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HSE: interlocks are a must for loaders
Page 26
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by Steve Banner All firms running trucks equipped with lorry loaders should fit them with interlocks or equivalent devices where practical to prevent use unless stabiliser legs are deployed.
That's the advice of the Health and Safety Executive {HSE) in the wake of a spate of serious lorry loader accidents. If the legs aren't in the 'down' position, then there is a risk that the truck will topple over.
The HSE wants to see all new loaders equipped with interlocks as standard, in line with the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 1992. However, loader manufacturers argue that they will need until at least 2006 to come up with reliable, cost-effective devices suitable for all the models they make (CM 10-16 Oct 2002).
"The HSE has held talks with the manufacturers, and is aware that this is the situation," says Doug Dyson, chairman of the Association of Lorry Loader Manufacturer and Importers (ALM).
A standard interlock system is likely to add 11,000 to £1,500 to the cost of a loader, Dyson says. The good news is that the rules are unlikely to affect loaders already in service, or those with a capacity of less than 1,000kg," he adds.
Timber cranes fitted to trucks on forestry work are also likely to be excluded from the requirement.
The industry's claim that it will need at least another three years to come up with universallyapplicable interlock mechanisms is perhaps surprising, given that interlocks suitable for a variety of different loaders are already available from several companies as optional extras.
Tricom (GB) offers Truck Safe, which comes in two variations. The nine-channel version stops a loader being used unless the legs are extended and locked, while the more basic five-channel variant ensures the crane and a pair of sta
biliser legs are stowed correctly, Prices start at around £1,000. HMF (UK ) offers the EVS, which sounds a warning if a loader is becoming unstable. According to HMF. it adds around 15% to the cost of a mid-range model.
The HSE stresses that any modifications or additions to existing machines should only be carried out with the approval of the manufacturer, or its authorised representative.
As well as encouraging the fitment of interlocks, the HSE Is also insisting that all loader operators must be properly trained. ALIMI says that it should take two days to train a novice operator, and should cost between £300 and 2500.