Chronics

Forklifts are powerful material handling machines that are used in many different work areas. They are the root of many accidents and even deaths. Forklifts have many characteristics that the pedestrians along with the driver of the forklift do not know which would explain the number of accidents.

Characteristics of a forklift

Strength and weight:

The compact shape of a forklift is difficult to assume that it is heavy. In fact the weight of a forklift is actually the equivalent of six cars. Being in front of this powerful equipment in movement and even at low speed a pedestrian does not stand a chance to pull out during a collision.

Rear wheel direction:

This feature ensures that the rear of the forklift moves in the opposite direction when cornering. It is very important that the pedestrians keep a secure distance from the forklift and to never have their feet close to the wheels.

Reduced vision:

Due to the configuration of the forklift there are more blind spots for the driver which is quite alarming. The load, the mast, and the structure of the forklift are many of the visual obstacles to the driver. This reduced visibility disables the detection of pedestrians and is difficult to prevent dangerous situations and diminishes the chances of emergency braking.

Considerable braking distance:

The braking distance of a forklift varies on the speed, the load and the driving surface. We have a tendency to go faster when the forklift is empty

• At 6 km/h (Walking speed), A forklift requires at least 3 meters in order to stop.
• At 12 km/h, a forklift with still move 7 to 8 meters before actually stopping.

Human error is not to be dismissed

It is sure that the forklift has particular features, even when the driver has perfect control over his environment, we cannot forget human error.

Many scenarios can explain poor pedestrian detection on behalf of the driver

• The driver omits to look in the direction of the movement of the forklift.
• The driver circulates in reverse and yet does not spot check the surroundings
• The task enables the attention and concentration of the driver(limiting all possibilities of detection)
• The driver has an obstructed view; by the structure of the forklift, the load being transported, the structure of the building, the layout of the merchandise on the floor and by the circulation of other vehicles (either parked or moving).
• The driver is unable to detect pedestrians due to poor lighting or glare.
• The driver does not use the vision tools which are provided (mirrors , signals, presence detectors)

How to avoid or at least limit accidents which implicates pedestrians?

• Separating the forklift zone from the pedestrian zone by making separate aisles one for pedestrians and one for forklifts.
• Denying access in the forklift zone.
• In any possible mesure, pedestrians must keep a secure distance from the forklift. It is important to make visual contact with the forklift driver thus assuring the driver is aware of your presence in the work zone.
• Assure that the work zone is well lit and there are no obstacles that may reduce the driver’s visibility.
• Exercise caution around and near blind spots, near entrances and narrow aisles. The driver must apply the horn of the forklift when approaching crossroads.
• Wear visible clothing where it’s required.
• Set speed limits for forklifts.
• Do not walk near forklifts which the forks are lifted neither walk underneath the forks.
• Take caution not to obstruct the vision of the forklift driver who is transporting a load.
• Avoid operating a forklift where there is an elevated pedestrian zone.

Limit areas of restricted vision

To prevent collisions, a pedestrian detection is necessary. Many types of cameras are recommended in this situation. Simple cameras, radars, ultrasounds or morphological recognition etc. Fo exemple, a pedestrian detection system using a morphological recognition system.

Blue : Field of vision (control screen)

Orange : Danger zone (As soon as a pedestrian enters this area, the driver is warned by an alarm)

Attention, these security systems are tools to assist the vigilance of the driver. The simple fact of installing a system would not eliminate all accidents but would certainly help to diminish some of them. Whatever position we are whether a driver or pedestrian being vigilant is important.

Maximize your vision and security on the work site by installing an industrial camera: 

Public Works Sector - Be equipped to perform better!

Alltech Group offers many products and security tools for equipment used for municipal public works. Which can assist you in daily public works routines.

Our company has a great knowledge of maintenance and safety systems. Our consultants are able to guide you to the correct system which meets your needs for your equipment along with your working environment.

Our ultimate goal is to help you increase the productivity of your equipment, while ensuring the safety of your employees. Our solutions would simply allow you to maintain your equipment to an optimal, efficient and reliable state.  

Our systems can be installed on all types of machines;

Gouvernment / Municipal 

Wheeled loader, Grader, Backhoe, Excavator, Dump Truck, Street sweeper, Snow removal Truck 

Utilities truck, Recycling Truck, Service truck, Tank truck, Asphalt truck, Cement Truck, Delivery Truck, Crane truck, Dump Truck, Garbage Truck

Products available for this industry

Safety code for construction

Many organizations, notably Hydro Québec and the CNESST require that construction equipment must be equipped with a range limiting device that blocks the system to avoid contact with electrical wires and any environmental obstacles. You thus have to conform to the « Safety code for construction ».  

Did you know?

The electrical current of high voltage wires can easily be in contact with objects and people that are not located at a secure distance! 

Distance to respect:

When jobs are carried out near power lines, all people, parts, equipment or machinery parts must be :

• More than 3m of the electrical lines that are less than 125 kV;
• More than 5m of the electrical line that are 125 to 250 kV:
• More than 8m of the electrical line that are 250 to 550 kV;
• More than 12m of the electrical line that are more than 550 kV.

For more detail, consul: 

What is a range limiting device?

The range limiting device is a safety device and assistance for equipment operators. It is a monitoring device which supplies the operator precise indication on the positioning of the machine in respect to environmental obstacles which will protect the operator. It therefore limits the risk of the machine to come into contact with environmental obstacles (Electrical wires, walls, ceilings, etc.).

For more infomation about MEGA range limiting device: 

Because simplicity + reliability = Security 

In order to comply with the law, does not mean it needs to be a complicated task. The MEGA range limiting device is simple and easy to program. The Alltech Group recommends the 600 series for all excavation jobs.

The range limiting device MEGA 6000 is designed to program a height limit and a rotation limit (left, right). It is also possible to program multiple limits (optional) and to indicate the depth of the bucket (optional). The range limiting device series model 6000 was conceived for a use on many types of machines. It can be installed on all makes and models of equipment.

It adapts too many types of installations;

• Excavator
• Mini-excavator
• Backhoe
• Wheeled excavator
• Excavator double –boom

The range limiting device is an indispensable tool for your security while operating an excavator below electrical wires.

Yes, it’s the law, but above all it is for your security!

Contact your representative for further information

The industrial and commercial snow removal is a market increasingly specialized, where companies seek to stand out by finding performance tools for their equipment. 

The safer way to plow!

The driver of the vehicle has only to follow the laser spot projected on the road.

The GL3000PMC Guidance Laser uses an “ultra-bright” green laser to establish wing plow trailing edge location before you get there. It is electronically designed for cold weather operation.

This laser is coupled to a special heat source for the exit window to reduce or eliminate ice build-up on the front of the laser output lens. The GL3000PMC also has a unique pneumatic snow removal system incorporated with the laser housing that automatically fires a blast of air at the front of the laser lens every 5 seconds. This removes snow build-up from the laser output lens.

ADVANTAGES

Cuts damage caused by plow strikes by 80 to 100%.

Less strain on the driver.

Reduces equipment down time.

It’s much safer.

Improve your DOT rating (Service evaluation).

For more information about LASERLINE