With the transportation and storage industry involved in more accidents with workplace vehicles than any other sector,* it’s hardly surprising that safety is at the forefront of loading bay design.
Logistics businesses are now able to significantly reduce the risk of a whole host of accidents, thanks to the technological advancements that make automation a common feature of many loading bays. Equipment and safety procedures have influenced each other’s development, with safety mechanisms being increasingly integrated into warehouse designs.
Traffic light systems, wheel locks and sequenced operating systems offer some of the more technical solutions to safety concerns, while enhanced natural lighting, reduced slip hazards and better training are practical measures that are being adopted in industrial operations across the country. Industrial door and loading bay manufacturer, Hörmann has recently noted an increase in demand for both more complex technical systems and for simple design solutions, such as transparent panels in roller shutters to improve visibility.
As the focus on safety increases, so does the demand for manufacturer-backed service support. The wider use of automated equipment means a greater reliance on technology for safe and efficient operations, something logistics businesses are starting to recognise, with maintenance becoming a central part of commercial planning.
An increase in emergency call-outs is to be expected in the winter months; however, in the last few years Hörmann has seen companies requesting additional checks of functioning equipment to prevent any further problems. As businesses begin to recognise the value of prevention over cure, scheduled maintenance packages with 24 hour emergency support are becoming the norm.
Mutli-brand fixed price servicing is another choice that is proving particularly popular. Allowing customers to utilise one maintenance provider for a range of equipment, these packages offer greater flexibility and value, while simplifying service schedules and regulatory compliance.
With detailed documentation and audit trails often required for risk assessment and insurance purposes, Hörmann is now offering real-time reporting as part of its support package. Using tablet computers, service engineers are linked to a central system, where all assets and maintenance schedules are logged. Such a provision allows engineers to instantly see the up-to-date records of assets, and log all actions and recommendations in one place.
These service options not only assist with budgetary control and financial planning, enabling businesses to deliver an increased return on investment, but they also help to streamline maintenance processes and personnel through a single point of contact, saving both time and expenditure.
For specific information relating to Hörmann’s 24/7 maintenance support service, contact the service team direct on 01530 516856.
* According to the HSE www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/causinj/workplace-transport.pdf
Tel: 01530 516888
Email: info@hormann.co.uk
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