Cover story
Shining a spotlight on space utilisation and safety
S
afety has always been in the spotlight, but never more so than now, and reducing risks for the workforce is
therefore a major issue for the manufacturing sector. It is now evident that social distancing will be required for the foreseeable future, and amid all these new concerns, overall safety when operating forklifts needs to remain a priority. One consequence of the coronavirus for
the manufacturing sector has been the challenge to maintain output levels whilst creating extra space in production areas so that employees can keep a safe distance from each other. Combilift’s expertise in the design and layout of premises can help to maximise the production areas – where profit is made, whilst reducing the space for storage of materials and finished products – which accrues costs. By optimising both these areas companies can comply with safety requirements whilst maintaining output. The company’s very popular site survey
system can be carried out virtually using video calling technology and is quick and straightforward. During the call, with their phone on video mode, the site manager can walk around the premises, pointing out areas they feel could be improved upon. They may also be asked to supply further details on the dimensions of certain areas. On the basis of this information, Combilift’s team of dedicated layout engineers can supply simulated animations and 3D designs within 24 hours, which clearly show how to achieve a substantial increase in storage capacity. But with so much focus on coronavirus
related issues, safety in other areas should not be overlooked. Manoeuvering long
loads around busy production areas and through access doors for example can pose all sorts of risks. Trying to solve this by using a couple of counterbalance forklifts at either end of a load is a definite no-no from a health and safety point of view, and travelling with elevated loads to avoid obstacles is deemed to be hazardous practice too. Specialist products such as Combilift’s
multidirectional forklifts are the solution here. Designed specifically for the challenges of long and bulky loads, they combine the advantages of a counterbalance forklift, sideloader and narrow aisle truck for safe, space saving and efficient operation. Their low centre of gravity and integrated platform provides a stable, low base for resting loads on during transportation and four-way ability enables quick change of the wheel direction to allow sideways travel in confined spaces or though doorways. Replacing ride-on forklifts with pedestrian models when possible also improves safety.
These naturally operate at slower speeds than ride-on forklifts, and operators have a heightened awareness of their environment and good all-round visibility of the load and the forks. Combilift’s pedestrian trucks all feature its unique, patented multi-position tiller arm, which ensures maximum safety for the operator and other people nearby. The tiller can be turned to the left or right of the truck, allowing the operator to remain in the safest possible position when working in narrow aisles - at the side rather than at the rear, reducing the risk of the operator being crushed or trapped between the truck and racking. The current circumstances could
therefore be an opportunity to take stock, evaluate overall safety and put measures in place to protect the workforce from risks - invisible or more evident - that may be out there.
Combilift
www.combilift.com
Combilift’s expertise in the design and layout of premises can help to maximise the production areas 8 January 2021 UKManufacturing
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