat, flames, and ignition sources away from cylinders and refueling equipment at all times. Handle cylinders carefully, making sure not to drop, throw, or drag them. Use proper lifting techniques when lifting cylinders. Safety measures before and after operating propane-powered equipment Inspect cylinders before operation. Check cylinders for rusting, dents, gouges, and leaks. Cylinders that show signs of wear or leaks shouldn’t be used and may need to be replaced, even if within the cylinder’s requalification date. Secure the pressure relief valve on the cylinder. Operators should check that the pressure relief valve fitting is roughly 180 degrees from the forklift’s locating pin. Close the service valves on cylinders when not in use. This helps prevent potential injury around internal combustion engines and unintended fuel loss. Store propane cylinders in a secure rack or cage. The cylinders should be stored horizontally with the pressure relief valves in the uppermost position, and operators should use proper lifting techniques when removing cylinders from storage and placing them onto a forklift. A propane cylinder storage rack should be located a safe distance from heat or ignition sources, away from stairwells and high traffic areas, and protected from exposure to the elements. Fortunately for crews operating propane-powered forklifts, they can lean on their local propane supplier for support. Local suppliers can provide safety training opportunities, inspect cylinders each time they’re exchanged, remove damaged cylinders from service, and repair or replace leaky valves and O-rings on cylinders as needed. Additionally, depending on which refueling option businesses choose, propane suppliers can teach forklift operators how to refill cylinders themselves (on-site refueling) or can refill cylinders for them (cylinder exchange program). Visit Propane.com/SafetyFirst to download PERC’s free safety toolkit or to learn more about propane forklift safety. About the Author: Matt McDonald is the director of off-road business development for the Propane Education & Research Council. He can be reached at matt.mcdonald@propane.com.
Safety at Work: How training and technology help achieve goals
No matter the size or type of material handling organization, safety is frequently a top consideration. How to keep employees safe, operate equipment smoothly, and keep a facility in good working condition all play into such decisions. OSHA cites that the most frequently reported cause of lost or restricted work time is work-related musculoskeletal disorders caused by routine lifting of heavy objects, daily exposure to vibration, routine overhead work or work with the neck in a chronic flexion position, according to Don Buckman, divisional environmental, health and safety manager for Hyster Company. “Proper ergonomics can help reduce stress and injuries associated with the overuse of muscles, bad posture, and repeated tasks. It also plays a part in maximizing the productivity of lift truck operators,” he said. Buckman said ergonomic experts at Hyster focus on providing features offering lift truck operators easier entry and exit, improved foot space, better body position, and enhanced visibility. Training and product design Hyster’s customers rely on robust, OSHA-compliant training programs, customized to their specific trucks to help operators become proficient users, according to Buckman. “Intensive applications must maintain constant vigilance when it comes to safety, and work to overcome challenges like widespread skilled labor shortage and high turnover,” he said, noting that immersive reality simulators are helping Hyster customers supplement operator training without taking equipment out of service. At ProMat DX in April, Hyster highlighted two award-winning designs that can help workers maintain an ergonomically sound operating position, according to a company release. The examples included the new cab design for Hyster Big Trucks and the J50-60XNL, which “prioritize operator comfort and performance with features built to provide easier entry and exit, improved foot space and enhanced visibility,” the statement said. Lift truck telemetry systems can also help in creating a safety culture and in improving operator accountability, according to Buckman. “Onboard sensors that track truck information by the specific operator provides visibility to their travel locations, idle time, and impact alerts,” he said, noting that the system can identify performers who may require more training. “The system can also limit truck performance based on operator skill level. For example, new hires might have their trucks capped at slower speeds to help reduce potential risk while more experienced operators can still operate the same truck at levels that allow maximum performance,” Buckman said. At Hyster, Buckman recommended that companies stress that operators and supervisors stay focused on safety. “In addition to ergonomics and other safety features like lights and alarms, technology can help businesses reinforce operating best practices,” he said. A product-driven safety boost At Custom Industrial Products, safety is an associated benefit of its product lines. The company, founded in 1995 by husband-and-wife team Henry and Darlene Taylor, is Florida-based. The company manufactures VRC Material Lifts for integrators, architects, and material handling companies. The products offer a host of safety benefits, said Rob Railis, director of business development. “The VRC’s themselves help with the area of safety,” he said, noting their work in moving materials out of the way in a warehouse and in preventing forklift injuries. “This is a fairly low-cost way of improving the safety, especially when compared to elevators,” Railis said. The cost of a VRC is about a third to a quarter cheaper than the cost of an elevator when considering maintenance, inspections, and related personnel, said Jake Jakobson, manufacturing engineer for Custom Industrial Products. The VRC features benefits for operators as well. “In a lot of ways it is an ergonomic feature, moving materials from one floor to another,” said Jakobson, comparing the difference to the risks to using a ladder, moving products by stairs or transferring from floor to floor lifting the product overhead with a forklift “Ergonomically, it helps to prevent injuries,” he said. Jakobson said the units are designed for industrial use and with safety in mind, in some ways mimicking such features found on elevators although in a quicker fashion. The (VRCs) are programmed to stop quickly when needed and feature braking systems designed to stop with overrated loads. The systems are also certified in the state of Pennsylvania, which is home to a program of certification. “It allows us to sell within the state of Pennsylvania, but also tells the customer we are going the extra mile,” Jakobson said. All units meet 508A standards for control systems and incorporate additional safety measures, according to Jakobson. “We have a push-button station which will tell you whether the door is open or not or whether the doors are latched. There is a secondary indication if a program has occurred in the system. It will not allow you to operate until the major fault is cleared,” he said. The products also include a safety locking system that will not allow the system to operate if anything went wrong with the loading of products. Custom Industrial Products has customers ranging from small to large, and therefore including somewhat different safety considerations, according to Jakobson. Smaller operations are more concerned with basic safety, he said. “They like that we put in a tell-tale diagnostic system, which tells where problems are,” Jakobson said. “Larger and medium companies, their safety is a lot of times either safety manager driven or by the employee safety committee.” With all customers, Jakobson said the company likes to stress safety and to help train users in operation. In the future, Jakobson said leaders at Custom Industrial Products are consistently looking at different products and ways to make their products more efficient at the same time more sustainable to match with green initiatives by companies. “We are constantly looking for different products to help us out and to move forward and change,” he said. About the Author: Eileen Schmidt is a freelance writer and journalist based in the Greater Milwaukee area. She has written for print and online publications for the past 13 years. Email editorial@MHWmag.com or visit eileenmozinskischmidt.wordpress.com to contact Eileen. If your company would like to be featured, email editorial@MHWmag.com
KEEN introduces new safety sneaker
The new Vista Energy series from KEEN Utility is a standout introduction for Spring ’21, built for the rigorous indoor manufacturing environments where speed, agility, and comfort are critical. A perfect blend of athletic performance and styling, this safety-toe work sneaker series for men and women features the lightweight, compression-resisting KEEN.ReGEN midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam. A non-marring, two-layer mesh upper provides increased breathability with the KEEN.KonnectFit heel capture system to lock the heel down for sure-footed stability. The Vista Energy series is completely non-metallic and features asymmetrical carbon fiber toes that are 15% lighter than steel and offer a more unobtrusive fit without sacrificing safety. The oil- and slip-resistant outsole with water-diverting channels also maximizes surface area and improves traction. The new Vista Energy series is available in low, low ESD, and mid-height styles for men and low and low ESD styles for women.
The 2021 Forklift Safety Day will again be virtual
The National Forklift Safety Day (NFSD) sponsored by the Industrial Truck Association will again be virtual on Tuesday, June 8th. Now in its eighth year, NFSD continues to serve as an opportunity for forklift manufacturers and the industry to highlight the safe use of forklifts, the value of operator training, and the need for daily equipment checks. The speakers and their general topics for National Forklift Safety Day 2021 include: Brian Feehan, President, Industrial Truck Association – Moderator Jay Gusler, ITA Chairman of the Board & Executive Vice President of Operations, Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas – Welcome & Overview Joseph Hughes, Jr., Deputy Assistant Secretary for Pandemic and Emergency Response, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – OSHA Updates/Resources Tony Sciarrotta, Executive Director and Publisher, The Reverse Logistics Association Jess Dankert, Vice President for Supply Chain, Retail Industry Leaders Association Mike Field, NFSD Task Force Chair & President and CEO of The Raymond Corporation – Forklift Industry Safety To view the video of National Forklift Safety Day 2020, please see below: To view the archived event, please click here. To view the list of questions received with the answers provided by our speakers, please click here.
Vader Combo is here to rule
Brass Knuckle® splash goggle/face shield-in-one is the force to be reckoned with When it comes to protective equipment inspiring compliance, only one can rule the universe, and it’s the Vader Combo from Brass Knuckle. This force to be reckoned with starts with the coolest, best-fitting, most fog-free protective eyewear product on the market. But it is significantly more than protective eyewear — Vader Combo doubles as a form-fitting face shield, all in one product. The Vader Combo is ideal for construction, water departments, grinding, whipping a galaxy into shape, you name it. If the application calls for a face shield, this is the one to choose. The Vader Combo joins Brass Knuckle’s Vader splash goggle with an integrated face shield, offering 180-degree peripheral vision and face coverage. The only material that touches the face is an ultra-soft conditioned rubber that forms the splash barrier. Because the face shield isn’t attached to a hard hat, it provides unprecedented mobility and visibility—the shield goes where your head goes. With hardhat-attached shields, the shield bumps the chin when looking down. Not so here. 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. The Vader Combo exceeds the industry’s most stringent anti-fog standard. Its ANSI-rated, military-style splash goggle includes BK-Anti-Fog™ anti-fog coating, 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. The Vader Combo Provides 99.9% UV protection and fits over most prescription eyeglasses. It meets demanding industry test requirements (ANSI Z87.1+, EN166K, EN166N, EN166UV) and meets or exceeds AS/NZS 1337.1:2010 for eye and face protection.
Industrial Scientific introduces the Tango® TX2 for Two-Gas Detection with one small, reliable monitor
The new lightweight two-gas monitor offers more accurate alarms and minimizes maintenance with a two-year runtime Industrial Scientific, a global provider in gas detection and safety-as-a-service, has announced the Tango® TX2, a new two-gas monitor that increases site safety by allowing users to detect two gases with one small, reliable monitor. The Tango TX2 helps organizations reduce project shutdowns from false alarms, increase worker trust in gas monitors, and minimize time spent on monitor charging and maintenance. With individual sensors for each gas, the Tango TX2 is the most accurate two-gas monitor on the market. Expect fewer shutdowns due to false alarms, enabling you to maximize productivity across your site, improve data quality and build worker trust in their gas monitors. A replaceable battery with a two-year runtime eliminates the need to charge the monitor. With minimal maintenance, companies can easily assign each user a Tango TX2, giving workers an added sense of ownership over their safety. “Our new Tango TX2 gives customers an option for true two-gas monitoring with dedicated sensors in the size of a personal single-gas instrument. In working with customers, we found a gap in the ability to easily monitor a second gas without adding the size and cost of a four-gas monitor or adding the risk of false alarms typical in combination sensors,” says Tom Henson, vice president of product management and marketing at Industrial Scientific. “Tango TX2 allows companies to reduce risk while cutting the time and expense of device maintenance. Simple, reliable monitors increase worker safety, bringing us closer to our vision of ending death on the job by 2050.” The lightweight and wearable Tango TX2 are now available globally with sensors for carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. It is the only two-gas monitor that carries a Guaranteed for Life™ warranty, ensuring your team is always protected by a simple, reliable gas monitor.
JLG Supports OSHA’s National Stand-Down to prevent falls in construction efforts
The eighth annual event takes place the week of May 3-7, 2021 JLG Industries, Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation company and global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and telehandlers, will participate in OSHA’s 8th annual National Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, the week of May 3-7, 2021. This event is held each year to raise fall hazard awareness across the United States, giving companies an opportunity to provide important safety training to help minimize the risks associated with falls from height. “One of JLG’s core values is safety,” says Frank Nerenhausen, president, JLG. “As the access industry leader, we feel it’s our responsibility to educate and advocate around safety, as well as to support the efforts of those working to do the same, whenever and wherever we can.” According to OSHA, a “Safety Stand-Down” is a voluntary event for employers to talk directly to employees about safety, such as educating on the serious dangers associated with falls, identifying risks on different types of job sites, focusing on proactively preventing fall hazards, and reinforcing the importance of fall prevention behaviors. For this year’s Safety Stand-Down, JLG will focus on promoting ladder and scaffolding replacement products like low-level access lifts that minimize falls when working at heights up to 20-ft. JLG will also highlight the latest safety enhancements to its more traditional boom and scissor lift lines. “Historically, JLG has visited various job sites across the country to deliver Safety Stand-Down content. However, COVID-19 travel restrictions and safety considerations, coupled with a change in the way our customers prefer to do business, have caused us to rethink our approach and forge a new path,” said Jennifer Stiansen, director of marketing, JLG. She continues, “To support this year’s event, we have developed a range of safety-focused content that will be made available across our social media channels and our online resource center #DirectAccess. Individuals and organizations will have access to this content for consumption on-demand throughout the week, as well as thereafter to promote fall prevention well into the future.” According to Stiansen, featured content will include daily “Safety Checks,” videos, articles, and blog posts containing tips and information for improving safety at height. To access JLG resources that support OSHA’s National Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction week, find us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube or visit #DirectAccess.