The Evolution of Material Mobility

With an estimated 85 forklift fatalities and thousands of material handling-related injuries each year, the need for alternative solution arose. To mitigate some of the serious safety risks associated with forklifts and pallet jacks, many industries are moving away from this technology to wheeled cart solutions.

Battery-operated tugs are designed to provide a safer alternative for moving large loads, without exposing personnel to unnecessary risk. By effectively distributing and mobilizing virtually any load on wheels, users can transport thousands of pounds with total control and without strain—preventing injuries, reduced productivity and lost revenue experienced with other material handling solutions.

Conventional Material Handling Methods: Pallet Jacks

Another device frequently used in material handling applications is a pallet jack, which operates similarly to forklift trucks, but on a much smaller scale. Pallet jacks lift and move stationary loads to provide a walk-behind alternative to forklift trucks. Available in both manual and electric options, pallet jacks are designed to haul pallets through warehouses. Difficult to control, pallet jacks result in accidental contact with other employees or equipment. When maneuvering pallet jacks, operators commonly run over other employees’ feet, fracturing bones and creating a hazard to pedestrian traffic. Pallet jack operators can also pin either themselves or other employees against walls, causing serious damage.

In addition to lack of control, operators must also be concerned about pallet jack depreciation, as wear and tear on the device can escalate safety concerns. If tires are worn unevenly or have flat spots, pallet jacks will not carry the load uniformly, increasing the possibility that the load will tip or fall. Also, breakdowns with operational systems such as the hydraulics, steering or brakes could cause serious accidents when a load cannot be stopped or controlled. Further, workers can also experience stress to the hands and arms because of difficulty steering and stopping the device.

Conventional Material Handling Methods: Forklift Trucks

Forklifts are a more convenient alternative to manpower that lacks the physicality of manual labor by mechanically lifting and moving heavy loads; however, they do present a separate set of safety concerns. Congestion on the plant floor, reduced load control, vehicle instability and polluted air emissions are just a few of the potential risks associated with forklift truck operation.

Due to the instability of their design, forklift trucks can overturn from overload, incorrect load positioning, operator errors or poor maintenance—putting drivers at life-threatening risk. Further, forklifts increase the risk of collisions. By moving at high speeds throughout the facility, forklifts not only run the risk of striking other forklifts, but also increase hazards for employees. Additionally, ergonomic deficiencies also lead to potential injuries. Uncomfortable seating and poor shocks can cause operators to suffer back, neck and arm pain induced by exerting excessive physical effort to compensate for vehicle vibrations.

Forklift trucks can also impact the indoor air quality of the facility. These vehicles emit exhaust gasses that pollute the air within the facility, subsequently forcing occupants to breathe in these toxins. This will eventually lower the air quality for the building and poor indoor air quality can have significant health consequences, such as causing or exacerbating respiratory disorders, fatigue, headaches and more.