News from MLA Holding Australia's Largest Forklift Supplier

March 2015 Safety Bulletin

Posted in News

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It is a short process that will only take a few minutes, a few important minutes that could prevent serious injury and even death. The importance of the forklift pre-start checklist system is undeniable; it helps ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. A pre-start safety check should be conducted at the beginning of each shift and every time an operator uses a different forklift. Operators should never assume that the forklift has been left in a safe condition by the previous operator.

According to Safe Work Australia pre-start safety checks or procedures should include the following:

  • Lift and tilt systems including the correct operation of attachments such as clamps, hydraulics lines (for oil leaks), chains, cables and limits.
  • Steering, brakes (including park brakes), controls and lights.
  • Each tyre for wear, damage, and inflation (pneumatic types)
  • Guarding is in place and functional, for example, around the battery compartment or fuel lines.
  • All warning devices are operational.
  • Fork arms and attachments (for deformation, damage or wear)
  • Liquid levels, for example, hydraulic oil, brake fluid and water.
  • Gas cylinder, where relevant, and its securing system.
  • Check the condition and adjustment of the seat and seat belts to ensure they work reliably.
  • Load capacity data plate is fitted, legible and correct.
  • Mast: check for signs of wear, damage, cracks or repairs.

If any defects are identified, complete the operational checklist with details and follow organisational policies and procedures for tagging out of equipment and reporting. The forklift pre-start checklist should only be conducted by operators who are trained to do so, while any maintenance and repairs must be done by persons who are competent and authorised to do so.

Aside from reducing the risk of injury to the operator and other employees, the pre-start inspection will also improve the condition of the forklift, increase productivity, and reduce downtime and maintenance costs.

MLA Holdings has an excellent reputation for keeping the forklifts they provide operating at peak performance. MLA's trained technicians can respond to any defects identified in the pre-start checklist inspection almost immediately.

Information for this article was sourced from Safe Work Australia and the Nationwide Training Forklift Operation Manual.

 

Download the pdf here.

 

 

New Reach Truck from Mitsubishi

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Mitsubishi RBF14-20CAbreaking

MLA and Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks have delivered where many before them have failed: A no-nonsense, uncomplicated reach truck that tops the performance of any competitor on the market.

MLA Holdings, exclusive supplier of Mitsubishi forklifts in Australia, has announced an extension of its world leading warehouse product range with the release of a brand new reach truck. The warehousing and distribution industry has long desired a reach truck that's unproblematic to operate and maintain yet excels in productivity.


"The RBF14-20CA from Mitsubishi is incredibly user friendly, it's built on simplicity without compromising on performance," says Gary Hodge, National Sales & Marketing Manager at MLA Holdings. "MLA is very pleased that we are now able to offer this product to the Australian market."

Hydraulics, travelling, and power steering functions on the RBF have been integrated into one AC control system, which makes the truck much smoother to operate. The simplicity of the controls allows the operator to be more focussed and productive. Visibility is also significantly enhanced on the RBF. The free lift cylinder is mounted diagonally and away from the mast symmetry, allowing for unflawed forward view.

Performance standards were not compromised when making the RBF-CA. AC motor technology delivers a smooth and powerful drive, while 360 degree steering gives the truck a tight turning radius, creating space efficiency in busy warehouse environments.

The RBF14-20CA reach truck is available in three different models with a maximum lift height of 10 metres.

MLA Holdings have been leading the Australian materials handling industry since 1980. Together with the Mitsubishi Forklift brand they hold a reputation built on delivering the highest quality, most reliable forklifts. The new RBF14-20CA reach truck is another addition to its extensive range of warehouse, electric, and engine forklifts.

The release of the RBF14-20CA has been reported by T&L News, foodprocessing.com.au and tradeplantequipment.com.au.

February 2015 Safety Bulletin

Posted in News

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A high percentage of accidents involving forklifts also involve pedestrians. On average up to 50% of forklift accidents are pedestrian related, resulting in many serious injuries and fatalities every year. The most common pedestrian related accidents involve crushing, falling objects, and running over pedestrians' feet.

The best way to reduce these accidents is to effectively separate pedestrians and forklifts, and the best way to do that is to have an effective traffic management plan in place at your workplace. WorkCover NSW defines a traffic management plan as; "A set of rules for managing the safest and most efficient movement of traffic in your workplace." They recommend using the four SAFE Steps of hazard management, which consist of;

  • Spot the Hazard – associated with the movement of forklifts, other vehicles and pedestrians.
  • Assess the Risk – caused by these hazards.
  • Fix the Problem – the most effective way to control risks is to eliminate them.
  • Evaluate Results – ensure control measures have been implemented and are not creating new hazards.

WorkCover NSW suggests that the SAFE process be repeated at regular intervals.

There are many other factors to consider for your traffic management plan to ensure that forklifts and pedestrians are separated and their paths don't cross, including but not limited to;

  • Create 'no go' zones for forklifts (pedestrian only areas).
  • Create 'no go' zones for pedestrians (forklift only areas).
  • Using safety signs, high impact physical safety barriers and boom gates.
  • Using speed-limiting devices and implementing speed limits.
  • Using a combination of audible (alarms and horns) and visual (flashing lights) warning devices and ensuring these are working when the forklift is operating.
  • Providing high-visibility or reflective clothing for workers and operators and high-visibility markings for the forklift trucks.
  • Work scheduling that prevents pedestrians being in the same area at the same time as operating forklifts.

A combined effort from operators, pedestrians and supervisors is needed to ensure that a separation of forklifts and pedestrians is achieved. Supervisors must ensure that employees observe exclusion zones and follow safety procedures at all times. Do not wait until an injury or death occurs at your workplace before separating pedestrians and forklifts.

All forklifts supplied by MLA Holdings are fitted with audible and visual warning devices. Options such as cameras and speed-limiting devices are also available.

Information for this article was sourced from www.workcover.nsw.gov.au and www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au.

 

Download the pdf here.

 

Review - 7 Tonne Forklift

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Mitsubishi Grendia FD70N Forklift 1-smallbreaking

New forklifts at MLA! The new 7 tonne forklift from Mitsubishi reviewed by Andrew Norton.

 

 

Mitsubishi Grendia FD70N Forklift

The heavy duty Mitsubishi Grendia FD70N is built to deliver sturdy, energy efficient and remarkable performance, but even better — no numb bums. Andrew Norton reports.
 

During the past 24 years of reviewing forklift trucks I've experienced bum-numbing drives with some diesel models. This is fine for porkers like me who desperately need flab reduction, not so good for slimmer drivers who have little backside cushioning.

But Mitsubishi has changed that with its FD70N. The combination of fully floating power train and suspension seat reduce transmitted vibration to the extent where it's sensed rather than felt. Though Mitsubishi's beautifully balanced 6 cylinder S6S engine has a lot to do with this.

Mitsubishi Grendia FD70N: An overview

The first thing you notice about the Japanese-made FD70N is its compact dimensions relative to load capacity.

The overall length to fork face is just 3,592mm. Yet the height to the overhead operator guard with mast lowered is 2,610mm, so the vehicle looks shorter than it actually is. Stability is not an issue as dual front wheels are fitted, bringing the maximum width to 2,173mm.

Sensibly Mitsubishi has fitted the same 8.25–15–12PR pneumatic tyres (solid optional) front and rear with vacuum-assisted self-adjusting drum brakes all-round. Drum brakes are straightforward to service and have a long service life.

Mitsubishi Grendia FD70N Power

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The S6S has plenty of grunt down low, just where it's needed for moving the full 7-tonne rated load plus dry vehicle weight of 9.5 tonnes.

Having tested marine engines for almost 32 years, it would also make an excellent power plant for displacement cruisers or work boats to nine metres, but this review is not about boating.

Mitsubishi Grendia FD70N Controls

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To left of the steering wheel with its rim knob are the mechanical handbrake and a bank of indicator lights (such as neutral position) and to the right an instrument panel containing warning lights for engine overheat and low oil pressure, parking brake and glow plug on and an hour meter and fuel gauge.

Standard are four levers in the normal position: fork raise and lower, mast tilt, fork side shift and an auxiliary control for a prong rotator with the hydraulics for this plumbed in.

Mitsubishi Grendia FD70N Performance

Mitsubishi Grendia FD70N Forklift operator-station-1

Driveability, ride quality and speed

After a brief glow plug warm-up the S6S engine started instantly with no black smoke appearing.

After getting used to the controls I tried the 2-speed powershift transmission, operated by a small lever to the left of the steering wheel.

With my foot firmly on the brake, I released the well-placed handbrake and selected forward, which engaged with barely a clunk. At about 10km/h it shifted positively into second gear and I accelerated to about 15km/h.

Mitsubishi claims top speeds of 22km/h laden and 28 unladen, but 15 was plenty fast enough in that car park. The brakes worked quickly with just gentle pressure, so standing on the brake pedal to stop the machine wasn't needed.

Having a relatively short wheelbase, the ride was a bit choppy over the undulating concrete surface but the suspension seat eliminated any shocks through my bum flab.

In reverse the demo unit changed up at about the same speed and by using the steering wheel knob and turned to look over my shoulder the vehicle could be positioned exactly where wanted.

The combination of short wheelbase, light hydraulic steering and tight turning radius were great for reaching cargo in tight spots. The engine torque kept the vehicle turning without needing any throttle opening, so my foot could be kept over the brake pedal.

Lifting

Because of the massive bottom end torque of the engine, on level ground I could inch the forks into the pallet without using the inching pedal, instead applying varying pressure on the main brake pedal.

In my opinion being able to keep my foot on the brake at all times was safer than using accelerator and inching pedal, though on up slopes this combination would be needed.

The lift and mast controls fell to hand and with the high seat position I could clearly see the forks for inching into the pallet.

A gentle raise, mast back slightly, then onto the accelerator for rapid lift or lower. The overhead guard rails and clear roof panel didn't affect my view of the cargo.

The Verdict

The FD70N won't make flabby forklift operators any fitter but I'm sure there are lesser diesel machines up to the task.

Mitsubishi has put a hell of a lot of effort into designing and engineering this machine. Its ergonomics will reduce operator fatigue and the easy servicing access will save a lot of wasted time.

The S6S engine and 2-speed powershift are way better than just a single speed torque converter and I really liked having two speeds in reverse as well as forward.

 

Originally published as "Smooth Operator" in ATN Magazine and Plant & Equipment Magazine. Andrew Norton's full review of the Mitsubishi FD70N can be seen at www.tradeplantequipment.com.au.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

January 2015 Safety Bulletin

Posted in News

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Don't get complacent around a forklift!

Workplace complacency occurs when you've been doing something a certain way for so long without incident that you naturally assume there can never be an incident. Workers and operators develop a false sense of security and that's when things can start to go wrong. Complacency is a common and frustrating occurrence in most workplaces in some form or another and can have devastating consequences. It can become particularly dangerous when operating a forklift and working in an environment where forklifts commonly operate.

Complacency is regarded by many as safety's worst enemy. Although safety processes are always put in and we start off with the best intentions, confidence and routine inevitably set it, and that almost always leads to complacency. It is not unusual to see operators raising their load while turning their forklift or exceeding speed limits in order to meet deadlines. The pre-start checklist system is another procedure that is frequently skipped. Operators get deceived into a sense of complacency and genuinely believe that the equipment is safe to operate even when taking these shortcuts.

It's not only operators that are guilty of complacency. The above occurrences are quite common, but how often is this behaviour challenged by managers and supervisors? Until these incidents result in accidents, they go unnoticed in many workplaces, jeopardizing the safety of many employees. It is up to both operators and managers alike to battle complacency.

In regards to forklifts, WorkCover NSW states that:

  •  Employers are responsible for providing proper information, training and supervision.

Employees have responsibilities too. WorkCover NSW states that they must:

  •  Comply with reasonable instructions, training and information given to them, and follow safe work procedures to do work.

Operators need to be trained to understand the importance of forklift inspection and maintenance as well as safe and correct operation of the machinery. Managers and supervisors must provide site and equipment specific training to maintain and enhance operators' skills. As things get forgotten and bad habits and complacency form, an effective system of management and supervision needs to be in place to ensure operators receive regular familiarisation and refresher training.

The best way to fight complacency is regular reminders. Safety meetings before every shift are effective as they will allow bringing safety awareness to the forefront of everybody's mind right before they begin each and every shift.

Information for this article was sourced from www.forkliftaction.com and www.workcover.nsw.gov.au. 

Download the pdf here.

 

 

 

 

Reduce Manual Handling Injuries with Mitsubishi

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Power pallet movers, part of MLA's extensive warehouse forklifts range, can reduce back injuries!

One in three injuries to Australian workers is caused by manual handling. Manual handling injuries are not limited to those sustained by lifting or carrying heavy loads. A person can be injured when handling objects in a variety of ways, including pulling, pushing, holding or restraining.

 

According to the Australian Workers Compensation Statistics 2011-12, the most common of these work related injuries are sprains and strains, accounting for 43% of all serious compensations claims. Between 2000 and 2012, 20% of these serious compensations claims were a direct result of back strains and injuries. In this same time period, 21% of all weeks lost from work were as a result of back injuries.

Safe Work Australia suggests that back injuries are most common in the transport and storage, and manufacturing industries. An effective way to reduce the high rates of back injuries in these industries is to minimise or stop the use of manual hand pallet jacks when moving heavy loads.

Manual pallet jacks can make significant physical demands on operators in confined areas, particularly when heavy loads have to be pulled or pushed using muscle power alone. If moving loads greater then 500kg, then trading in a hand pallet truck for a Mitsubishi battery powered version should strongly be considered.

It is the effort involved in starting and stopping a load that results in most back injuries. Mitsubishi's Forklift Briefing website states that the maximum figure for safely starting or stopping a load is an effort of 20kg for men and 15 kg for women. Testing of hand pallet jacks shows that starting a 500kg load from a stationary position takes an effort of 23.3kg. Increase the load to 2000kg, and the force required is 49.6kg, much greater than the official guidelines recommend. This is why many back injuries occur and many hours of work are lost at great cost to Australian businesses.

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While initially more costly than hand pallet jacks electric power pallet movers are a much safer and a more cost effective solution in the long run. With the right equipment specification and operator training, electric power pallet movers will significantly reduce the risk of operator injury, reduce fatigue, improve operator performance and increase the efficiency of the operation.

Workers and machine operators are important assets to an organisation, so why not ensure their safety when handling heavy loads. Mitsubishi PREMIA power pallet movers offer a comprehensive solution to safe horizontal movement of heavy loads, while minimising the risk of back injury prevalent with the use of manual hand pallet jacks.

Acceleration, top speed and braking characteristics are fully programmable to suit each individual's needs. When the control handle is pulled all the way down or up, the truck automatically stops. Furthermore, when the emergency button is activated the truck immediately stops. For tight turning in confined spaces the Mitsubishi PREMIA power pallet movershave a unique "handle-up" operation feature making it ideal for use in containers and the back of trucks.

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Avoid back injury and time lost from work. Mitsubishi power pallet movers are sure to make light work of transporting loads, in a safe and easy manner, and help your business avoid contributing to workplace injury statistics.

This article was also published by safetysolutions.net.au.