Retaining Quality in an Impatient World

Before the computer, we were used to calling up a company to place an order or filling out their order form in the middle of their catalog. The general rule of thumb for deliveries was 4-6 weeks. We expected that and so we planned accordingly. If we needed something sooner, we’d trek off to the local store to purchase what we needed and usually had one or two choices, so we took what we could get.

How things have changed. Now we expect to be able to get products shipped to us overnight, delivered to our door, and some of us even want to order without having to speak to anyone. The easier the better. Has the quality of fabricated products suffered because of the expectancy of manufacturing products faster, cheaper, and with less attention to detail?

At WiscoLift, we refuse to compromise quality for expediency. While we have a variety of roundslings and web slings in stock to ship out immediately, our recovery straps and chain slings are fabricated when an order is received. Since we are considered a small company by government agency standards (less than 500 employees), we employ local residents and train them to produce high quality products that adhere to ANSI/ASME standards. We may not fit perfectly in the context of an impatient world, but we are proud of the quality workmanship that comes from our facility and think you may agree that “you get what you pay for.”

For more information on our fabricated web slings, recovery straps, and chain slings, visit us at WiscoLift.com or call our office at 800-242-3477.

#materialhandling #manufacturing #fabrication #slings 

Are You Interested In Collaborative Robots?

As you probably know, many companies are now integrating collaborative robots into their operations to increase efficiency. Especially for manual, redundant tasks. We are considering adding two types of Collaborative Robots into our line of material handling solutions. First is a Mobile Robot which looks like an AGV, however, it is sensor-driven and self navigating. It moves items from one location to another and automatically stops, turns and goes around objects in its direct path. No facility modifications are needed with the installation of this AIV (Automated Intelligent Vehicle). Second, the TM Series takes human-machine collaboration to the next level. This robot has a built-in vision system. The integrated camera localizes objects in a wide field of vision and the image-enhancement light enables object recognition under almost any conditions. It can pick up items and place them elsewhere. And, these two robots can be combined together to create a total integrated solution.

Mobile Robot Link: https://automation.omron.com/en/us/products/families/mobile-robots?filters=type==product&filters=category==mobile-robots&page=1&pageSize=10

Collaborative Robot Arm Link: https://automation.omron.com/en/us/products/families/collaborative-robots?filters=type==product&filters=category==collaborative-robots&page=1&pageSize=10

If you are interested in meeting to discuss ways a collaborative robot can increase productivity at your facility, please contact your Sales Representative or Rod Fisk at 800-242-3477. You may also email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com if you would like a representative to call you back.

Is Work a Pain in the Back? Try an Ergonomic Lift/Tilt Table

In manufacturing, warehouse and industrial settings, material handling requires employees to lift, move, and tilt materials repeatedly. To assist, there are several reasonably priced, portable, and ergonomic lifters to assist with repositioning. One of the most versatile is a hydraulic powered Lift/Tilt Table. With capacities between 1,000-6,000 lbs., lift tables can be used for pallets, offloading, product, assembly, repair, and to bridge different conveyor levels.

Tables are typically stationary but can be easily fitted with optional casters; two swivel and two fixed, a self-propelling handle, or a semi-portable dolly handle. There are a large variety of tops; extra wide, ball transfer, roller conveyor and tilt tables. These optional tops allow additional uses within company workstation cells.

Set-up for Safety

Before selecting a Lift Table, the employee(s) should be observed to see the various types of movements necessary and then plan accordingly. NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) provides an equation to assess lifting conditions. This equation uses six factors that have been determined to influence lifting difficulty; 1) Asymmetry (twisting), 2) Coupling (grip on load), 3) Lifting Frequency, 4) Horizontal Location of Hands (start to finish), 5) Vertical Location (from floor), and 6) Travel Distance of Load. For more information, please see OSHA’s Technical Manual.

Lift/Tilt tables should be at a height so that the employee can stand fully upright or in a fully supported, seated position. The object should be to eliminate the employee having to bend, twist or pull products, all of which can lead to back pain and injury.

As with any type of industrial equipment, consider purchasing safety features to avoid any mishaps. Bellow skirting, safety tape switch, safety touch bars, and toe guards may be added to the table to ensure safety.

With the right set-up, Lift Tables and Tilters can provide a healthier work environment and increased productivity.

For more information on Lift Tables and Tilters, call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email smartlift@wiscolift.com. Remember, “Working Safe is Working Smart.”

Are You and Your Rigging Operators Lifting Responsibly?

According to ASME B30.20, both the owner of a lifting device (the company) and its operator are responsible for certain guidelines when lifting below-the-hook devices.

EMPLOYER’S RESPONSIBILITIES

1.     Establish /Verify Equipment Safety - In order to ensure that below-the-hook equipment meets ASME standards an Equipment Inspection/Testing/Maintenance Program should be put into place. All equipment should be regularly inspected, tested and maintained so that it is in proper working order and records maintained.

2.     Use Proper Lifting Devices - Make sure that proper lifting devices are being used for a particular lifting application and that they are being used correctly according to the operating manual.

3.     Provide All Applicable Documentation - The operator should have access to operating instructions on all below-the-hook devices that provide field assembly, disassembly, operation and maintenance, and warning decals and placards installed by the manufacturer. In addition, all inspection, testing and maintenance records should be available to view before the operator lift.

4.     Use Qualified, Experienced Operators - The operator shall be instructed in the use of the devise by a designated person and should have knowledge and experience in applications and adjustments to loads, equipment shift inspection, load capacity, standard hand signals, and other overhead lifting requirements by ASME. For complete list, see ASME B30.20-3.4.2 Qualifications.

5.     Assess Lifting Conditions - Since adverse conditions can affect the lifting load, take conditions into account such as extreme temperatures, lighting, wind, precipitation or fog. The manufacturer’s recommendations should be used if conditions are questionable.

OPERATOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES

1.     Perform Visual Inspection and Test Controls - Make a visual inspection of hardware to make sure that all equipment is safe to use and test the lifting device controls that will be used to make sure they are working correctly. If any equipment is unsafe it should be reported and taken immediately out of service. ASME Section 20-3.3 states that the following should be inspected before and/or during every lift for indication of damage:

Lifting Magnets

-          Lifting magnet face and surface of the load for foreign materials and smoothness

-          Control handles of manually controlled permanent magnet

-          Condition and operation of indicators and meters

Vacuum Lifters & Mechanical Lifting Devices

-          Surface of the load for debris

-          Seal of the vacuum pad for debris

-          Condition and operation of the controls

-          Condition and operation of the indicators, meters and pumps

2.     Consider All Lifting Factors - Consider anything that may affect the load such as weather, temperature, or type of load. Ensure that all lifting operations are performed in a smooth, controlled manner and that all personnel are clear of the lifting area.

3.     Check Equipment Documentation - Check inspection/maintenance records to see if there have been any problems with the existing equipment and check other equipment documentation if necessary, for proper procedures, assembly, disassembly and rigging of the device.

4.     Lockout/Tag Procedures - Understand lockout/tagout procedures should equipment need to be taken out of service.

5.     Lifting Communication - Respond to designated people during the load lift. A STOP order should be followed regardless of who issues it.

ADDITIONAL TIPS

Check Manufacturer’s Tolerances

You will find that different manufacturers offer the same lifting device but they can have different load ratings and tolerances. If you are not sure, check the manual before lifting.

Check Welded/Altered Equipment

All equipment that has been welded/altered should have identification stating the name and address of the repairer and include information on what was welded/altered. Equipment must be repaired and labeled by a qualified company or it should be taken out of service.

Always Use As Directed

Always use below-the-hook devices as they are intended. Danger always exists when loads are transported, especially when equipment is not properly maintained or safety precautions are not taken. Remember that proper lifting is the owner and the operator’s responsibility.

If you or your operators need overhead operator or inspection training we offer online training modules at: https://www.wiscolift.com/collections/training. For additional information, contact us at smartlift@wiscolift.com or call 800-242-3477.

Remember, “Working Safe is Working Smart!”

MSDs Affect 31 Percent of Workers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2015, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) resulting from overexertion in lifting, accounted for 31 percent (356,910 cases) of the total cases for all workers. BLS.gov (Nov. 2016)

The good news is that those statistics are down from prior years, however, most MSDs occur in private industry where work included laborers and freight, stock, and material movers. Workers in the age group of 45-54 had the highest number of days away from work cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that by 2020, a quarter of all workers will be 55 or older, making occupational safety and health a priority for many industries.

OSHA recommends that employers evaluate their ergonomic hazards in the workplace and implement a systematic plan to resolve them:

1)    Commitment by Top Management
The Employer’s commitment is necessary to integrate an ergonomics program and carry it out with managers, supervisors, and employees.

2)    Written Program
The written program should establish clear goals and objectives and have dates of completion for each program element.

3)    Employee Involvement
The program should allow employees to bring safety concerns forward to be evaluated and corrected without fear of reprisal.

4)    Regular Program Review and Evaluation
Procedures and mechanisms should be developed to evaluate the implementation and progress of the program on a regular basis.

5)    Onsite Analysis
All areas should be evaluated as to existing hazards and if the risk hazards can be reduced or eliminated by using different equipment.

For the full report of ergonomic guidelines, go to: OSHA.gov.

Do you need assistance with ergonomic equipment for your workplace? WiscoLift is a leading material handling distributor for ergonomic lifting devices. For your free consultation, please call our office at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

Remember, Working Safe is Working Smart.

#ergonomics #safety #materialhandling #wiscolift

Get a Helping Hand with a Vacuum Lift

Do you want to streamline material handling procedures yet don’t know the best lifting device to use or cannot find the exact device to accomplish your tasks efficiently?

When an application involves rotating, holding and manipulating product or material, a vacuum lifter can easily handle multiple tasks and custom vacuum lifters offer precise application efficiency, saving on staff and possible injury.

As you probably know, employees that have material handling tasks are at risk due to awkward postures, repetitive motion, and forceful exertion, all of which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

Vacuum Lifters are a good solution because they grab the load using suction cups and can be controlled by a single operator and their non-marring pads are effective on a wide variety of materials.

Before You Buy

There are certain specifications that ASME B30.20-2013 Below the Hook Lifting Devices require of a vacuum lift’s construction:

•      The vacuum pad capacity, electrical equipment, and design should comply with ASME BTH-1 (Design Category A).
•      The horizontal lift should not be greater than 50% of the Ultimate Pad Capacity (UPC) for horizontal surface lifts.
•      The vertical lift should not be greater than 25% of the Ultimate Pad Capacity (UPC) for vertical surface lifts.

In addition, inspections should be performed at every lift, and at additional intervals based on usage. Dated inspection reports should be available for each scheduled inspection, when the vacuum lifter is either altered or repaired, or has been out of service for a period of time.

To ascertain that the vacuum lift has been designed according to ASME regulations and has been properly load tested, only use a reputable manufacturer.

A Unique Solution

Below is a Vacuum Lift that WiscoLift designed and load tested for two customers that needed a custom lifting device built for their application.

This Vacuum Lift was designed with automatic vacuum sensing valves so it can be used on different sizes of material without the operator having to turn on/off the vacuum flow at individual vacuum pads.

For additional information on how a custom vacuum lift can assist with your application, please call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

#materialhandling #ergonomics #lifting #wiscolift

Why Lock Out/Tag Out Training Is So Important

According to Occupational Health & Safety (Aug. 2016), Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) continues to be found in OSHA’s top 10 most frequently cited standards.

Employees servicing or maintaining machines or equipment may be exposed to serious physical harm or death if hazardous energy is not properly controlled. Compliance with the Lock Out/Tag Out standard prevents an estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year. Workers injured on the job from exposure to hazardous energy lose an average of 24 workdays for recuperation. OSHA.gov

OSHA 1910.147(a)(3)(i) states, “This section requires employers to establish a program and utilize procedures for affixing appropriate lockout devices or tagout devices to energy isolating devices, and to otherwise disable machines or equipment to prevent unexpected energization, start up or release of stored energy in order to prevent injury to employees.”

Employers are required as part of their energy-control program to train employees on the following:

• Energy-control procedures for removing the energy supply from machines and for putting appropriate lockout or tagout devices on the energy-isolating devices to prevent unexpected reenergization. When appropriate, the procedure also must address stored or potentially reaccumulated energy;
• The energy-control program, including the safe application, use, and removal of energy controls; and
• Inspect the procedures periodically (at least annually) to ensure that they are being followed and that they remain effective in preventing employee exposure to hazardous energy.

If employers use tagout devices on machinery that can be locked out, they must adopt additional measures to provide the same level of employee protection that lockout devices would provide. Within the broad boundaries of the standard, employers have the flexibility to develop programs and procedures that meet the needs of their individual workplaces and the particular types of machines being maintained or serviced.

Developing an LOTO Energy Control Program

• It is important to identify all energy sources in your facility including electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic pumps, hydraulic lines, mechanic, steam, water under pressure, gases and fluid, chemicals or coolants, gravity, and thermal.
• Once identified, they need to be tagged with detailed instructions and how to isolate the energy, check the machine and remove the lockout.
• Create a statement on how to use the procedures.
• Define specific steps to designate the safe placement, removal and transfer of Lock Out/Tag Out devices and identify who is responsible.

Employers are required to provide initial training before starting service maintenance activities.

If an outside contractor maintains your machinery, the onsite employer and contractor must inform each other of their respective Lock Out/Tag Out procedures. The onsite employer must also ensure that employees understand and comply with all requirements of their LOTO Energy Control Program.

Do you need assistance with your LOTO program? WiscoLift has a complete team of certified service technicians and electricians to tag your energy sources and provide documentation for your company. Call us at 800-242-3477 or email smartlift@wiscolift.com.

Remember, “Working Safe is Working Smart!”

#industrial #LOTO #safety #materialhandling

What is the Difference Between a Recovery Strap and a Tow Strap?

Tow Straps and Recovery Straps are often confused as being the same thing. After all, they look similar and do similar things, so to clarify the definition of each, we answered some of the most frequently asked questions.

What is the difference between a Recovery Strap and a Tow Strap? 

A recovery strap is made with nylon fabrication so that it stretches similar to a rubber band. It provides some give to “recover” a stuck vehicle while a tow strap can tow a disabled vehicle to another location yet has no “give”. In addition, most tow straps come with hooks at the end. Recovery straps do not and should not be used with hooks because it will reduce the capacity of the strap.

How do I attach the recovery strap to another vehicle? 

You should pass one end of the strap through the loop at the other end to secure it. NEVER use a knot or additional hardware to attach it. DO NOT attach it another vehicle in a way that it may be cut or damaged.

Is it possible to pull a vehicle so hard with my strap that it will hit my vehicle? 

Nylon straps are safer and easier to use than chains. DRIVE VERY SLOWLY when pulling the vehicle out. Sudden tugs may lead to damage to either vehicle or the strap. A tarp may also be used ON TOP of the recovery strap as a safeguard. If by chance the strap should break, the tarp will slow the recovery strap down before it can cause damage.

How do I know how large a recovery strap to buy? 

A general rule of thumb is that each inch of width will allow you to pull out about 10,000 lbs. and the larger the width of the strap, the less “give” it has. That is why we sell 1” through 6” wide straps on our website. For most people’s use, these widths are the most common. For special applications, please call our office at 800-242-3477. Custom straps are available at no extra charge. Following are recovery strap ratings for single and two-ply:

SINGLE PLY RECOVERY STRAPS – 1 thickness of webbing between end loops 

2 inches = approximately 19,600 lbs. material breaking strength
3 inches = approximately 29,400 lbs. material breaking strength
4 inches = approximately 39,200 lbs. material breaking strength
6 inches = approximately 58,800 lbs. material breaking strength

TWO PLY RECOVERY STRAPS – 2 thicknesses of webbing between end loops 

2 inches = approximately 39,200 lbs. material breaking strength
3 inches = approximately 58,800 lbs. material breaking strength 
4 inches = approximately 78,400 lbs. material breaking strength
6 inches = approximately 117,600 lbs. material breaking strength

For HEAVY DUTY RECOVERY STRAPS, our division Wrecker Supply USA, offers FOUR PLY recovery straps with and without steel oblongs. Custom lengths are available by calling us at
877-670-3130.

FOUR PLY RECOVERY STRAPS - 4 thicknesses of webbing between end loops

4 inches = approximately 133,000 lbs. material breaking strength
6 inches = approximately 188,000 lbs. material breaking strength

If you would like additional information such as care and use of recovery straps, please email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

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WiscoLift, Inc. has been in the industrial material handling business since 1974 and specializes in lifting products and services including: cranes, hoists, lifting magnets, industrial lifting beams, lift tables, plate clamps, vacuum lifts, and web slings. Services include #crane installation, maintenance, and inspections in #Wisconsin, #Illinois, #Michigan, and #Minnesota.

Ergonomic and Affordable Crane Solutions - Part II

When you need an ergonomic, affordable crane with capacities of up to 4000 lbs., work station bridge cranes are a great solution.

Both Freestanding and Ceiling Mounted bridge cranes have a modular design, making them easy to expand as your work flow increases. They provide superior load positioning and easy movement for workers.

Ceiling Mounted Bridge Crane

-        An excellent solution when a work area must be free from any support structures. Because this system is modularly designed, multiple bridges can be installed on one runway to increase productivity and flexibility in a work area. Load capacities are available in 250, 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 lbs. with bridge lengths of up to 34 feet.

Freestanding Bridge Crane

-        When a ceiling mounted crane is not possible, the Free Standing Work Station Bridge Cranes can handle the toughest overhead lifting tasks. These cranes, which can be installed on any normal 6-inch reinforced concrete floor, feature a pre-engineered modular design that can easily expand as your work centers expand. This bridge crane has capacities from 150-4000 lbs.

Aluminum Bridge Crane

-        The aluminum work station bridge cranes are ideal for work sites that have challenging environments. The unique aluminum design is available in a wide variety of spans and lengths, making it one of the best ergonomic solutions on the market.

WiscoLift is now offering financing for cranes priced at $3,800 and above. In addition, we provide installation and service for all Gorbel cranes in the Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota areas.

For pricing information, please visit our website at https://www.wiscolift.com/collections/cranes or you may contact us at 800-242-3477 or email smartlift@wiscolift.com.

#cranes #bridgecranes #wiscolift #materialhandling

Light the Way for Safety

Companies that work with heavy equipment know the importance of remaining cautious and aware of potential hazards. Wherever there are moving parts, there is the possibility of injury or death.

The Forewarner-Max reduces accidents by warning pedestrians with a light projected onto the floor or ground showing there is a crane in close proximity. The light provides a frame of reference when controlling a load and is very effective in precise positioning of the crane.

Features:

•         Designed for indoor and outdoor use.
•         Heavy duty cast aluminum.
•         Includes an adjustable mounting bracket.
•         The 150 degree up/down mounting bracket allows precise positioning of beam on the floor below.

Three different systems are available with a 9” spotlight with 24 LED focused beams. Light option colors are blue, red or white.

For more information please call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

#safety #warehouse #industrial #wiscolift

Need a Flexible Speed Electric Hoist?

The new ergonomic ED-V Mini Single Phase Electric Hoist is the first of Harrington Hoists and Cranes’ single phase models to include an adjustable speed feature. The standard speed is 16 feet per minute. When you need a higher speed, simply open the cover and adjust the speed by turning the potentiometer screw with a flat blade screwdriver.

These hoists handle critical loads by providing the speed and precise load positioning for your lifting requirements.

Additional features:

• 120 volt single phase power
• Lightweight and portable
• Low headroom
• Heat-treated gearing
• Weston-style and regenerative load brakes
• Friction clutch for overload protection
• Standard upper limit switch
• Nickel-plated, heat-treated load chain

Ideal for all industrial and commercial applications, we think you will like the flexibility of the ED-V Mini Electric Chain Hoist.

For more information, please call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

View Product: https://www.wiscolift.com/collections/electric-hoists/products/harrington-edv-adjustable-single-speed-hoist

#electrichoists #singlephasehoist #HarringtonHoists #WiscoLift

Does Your Fall Protection Include OSHA's Recommendations?

According to OSHA, fall protection products fit into four functional categories:

1. Fall Arrest;
2. Positioning;
3. Suspension; and
4. Retrieval.

Fall Arrest – Is required if there is any danger that a worker could fall from an elevated position. As a general rule, the system should be used when working of heights of 6’ or more. A full-body harness with a shock-absorbing lanyard or a retractable lifeline is the only product recommended.

Positioning – Holds the worker in place while keeping their hands free. When the worker leans back the system is activated. Note: Positioning is NOT designed for fall arrest purposes.

Suspension – Lowers and supports a worker while allowing them to work hands-free.

Retrieval – Preplan retrieval in the event a fall should take place as part of your fall arrest program.

Do you need assistance with a Fall Protection System? WiscoLift is a nationally recognized dealer of Fall Protection Systems. For more information, call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.

Reference: OSHA.gov

#fallprotection #fallarrest #OSHAcompliance

Upgrade Your Crane to the 21st Century

Does your Crane need some new technology to ensure safety and ease of use? Let WiscoLift bring your crane up-to-date with engineered components for your application requirements:

• Wireless communication controls.
• Laser, proximity, and photoelectric sensors.
• Communication interface for Collision Avoidance Control.
• Pre-engineered two-way communication for access to troubleshooting information and load weight on the ground.
• Built-in electronic motor thermal overload protection.
• Ergonomic pendants that deliver optimum control and performance with less fatigue.

There are several benefits to adding engineered applications to your crane:

•  Built-in self-diagnostics help keep your overhead material handling system up and running safely.
• Collision Avoidance Systems limit the potential for crane-to-wall and crane-to-crane collisions and use self-monitoring optical lasers to monitor your crane’s position.
• Pre-engineered control panels allow you to access diagnostics and improve safety through crane stoppage after any communication loss (either serial or RF transmission)
• New lightweight, ergonomic pendant design performs with less effort and fatigue than traditional pendants.

We are happy to provide more information on upgrading your crane to the 21^st century. Call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.  

Fall Arrest System Solutions

To fully comply with OSHA standards and ANSI recommendations, employees must provide their employees a workplace free from health hazards and known safety risks. When working OVER dangerous equipment and machinery, a Fall Arrest System must be in place, regardless of the height.

Gorbel has two fall arrest systems that work well in elevated environments.

Tether Track System (Rigid)

The Tether Track System is the best option for low-headroom applications. It stops fall within a shorter distance than wire rope and less clearance is required from the anchor point to the floor below.

• Designed for multiple workers
•  Includes an anchor trolley
•  Various in various configurations, including multiple track profiles and support center distances
• Provides a high degree of mobility and freedom

View VIDEO of the Tether Track in Action >>

Ranger Mobile Anchor (Flexible)

The new Ranger allows for quick attachment to a forklift truck or alternate towing vehicles. It allows the unit to be anchored directly above where the user is performing the work, working well for indoor or outdoor use.

• All steel construction
• Only 2,685 lbs.
•  Adjustable anchor height at 18’, 20’ and 22’
•  Integral outriggers provide firm support
• Permits a 30 degree work area from anchor point
• Maximum tow speed 25 mph

View VIDEO of the Ranger Mobile in Action >>

For more information on these Gorbel products or assistance in determining what Fall Arrest System is best for your application, please call our Sales Representative at 800-242-3477 or email us at smartlift@wiscolift.com.