A long-established West Midlands firm has developed an innovative electrical interlock system which aims to reduce the number of loading dock accidents.

The loading dock interlock system, developed by engineering design and project management firm Lorien Engineering Solutions, is the brainchild of engineers Tim Redfern and Phil Colquhoun.

It has been developed in response to the needs of a forward-thinking Lorien client in the North West of England which required an accident-proof system that would eliminate the potential for accidents as lorries pull away from loading docks.

Northwich-based Frank Roberts & Sons has undergone a multi – million pound investment, installing the innovative interlock systems to its loading bays.

The Lorien system comprises a control panel in the main building, which is connected via electrical lead to the vehicle, effectively immobilising it until loading is complete and staff are clear of the loading area.

The driver of the vehicle is kept aware of what is happening behind him via an LED ‘traffic light’ system in the cabin which flashes from red to green when the system has been disconnected and he’s clear to drive away.

The system is suitable for companies which operate fixed wheel base vehicles and is currently on trial in the North West.

“Slips and falls are among the most common types of accidents that occur on loading docks, and many of them are serious,” said Tim Redfern. “Often companies don’t consider loading dock safety until an accident happens; we believe that this system eliminates the potential for miscommunication between driver and loader and therefore vastly reduces the potential for accidents.”

Lorien Engineering Solutions is an engineering design and project management organisation, and is part of the Lorien Limited group of companies.

With operations in Lichfield UK and Wroclaw Poland, the company has a staff of more than 70 specialists who design and deliver manufacturing projects in the brewing, drinks, food and pharmaceutical industries. Other areas of specialism are manufacturing performance improvement, sustainability and health & safety consultancy.

Working for many of the world’s top manufacturing organisations within the UK and overseas, Lorien Engineering Solutions was recently awarded with the Order of Distinction for occupational health and safety in the construction by RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) for the fourth year running.

Lorien Engineering Solutions

Tel: 01543 444244

Email:engineering.solutions@lorien.co.uk

www.lorienengineering.com

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