Linde Material Handling has been working intensively on the research and development of technologies that prevent vehicle vibrations for over 20 years. Linde MH leads in reducing so-called “human vibrations.”
In the meantime there are clear guidelines in this regard from Brussels: the EU Directive “Vibration” 2002/44/EC came into force on 8 March 2007. It obliges companies to protect their employees from noise and vibrations. Linde forklift trucks are well below the thresholds it lays down.
This success has been achieved by means of various design measures: with regard to the current generation of forklift trucks we have adopted an innovative concept in which the mast is directly attached to the combi-axle. Both is like the tilting cylinder separated from the driver’s cabin and chassis by maintenance-free rubber supports. Air-suspension seats protect the driver effectively from harmful jolts, oscillations and vibrations.
Oscillations and vibrations impose stress on the back of the driver in particular. This leads to headaches and spinal complaints. Concentration suffers and with the impairment of health satisfaction with the workplace too.
Minimisation of human vibrations conserves the health of the employee. Physical harm is avoided. Satisfaction with the workplace increases.
Good technological working conditions decrease the risk of accidents that cause damage to vehicles and transport goods. By conserving resources, the reduction of human vibrations can also contribute to the protection of the environment.
Investments in company health management pay off: reporting sick declines, motivation and efficiency of the employee rise. The return on investment can grow to be up to 5 percent.
