KEEN Utility announces strategic updates planned for second-half of 2023
KEEN Utility, a provider in safety footwear and the work boot division of KEEN Inc. (KEEN), has announced several strategic updates ahead of the back-half of 2023 including a price reduction and key additions to leadership. As of June 1st, KEEN announced it has lowered prices on nearly every shoe available, including KEEN Utility styles, through retail partners and the company’s own ecommerce site by an average of five percent. This price reduction is possible due to a stabilizing supply chain and KEEN’s operation model. By owning all parts of its supply chain, the brand has the opportunity to consider its fans at every stage of the shoemaking process, which factored into the decision. “KEEN Utility prides itself as a brand that ‘fits you better’. That includes not only quality, performance, and durability, but price as well,” said Kevin Oberle, Senior Director of Global Insights & Engagement at KEEN Utility. “We have always believed in doing what’s right, and today that means leveraging the success of our operation model to pass savings onto our loyal and hardworking fans”. While many competitors are keeping prices raised due to inflation, KEEN felt it was essential to use decreasing costs to give savings back to the fans instead of benefitting from the bottom line. A values-led, family-owned company, the company has a long history of doing good for its community and partners. This company-wide price reduction coincides with changes to the brand’s leadership. In addition to Naoji Takeda being named KEEN’s Chief Marketing Officer in April, this past month, KEEN Utility has named Scott Peterson as the next Vice President and Global General Manager. With more than a decade of service at KEEN Utility, Peterson brings unmatched brand acumen, industry experience, and passion for safety footwear to the role. Prior to this appointment, he served as KEEN Utility’s Senior Director of Sales and has been with the company since 2012. “We are living in an exciting time when it comes to how we think about work and what is possible when it comes to safety footwear,” said Peterson. “KEEN Utility has such a talented team and loyal fans so I look forward to continuing to grow with the brand”.
Safety 2023 attendance ranks best in event’s history
The signature event of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) attracted nearly 6,000 occupational safety and health professionals in June to set an in-person attendance record for the global event. An additional 300-plus people joined a livestream session while 2,100 exhibitor representatives populated the exposition hall, ultimately involving more than 8,300 people in the Safety 2023 Professional Development Conference and Exposition in San Antonio. “We saw a big desire from safety professionals to network with colleagues and stay current on best practices, industry trends and the latest product innovations,” said ASSP President Jim Thornton, CSP, CIH, FASSP, FAIHA. “It was incredible to see a record turnout so soon after the pandemic. Safety 2023 was a true success.” The registered attendance of 5,937 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center surpassed ASSP’s previous record of 5,905 from Safety 2019 in New Orleans. It is one of America’s largest annual conferences for the advancement of workplace safety and health that began in Chicago in 1962. Boosting Safety 2023’s popularity was a dynamic expo with more than 550 vendor booths that covered over 100,000 square feet. The extensive product showcase was a key element of the overall experience. “Our expo is so illuminating that we get some safety and health professionals coming only for that,” Thornton said. Safety 2023 welcomed 3,100 first-time attendees, making up more than half of the total attendance. Also, 43 percent of the record crowd were non-members who received a free year of ASSP membership. The results signal future growth for ASSP and the workplace safety and health profession. “We’re proud to be a leader in providing professional development for the occupational safety and health community,” Thornton said. “Our event shares case studies and new safety approaches along with vast networking opportunities that help practitioners solve challenges and advance their careers.” In a post-event survey of Safety 2023 attendees, 9 out of 10 respondents said they would recommend the conference to a colleague while more than 80 percent indicated they plan to attend next year’s event. The conference surpassed its $25,000 fundraising goal as participants donated $26,550 to the ASSP Foundation, including a $10,000 match from Liberty Mutual. The ASSP Foundation promotes occupational safety and health as a career choice and works to build a sustainable talent pipeline in the profession that will help make all industries safer worldwide. ASSP’s Safety 2024 takes place Aug. 7-9 next year at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver, known for its natural beauty with more than 200 city parks and views of the Rocky Mountains. The Mile High City features trendy restaurants, a thriving arts scene and countless outdoor activities, such as kayaking on the river that runs through downtown. At the State Capitol, the 13th step is exactly 5,280 feet above sea level. Groups planning to attend Safety 2024 can save on the entire conference. More than 100 groups received discounts on this year’s event. To learn about group offers, contact ASSP’s Nancy O’Toole at notoole@assp.org.
ASSP Foundation awards $334,500 in scholarships and grants
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) Foundation is awarding $334,500 in academic scholarships and career development grants to 153 individuals to help them achieve their educational and career goals in the occupational safety and health profession. “For over 30 years as ASSP’s charitable arm, the Foundation has helped thousands of students and professionals continue their education in workplace safety and health,” said ASSP Foundation Chair, CSP, ARM, CRIS. “The consistent support from donors shows that safety and health careers are vital in helping to protect workers everywhere.” The 2023 awards include $305,500 in academic scholarships for 107 graduate and undergraduate students preparing for or supplementing their occupational safety and health careers at 52 colleges and universities. The ASSP Foundation is awarding $29,000 in career development grants to 46 safety students and professionals who are working to advance their careers through certification, conference attendance and similar learning opportunities. Career development grants will continue to be awarded throughout the year. “Presenting career development grants year-round is fairly new for us, and we’re excited about that enhancement because it increases access to funding and training for individuals throughout the safety field,” Ennis said. Several corporate donors support the awards, including Amazon, Canadian National Railway Corporation, FabEnCo, Lancaster County Industrial Safety Council, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Texas Safety Foundation and UPS. Additionally, more than 100 ASSP chapters, common interest groups, practice specialties and members support the scholarship and grant programs every year. The ASSP Foundation – the charitable arm of ASSP chartered in 1990 – promotes occupational safety and health as a career choice. It works to build a sustainable talent pipeline to make all industries safer worldwide with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. Programs and services are solely supported by charitable donations from the ASSP community and corporations motivated to support the profession. The ASSP Foundation has invested more than $5 million into the occupational safety and health community to develop opportunities for career guidance, education and leadership development. The charitable effort is designed to attract new individuals to the profession as well as enhance the knowledge and skills of current safety students and professionals. A complete list of the 2023 scholarship and grant recipients is available at www.assp.org/foundation.
Boplan USA Inc.
TVH
Episode 395: Fostering psychological safety in the warehousing industry
In today’s episode of The New Warehouse Podcast, we have a special guest, Rob Van Stratum, a managing partner and APICS master instructor at Supply Chain Education CZ. Rob is an expert in the field of supply chain management and will shed light on the fascinating concept of psychological safety within the warehousing industry. Get ready to explore this intriguing topic that can transform how teams operate in the workplace. But before we dive into the episode, let’s learn more about Rob and his journey in the supply chain space. Rob Van Stratum has had a diverse career spanning academia and consulting in the supply chain field. With decades of experience, Rob has taught general, supply chain, and change management to students from various backgrounds. As an APICS instructor, Rob has helped countless individuals enhance their knowledge and skills in supply chain management. Please tune in to hear directly from Rob as he shares his expertise on psychological safety and its impact on the warehousing industry. Understanding Psychological Safety in Warehousing Teams According to Rob, psychological safety refers to an individual’s perception of the consequences of taking an interpersonal risk. It involves feeling safe to ask questions, take risks, and make mistakes without fearing negative repercussions. Rob explains that teams with psychological safety are more likely to foster open communication, collaboration, and continuous learning. According to Rob, signs that employees are feeling psychologically safe include: Asking questions and seeking clarification: When employees feel safe, they are more likely to ask questions and seek clarification without fear of being judged or criticized. They feel comfortable admitting what they don’t know and are open to learning from others. Taking risks and sharing ideas: Psychologically safe employees are willing to take calculated risks and share their ideas and suggestions. They believe you will value and consider their input, even if you do not implement their ideas. Admitting mistakes and seeking feedback: Employees who feel psychologically safe are likelier to admit their mistakes and seek feedback from others. They understand that mistakes are opportunities for growth and learning, and they trust that their colleagues will provide constructive feedback rather than blame or punish them. Speaking up and challenging the status quo: Psychologically safe employees feel comfortable speaking up and challenging the status quo when they believe there is a better way of doing things. They speak out their opinions and offer dissenting viewpoints without fear, knowing their contributions will receive respect. Collaboration and teamwork: Employees who feel psychologically safe are more likely to collaborate and work as a team. They trust their colleagues and are willing to share resources, knowledge, and support to achieve common goals. Open and honest communication: Psychologically safe environments foster open and honest communication. Employees feel comfortable expressing their thoughts, concerns, and emotions without fear of retribution or judgment. Engagement and innovation: Employees who feel psychologically safe are more engaged and motivated. They are willing to take the initiative, explore new ideas, and contribute to the organization’s innovation and improvement efforts. When leaders and organizations can create an environment that fosters psychological safety, they promote employee well-being, collaboration, creativity, and productivity. The Value of APICS CLTD Certification in Distribution and Transportation Rob and Kevin delve into the value of APICS certifications in the distribution and transportation space. Rob emphasizes that the value of any certification is directly proportional to the number of people who hold it. APICS certifications, including Certification in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD), Certification Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), and Certification in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM), are widely recognized and respected within the industry. Being CLTD certified provides professionals with a comprehensive overview of essential supply chain concepts and demonstrates their commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety in the Warehouse The discussion with Rob also focuses on how leaders can foster a culture of psychological safety within their warehouse teams. Rob highlights the importance of dependability, structure, and clarity in creating a psychologically safe environment. He suggests that leaders should encourage open dialogue, provide constructive feedback, and ensure team members understand their roles and responsibilities. By nurturing psychological safety, leaders can empower their teams to take risks, learn from mistakes, and contribute to the overall success of warehouse operations. Key Takeaways Psychological safety is crucial for creating an environment where team members feel comfortable taking risks, asking questions, and making mistakes. APICS CLTD certification offers significant value in the distribution and transportation space, providing professionals with a comprehensive understanding of supply chain concepts. Leaders can foster a psychologically safe environment by promoting open communication, providing constructive feedback, and establishing clear roles and responsibilities. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 395: Fostering Psychological Safety in the Warehousing Industry
Iris ID Works with Fortune 100 companies supplying cutting-edge Iris Biometric Solutions
Iris ID, the global provider in iris recognition technology for 25 years, continues to experience outstanding success in establishing partnerships with numerous Fortune 100 companies. Leveraging its cutting-edge iris recognition technology, Iris ID has emerged as the preferred choice for enhancing security measures using the highest form of biometric identity authentication and verification to best safeguard the integrity of critical operations at leading organizations. “We are thrilled to be the trusted partner of numerous Fortune 100 companies,” said Mohammed Murad, Vice President, Iris ID. “By utilizing our preeminent iris recognition biometric solutions, these leading organizations benefit from the extreme identity verification and authentication accuracy that are in demand to address unique security challenges. These installations underscore the confidence that major corporations have placed in our expertise and technological capabilities.” Iris ID has reported remarkable adoption frequency amongst the world’s top revenue generating companies, including the world’s most admired technology companies, the biggest global banks, a leading aerospace manufacturer, a widely-known e-commerce giant, many nuclear powerplants and more. With its advanced hardware and software solutions, Iris ID empowers these organizations to fortify access control, protect sensitive data, and streamline staffing and workforce management processes. Iris ID’s proprietary iris recognition technology offers unparalleled accuracy, speed, and scalability, making it an ideal choice for organizations of any size. By leveraging the unique characteristics of the human iris, Iris ID solutions provide a reliable and frictionless means of identification, surpassing traditional methods such as PINs, passwords, and access cards. In addition to being a key provider of biometric solutions amongst today’s leading market influencers, Iris ID’s IrisAccess® platform, now in its seventh generation, holds the title of the world’s most deployed iris recognition platform. More people in more places authenticate identities with IrisAccess than with all other iris recognition products combined.
ASSP and VPPPA to collaborate on worker safety
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and the Voluntary Protection Programs Participants’ Association (VPPPA) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on June 15. The 18-month agreement brings the safety organizations together to advance workplace safety and health with a focus on assisting the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in modernizing and expanding its longstanding Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP). The strategic partnership was finalized in advance of both organizations participating that day in an OSHA stakeholder meeting about improving the VPP. “ASSP has received strong support from our members to advocate for the enhancement of the VPP,” said Pam Walaski, CSP, FASSP, incoming president-elect of the Society. The MOU objectives include providing OSHA with a framework that identifies components of occupational safety and health management system consensus standards that meet requirements for VPP qualification and requalification. ASSP and VPPPA will also work together to develop recommendations for a construction and demolition-specific VPP. “Many of our VPPPA member employees – myself included – are also ASSP members, so coming together to work toward our shared goal of enhancing workplace safety and health through the Voluntary Protection Programs is a natural fit,” said VPPPA Executive Director Chris Williams, CAE. “By combining efforts to develop pathways for other OHSMS users and underserved industry sectors to take part in the VPP, we can positively impact the program’s long-term future.” The standards emphasized in the MOU include U.S.-based ANSI/ASSP Z10 and global standard ANSI/ASSP/ISO 45001. Other standards related to the efforts around construction and demolition operations include ANSI/ASSP A10.1 (pre-planning), ANSI/ASSP A10.33 (multiemployer worksites), ANSI/ASSP A10.38 (general occupational safety and health management principles) and ANSI/ASSP A10.39 (auditing). “We recognize the benefits of collaboration to improve occupational safety and health practices while elevating the voice of the profession,” said ASSP CEO Jennifer McNelly, CAE. “We strive to eliminate worker illnesses, injuries and fatalities across the board, as does VPPPA, and safety organizations working together improves the ability to achieve that result.”
Vader Combo: One does the job of two
Brass Knuckle®’s goggle and face shield in one is superior protection when workers’ faces head straight to the dark side Typically, when workers wear a face shield, they still have safety glasses on underneath. That’s because most face shields have gaps on the bottom and sides that can let the nasty in. But Vader Combo is a different sort of face protection. It’s a face shield with the safety goggles built-in. It’s one wearable piece of PPE that does the job of two. Whether it’s foul, nasty, or painful debris, sparks, or liquid sprayback, when the situation hits the fan, workers can reach for Vader Combo. It covers the whole face, protects the neck, and puts yuck in its place. When you’re leading with your face straight into the dark side, it’s the protection workers need. Vader Combo has industry-leading BK-Anti-Fog (protection that lasts 15 times longer than EN 166/168) 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. 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 workers to any kind of wetness or debris being thrown into their faces, the Vader Combo brings the necessary protection. To muck, splash, debris, and fog, Vader Combo says, “Who’s your daddy?” That’s a force to be reckoned with.
ISS wins ‘Minority Owned/Diverse Exporter of the Year’ award at NJITA
Company recognized alongside other noteworthy New Jersey-based exporters during inaugural awards ISS (Intelligent Security Systems), a global provider of video intelligence and data awareness solutions, was recently honored with the “Minority Owned/Diverse Exporter of the Year” award in the first ever New Jersey International Trade Awards (NJITA), which were held last month at Galloping Hill Golf Club in Kenilworth, N.J. Hosted by the New Jersey District Export Council in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Commerce, the inaugural event also recognized New Jersey-based businesses in three other categories, including “Exporter of the Year,” “Service Exporter,” and “New Exporter.” “Hosting this program gave us the opportunity to spotlight the significant impact of exporters on our state’s economy,” Susan Widmer, Director at the U.S. Commercial Services in Northern New Jersey, said during her opening remarks at the event. “We are pleased to be the catalyst to start this important new tradition.” Based in Woodbridge, N.J., ISS has been nationally certified by the New York and New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council as a Minority Business Enterprise or MBE, for short. “ISS takes immense pride in being recognized as the Minority Owned/Diverse Exporter of the Year as this prestigious accolade highlights the significance of diversity and inclusion in the realm of business and international trade,” said ISS CEO Aluisio Figueiredo. “As an MBE, ISS exemplifies the success that can be achieved through equal opportunities and representation. This recognition not only boosts the reputation of ISS, but it also opens doors to new partnerships, collaborations, and market opportunities. By championing diversity, ISS sets an example for other companies to embrace inclusivity, fostering innovation and economic growth.” ISS COO Daniel Marino was on hand at the event to accept the award and take part in a panel discussion alongside representatives from the other honorees, which included Gokhan Alkanat of Rowan University, Diana Levy of Undercover Snacks, and Bill Killeen of Acrow Bridge, to share insights on the current export environment and the challenges that companies will likely face moving forward. “Sharing our expertise on the innovation required to export and fill other market needs with fellow New Jersey-based business leaders was an enriching experience,” Marino explained. “As a minority business enterprise, we were honored to have the opportunity to discuss the lessons that we have learned through the years on embracing cultural differences and the various challenges that can come with that.”
EnerSys® supports 2023 National Forklift Safety Day with Power Solutions designed to enhance operator protection
EnerSys® is honoring once again the Industrial Truck Association (ITA) in support of National Forklift Safety Day (NFSD), providing customers with highly-sophisticated, virtually maintenance-free motive power solutions engineered to enhance operator protection. To help reduce exposure to workplace injuries, EnerSys® provides battery options that support converting material handling operations from liquid propane (LP) to electric power – eliminating risk of musculoskeletal injuries from handling, lifting, and changing LP tanks. “Forklifts are valuable pieces of equipment that support industry and our global supply chain; but powered industrial trucks violations were among OSHA’s ten highest citation areas last year,” said Harold Vanasse, Senior Director of Marketing, Motive Power Global at EnerSys. “And our customer’s safety is top priority here at EnerSys, so we are constantly striving to develop solutions to not only simplify the operator experience, but also take into consideration their safety, health and overall well-being. Like the ITA, we share a similar desire to spread awareness of the importance of forklift safety education, training and the need for innovative solutions to help reduce exposure to potential injury, and we are proud to support their ongoing efforts during National Forklift Safety Day.” Today marks the ten-year anniversary of NFSD and this historic milestone is being recognized through several events throughout the United States, including a special keynote presentation at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. ITA established National Forklift Safety Day in 2013 to reflect its mission to raise awareness on best practices in manufacturing and warehouse environments and to emphasize operator training, promote greater pedestrian awareness, and share resources about forklift safety. For more information about National Forklift Safety Day, click here. *Source: https://www.tdi.texas.gov/tips/safety/oshatop10.html
Raymond celebrates forklift operators for National Forklift Safety Day
Intralogistics solutions provider demonstrates commitment to supply chain workers through innovative, operator-first product and technology design As National Forklift Safety Day (NFSD) approaches, The Raymond Corporation — designer and manufacturer of some of the industry’s most intelligent intralogistics solutions and advanced material handling products — extends its thanks to and celebrates the thousands of forklift operators who work at every point along the global supply chain. “For more than 100 years, we’ve developed innovative tools and technologies that help move materials efficiently,” said Michael Field, president and CEO, The Raymond Corporation. “But at the heart of it all are the forklift operators themselves. That’s why we’re recognizing and thanking all the forklift operators who keep things moving. And it’s why we’re committed to offering solutions that help operators work more confidently and efficiently.” Among the worker-focused innovations Field cites are: Engaging Learning Programs. When operators understand and implement best practices to operate forklifts, they feel more confident and productive in the important work they do. Safety On The Move, Raymond’s industry-leading forklift operator training program, has helped employers protect their people, equipment and materials since its introduction. Additionally, Raymond’s Virtual Reality Simulator is a flexible, scalable teaching tool that uses the latest immersive technology to quickly increase new operator proficiency and continually expand operator skills for reduced turnover. Operator Assist and Automation Technologies. Operator assist technologies like Raymond’s Pick2Pallet™ LED Light System gives operators the tools to help them perform their jobs more efficiently and accurately. As an added benefit, these products and systems help reduce errors and bring new operators up to speed faster. At the same time, Raymond automation technologies can help by performing basic, repeatable tasks, freeing operators to focus on more value-added jobs. Comfort and Convenience Features. Even the smallest features can make a huge difference in an operator’s comfort. So whenever possible, Raymond designs features like padded lean points, vibration-dampening floor mats, accessory bars and USB charging ports — to help make long days more comfortable. Worker-focused Process Optimization. Nobody knows a process better than the people who do the work every day; that’s why Raymond Lean Management (RLM) is focused on empowering employees to spot inefficiencies and make improvements to the processes they follow and on improving morale and engagement through continuous collaboration between employees and management. “We believe it’s important to highlight the material handling, warehousing and distribution industry’s appreciation for its workers and operators,” Field said. “It’s that appreciation that shows up in equipment and product design, our work processes, and our dedication to continuous improvement.”
Axis Communications optimizes production to conquer Supply Chain constraints
Video surveillance industry leader ships record level of products through May 31 and continues an aggressive growth trajectory Axis Communications, the industry provider in video surveillance, has announced that the company has reached key supply chain milestones, including over 45% year-over-year increase in Q1 deliveries, with continued growth through May 31, and record inventory levels in its Americas distribution channel to meet strong demand from integrators and end customers. This comes after a record-breaking 2022 yielding $1.6 billion in global revenue and 20% global year-over-year growth, as outlined in the Axis 2022 Sustainability Report. These achievements are a result of the company’s recent initiatives, along with its industry-leading sustainability program which has long focused on enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening supply chain. It’s that ongoing work—along with boosted efforts and innovative initiatives implemented during the global supply chain crisis—that has helped the company excel and solidly position themselves to meet future market needs. Prior to the pandemic, Axis Communications had already bolstered its supply chain by enacting a formal sustainability plan, which put an increased emphasis on environmental, ethical and social factors. It was during the pandemic and the resulting global supply chain crisis, coupled with record demand for Axis products, that Axis further stepped up its efforts by intensifying collaboration with its dedicated channel partners and end customers to improve planning, forecasting and inventory management. Axis also actively vets and introduces second-source suppliers, expands its use of some of the world’s largest Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) companies to boost production capacity, and drives digital transformation across the supply chain. Additional innovations included redesigning over 100 cameras — which are subject to the same stringent levels of testing and quality — to match available components and create flexibility in production, aggressively investing in high-demand components to increase buffer stock, expediting shipping methods in order to support customers and investing in over-capacity with its manufacturing partners. These new operational practices, streamlined processes and expanded partnerships will become mainstay and ultimately have a lasting effect on Axis’ ability to serve its customers now and into the future. “Continuous improvement is a part of our DNA, and adversity often sparks innovation, so the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting supply chain crisis really put us into overdrive,” said Jeanette Skjelmose, Vice President of Operations, Axis Communications. “Diversifying, and solidifying, our supply chain will have a lasting positive impact for our partners and customers—providing greater resiliency to navigate any future challenges. We are grateful to our partners and customers for not only standing by us through challenging times, but also for working with us to help identify ways to improve our approach toward customer service and supply chain management. Those relationships have played a crucial role in helping us craft a stronger, more sustainable vision for the future.” Despite the lingering effects of the supply chain, Axis’ initiatives helped the company to deliver more units in 2022 than ever before. With Axis carrying record unit shipments into the new year, the company is on pace to surpass 2022’s banner output. Now, aligning with record inventories in distribution, over 85% of Axis products are readily available at standard lead times, with a few remaining products available but with longer times to delivery. The company continues to boost production in effort to restore standard lead times to the remaining products in the next few months. “In the perfect storm of supply chain constraints and unprecedented demand for our products, we have at times over the past year failed to meet our customers’ expectations,” said Fredrik Nilsson, Vice President of the Americas, Axis Communications. “We take full responsibility, and we’ve been working hard to restore our ability to deliver the products and solutions our partners and customers need. We are thrilled to be stronger than ever with our team and supply chain, and we are just getting started.” As Axis continues to restore standard lead times for all products, the company will work closely with partners to set appropriate expectations. A combination of supply chain enhancements and effective communication has helped Axis lay a solid foundation for continued strong growth, and it indicates an end to the volatility that characterized manufacturing during the pandemic era.
Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas Group celebrates 10th Anniversary of National Forklift Safety Day
Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas group (Logisnext), a North American provider and manufacturer of material handling and innovative automation and fleet solutions, knows that the safety of forklift operators is a top priority. For the 1oth anniversary of National Forklift Safety Day, Logisnext and its family of brands – Cat® lift trucks, Mitsubishi forklift trucks, Jungheinrich®, UniCarriers® Forklifts and Rocla AGV Solutions – are teaming up with the industry to advocate and champion forklift safety in the workplace. The company is supporting National Forklift Safety Day through a variety of safety-focused activities, including: Attendance at the 1oth annual Industrial Truck Association (ITA) National Forklift Safety Day event in Washington D.C. that will include presentations from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), industrial safety and forklift industry experts. On June 13, Logisnext employees across the company’s three campuses in Houston, Texas; Marengo, IL and Grand Rapids, MI, will celebrate the milestone occasion as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to focus on safety best practices. To further raise awareness of the importance of forklift safety in the workplace, a National Forklift Safety Day toolkit was made available to the Logisnext dealer network to help promote the “Safety First” campaign to employees and customers during the month of June. “National Forklift Safety Day brings an important focus to safety in our industry – an area that we concentrate on all year long as a part of our 100% safety initiative,” said Jay Gusler, executive vice president, operations of Mitsubishi Logisnext Americas. “In recognition of this important national day focused on safety, we are committed to increasing awareness of forklift safety with our employees, dealers and customers.” Logisnext’s “Safety First” initiative reinforces the importance of properly trained forklift operators and proper forklift certification. New tools are available to help contribute to a safer working environment, including a forklift safety poster series, a forklift inspection checklist and additional operational safety resources. For more information and to download these new resources, visit Logisnext’s National Forklift Safety Day page.
RAVAS offers industry-leading forklift truck scales
Forklifts are an indispensable and versatile means of turning, transporting, storing, or collecting goods. By mounting RAVAS weighing systems on the trucks, you ensure a professional process around your factories and warehouses, regardless of your industry or business sector. RAVAS offers a complete range of forklift weighing systems. These are intelligent attachments that can fit on trucks of all brands. RAVAS’ versatile iForks are the world’s first and most complete wireless set of weighing forks for forklift trucks. The iForks offer a new dimension to cross-docking, weighing incoming and outgoing goods, and safely loading and unloading containers. Our hydraulic weighing systems prevent overloading and can easily complete weight checks. The weighing carriages are highly accurate and can perform in combination with clamps or rotators. The RAVAS Hydraulic Weighing Systems are designed for simple weight checks of pallets and goods. They also avoid overloading your trucks, warehouse racks, and forklift trucks. The advantage of mobile weighing systems is that they are fast, safe, and effective. As a result, they quickly increase the output of the logistics in and around your warehouses. The RAVAS iCP (Carriage Plate Scales), an integrated mobile weighing system, weighs pallet loads while being unloaded or transported with a forklift. The onboard indicator collects critical data and can share it wirelessly via built-in Bluetooth. For more information contact RAVAS at 330 425-3092 or salesoffice-usa@ravas.com
Rusch Rack Inspections
National Forklift Safety Day 10th Anniversary to feature Government and Industry experts
Industrial Truck Association’s June 13 event emphasizes safety training and practices The 10th Anniversary of National Forklift Safety Day will take place both in person and virtually on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. (Eastern) at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. National Forklift Safety Day serves 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. Open to the public, National Forklift Safety Day will be available virtually by visiting the Industrial Truck Association’s website. The format for 2023 will include presentations from government representatives, safety experts, and industry representatives. The speakers for National Forklift Safety Day 2023 include: Brian Feehan, President, Industrial Truck Association Chuck Pascarelli, ITA Chairman of the Board and President, Americas, Hyster-Yale Group Douglas Parker, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Michael Wood, Senior Vice President for Quality, Health, Safety and Environment (QHSE), TEAM Industrial Services Ed Stilwell, Innovation Chief Technologist, Hyster-Yale Group Information about National Forklift Safety Day is available on ITA’s website at www.indtrk.org/national-forklift-safety-day.
Stressing safety and safety related services to your customers is good business
With this month’s issue we are putting the spotlight on safety, it is a good time to discuss some products, accessories, and services that can be a part of a dealership’s aftermarket offering. Additionally, discuss how Customer Service Sales Reps, Parts Professionals, and Service Technicians can all drive the sales of said products and services. In my last article, I talked about dedicated customer service sales reps will allow your dealership to provide focused and professional aftermarket parts support, along with dedication to targeting and obtaining service agreements and the upselling of service repair quotes. Let us explore a few safety items and safety-related services that your customer-facing sales, service, and parts teams can quote and sell to your customers. Safety Lighting Safety lighting such as strobe lights come standard on the forklift from the original equipment manufacturer. Operators and pedestrians in the warehouse can easily become ‘numb’ to these standard-issue strobe lights. This creates an opportunity for your dealership to sell upgraded safety lighting for your customer’s forklifts. Safety lights prevent forklift collisions and accidents and illuminate blind spots. Types of safety lights include rotating and flashing lights that attract attention, along with projection warning lights. These have become very popular in recent years; you may be familiar with the blue spot projection warning light. Projection warning lights create visual warning signals for people around the forklift. It’s easy to see which direction the forklift is moving in, which helps avoid collisions, accidents, and injuries. There are even some projection lights on the market now that project a ‘do not enter zone’ to ensure pedestrians keep a safe distance away from the forklift. All of these aftermarket safety lighting options are products that you can add on during the Pre-Delivery Inspection of a new forklift sold to your customer, up-sell during service maintenance, or demo during a customer service sales visit. Chains, Forks, and Tires OSHA’s daily pre-operation forklift inspections call for the inspection of a variety of items on the forklift prior to starting the forklift. A few of these items are ‘high-wear items’ that can be inspected by a technician that is performing service or scheduled maintenance on the forklift or by a customer service sales rep visiting your customer or potential customer’s facility. First, let’s discuss the forklift chain. Application factors like chemicals, dust, or even weather can certainly shorten the life of a forklift chain. Ensuring the chain can operate safely, look for misalignment, rust, corrosion, cracking, damaged pins, cracks, or any other visible defect on a forklift’s chain. The chain elongates as it wears leading to a significant increase in actual pitch and potential chain failure. At 2% elongation, a service tech or customer service sales rep must advise on how much life is left until a replacement is needed. At 3% elongation means that the strength of the chain has been reduced by 15% and the chain must be replaced immediately. A great device for your technician or customer service sales rep is a forklift chain wear gauge. This device measures chain wear and indicates the percentage of elongation as noted above. This will allow them to show the customer their forklift chain elongation and quote the service labor and parts required to replace the chain. Second, let’s take a look at forklift tires. A forklift’s tires will wear down faster than other parts on a forklift. The weight of the forklift and its load causes a lot of wear and tear on the tires. Worn-out tires can be dangerous for the forklift driver but also for everyone in the surrounding area. Part of the OSHA pre-operation inspection for the operator is to check the tire condition and pressure including looking for cuts and gouges. Sometimes these items get overlooked, so tires are another item that your technicians and CSSR’s can be looking to quote and sell replacements to your customers. Finally, let’s discuss forks. Per OSHA standards, forks should be part of the pre-operation inspection. Forks that are not in good working order must be replaced. Forklifts should not be operated if the forks show any defects such as surface cracks, blades are not straight, the difference in height of fork tips, excessive fork hook wear, etc. Another great device for your technician or customer service sales rep to have is a fork wear caliper. This device allows your tech or CSSR to measure the fork blade wear, the fork hooks, and the fork angle. The fork angle deviation must be within a margin of 3 degrees. That means that the angle between the blade and the shank must be between 87 and 93 degrees. When the fork angle is outside of this degree range, the forks must be replaced. Furthermore, OSHA standards state that forks with 10% or more wear to the blades must be removed from service. Being equipped with this fork wear caliper device will allow them to show the customer the fork wear and quote the service labor and parts required to replace the forks. Operator Training According to OSHA standards, only trained and competent operators shall be permitted to operate a powered industrial truck. All powered industrial truck operators must be trained and certified to operate the equipment legally. Additionally, re-certification is required every three years. Many of the customers you sell to will not have their own in-house trainers and may be looking for a third party to meet these operator training requirements. Many lift truck dealers already have this training as part of their product and service offerings to their customers. If your organization does not currently offer this service, I recommend looking into exploring it. This value-added service will not only drive revenue to your dealership but also drive customer loyalty to your brand and your organization. Celebrate and promote National Forklift Safety Day this month, your customer-facing sales, service, and parts teams can create awareness and shine the light on forklift safety to your customers. The safety of your customers is a
Top tips to keep Forklift Fleet Operators safe
Forklifts are an everyday essential in material handling operations, which is why forklift safety is a top priority in the industry. Ninety percent of Class 4 and 5 forklifts are powered by propane, which is why proper propane safety practices are an important priority for crews across the country. With safety top of mind this June, below are some of the top tips for operators, floor workers, and truck drivers alike to stay safe around forklifts. Universal Forklift Safety Tips Complete routine checks of equipment before operating and notify management of damages or problems. Wear proper PPE such as hard hats, protective footwear, eyewear, and high-visibility clothing on the warehouse floor and while operating a forklift. Buckle up every time. This may seem obvious, but it’s an essential tip to remember. Overturned forklifts are a leading cause of forklift-related accidents. Move slowly and use the horn. Collisions could happen when vision is obstructed. Using the horn at every intersection will keep pedestrians and other operators safe. Know your forklift’s weight capacity and adhere to it. Exceeding the weight capacity of a forklift significantly increases the risk of tipping and injury. Lower, park, and set. Always lower the forks, use the parking brake, and set the controls to neutral when finished operating a forklift. Safely parking the machine reduces the risk of unintended movement and injury. Use wheel blocks to secure the forklift further, especially if parking on an incline. Mind the ramp. Drivers should always carry a load pointing up an incline with their heads pointed in the direction they are going. If unloaded, keep the forks pointed downgrade. Inspect forklift fleets regularly. Regular maintenance helps prevent unnecessary damage to the equipment and keeps employees safe. Keep forklifts clean and free from excess oil and grease. Propane Forklift Safety Tips Inspect propane 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. Use proper lift techniques to place a cylinder onto a forklift and wear protective gloves. Carefully place the cylinder into the cradle so the cylinder pin enters the locating hole in the cylinder collar. Once properly situated, secure the cylinder by tightening the brackets and check for leaks using a leak detection solution. Secure the pressure relief valve on the cylinder. Before connecting, confirm the cylinder valve is closed. Once placed in the cradle, operators should check that the pressure relief valve fitting is roughly 180 degrees from the forklift’s locating pin. Firmly tighten the gas line to the service connection. 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. Propane cylinder storage racks must be located at a safe distance from heat or ignition sources, protected from the elements, and kept away from stairwells and high-traffic areas. Warehouses, factory floors, and distribution centers have many moving parts as well as people coming and going. With proper signage, training, and storage, propane is a safe energy source to power forklifts year-round, both indoors and out. Remember to regularly review safety measures with forklift operators and workers not just during the month of June, but every day. To learn more about propane forklifts, visit Propane.com/forklifts. About the Author: Gavin Hale is the Vice President of Business Development of the Propane Education and Research Council. The Propane Education & Research Council is a nonprofit that provides leading propane safety and training programs and invests in research and development of new propane-powered technologies. PERC is operated and funded by the propane industry. PERC programs benefit a variety of markets including transportation, agriculture, commercial landscaping, residential, and commercial building.
Registration opens for fall session of SafetyFOCUS
Registration is open for the fall session of SafetyFOCUS, the semi-annual in-depth education experience from the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP). The hybrid event will take place Sept. 18-22 in Arlington, VA, and online, helping workplace safety and health professionals expand their knowledge through collaborative learning and engaging discussions on a broad range of topics. Using case studies, real-life examples, and proven successes, expert instructors will explore key issues and provide new perspectives and strategies to help solve real-world safety and health challenges. SafetyFOCUS is ASSP’s second-largest education event, which was expanded to twice a year in 2022. The one-, two- and three-day courses are standards-based and focus on business and leadership skills, certification preparation, fall protection, risk assessment and management, safety management systems, and comprehensive worker health. Attendees build their own schedule to fit their unique professional development plan, whether they are new to the industry or a seasoned professional. In-person courses will take place at the AMA Washington Area Conference Center. Instructors will facilitate courses from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET each day. Online education will be accessible through ASSP’s Live Virtual Classroom via Zoom. Participants will have the same positive and focused learning experience whether they attend in person or online. Attendees who register for the full week of training either in person or online can earn up to 3.5 continuing education units (CEUs) that will help them maintain a range of professional certifications. Participants will also expand their professional networks and take away relevant information and practical guidance they can immediately implement to help their organizations prevent worker injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. Safety and health professionals can get the discounted early rate by registering online by June 29. Groups of five or more from the same company can save even more by contacting ASSP Customer Service at customerservice@assp.org. ASSP members save on registration and receive discounts on all of the Society’s education, training, and workplace safety standards. First-time attendees who have never been an ASSP member will receive a free one-year membership and complimentary memberships in a practice specialty and common interest group.