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Any time you have heavy equipment and pedestrians together in an enclosed environment, accidents like the one that killed Brown can happen. But new technologies can help prevent pedestrians from crossing paths with forklifts and other equipment in warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and construction sites. Here’s what’s coming:
Motion Detection Systems
The traditional solution to pedestrians-versus-forklifts is to try to keep the two separate—but it isn’t always possible, and it doesn’t always work. Motion detection systems are traditionally used in security applications—but are increasingly used to make the workplace safer when pedestrians and equipment occupy the same space. Motion detection systems can:
- Provide warning. Motion detection systems can identify multiple objects—people or equipment—approaching an intersection or doorway, and trigger a warning light that lets both parties know to proceed with caution. Motion detection systems can also trigger visual and audible warning signals in areas like loading docks where visibility is poor.
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- Place a barrier. Motion sensing systems can also close gates or boom arms that physically prevent equipment or pedestrians from entering an intersection or going off an edge (such as a loading dock).
Clearance Warning Systems
When a forklift load or empty mast is raised, the lift can strike overhead obstructions, potentially tipping the forklift. Clearance warning systems notify forklift drivers of overhead hazards before they strike them. These systems include:
- Clearance warning bars. When the elevated portion of the lift strikes the bar, an alarm is triggered, warning the operator to stop.
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- Light beams. A light beam can serve the same function as a warning bar. When the beam is broken, an alarm is triggered to let the operator know his load is too tall.
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