This blog introduces the first of five in our ‘Driver Solutions’ series, and talks about how you can help ensure load stability.
The load stability system helps to ensure that your load is securely positioned. The load within the box might be unevenly distributed, if you don’t have it against the load backrest then it could shift and fall off, injuring a pedestrian or causing the truck to tip.
One very serious consideration for forklift operations is the possibility of the machine tipping when handling a load that is heavier than its specified limit or which is not positioned securely.
For operations that handle similar loads at a consistent weight, this risk can usually be mitigated by specifying a forklift that will lift slightly above the expected weight of the load. However this can become more difficult to manage for operations that handle ever more diverse loads.
Whilst having a number of forklifts with different load limits is a great option, if your operation really is handling many different types of materials it could be difficult for your drivers to judge whether the forklift they are using is the most appropriate for the load they are trying to lift.
You can help to eliminate the guesswork for the driver at the procurement stage by specifying a ‘load stability system’. This feature gives the driver confidence when lifting unknown loads, and not only measures the mass of the load but also the load centre to ensure the load is both manageable and positioned safely on the forks.
Maintaining good stability in handling is paramount, and when handling loads that aren’t appropriate for the truck in use there is a risk for not only increased wear and tear and resulting maintenance on the truck, but a risk of tipping which could be fatal when operating in a highly pedestrianised environment.
The ‘overload detection system’ can be integrated with a range of ‘forked’ machines, including forklift trucks, pallet and warehouse trucks.
Whilst handling a load, the system provides continuous weight and stability measurements for the operator via a clearly positioned LCD display screen. When the truck is approaching, or has reached, overload conditions both visual and audio signals will alert the driver with a buzzer alarm and change of the display screen colour from green, to amber, to red.
This system works effectively on its own, however the option to combine it with speed limitation technology which automatically restricts the speed of the trucks when loads reach a certain weight takes some of the emphasis off of the driver for an immediate response. It also means that loads near to the limit can be handled with additional necessary control which can serve to protect from damage to the truck, the load, warehouse infrastructure and staff.