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A bio-mechanics study, recently commissioned by health & safety specialist, Pristine Condition, in conjunction with Tesco Distribution, has revealed ground-breaking results, and helped the supermarket retailer achieve 60% reduction in manual handling incidents.

The purpose of the study was to objectively and technically measure the manual handling risk reduction when applying Pristine Principles across a number of key Tesco Distribution Centre manual handling tasks.

Using ViSafe wireless motion sensor technology, the study measured movement and muscle activity when undertaking the tasks pre and post Pristine Condition’s manual handling training.

The tests were undertaken across a range of tasks comparing the outputs both before and after Pristine Condition manual handling training. This included the loading and pulling of cages, and loading, unloading and stacking pallets. The results were exceptional. Objective data provided by ViSafe quantified the advantage of Pristine Condition techniques in reducing risk for injury across all tasks assessed as ranging between 35% and 94%, in particular reducing muscle demand by up to 73%.

Tesco Distribution had historically followed the same route as many other companies – following HSE guidance and hierarchy of controls. However, because that approach often fails to properly address the issue of incorrect technique then predictably manual handling incidents were still prevalent, causing injury to colleagues and cost to the business.

Tesco took the initiative to employ Pristine Condition – H&S Specialist and global leader in manual handling – to create a bespoke training programme to address manual handling incidents across their Distribution Centres.

For the first time ever Pristine Condition brought Olympic weightlifting techniques to industry, dispelling many myths and fallacies, and introducing realistic, achievable Principles and control measures.

Uncategorised - May 11, 2016;

Logistics BusinessA bio-mechanics study, recently commissioned by health & safety specialist, Pristine Condition, in conjunction with Tesco Distribution, has revealed ground-breaking results, and helped the supermarket retailer achieve 60% reduction in manual handling incidents. <br src=
The purpose of the study was to objectively and technically measure the manual handling risk reduction when applying Pristine Principles across a number of key Tesco Distribution Centre manual handling tasks.

Using ViSafe wireless motion sensor technology, the study measured movement and muscle activity when undertaking the tasks pre and post Pristine Condition’s manual handling training.

The tests were undertaken across a range of tasks comparing the outputs both before and after Pristine Condition manual handling training. This included the loading and pulling of cages, and loading, unloading and stacking pallets. The results were exceptional. Objective data provided by ViSafe quantified the advantage of Pristine Condition techniques in reducing risk for injury across all tasks assessed as ranging between 35% and 94%, in particular reducing muscle demand by up to 73%.

Tesco Distribution had historically followed the same route as many other companies – following HSE guidance and hierarchy of controls. However, because that approach often fails to properly address the issue of incorrect technique then predictably manual handling incidents were still prevalent, causing injury to colleagues and cost to the business.

Tesco took the initiative to employ Pristine Condition – H&S Specialist and global leader in manual handling – to create a bespoke training programme to address manual handling incidents across their Distribution Centres.

For the first time ever Pristine Condition brought Olympic weightlifting techniques to industry, dispelling many myths and fallacies, and introducing realistic, achievable Principles and control measures."/>

Egemin Automation is going to this year’s CeMAT trade show with the slogan “Smart, connected, global – Intralogistics 4.0”. The slogan holds a clear offering to the market. Egemin delivers intelligent and integrated automated material handling solutions that interconnect logistics, production and distribution processes of globally active customers.

From Egemin locations in eight countries supported by the worldwide service network of the KION Group and Egemin’s many years of experience in concept development and material handling automation, Egemin customers receive the exact solution they require to optimise their intralogistics process.

Egemin’s expertise in developing turnkey solutions for customers will be in the spotlight at CeMAT. One of the spotlights is Egemin’s newest AGV model (automated guided vehicles), the E’gv® Compact Counterbalance Forklift. The seamless integration of AGVs with automated material handling and warehousing systems in production and distribution offers smart solutions that make complex material flows and operations manageable.

As the KION Group’s seventh brand company, Egemin Automation is focusing on KION’s automation business. “At CeMAT, we will also highlight the successful cooperation with the other brands in the KION Group”, explains Michaël Coryn, Marketing Communications Manager at Egemin Automation.

“We will demonstrate for example how premium warehouse trucks and intralogistics services from STILL can be integrated in our turnkey solutions. We add the required intelligence to material handling systems and warehouse trucks enabling them to perform the tasks assigned to them accurately. With turnkey material handling solutions and concepts, as well as our many years of experience on the international market, we’re helping companies on the path towards connected processes and intralogistics 4.0.”

In continental Europe, Egemin Automation primarily collaborates with the KION brand STILL, and in the Asian Pacific region, mainly with the KION brand Linde Material Handling. With its extensive industry expertise in the fields of food/frozen products, beverages, pharmaceuticals and dairy as well as production and distribution, Egemin Automation develops tailored concept solutions worldwide and knows how these industries’ exact material handling requirements can be met in full.

Egemin Automation is exhibiting at CeMAT in hall 27, stand H17 (31 May to 3 June).

Uncategorised - May 11, 2016;

Logistics BusinessEgemin Automation is going to this year’s CeMAT trade show with the slogan “Smart, connected, global – Intralogistics 4.0”. The slogan holds a clear offering to the market. Egemin delivers intelligent and integrated automated material handling solutions that interconnect logistics, production and distribution processes of globally active customers. <br src=
From Egemin locations in eight countries supported by the worldwide service network of the KION Group and Egemin’s many years of experience in concept development and material handling automation, Egemin customers receive the exact solution they require to optimise their intralogistics process.

Egemin’s expertise in developing turnkey solutions for customers will be in the spotlight at CeMAT. One of the spotlights is Egemin’s newest AGV model (automated guided vehicles), the E’gv® Compact Counterbalance Forklift. The seamless integration of AGVs with automated material handling and warehousing systems in production and distribution offers smart solutions that make complex material flows and operations manageable.

As the KION Group’s seventh brand company, Egemin Automation is focusing on KION’s automation business. “At CeMAT, we will also highlight the successful cooperation with the other brands in the KION Group”, explains Michaël Coryn, Marketing Communications Manager at Egemin Automation.

“We will demonstrate for example how premium warehouse trucks and intralogistics services from STILL can be integrated in our turnkey solutions. We add the required intelligence to material handling systems and warehouse trucks enabling them to perform the tasks assigned to them accurately. With turnkey material handling solutions and concepts, as well as our many years of experience on the international market, we’re helping companies on the path towards connected processes and intralogistics 4.0.”

In continental Europe, Egemin Automation primarily collaborates with the KION brand STILL, and in the Asian Pacific region, mainly with the KION brand Linde Material Handling. With its extensive industry expertise in the fields of food/frozen products, beverages, pharmaceuticals and dairy as well as production and distribution, Egemin Automation develops tailored concept solutions worldwide and knows how these industries’ exact material handling requirements can be met in full.

Egemin Automation is exhibiting at CeMAT in hall 27, stand H17 (31 May to 3 June)."/>

Paul Cooling, a driver for J. Medler Haulage of Norwich, has attributed his wellbeing to the design and safety features incorporated in the Volvo cab of the FH tractor unit he was driving following a horrific road traffic accident on 22 March 2016.

The accident, which happened on the eastbound carriageway of the A14 near Welford in Northamptonshire, saw the nearside of the cab sustain heavy impacts to both front and rear as Paul jack-knifed against the central reservation on what is arguably one of the UK’s busiest sections of dual carriageway.

“After the initial impact I remember trying to jack-knife so as not to cross the central reservation,” says Paul. While his actions almost certainly prevented him from crossing into on-coming traffic, they also meant the cab took a significant blow to the rear from his own trailer, which at the time was fully loaded with Thermalite blocks.

“I have to say I was absolutely amazed at the integrity of the cab after such a big accident,” says Paul. “Before this accident I really liked Volvo trucks. Now I love them! They’re the best truck in the world and I honestly believe I’m still here thanks to the safe design and build quality of Volvo.”

The accident forced the closure of the A14 in both directions for several hours. The westbound carriageway was shut to enable the air ambulance to land in order to attend to Paul.

Paul returned to work just three weeks later with a scar running from above his left eye up across his forehead the only sign of the horror that struck that afternoon. “I’m as fit as a fiddle now,” he says. “I had thirty stitches to tidy up the wound to my head, but the scar’s already healing over and I’m just glad to be back at work.”

Paul’s boss and Managing Director at J. Medler Haulage, Dean Medler adds: “I have to say I was surprised that Paul walked away with comparatively minor injuries after such a serious accident. We were all delighted when he returned to work within just three weeks. I believe this accident has reassured me and our drivers that Volvo trucks are indeed the safe choice and I am therefore glad that our entire fleet bears the iron mark!”

“Despite the severity of my accident, the cab of the nine-year-old Volvo FH stood up to the impact sufficiently well that, once my seatbelt was released, I was able to exit the cab via the offside door virtually as normal,” says Paul.

As for advice following his accident he adds: “Always double-check that you’re wearing your seatbelt properly and drive a Volvo!”

Uncategorised - May 6, 2016;

Logistics BusinessPaul Cooling, a driver for J. Medler Haulage of Norwich, has attributed his wellbeing to the design and safety features incorporated in the Volvo cab of the FH tractor unit he was driving following a horrific road traffic accident on 22 March 2016. <br src=
The accident, which happened on the eastbound carriageway of the A14 near Welford in Northamptonshire, saw the nearside of the cab sustain heavy impacts to both front and rear as Paul jack-knifed against the central reservation on what is arguably one of the UK’s busiest sections of dual carriageway.

“After the initial impact I remember trying to jack-knife so as not to cross the central reservation,” says Paul. While his actions almost certainly prevented him from crossing into on-coming traffic, they also meant the cab took a significant blow to the rear from his own trailer, which at the time was fully loaded with Thermalite blocks.

“I have to say I was absolutely amazed at the integrity of the cab after such a big accident,” says Paul. “Before this accident I really liked Volvo trucks. Now I love them! They’re the best truck in the world and I honestly believe I’m still here thanks to the safe design and build quality of Volvo.”

The accident forced the closure of the A14 in both directions for several hours. The westbound carriageway was shut to enable the air ambulance to land in order to attend to Paul.

Paul returned to work just three weeks later with a scar running from above his left eye up across his forehead the only sign of the horror that struck that afternoon. “I’m as fit as a fiddle now,” he says. “I had thirty stitches to tidy up the wound to my head, but the scar’s already healing over and I’m just glad to be back at work.”

Paul’s boss and Managing Director at J. Medler Haulage, Dean Medler adds: “I have to say I was surprised that Paul walked away with comparatively minor injuries after such a serious accident. We were all delighted when he returned to work within just three weeks. I believe this accident has reassured me and our drivers that Volvo trucks are indeed the safe choice and I am therefore glad that our entire fleet bears the iron mark!”

“Despite the severity of my accident, the cab of the nine-year-old Volvo FH stood up to the impact sufficiently well that, once my seatbelt was released, I was able to exit the cab via the offside door virtually as normal,” says Paul.

As for advice following his accident he adds: “Always double-check that you’re wearing your seatbelt properly and drive a Volvo!”"/>

A transport and logistics company based in Birmingham has reported significant growth after investing over £1m into its operation and undergoing a rebrand. Mobile – people.powered.logistics, which provides leading supply chain solutions across the region, has seen its turnover increase by 57% over the past 12 months with staff at its Birmingham headquarters increasing from 50 to 68.

The family run business, which was set up by David Jolly and is now managed by his son Ian, has been serving the West Midlands for 35 years and continues to put its people at the forefront. In 2015, Ian decided it was time to modernise the business and invested over £1m into its operation, including the hiring of key members of staff, as well as renewal of part of its fleet, rebranding its name, website, signage and livery. Since this change, the company’s turnover has increased from £2.8m to £4.1m, an increase of 57%, and predicted growth could see the turnover hit £5m later this year.

Ian Jolly, Commercial Director of Mobile, commented: “Birmingham is the industrial and logistics capital of the UK and it is great for us to be able to grow so significantly in the region. After 35 years of Mobile Freight Services, we thought it was time to revitalise the company to reflect a modern transport and logistics business and since then we have been going from strength to strength.”

He continued: “The key to a successful transport and logistics company is the people and we have a big focus on obtaining the right staff across Greater Birmingham, who will drive quality and profit to sustain future investments. We’ve also recently launched a graduate scheme and are currently employing two local graduates, showing our commitment to young talent in the region. We doubled our office space by moving three years ago and are already outgrowing the new office, now delivering 100,000 shipments a year – and this number is still growing. We expect the turnover to increase by a further 25% by the end of 2016 – it is a very exciting time indeed!”

Uncategorised - May 3, 2016;

Logistics BusinessA transport and logistics company based in Birmingham has reported significant growth after investing over £1m into its operation and undergoing a rebrand. Mobile – people.powered.logistics, which provides leading supply chain solutions across the region, has seen its turnover increase by 57% over the past 12 months with staff at its Birmingham headquarters increasing from 50 to 68. <br src=
The family run business, which was set up by David Jolly and is now managed by his son Ian, has been serving the West Midlands for 35 years and continues to put its people at the forefront. In 2015, Ian decided it was time to modernise the business and invested over £1m into its operation, including the hiring of key members of staff, as well as renewal of part of its fleet, rebranding its name, website, signage and livery. Since this change, the company’s turnover has increased from £2.8m to £4.1m, an increase of 57%, and predicted growth could see the turnover hit £5m later this year.

Ian Jolly, Commercial Director of Mobile, commented: “Birmingham is the industrial and logistics capital of the UK and it is great for us to be able to grow so significantly in the region. After 35 years of Mobile Freight Services, we thought it was time to revitalise the company to reflect a modern transport and logistics business and since then we have been going from strength to strength.”

He continued: “The key to a successful transport and logistics company is the people and we have a big focus on obtaining the right staff across Greater Birmingham, who will drive quality and profit to sustain future investments. We’ve also recently launched a graduate scheme and are currently employing two local graduates, showing our commitment to young talent in the region. We doubled our office space by moving three years ago and are already outgrowing the new office, now delivering 100,000 shipments a year – and this number is still growing. We expect the turnover to increase by a further 25% by the end of 2016 – it is a very exciting time indeed!”

"/>

Safety company Pyroban is offering users and suppliers of explosion proof forklifts guidance ahead of the introduction of the new ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU which takes effect from 20th April 2016.

The Directive, which concerns equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, replaces the current ATEX Directive 94/9/EC as part of a new, consistent Legislative Framework for EU Directives.

“The fundamental basis of the current ATEX Directive is not changed, and while this will minimise impact on manufacturers and suppliers of explosion protection solutions, it may create confusion as to exactly what this means to companies, sales people and end users,” says Steve Noakes, Engineering Manager for Pyroban, the leading explosion proof forklift conversion company. “Maintaining safety in potentially explosive atmospheres is so important that it is essential to understand what these changes consist of, both for managers, operators and company legal departments”

Under the new Directive, Essential Safety & Health Requirements (ESHRs) remain the same, the equipment categories used to define the different explosion protection levels are unaffected (3G, 2G, 3D, 2D), and the certification procedures are also unchanged. Manufacturer self-certification still remains for Category 3 equipment for use in zone 2 and zone 22 applications.

However, there will be several changes to certification under the new Directive. New products placed on the market from 20th April 2016 will state the new ATEX Directive number 2014/34/EU on documentation instead of 94/9/EC and component level certificates issued after 20th April will now be called ‘EU Type Examination Certificate’ instead of ‘EC Type Examination Certificate’. The content of the EU Declaration of Conformity is also revised in the new Directive. Components and equipment having 3rd party certification to 94/9/EC remain valid under 2014/34/EU and do not need to be re-certified.

The new Legislative Framework places a higher emphasis on market surveillance and the expectations of EU member states to better police the markets, but as the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU exists to control the requirements for producing and bringing a product into the market when new, after-sales activities will not be directly affected by the recent changes. The other notable ATEX Directive, 1992/92/EC, which affects the end user of the forklift is also not affected by the legislative changes and remains in its current form.

Steve Noakes explains further, “Although the 2014/34/EU ATEX Directive exists to govern the safe trade of Ex equipment and protection solutions by manufacturers, suppliers and importers, there are some important considerations for end users too. To ensure that safety levels are not compromised during the equipment’s service life, it is important that the end user maintains all Ex equipment adequately – as equipment becomes older the ‘Justification for Continued Use’ is the responsibility of the end user, not the manufacturer.”

Maintenance and professional audits by competent persons is considered the basis for assuring that explosion protection equipment is suitable for continued use in potentially explosive atmospheres. Companies should always use specially trained engineers to conduct safety checks, in turn helping to avoid serious legal implications in the event of an incident.

Users of Pyroban explosion protection safety solutions, can access trained engineers via their equipment dealer to carry out maintenance, repairs and servicing to help sustain safe equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres. Pyroban’s own specialist engineers are also available should a customer require additional help and support.

To further counter the potential problem of defective explosion proof forklifts being used in hazardous areas, Pyroban is also offering Ex –ASA annual inspections as part of the purchase price for all conversions completed within 2016 for use in Europe.

Uncategorised - April 19, 2016;

Logistics BusinessSafety company Pyroban is offering users and suppliers of explosion proof forklifts guidance ahead of the introduction of the new ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU which takes effect from 20th April 2016. <br src=
The Directive, which concerns equipment and protective systems intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, replaces the current ATEX Directive 94/9/EC as part of a new, consistent Legislative Framework for EU Directives.

“The fundamental basis of the current ATEX Directive is not changed, and while this will minimise impact on manufacturers and suppliers of explosion protection solutions, it may create confusion as to exactly what this means to companies, sales people and end users,” says Steve Noakes, Engineering Manager for Pyroban, the leading explosion proof forklift conversion company. “Maintaining safety in potentially explosive atmospheres is so important that it is essential to understand what these changes consist of, both for managers, operators and company legal departments”

Under the new Directive, Essential Safety & Health Requirements (ESHRs) remain the same, the equipment categories used to define the different explosion protection levels are unaffected (3G, 2G, 3D, 2D), and the certification procedures are also unchanged. Manufacturer self-certification still remains for Category 3 equipment for use in zone 2 and zone 22 applications.

However, there will be several changes to certification under the new Directive. New products placed on the market from 20th April 2016 will state the new ATEX Directive number 2014/34/EU on documentation instead of 94/9/EC and component level certificates issued after 20th April will now be called ‘EU Type Examination Certificate’ instead of ‘EC Type Examination Certificate’. The content of the EU Declaration of Conformity is also revised in the new Directive. Components and equipment having 3rd party certification to 94/9/EC remain valid under 2014/34/EU and do not need to be re-certified.

The new Legislative Framework places a higher emphasis on market surveillance and the expectations of EU member states to better police the markets, but as the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU exists to control the requirements for producing and bringing a product into the market when new, after-sales activities will not be directly affected by the recent changes. The other notable ATEX Directive, 1992/92/EC, which affects the end user of the forklift is also not affected by the legislative changes and remains in its current form.

Steve Noakes explains further, “Although the 2014/34/EU ATEX Directive exists to govern the safe trade of Ex equipment and protection solutions by manufacturers, suppliers and importers, there are some important considerations for end users too. To ensure that safety levels are not compromised during the equipment’s service life, it is important that the end user maintains all Ex equipment adequately – as equipment becomes older the ‘Justification for Continued Use’ is the responsibility of the end user, not the manufacturer.”

Maintenance and professional audits by competent persons is considered the basis for assuring that explosion protection equipment is suitable for continued use in potentially explosive atmospheres. Companies should always use specially trained engineers to conduct safety checks, in turn helping to avoid serious legal implications in the event of an incident.

Users of Pyroban explosion protection safety solutions, can access trained engineers via their equipment dealer to carry out maintenance, repairs and servicing to help sustain safe equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres. Pyroban’s own specialist engineers are also available should a customer require additional help and support.

To further counter the potential problem of defective explosion proof forklifts being used in hazardous areas, Pyroban is also offering Ex –ASA annual inspections as part of the purchase price for all conversions completed within 2016 for use in Europe."/>

Dust, debris, dirt – the deadly 3Ds for those working environments where cleanliness is most certainly next to godliness.

In food and drink factories, cosmetics manufacturing, health-focused facilities or pharmaceutical environments, the constant drive for improved hygiene goes right alongside ever-better product purity and quality. Which means every product application within that working environment must adhere – and contribute to – the strictest demands of hygiene.

The Society of Food Hygiene and Technology notes: “Poor equipment design may lead to an unacceptable build-up of debris or by allowing untreated ingredients to accumulate to a level at which they may cross contaminate the processed food.”

Fear of contamination is a constant threat – one that could potentially cause a full-scale shutdown of an entire facility and heavy loss of reputation – so products that are fit-for-purpose, but also contribute to the hygienic demands of a facility, are essential. And in turn, those deadly 3Ds, which need constant monitoring, can be kept in check.

Add, then, to those perilous 3Ds the Food Standard Agency’s (FSA) number one hygiene problem in food manufacturing: moisture.

Wetted zones encourage bacteria, including the Contamination Alert’s most frequent unwelcome visitor, listeria. Good food and drink manufacturing practice will involve the cleaning of lines and areas for about one-third of every 24-hour cycle. Therefore, products with a water-resistant tolerance to the necessities of the wipe-down and the jet-wash are also essential.

In the past, the barriers used in sensitive environments had the potential to cause more problems than they solved. Take a steel barrier: when brand new it is strong, shiny and aesthetically pleasing. But over time it will corrode, it will flake, it will become abrasive and untidy-looking. Add a watery wash-down to the steel mix and, of course, you have a fast track to rust and a hazardous new contamination threat to a sensitive environment.

Polymer-based barriers solved the rust problem over a decade ago. They were wipe-clean, non-toxic and chemically-resistant, so boosted industries where steel barriers were almost too problematic to deal with.

The polymer barriers had instant appeal and real success. The Senior Maintenance Manager of Haribo said in 2011: “We like the hygiene aspects of the barriers as well as its strength and good looks. The metal barriers currently in use in the dispatch areas have nooks and crannies which could harbour dirt.”

But the new polymer-based barriers weren’t yet a perfect solution from a hygiene point of view. There were still some ingress points where the 3Ds could collect. There was still a possibility of water infiltrating an unsealed system. And wherever water collects inside a system it soon becomes stagnant – and a breeding ground for dangerous microorganisms.

So the secret code for barriers that could truly be called hygienic was a difficult one to crack. Hygienic facilities required an absence of ingress points, sealed joints, water resistance, a tolerance to wash-down chemicals and the wipe-down, non-toxic surfaces that did not corrode, flake or require repainting. All these factors had never before been combined into a single barrier system.

Design Engineer at A-SAFE, the inventors of the world’s first polymer-based barrier system in 2001, Tom Costello takes up the story: “Old polymer-based barriers definitely performed better than standard steel for sensitive environments, but the old-style products weren’t the ideal solution in these areas.

From our point of view, we knew we had to somehow solve the issue of dirt and debris collecting in ingress points and water infiltrating the product. So over a two-year period we developed complex hygiene seals and reduced water ingress points through the use of strategically placed rubber seals.”

The new hygienic barrier system, released in 2015, was called iFlex. Existing A-SAFE customers, such as Thomas Roh, the Occupational Safety Specialist at confectionery experts, Ritter Sport weren’t resting on their safety laurels and were highly expectant of the new system: “We highly appreciate the quality of A-SAFE products. They are easy to install and very durable. Barriers that were installed eight years ago in our transit area show no signs of erosion. This is an area with lively forklift traffic where the barriers are often hit. Since the installation of A-SAFE barriers damages are decreased in the building and at our facilities. Now we are looking forward to the new iFlex Barrier Range, of which we have heard a lot recently. Especially for us as food manufacturers, the hygiene sealing of the new barriers is particularly important.”

Since the launch of iFlex, a host of blue chip companies have benefited from the specific hygiene advantages of the system, including: United Biscuits, The Body Shop, Sainsbury’s, Nestlé, McCain Foods, Mars, L’Oreal, KP, Dr Oetker, Coca-Cola and more.

The hygienic supply chain is an ever-improving, ever more sophisticated part of food, drink and pharmaceutical logistics. Intelligent companies are constantly focusing on tweaking best practice and asking for more from their suppliers. And where hygiene is concerned, iFlex proved that any barriers can – and must – be overcome.

Uncategorised - April 14, 2016;

Logistics BusinessDust, debris, dirt – the deadly 3Ds for those working environments where cleanliness is most certainly next to godliness. <br src=
In food and drink factories, cosmetics manufacturing, health-focused facilities or pharmaceutical environments, the constant drive for improved hygiene goes right alongside ever-better product purity and quality. Which means every product application within that working environment must adhere – and contribute to – the strictest demands of hygiene.

The Society of Food Hygiene and Technology notes: “Poor equipment design may lead to an unacceptable build-up of debris or by allowing untreated ingredients to accumulate to a level at which they may cross contaminate the processed food.”

Fear of contamination is a constant threat – one that could potentially cause a full-scale shutdown of an entire facility and heavy loss of reputation – so products that are fit-for-purpose, but also contribute to the hygienic demands of a facility, are essential. And in turn, those deadly 3Ds, which need constant monitoring, can be kept in check.

Add, then, to those perilous 3Ds the Food Standard Agency’s (FSA) number one hygiene problem in food manufacturing: moisture.

Wetted zones encourage bacteria, including the Contamination Alert’s most frequent unwelcome visitor, listeria. Good food and drink manufacturing practice will involve the cleaning of lines and areas for about one-third of every 24-hour cycle. Therefore, products with a water-resistant tolerance to the necessities of the wipe-down and the jet-wash are also essential.

In the past, the barriers used in sensitive environments had the potential to cause more problems than they solved. Take a steel barrier: when brand new it is strong, shiny and aesthetically pleasing. But over time it will corrode, it will flake, it will become abrasive and untidy-looking. Add a watery wash-down to the steel mix and, of course, you have a fast track to rust and a hazardous new contamination threat to a sensitive environment.

Polymer-based barriers solved the rust problem over a decade ago. They were wipe-clean, non-toxic and chemically-resistant, so boosted industries where steel barriers were almost too problematic to deal with.

The polymer barriers had instant appeal and real success. The Senior Maintenance Manager of Haribo said in 2011: “We like the hygiene aspects of the barriers as well as its strength and good looks. The metal barriers currently in use in the dispatch areas have nooks and crannies which could harbour dirt.”

But the new polymer-based barriers weren’t yet a perfect solution from a hygiene point of view. There were still some ingress points where the 3Ds could collect. There was still a possibility of water infiltrating an unsealed system. And wherever water collects inside a system it soon becomes stagnant – and a breeding ground for dangerous microorganisms.

So the secret code for barriers that could truly be called hygienic was a difficult one to crack. Hygienic facilities required an absence of ingress points, sealed joints, water resistance, a tolerance to wash-down chemicals and the wipe-down, non-toxic surfaces that did not corrode, flake or require repainting. All these factors had never before been combined into a single barrier system.

Design Engineer at A-SAFE, the inventors of the world’s first polymer-based barrier system in 2001, Tom Costello takes up the story: “Old polymer-based barriers definitely performed better than standard steel for sensitive environments, but the old-style products weren’t the ideal solution in these areas.

From our point of view, we knew we had to somehow solve the issue of dirt and debris collecting in ingress points and water infiltrating the product. So over a two-year period we developed complex hygiene seals and reduced water ingress points through the use of strategically placed rubber seals.”

The new hygienic barrier system, released in 2015, was called iFlex. Existing A-SAFE customers, such as Thomas Roh, the Occupational Safety Specialist at confectionery experts, Ritter Sport weren’t resting on their safety laurels and were highly expectant of the new system: “We highly appreciate the quality of A-SAFE products. They are easy to install and very durable. Barriers that were installed eight years ago in our transit area show no signs of erosion. This is an area with lively forklift traffic where the barriers are often hit. Since the installation of A-SAFE barriers damages are decreased in the building and at our facilities. Now we are looking forward to the new iFlex Barrier Range, of which we have heard a lot recently. Especially for us as food manufacturers, the hygiene sealing of the new barriers is particularly important.”

Since the launch of iFlex, a host of blue chip companies have benefited from the specific hygiene advantages of the system, including: United Biscuits, The Body Shop, Sainsbury’s, Nestlé, McCain Foods, Mars, L’Oreal, KP, Dr Oetker, Coca-Cola and more.

The hygienic supply chain is an ever-improving, ever more sophisticated part of food, drink and pharmaceutical logistics. Intelligent companies are constantly focusing on tweaking best practice and asking for more from their suppliers. And where hygiene is concerned, iFlex proved that any barriers can – and must – be overcome."/>

Following an expansion in its business, Lincolnshire-based J L Priestley Bulk Services (JLP), has selected five new Renault Trucks as the latest additions to its fleet. Three 44-tonne Range T460 6×2 tractor units and two 32-tonne Range C430 8x4s with high roof sleeper cabs join the 10-strong line-up and are being used for the company’s paper and compost recycling services across Derbyshire and Yorkshire.

Supplied by Renault Trucks’ approved dealer, Thompson Commercials (Boston), the new trucks are on a 4-year full R&M contract. The Range Cs were specially adapted to meet JLP’s requirements, fitted with an Aliweld fixed high-side monocoque tipping body with hydraulic-operated tailboard, purpose-designed to match JLP’s recycling operations.

An impressive cab, together with good driver acceptability, were also key factors in vehicle selection, as JLP’s Transport Manager Paul Clark says: “We found the Range C’s cab layout to be excellent and with all the strength and protection around it, coupled with the vehicle’s impressive payload of 19860kgs, it’s an excellent choice for our operation. Our drivers love them too and the icing on the cake is that we are getting an initial MPG increase of 0.4% and it’s still very early days.”



Uncategorised - April 11, 2016;

Logistics BusinessFollowing an expansion in its business, Lincolnshire-based J L Priestley Bulk Services (JLP), has selected five new Renault Trucks as the latest additions to its fleet. Three 44-tonne Range T460 6×2 tractor units and two 32-tonne Range C430 8x4s with high roof sleeper cabs join the 10-strong line-up and are being used for the company’s paper and compost recycling services across Derbyshire and Yorkshire. <br src=
Supplied by Renault Trucks’ approved dealer, Thompson Commercials (Boston), the new trucks are on a 4-year full R&M contract. The Range Cs were specially adapted to meet JLP’s requirements, fitted with an Aliweld fixed high-side monocoque tipping body with hydraulic-operated tailboard, purpose-designed to match JLP’s recycling operations.

An impressive cab, together with good driver acceptability, were also key factors in vehicle selection, as JLP’s Transport Manager Paul Clark says: “We found the Range C’s cab layout to be excellent and with all the strength and protection around it, coupled with the vehicle’s impressive payload of 19860kgs, it’s an excellent choice for our operation. Our drivers love them too and the icing on the cake is that we are getting an initial MPG increase of 0.4% and it’s still very early days.”



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Road-alternative modes of transport have increased in 2015, according to official figures released by the French port. Rail, with a modal share of 31%, rose by one point. While this mode can still rely on traditional sectors such as coal and ore, it now serves Dunkirk’s extended grain hinterland with nearly 320,000 tonnes of grain carried by rail. Combined transport, with the operator GREENMODAL, continues to increase, with the Dunkirk-Bonneuil shuttle seeing its frequency tripled in February 2016.

The modal share of waterway transport remains steady at 16%; heavy bulks are still dominant in this mode, notably with more than 1.3 Mt of grain carried by waterway to the port’s quays. Combined transport with Nord Ports Shuttle (NPS) to Lille and Dourges, and with Contargo to Valenciennes, doubled in volume over the year. Following on from this success, the operator NPS is commissioning a second barge in April 2016.

Pipeline transport continues to increase and has reached 5% of the port’s overland conveying volumes. The opening of the LNG terminal should offer good prospects for this mode.

Stéphane Raison, CEO of Dunkerque-Port, is very pleased with these results: “By integrating the traffic of the industrial port area, the port of Dunkirk is reinforcing its position as France’s foremost rail freight hub, with 13.9 Mt. Waterway totals 2.9 Mt, putting Dunkirk in first place among the inland waterway ports of the Hauts de France Region. Dunkirk remains France’s largest multimodal port and is increasing modal switchover.”

Uncategorised - April 8, 2016;

Logistics BusinessRoad-alternative modes of transport have increased in 2015, according to official figures released by the French port. Rail, with a modal share of 31%, rose by one point. While this mode can still rely on traditional sectors such as coal and ore, it now serves Dunkirk’s extended grain hinterland with nearly 320,000 tonnes of grain carried by rail. Combined transport, with the operator GREENMODAL, continues to increase, with the Dunkirk-Bonneuil shuttle seeing its frequency tripled in February 2016. <br src=
The modal share of waterway transport remains steady at 16%; heavy bulks are still dominant in this mode, notably with more than 1.3 Mt of grain carried by waterway to the port’s quays. Combined transport with Nord Ports Shuttle (NPS) to Lille and Dourges, and with Contargo to Valenciennes, doubled in volume over the year. Following on from this success, the operator NPS is commissioning a second barge in April 2016.

Pipeline transport continues to increase and has reached 5% of the port’s overland conveying volumes. The opening of the LNG terminal should offer good prospects for this mode.

Stéphane Raison, CEO of Dunkerque-Port, is very pleased with these results: “By integrating the traffic of the industrial port area, the port of Dunkirk is reinforcing its position as France’s foremost rail freight hub, with 13.9 Mt. Waterway totals 2.9 Mt, putting Dunkirk in first place among the inland waterway ports of the Hauts de France Region. Dunkirk remains France’s largest multimodal port and is increasing modal switchover.” "/>

NXP Semiconductors N.V and DAF Trucks have successfully demonstrated self-driving technologies in automated trucks. The demonstration is part of the European Truck Platooning Challenge, an event organised by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment, that has trucks driving in columns (platooning) on public roads from several European cities to the Netherlands. The challenge is designed to bring autonomous platooning one step closer to implementation by showcasing economic, traffic management and safety advantages. It also addresses the need for legislation and standardisation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) across Europe, as current rules and regulations regarding speed and distance vary between countries.

Under the EcoTwin consortium, NXP, DAF, TNO and Ricardo joined forces to make this demonstration possible. The core of the ‘EcoTwin’ technology setup is a sophisticated vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications solution, RoadLINK, developed by NXP. It uses the wireless communications standard IEEE 802.11p combined with NXP radar technology to empower the trucks within the platoon to securely exchange information in real time and automatically brake and accelerate in response to the lead truck. The high speed of communication and responsiveness of NXP RoadLINK technology allows extremely tight distances and truly synchronous driving between the platooning DAF Trucks: To demonstrate autonomous acceleration and braking, the planned distance between the vehicles is slated for 0.5 seconds – which, when traveling at 80 kph (50 mph), translates to a distance of only 10 metres (30 feet). The responsiveness of the trailing truck within the platoon is estimated at 25 times faster than the average human reaction time of o ne second – saving critical time in case of emergency braking.

The RoadLINK communication system designed by NXP is built into the mirrors of the DAF Trucks participating in the platoon. The redundant NXP V2V system design with four secure channels ensures extremely reliable communication. In addition to providing the platooning commands, it provides real time video and bi-directional audio communication between the two vehicles. The audio allows the drivers to talk to each other without relying on other communication channels, such as cellular networks. Furthermore, the V2V powered camera in the lead truck streams what it “sees” to the driver in the trailing truck, providing a clear look at the road ahead.

“We’re honoured to be part of the European Truck Platooning Challenge as a key partner and provider of the secure vehicle-to-vehicle and radar technologies for the DAF trucks – DAF and other truck platoons will use our technology to complete their journey safely and effectively,” said Torsten Lehmann, senior vice president of Car Infotainment and Driver Assistance for NXP. “As a clear industry leader in driving adoption of Vehicle-to-X technologies, NXP is helping to improve fuel efficiency, emissions, safety, and traffic flow in the European Union, while avoiding accidents and saving lives.”

“It goes without saying that there is still a lot of continued development required before we can introduce platooning as a new technology on the market,” says Ron Borsboom, member of DAF Trucks’ Board of Management and responsible for product development. “This is definitely not a process that will be complete before 2020. There is still a great deal that has to be sorted out in terms of legislation, liability and acceptance. In conjunction with NXP, TNO, and Ricardo, we will be demonstrating during the European Truck Platooning Challenge that truck platooning is technically possible. This demonstration should pave the way for truck manufacturers to be allowed to carry out further testing of the technology on public roads in order to acquire even more experience. It is now up to politicians to make this possible.”

Uncategorised - April 6, 2016;

Logistics BusinessNXP Semiconductors N.V and DAF Trucks have successfully demonstrated self-driving technologies in automated trucks. The demonstration is part of the European Truck Platooning Challenge, an event organised by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment, that has trucks driving in columns (platooning) on public roads from several European cities to the Netherlands. The challenge is designed to bring autonomous platooning one step closer to implementation by showcasing economic, traffic management and safety advantages. It also addresses the need for legislation and standardisation of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) across Europe, as current rules and regulations regarding speed and distance vary between countries. <br><br> Under the EcoTwin consortium, NXP, DAF, TNO and Ricardo joined forces to make this demonstration possible. The core of the ‘EcoTwin’ technology setup is a sophisticated vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications solution, RoadLINK, developed by NXP. It uses the wireless communications standard IEEE 802.11p combined with NXP radar technology to empower the trucks within the platoon to securely exchange information in real time and automatically brake and accelerate in response to the lead truck. The high speed of communication and responsiveness of NXP RoadLINK technology allows extremely tight distances and truly synchronous driving between the platooning DAF Trucks: To demonstrate autonomous acceleration and braking, the planned distance between the vehicles is slated for 0.5 seconds – which, when traveling at 80 kph (50 mph), translates to a distance of only 10 metres (30 feet). The responsiveness of the trailing truck within the platoon is estimated at 25 times faster than the average human reaction time of o ne second – saving critical time in case of emergency braking. <br><br> The RoadLINK communication system designed by NXP is built into the mirrors of the DAF Trucks participating in the platoon. The redundant NXP V2V system design with four secure channels ensures extremely reliable communication. In addition to providing the platooning commands, it provides real time video and bi-directional audio communication between the two vehicles. The audio allows the drivers to talk to each other without relying on other communication channels, such as cellular networks. Furthermore, the V2V powered camera in the lead truck streams what it “sees” to the driver in the trailing truck, providing a clear look at the road ahead. <br><br><i> “We’re honoured to be part of the European Truck Platooning Challenge as a key partner and provider of the secure vehicle-to-vehicle and radar technologies for the DAF trucks – DAF and other truck platoons will use our technology to complete their journey safely and effectively,” </i>said Torsten Lehmann, senior vice president of Car Infotainment and Driver Assistance for NXP. <i>“As a clear industry leader in driving adoption of Vehicle-to-X technologies, NXP is helping to improve fuel efficiency, emissions, safety, and traffic flow in the European Union, while avoiding accidents and saving lives.” </i><br><br> “It goes without saying that there is still a lot of continued development required before we can introduce platooning as a new technology on the market,” says Ron Borsboom, member of DAF Trucks’ Board of Management and responsible for product development. “This is definitely not a process that will be complete before 2020. There is still a great deal that has to be sorted out in terms of legislation, liability and acceptance. In conjunction with NXP, TNO, and Ricardo, we will be demonstrating during the European Truck Platooning Challenge that truck platooning is technically possible. This demonstration should pave the way for truck manufacturers to be allowed to carry out further testing of the technology on public roads in order to acquire even more experience. It is now up to politicians to make this possible.”

Global provider Imperial Logistics International has announced two new key appointments. Marc-Oliver Hauswald (46), pictured, becomes Director Business Unit Shipping, Dry from 1 April onwards. The graduate in business management will provide dual leadership in this position with Thomas Küpper (50), who is also Director Business Unit Shipping, Dry. Both men will gear this line of business towards the challenges of the future.

Before joining Imperial Logistics International on 1 February this year, Hauswald worked as manager of the internationalisation, corporate development and finances departments at the port services company, Buss Port Logistics (Hamburg). Prior to this, he held various management positions at logistics companies with international operations. He is also co-managing director of the Buss Imperial Logistics (BIL) joint venture, a company, which guarantees supplies of raw materials and aggregates for the Krupp Mannesmann (HKM) smelting works in Duisburg and operates the works port there.

The Dry business is still one of the segments that generates the highest turnover in the Imperial Transport Solutions division. Using its own fleet of motor vessels comprising about 200 units with subcontractor owner-operators, which makes it one of the largest push-boat fleets in Europe, the company specialises in transporting coal and ores, metals and steel products, cereals, fertilisers and timber products. In geographical terms, the company covers the complete river Rhine area, including its tributaries and canals, France, the Benelux countries and the states bordering on the rivers Main/Danube. The company also provides logistics solutions particularly geared to meet the demands of the steel, aluminium and power station industries – and plant construction.



Uncategorised - April 4, 2016;

Logistics BusinessGlobal provider Imperial Logistics International has announced two new key appointments. Marc-Oliver Hauswald (46), pictured, becomes Director Business Unit Shipping, Dry from 1 April onwards. The graduate in business management will provide dual leadership in this position with Thomas Küpper (50), who is also Director Business Unit Shipping, Dry. Both men will gear this line of business towards the challenges of the future. <br src=
Before joining Imperial Logistics International on 1 February this year, Hauswald worked as manager of the internationalisation, corporate development and finances departments at the port services company, Buss Port Logistics (Hamburg). Prior to this, he held various management positions at logistics companies with international operations. He is also co-managing director of the Buss Imperial Logistics (BIL) joint venture, a company, which guarantees supplies of raw materials and aggregates for the Krupp Mannesmann (HKM) smelting works in Duisburg and operates the works port there.

The Dry business is still one of the segments that generates the highest turnover in the Imperial Transport Solutions division. Using its own fleet of motor vessels comprising about 200 units with subcontractor owner-operators, which makes it one of the largest push-boat fleets in Europe, the company specialises in transporting coal and ores, metals and steel products, cereals, fertilisers and timber products. In geographical terms, the company covers the complete river Rhine area, including its tributaries and canals, France, the Benelux countries and the states bordering on the rivers Main/Danube. The company also provides logistics solutions particularly geared to meet the demands of the steel, aluminium and power station industries – and plant construction.



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Qimarox has extended its range of material handling components with the Prorunner mk10, a product lift for pallets up to 2,000 kg. The company says the The Prorunner mk10 allows companies to transport up to sixty pallets per hour, ten metres upwards. Qimarox will talk about this product lift at Modex, the popular international trade fair, taking place from today in Atlanta (USA).

This year, Modex says it is responding to the ever-changing market, which requires flexible and innovative logistics processes. “To survive these days, companies need to continuously monitor and optimise their processes. The trick is to choose exactly those products and systems that offer your organisation the most added value from the overwhelming range on offer today,” said the company in a statement.

An example is the Qimarox Prorunner mk10, which is based on the design of the successful Prorunner mk9 pallet lift. The most important difference is that the new Prorunner mk10 features four instead of two columns, which allows “this very robust lift to effortlessly lift loads of up to 2,000kg”.

The Prorunner mk10 can easily bridge any difference in height between 0.40 and 10 metres. Even at a height difference of 10 metres, the lift can still easily transport sixty pallets per hour “with ease”. The Prorunner mk10 is equipped with a lifting platform of 1200 x 1200 mm as standard, so that it can handle not only euro pallets, but also product carriers of different sizes such as block pallets.

The Prorunner mk5 is described as “literally and figuratively the highlight of the fair”. This elegant product lift works according to the time-honoured paternoster principle, which results in a versatile vertical transport system with a capacity of 2,000 products per hour. Because a single elevator system can be used for both upward and downward product flows, the Prorunner mk5 is ideal for vertical sorting, or as a component in storage and order picking systems.

The standard model of this maintenance friendly and sophisticated product elevator is available for the fixed price of only $ 9,250 including infeed and outfeed conveyors.

Besides product and pallet lifts, Qimarox also develops and supplies components for packaging systems. The Highrunner mk7 is an innovative palletiser, which is capable of quickly and efficiently processing products of different shapes and sizes into stable pallets. Qimarox also supplies standardised, modular components for wrapping pallets in foil. New in this range is a machine for wrapping pallets in stretch wraps.

All components are installed, integrated and maintained by trained system partners, so you are assured of a local specialist who speaks your language and may already be familiar with your organisation and processes.

Uncategorised - April 4, 2016;

Logistics BusinessQimarox has extended its range of material handling components with the Prorunner mk10, a product lift for pallets up to 2,000 kg. The company says the The Prorunner mk10 allows companies to transport up to sixty pallets per hour, ten metres upwards. Qimarox will talk about this product lift at Modex, the popular international trade fair, taking place from today in Atlanta (USA). <br src=
This year, Modex says it is responding to the ever-changing market, which requires flexible and innovative logistics processes. “To survive these days, companies need to continuously monitor and optimise their processes. The trick is to choose exactly those products and systems that offer your organisation the most added value from the overwhelming range on offer today,” said the company in a statement.

An example is the Qimarox Prorunner mk10, which is based on the design of the successful Prorunner mk9 pallet lift. The most important difference is that the new Prorunner mk10 features four instead of two columns, which allows “this very robust lift to effortlessly lift loads of up to 2,000kg”.

The Prorunner mk10 can easily bridge any difference in height between 0.40 and 10 metres. Even at a height difference of 10 metres, the lift can still easily transport sixty pallets per hour “with ease”. The Prorunner mk10 is equipped with a lifting platform of 1200 x 1200 mm as standard, so that it can handle not only euro pallets, but also product carriers of different sizes such as block pallets.

The Prorunner mk5 is described as “literally and figuratively the highlight of the fair”. This elegant product lift works according to the time-honoured paternoster principle, which results in a versatile vertical transport system with a capacity of 2,000 products per hour. Because a single elevator system can be used for both upward and downward product flows, the Prorunner mk5 is ideal for vertical sorting, or as a component in storage and order picking systems.

The standard model of this maintenance friendly and sophisticated product elevator is available for the fixed price of only $ 9,250 including infeed and outfeed conveyors.

Besides product and pallet lifts, Qimarox also develops and supplies components for packaging systems. The Highrunner mk7 is an innovative palletiser, which is capable of quickly and efficiently processing products of different shapes and sizes into stable pallets. Qimarox also supplies standardised, modular components for wrapping pallets in foil. New in this range is a machine for wrapping pallets in stretch wraps.

All components are installed, integrated and maintained by trained system partners, so you are assured of a local specialist who speaks your language and may already be familiar with your organisation and processes."/>