Advantages of Using Automation Technology on Manned Forklifts

Due to increasingly competitive industrial environments, warehouse and distribution center managers are challenged to reduce costs and increase productivity. On top of this, there is a need to raise quality and safety standards.

Implementation of a fully-automated, unit-load-handling equipment process can be costly and may not be in budget. That’s why SICK has a solutions for incorporating backup sensing technologies on manned forklifts that can help maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and reduce collisions.

According to OSHA, 70% of all forklift accidents could be avoided through standardized training and safety procedures. But even with these precautions in place, accidents can still occur due to human error, physical limitations, or blind spots in warehouses.

As a result, SICK’s object detection systems, particularly on the back (non-fork) side of a manned forklift can help managers take extra precautions.

Two primary types of backup sensing technologies are available: passive and active. Passive systems provide the driver information about the surrounding area, but the driver ultimately has to make the judgment about when to apply the brakes.

Active systems continuously monitor a specific area behind the forklift and respond to a transponder “tag” to be worn by all personnel. This will alert the driver of anyone entering into the detection zone.

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How Automation Technologies Improve Forklift Operating Efficiency and Reduce Collisions
Reduce accidents and minimize costs from damage and downtime with backup sensing systems. Download Now!