Cleanliness is vital to the safe and effective operations of warehouses and other logistics facilities, says Michael Lowe, Industrial Vacuum Specialist at Nilfisk.
However, the round-the-clock nature of operations in these premises poses significant challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety of operatives needing to undertake vital cleaning tasks, as well as others working locally.
Challenges around keeping individual colleagues clear of the movements of fork-lift trucks and other vehicles operating nearby are well documented.
However, a further potential hazard emanates from the cleaning equipment itself.
Traditionally, electrical cleaning tools used have had to be equipped with long cords, to ensure they are always within reach of a socket as individual power sockets may not be available in every corner of the facility.
These cords present a significant safety hazard, with the potential to cause slips, trips, and falls, not just for the cleaning operatives themselves, but for others working nearby, especially in high-traffic areas.
This is a challenge which has now been met in the area of industrial vacuum cleaners by Nilfisk with the introduction of the VHB-436, the first lithium battery-powered cleaner of its kind on the market. It enables cleaning where electrical outlets are scarce, or cables pose a safety risk.
Retaining all the attributes of Nilfisk’s standard industrial vacuum cleaners such as unrivalled power and easy manoeuvrability, the VHB-436 enables safe cleaning for extended periods even when a local power source is not readily available.
Each machine can be fitted with up to three individual, modular lithium-ion batteries, which between them allow for more than two hours of uninterrupted running time before they need to be changed or recharged. And when the time comes to charge, each battery can be recharged from empty to 90 per cent in just two hours thanks to the powerful on-board charger. The integrated Battery Management System tracks and logs performance, making it ideal for IoT applications.
A compact design, large wheels and handles all-around the unit make for simple and precise movement and positioning, ensuring it is suitable for use in even the most difficult to access areas of the warehouse.
Its unrivalled suction power means it can easily and rapidly clean overhead racks, shelves, and beams. Customers can also choose from a 50-litre or 100-litre capacity container depending on their individual needs.
Optional forklift brackets for machine elevation and transportation and a full range of overhead accessories, mean the VHB-436 can tackle dirt in high-level and out-of-reach locations. Nilfisk’s high-reach kits include eight individual 1.5-metre poles, which can be simply clipped together allowing heights of up to 12 metres to be reached. Made from strong yet lightweight carbon composite, the poles weigh just 310g each, and so ensure that even at the full 12-metre extension, handling remains simple and precise. The wide range of accessories, including a flexi pick-up hose and assorted internal brush tools are easily stored with a carrying bag.
Operator safety is maximised by the presence of a HEPA filtration system which safely captures potentially hazardous dusts, and a Longopac® collection system which cuts the risk of operator exposure.
For further information and to arrange a demonstration of the VHB-436, visit www.nilfisk.com/en-gb/campaigns/vhb436-promotion
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