Plant & Works Engineering Magazine Feb/Mar 2025

Handling & Safety Matters Focus on: Handling & Storage MYTH - OAS reduces truck performance only to avoid obstacles. It’s common for an OAS to enable features that help operators avoid hitting obstacles, such as reducing speed if an obstruction is detected or in response to location-based rules at intersections or high traffic areas. But with operators traveling quickly around corners carrying a risk of tip over, what about a feature designed to help operators maintain the stability of the lift truck and load? You can look for an OAS that offers lateral stability when cornering. Travel speed can be decelerated based on the combined centre of gravity, of both the truck and load. MYTH - An OAS can expand load capacity. OAS does not enable extra load capacity. Instead, these systems provide a digital solution which may help lift truck operators avoid lifting loads that exceed the lift truck’s capacity limit. Load weight awareness is a type of feature available within some OAS which automatically stops lifting if load weight exceeds the truck’s threshold. Rather than just providing an audible or visual alert, to tell operators they are lifting a load that is too heavy – it simply prevents them from doing so. MYTH - OAS only applies performance controls based on other trucks, objects and pedestrians that are connected to the same technology. While an OAS can use a network of ultra-wideband tags to sense equipment, personnel and infrastructure, a technology like LiDAR can offer an extra layer of detection to sense obstacles in the path of travel even if they are not connected to the same network of tags. Some systems may leverage both LiDAR and ultra-wideband tags for detection. As well as a real-time location sensing option, using the same network of ultra-wideband proximity tags together with beacons set up throughout the facility could help enable location-based rules like equipment exclusion zones and end-of-aisle slowdown. Digitalising lift truck training In addition to OAS, it’s important to build and support safe, effective habits through the correct training. In the UK, lift truck operator training should meet Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirements and other local legislation and guidelines. However, much like OAS has brought technology to the warehouse, digitalisation has elevated lift truck operator training. From virtual reality simulators to modernised training videos and eLearning, there are new digital options and learning technologies that can support engagement and comprehension for warehouse workers and equipment operators. Find what works for you Businesses today are challenged to cope with a revolving door of employees, and must prioritise training, as well as constantly reinforcing operating best practices. Investing in OAS technology can help bring warehouses into the digital age and get the most out of mission-critical labour resources to keep pace with demand. OAS technology can help warehouses boost efficiency and adherence to lift truck operating best practices. But as with any new technology, the solution must suit the specific operation. For further information please visit: www.yale.com combilift.com UNLOCK EVERY INCH OF YOUR STORAGE SPACE! 2 ENHANCE THE SAFETY, STORAGE & EFFICIENCY OF YOUR LOGISTICS WITH COMBILIFT Our pioneering product range of multidirectional, articulated and pedestrian forklifts, straddle carriers and container loaders allows you to manoeuvre long loads safely, reduce aisle widths and increase the amount of space available for storage. For 25 years, Combilift has been revolutionising the way companies handle and store goods. We help companies of all sizes and from every industry to maximise the capacity, safety and efficiency of their warehouse and storage facilities. CONTACT US TODAY To find out how Combilift can help you unlock every inch of your storage space.

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