Ergonomic Initiatives
Mandated ergonomic initiatives and how casters play a major role
As companies continue to recognize the effects that ergonomics can play in workplace health and safety, there is a growing trend towards mandated ergonomic initiatives. Some of these initiatives include; forklift-free environments, push pull force minimization, efficient cart design, noise reduction and what we term Ergonomic Longevity™. By implementing ergonomic initiatives in material handling environments, companies can reduce employee injuries and related costs while improving overall productivity. High quality casters with ergonomic centered design can greatly contribute to this cause.
Forklift-free
The forklift-free ergonomic initiative mandates the transition from using powered forklifts to manual carts in plant/material handling operations. The motivation for this change is driven by the need to decrease the risk of injuries from forklifts, which is a major source of cost and which also negatively impacts productivity. However, when moving to forklift-free, companies need to maintain efficiency and increase safety. This can be accomplished in several ways, one of which is by introducing an ergonomic caster on trollies and carts that will reduce push/pull and swiveling forces.
Push/pull force minimization
In the context of casters, push/pull force minimization refers in large part to the production of wheel materials and rig designs that optimize caster ergonomics and allow a load to be safely conveyed. Different floor conditions, types, and environments will often dictate which type of caster to use in order to reduce rolling resistance and swiveling forces. By efficiently managing these forces, productivity increases and repetitive stress injuries are reduced or eliminated.
Efficient cart design
One of the main considerations in efficient cart design is caster selection. There are several influencing factors such as caster configuration, wheel material, geometry of the rig and overall caster positioning which will facilitate the safe movement of the product on the cart.
Noise reduction
Noise pollution is a major safety concern in many facilities as it can cause workers to be unaware of their surroundings and potentially dangerous situations. By choosing a well-designed ergonomic caster, some of the noise in the workplace is eliminated, making it a safer environment to work in. In certain applications, the elimination of any form of “sound pollution” is a welcomed benefit.
Ergo Longevity™
Ergo Longevity™ is at the forefront of ergonomic initiatives. It’s the ability of a caster to maintain its low rolling resistance even after extensive in the field. When it comes to caster manufacturers, there are many available options, however, not all casters are created equal. In our independent studies, we have repeatedly proven the long term performance of our casters over competitive products. In fact we have built our reputation on this long-term functionality and quality and continue to invest in R&D to maintain our leadership position in the market. The ability of our casters to keep these dynamic forces low throughout the lifespan of the caster, effectively increases productivity and reduces work related injury costs and short term disability claims.
To find out more about workplace ergonomics, download the Guide to Workplace Ergonomics or complete the form below to contact our ergonomic specialists.
Let us help you find the right caster solution to suit your specific application. We have hundreds of caster designs available to order and can create custom caster solutions that will lead to long-term ROI.
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