Safety is a paramount concern in warehouses, and the best solution for this problem is forklift collision avoidance systems. They are designed to prevent accidents by detecting and alerting you about the potential dangers.
However, with so many options, it can be overwhelming to select the right forklift collision avoidance system for your warehouse. Therefore, to help you, here are some valuable tips on how you can make an informed and worthwhile decision for your business.
Consider Warehouse Layout and Environment
Which forklift collision avoidance system will be the right for you significantly depends on what your requirements are. Therefore, to make the right decision that can pay you off in the long run, you must consider the layout and environment of your warehouse before selecting a forklift collision avoidance system. You must keep in mind the following key considerations:
- Blind Spots: Select a system that provides adequate coverage to the areas with limited visibility or high traffic.
- Space: If you own a large and complex warehouse, consider opting for a system with a wider detection range, such as LIDAR or RADAR. On the other hand, for a smaller warehouse, laser and ultrasonic systems will also work well.
- Environmental Factors: If your warehouse experiences harsh weather conditions, like dust, smoke, or low light, you should select a system that is robust and reliable in these conditions.
Research a Reputable and Reliable Provider
After specifying your needs, the next step is to research a reputable and reliable provider, as they can offer you the best buying experience, eliminating all the potential problems. You should look for companies with a long-standing presence in the industry, as this indicates their stability and expertise.
When choosing a forklift collision avoidance system provider, you must consider the following factors:
- Customer Service
- History and Reputation
- Product Range
- Warranty
- Online Reviews
Consider the Operational Impact of Machine
Unexpected downtime of the forklift collision avoidance system can cost a lot of money and affect the operational efficiency of your warehouse. Therefore, if you want to avoid the costs of frequent repairs and replacements in the future, you must consider the operational impact of the machine before purchasing.
If you have selected the system that involves multiple components, transponders, testing, IT integration, and calibration, you will have to train your staff to operate the machine efficiently. Therefore, you should also consider the cost of training when buying a forklift collision avoidance system.
Check All the Sensors
The forklift collision avoidance systems rely on a diverse arsenal of sensors that ensure the protection of your warehouse. You must check each of them and ensure their proper functioning before making any decision.
Here are some common sensors used in forklift collision avoidance systems:
RFID Tags: They are the tiny trackers attached to forklifts and pedestrians.
