Page 49 - OHS, April 2021

to address this problem. When the sensors detect an object approaching, a strip of red light emitting diodes (LEDs) begin flashing on the opposite side alerting workers of potential danger. Such systems can be an alternative or complement to high-speed doors with clear plastic vision panels. Although the LED lights are typically placed just outside of the door’s frame on each side, they can be set up anywhere that enables the best visibility.
Use Data to Diminish Risk
For decades, logistics operations have relied on two-way radios, yard checks on foot and spreadsheets to manage the flow of trailers in and out of their facility. These traditional communication methods provide somewhat limited and outdated information, but until recently they were the best available.
Now, better options exist. Smart controls that can interlock loading dock equipment, from vehicle restraints to levelers and dock doors, are a good example. Not only can they be programmed to operate exclusively in a safe sequence of operation, they also provide potentially invaluable performance and usage information. Recently developed paperless software solutions bring an enhanced sense of clarity and order to logistics operations from the dock interior, to the drive approach and even the yard – including minimization of detention and demurrage
costs. These enhancements are likely to have a positive impact on shipper of choice status and internal company culture.
When connected to an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) platform, data from smart controls at loading docks, blind intersections and interior door openings can be used for operational improvements. The leading IIoT platform can distill this source information to provide managers with actionable insights about safety, energy efficiency and productivity for both the short- and long term. When connected in this way, workers have a better chance of reducing their risk of injury and returning home to their families each night.
Walt Swietlik is the Director of Customer Service and Sales Support at Rite-Hite. Walt Swietlik has more than 35 years of experience in the material handling industry, with 30 of them focused on warehouse safety and productivity. For the past two decades, he has managed Rite-Hite’s popular “Customer Fly-In Program,” where he works closely withavarietyofcustomerstoaddresstheirchallengeswithshipping and receiving areas. Walt has become a noted expert on issues related to shipping/receiving and the critical role of loading docks in supply chain logistics, authoring articles for a variety of professional and trade publications. He has also spoken at numerous local, regional and national forums, including ProMat and MODEX.
π
A HOT SELECTION OF SAFETY ITEMS
MEETS OSHA 1910 Subpart D and ANSI-A1264.1-2017
BEST GATE VALUE
IN THE INDUSTRY
AVAILABLE IN TWO SIZES TO FIT MOST OPENINGS
16”- 26” $219.78 24”-40” $235.32
A PORTION OF ALL SALES GOES TO OPERATION SUPPORT OUR TROOPS
MADE IN THE USA
ORDER NOW AT
SAFETYCONTROLS.COM
FOR FREE SHIPPING WITHIN 48 HOURS
www.ohsonline.com
APRIL 2021 | Occupational Health & Safety 45
Circle 10 on card.
COMPLETE CATALOG
1-800-295-5510 uline.com
Circle 23 on card.
ORDER BY 6 PM FOR SAME DAY SHIPPING