Handling Network winter 2017 email

2017 WINTER â‚Ź4.95 inc. VAT Winter Vol XVVVI

The Irish Magazine for the Materials Handling, Warehousing & Logistics Sectors

Denis J Downey (Cork) Award Winning Warehousing Specialists

Featuring: - News & views - eCommerce - Safety

- Logistics - Education - Case Studies - Supply Chain

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contents WINTER 2017 The Irish Magazine for the Materials Handling, Warehousing & Logistics Sectors

Volume XVVVI Issue 4

5 4

4

News

6

eCommerce

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Profile: DJ Downey

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Safety: HSA

12

Logistics

14

Educatiom

16

Launch Pad

18

Case Studies

22 22

Supply Chain: IEA

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6 Published by:

Fleet Publications, D’Alton Street,

Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland F12 E7P2

Editor:

Jarlath Sweeney – jarlath@fleet.ie

Contributors:

Johanna Parsons, Paul White, Howard Knott,

HSA, IEA

Advertising:

Mary Morrissey

Administration:

Denise Owens

Design & Layout: Crackerjack Design House Contact Details: Telephone: 00353 94 9372826

Email: handlingnetwork@fleet.ie

WHO GETS HANDLING NETWORK? Handling Network - the magazine of the Irish Handling & Distribution Industry - is produced bi-monthly by specialists in the materials handling sector, with contributions by experts on topics of special interest to its readership.

Handling Network is distributed on controlled circulation; addressed to key personnel in Ireland’s top companies and organisations. Recipients include Company Directors, Purchasing Managers, Warehouse & Logistics Managers, Plant & Production Engineers, Transport Managers, Safety Officers and other relevant personnel.

Areas covered include forklift trucks, warehouse logistics, racking, storage & distribution, commercial vehicles, plant & equipment finance, lifting gear, loading bay and conveyor systems...together with information on health and safety issues.

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information contained in Handling Network, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for the veracity of claims made by advertisers, manufacturers or contributors or for opinions expressed.

Copyright for all material contained in this magazine remains with the publishers.

www.handling-network.com

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news

Combilift signs major contracts on overseas trade missions An Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald T.D., Minister for Business, Enterprise & Innovation (centre) and Julie Sinnamon, Chief Executive, Enterprise Ireland witness the signing of the contract between Chris Littlewood, Combilift Australia Business Development Manager and Pat Tallon, Chief Executive Officer, Mary Kinnane, Enterprise Ireland Australian Country Manager

During a business lunch in Sydney as part of the Enterprise Ireland trade and investment mission to Australia, Combilift signed a $1 million contract with Civmec, an Australian construction and engineering company that is worth an additional $1 million to the Irish company.

Civmec is an integrated, multi-disciplined construction and engineering services provider to the oil and gas, metals and minerals, infrastructure and defence markets in Australia.

The contract signing in Sydney was witnessed by An Tánaiste & Minister for Business, Enterprise & Innovation, Frances Fitzgerald TD. It was attended by 200 business leaders from Ireland and Australia, and led by the President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins, during a State Visit to Australia.

Combilift, the Monaghan based manufacturer of multi-directional forklifts will deliver a Straddle Carrier (Combilift SC) with a lift capacity of 90 metric tonnes to the Australian company in 2018. The Irish built machine is destined for use by Civmec on a significant project it is undertaking on the east coast of Australia.

Commenting on the contract Chris Littlewood, Combilift Australia Business Development Manager, said: “Civmec selected Combilift due to its ability to deliver a customised product that can work on challenging ground conditions. Combilift has a long-standing relationship with Civmec. This is the fourth Straddle Carrier they have purchased from us. It is double the capacity of their previous orders and the largest machine that Combilift has sold into the Australian market to date.”

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Launched in 2010, the Combilift Straddle Carrier range was developed as a more cost effective and flexible solution for distribution, shipping and road transport companies. The Combi-SC is a more economical option compared to heavy handling forklifts, reach stackers or mobile cranes and offers complete independence when moving very large fully laden containers and other oversized loads around sites.

Sam Moffett - First Ever Rally Triple Crown Winner. Already crowned as champion in both the Triton Showers National Rally Championship and the Valvoline National Forestry series, Combilift backed Sam Moffett in his Ford Fiesta R5 recently completed an unprecedented Irish rallying triple crown by adding the Clonakilty Blackpudding Irish Tarmac Rally Series title to his impressive collection of achievements.

Combilift, also recently signed a contract with Paves Asia Pacific PTE Ltd, which in effect introduced its ‘straddle carrier’ product into Asia.

Launched in 2010, the Combilift Straddle Carrier (Combi-SC) range

was developed as a more cost-effective and flexible solution for distribution, shipping and road transport companies. Paves Asia Pacific PTE Ltd., is a supplier of different construction equipment and has been named as one of the leading specialists in its field.

Minister Fitzgerald was present at the contract signing, together with Julie Sinnamon of Enterprise Ireland during a joint Enterprise Ireland/IDA Ireland trade mission to Singapore on 25 September.

Commenting on the contract signing Martin McVicar, Managing Director, Combilift said it was a significant development for the Monaghan based company. “We are very pleased to further cement our relationship with Paves. Combilift has worked with this prestigious company since 2014 but this is the first order for Straddle Carrier. This contract will allow us to develop the market for our products in Singapore.”

Combilift also delivered three coldroom Aisle Masters to Sinwa (Singapore) PTE Ltd. a new warehouse in Singapore during the trade mission.

Sinwa is a regional marine supply and logistics company with a network of companies in Singapore, China and Australia.

Combilift, which reported turnover of €200 million last year, exports 98 percent of its products. Its output is set to double in the next few years as its new purpose-built production facility in Monaghan nears completion. €46m has been invested in the new 46,000m² factory on a 40-hectare site, which will be the largest single manufacturing unit under one roof in Ireland.

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news

Timber Pallet & Packaging Industry issues warning over sustained price rise in raw materials

Continually increasing costs of raw materials are now impacting on the price of wooden pallet and packaging products from the UK and Ireland, states the Timber Packaging & Pallet Confederation (TIMCON).

The Markit/CIPS report released at the beginning of October shows the price of pallet timber has increased

for the 14th consecutive month, the price of nails has risen for 16 months running, and the prices of both new and recycled wooden pallets are also now increasing.

Stuart Hex, TIMCON’s General Secretary, said buoyant alternative markets creating a scarcity of imported timber and unfavourable exchange rates were two causes of the problem. He added that with no nail manufacturing industry left in the UK, domestic manufacturers are sourcing nails from the EU and even further afield, which has compounded the exchange rate effect further.

“TIMCON monitors the market continuously and we’ve seen timber prices escalating since the start of 2016,” he said. “This year alone UK and Irish pallet timber has increased by more than 10 percent and the Baltic by even more.” In the long-term, the price of timber has been modest and increases usually ease off in the winter months, but the price has continued to

rise during this period,” he added.

“Approximately 70 percent of pallet costs are timber, so these unrelenting increases are now clearly having to be fed into the selling prices of timber pallets and packaging. These increases not only affect new pallets, packaging and repairs, they also increase demands for reconditioned pallets which is leading to supply issues.”

“As exchange rates and inflation continue to have an effect, price rises are currently occurring across many other industries, in alternative materials, for example. This is a general problem, but the very high cost of materials in the pallet industry makes it impossible to fully absorb increases on this scale. The wooden pallet and packaging industry is working closely with its customers to manage this situation. Wooden pallets and packaging remain by far the most economic choice, not to mention the most environmentally sustainable,” concluded Stuart.

Innovative Urban Trailer from SDC Trailers & Moffett Interesting to hear that SDC Trailers and Moffett have come together to produce an innovative Urban Trailer featuring a fully adjustable design, which will allow the customer to fit any Moffett truck/trailer mounted style forklift.

The result of the collaboration is a 10.6m curtain-side trailer built to EN 12642 XL spec, with a rear steer axle to assist manoeuvring in urban areas and designed for 33 tonne operations.

SDC has incorporated multi-deck rings to run in conjunction with an easy access strapping system for load restraint. There is also additional storage provided, with two toolboxes fitted to the sideguards for easy access.

Following its debut at the 2017 National Ploughing Championships in Tullamore, the new Moffett urban trailer will be utilised as a demon-

stration unit at various exhibitions within the UK and Ireland to showcase how it can be adapted to suit the full Moffett range. Featuring distinctive livery portraying a Moffett forklift in operation, the show trailer will also be available for customer trials on Moffett’s new E Pictured: L to R, Paul Rogan (Director Business Control, Cargotec), Keith Quigley (SVP Truck Mounted Forklift, Series Range Electric Truck Cargotec), Enda Cushnahan (CEO, SDC Trailers) and Martin Mounted Forklift.

Kellet (Ireland Sales Manager, Cargotec) pictured with SDC’s urban trailer Moffett’s new Urban trailer from SDC. range offers a number of economic, operational a range of aerodynamic features on its and environmental advantages, with bespoke trailer range such as front air under-slung tail-lifts available for unindeflectors, rear roof vortex generators terrupted rear end loading/unloading and aerodynamic side skirts to help from docks and straightforward reduce fuel consumption. unloading in a multi stop store delivery situation. The manufacturer also offers www.handling-network.com

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ecommerce

5 million parcels in 5 years at Parcel Motel

Parcel Motel, the convenient, secure and round-the-clock delivery service for online shoppers, is celebrating 5 years in business having delivered nearly 5 million parcels since its launch in 2012. Parcel Motel delivers a solution to an unmet need – giving Irish consumers a better online shopping experience. The delivery service enables Irish shoppers to unlock cost savings when buying from overseas retailers by allowing members to re-route the delivery of packages from their home or office to a Parcel Motel locker – meaning they can access the parcel at a time that is convenient for them.

Parcel Motel members can also send and return parcels from a Parcel Motel locker to Ireland and the UK at a

fraction of the cost of postal rates, with many of their retail partners offering free returns.

At the time of its launch, Parcel Motel had 20 locker terminals and just 5 staff members. In the five years since, the business has seen a rapid expansion, with the company now employing 65. It has 160 Parcel Motel terminals across the country – with at least one Parcel Motel terminal in every county in Ireland. With on average 80 lockers per terminal, there are now over 12,500 Parcel Motel lockers in Ireland. Parcel Motel’s membership base has also seen a growing number of registered users since the introduction of the service. The increase in demand for the service continues to rise year on year – with the company

seeing over 30% increase in parcels delivered since its launch.

The company currently has two dedicated Parcel Motel depots – one in Dublin and one in Belfast – which allows for the growing success of the “UK Virtual Address” offering. The “UK Virtual Address” was developed in order for Irish consumers to overcome the high cost of shipping purchases directly to the Republic, as well as overcoming the problem when ordering online from the UK, and living in Ireland, of not having a delivery address based in the UK. The “UK Virtual Address” service allows Parcel Motel users to choose the Belfast depot as their delivery point when buying from UK retailers. Their goods are then delivered to their local Parcel Motel terminal for the cost of a domestic delivery fee. This service allows shoppers to both avail of online shopping otherwise unavailable to the Republic of Ireland, and to unlock cost savings when buying from overseas retailers. “UK Virtual Address” has been increasingly popular since launch, accounting for the largest volume of items passing through the Parcel Motel system.

GLS introduces FlexDeliveryService Shopping convenience without borders is how parcel service provider GLS Ireland describes its new FlexDeliveryService for international e-commerce which is now available in 14 countries across Europe.

Cross-border online retail is experiencing double-digit percentage growth in Europe, and Irish web based retailers are among those benefiting from the trend. Orders from mainland Europe are becoming more important, which is reflected in international parcel dispatch. “Up to now, most of the deliveries from Ireland have gone to the UK,” explained Andreas Rickert, Managing Director of GLS

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Ireland. “Since last year, Belgium has developed into the most important export country for our customers.”

Online buyers expect convenient parcel delivery more than ever. With the FlexDeliveryService, GLS meets the rising standards. It allows consumers in many European countries to manage the time and location of the delivery to suit their requirements. Recipients of GLS parcels now have various options for purchases from Irish online shops too.

With the FlexDeliveryService, GLS informs recipients in advance when their parcel is due to be delivered. If there won’t be anyone at home, the parcel can be diverted even once it is on its way.

Text: Jarlath Sweeney

WINTER 2017

education

‘DON’T LOOK DOWN’

In principle, working at height is no more difficult than working on the ground, in that the objective and tasks are usually the same. For instance, the task of changing a light bulb is as such identical regardless of how high the socket happens to be located.

However, when the task must be accomplished ‘at height’ the risk of injury to the worker is increased, as is the risk of injury to others in the immediate area.

Establishing exactly what qualifies as working at height is sometimes difficult. Opinion can be divided as different people will cite different sources. One school of thought under the old Construction Regulations was that ‘at height’ means a level above two metres, meaning that guard rails and platforms should be used. Whereas below two metres, the methods to prevent falls were determined by the risk. However these Construction Regulations no longer apply, and instead it is now required “that the risk of a fall be prevented wherever a fall is liable to cause personal injury. This means that measures should be taken to prevent injury for any height where there is a risk of a fall causing personal injury.”

In Ireland, the regulatory body that oversees working at height is the Health & Safety Authority (HSA). It explains that “working at height is working in a place where a person could be injured by falling from it, even if it is at or below ground level.” This interpretation encompasses a wide spectrum of activities and situations, ranging from

using a ladder, to working at floor level in a vehicle garage in proximity to an open pit.

In the world of warehousing and materials handling, working at height is almost impossible to eliminate. The additional capacity made available by storing products at higher levels creates important efficiencies. However, opting to store products on higher levels means that put away and retrieval requires staff and/or machinery to work at height. In addition, the use of equipment to facilitate easy order picking creates the need for equipment training and certification - an issue which must be also addressed.

As with most potentially dangerous situations in the workplace the first step is to carry out a proper Risk Assessment. Depending on the assessment’s findings, it may be possible to eliminate the task by adopting a new method of working. If it’s not possible to eliminate, then reducing the risk is the next option. Either way the assessment may discover that a solution might not be that arduous or expensive.

It may be as simple as replacing a ladder with a secured staircase or adopting a new method of securing a ladder.

The immediate risk of working at height may not originate from a staff member having a fall. The risk could be the same staff member dropping an object from a height, which endangers persons below. Again, it’s worth noting that such tasks may occur at levels no higher than the top shelf in a supermarket.

There are a number of other factors that need to be considered, including weather, temperature, the nature of the work being carried out, and the items being handled. Other considerations include the correct and appropriate training for staff, and the availability of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). The risks should be explained to the employee and they should be familiar with operating the safety equipment, especially fall arrest devices. Proper planning will help to minimise risks and while prevention is the primary objective of the planning stage. It is also wise to have anyone concerned fully aware of the measures needed to affect an appropriate rescue plan if the worst does happen.

When the activity in question occurs in a warehouse environment, one particular point is worth noting.

While forklifts and most items of handling equipment are subject to an annual inspection, if a piece of equipment is used to carry or lift people even temporarily, it must be then subject to a thorough inspection every six months which must be undertaken by a competent person.

The full regulations governing working at height can be found in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations 2007. Further guidance and information dealing with specific tasks, and working environments is readily available from the Health & Safety Authority.

Text: Paul White

Available in a range of sizes No assembly required Prices start at €130 www.addgards.com sales @ addgards.com phone: 01 2149833

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WINTER 2017

profile

DJ Downey Ltd - Award winning fourth generation transport & warehousing family business

DJ Downey Ltd, recent recipient of the Fleet Transport “Excellence in Warehousing & Product Handling Award 2018�, is a family owned and managed business that has developed and progressed over ninety years.

From its County Cork base, it is now a multi-location specialised warehousing and distribution business that operates nationwide and throughout Europe achieving world standards in food and pharma product care.

DJ Downey Ltd is unusual in that three generations of the family work in the business on a daily basis.

This means that the talents of young, dynamic millenniums are harnessed, and along with other family members have established a strong Board in

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an ever changing environment.

The business is a true logistics provider, operating from modern facilities in Donoughmore, the heart of agricultural production and processing in Munster. It also operates a state-ofthe-art warehousing location in Ringaskiddy, Cork’s expanding port location.

The business prides itself on customer care, employing and nurturing good staff and becoming part of the Downey philosophy and acumen. This is a key strength of the business, as all staff know the high standards they must work to.

The owners have real respect for their expanding team and know the business inside out. John and Leonard Downey (pictured above) are accomplished as transport planners,

experienced in warehouse management and have been behind the wheel when the business was expanding.

Because the goods handled are high grade food products, everything from the cleanliness of the transport units on the road to the attention to detail of the in-house maintenance procedures, and the upkeep and presentation of both warehouses premises has to be meticulous, with the business offering a first class service.

John Downey is well known within the transport industry from his involvement at Council level within the Irish Road Haulage Association. He has been influential during negotiations on key issues and is respected for his expertise.

Leonard Downey is known for his involvement in motorsport and some

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profile

members of the workforce are part of his rally team in their spare time. It’s another part of business marketing.

In the last three years DJ Downey Ltd has seen significant growth in its warehousing business with expansion in Donoughmore and the opening of Ringaskiddy. In this period storage capacity has increased to 120,000 sq.ft, with 15,000 individual pallet spaces.

“We have fantastic customers such as Nutricia, Glanbia and Dairygold using our warehousing facilities,” said John, in acknowledging that Downeys is the main provider of food grade warehousing in Munster. John also mentioned that it has developed a network of warehousing capacity nationwide, to offer a broader service throughout Ireland.

In relation to the road transport wing of the business, both John and Leonard started their professional careers behind the wheel, and now supervise the daily route charters at the transport office. Leonard is clear that standards have to be met and maintained in its specialised sector.

“We operate into and out of our own warehouses so both drivers and warehouse staff operate as a team, reducing unnecessary delays. To meet extra demand, we have also built up a network of hauliers that provide additional cover to our core fleet of 30 tractor-units and 105 trailers. These partners are treated in the same manner as our own fleet, and to ensure a high quality service, we work together as business partners.

Recent fleet additions include new Volvo FH tractor-units and SDC trailers, and a substantial order is placed for

2018, reflecting the business confidence and strategic growth path.

“In transport, we offer a wide ranging service to our customers including pallet, part load and unit loads nationwide and to all of Europe via links with worldwide distribution partners. That has brought DJ Downey Ltd to the third element of its business whereby it provides the logistics service of product routing and handing as a management service provision.

Speaking with John and Leonard Downey it is apparent that this is a proud yet modest family business. It may have evolved and changed over the last nine decades, but its position in the local community and its basic core values remain the same.

The business has invested heavily in IT and operating procedures, with a warehousing system that links to core customer manufacturing systems for real time raw material and finished product inventory. Having this system is possible because of Downey’s economies of scale and specialised knowledge of the food/pharmaceuticals sector.

The development of the business has always been about building excellent relationships with its

customers, staff and core service providers. Throughout the last recession the business has been expanding and was in a unique position to take advantage of the economic upturn.

Looking to the future, business development will come from core customer requirements and prudent analysis of the economy. The fourth generation is actively working in the business and learning the profession.

The continuity of knowledge and wisdom handed down from generation to generation ensures that this business will always be at the forefront of what it does well, while retaining vital links to past success and achievements.

Text: Donal Dempsey

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safety

No Excuse for Unsafe Loads

Unsafe loads cause accidents in the workplace and on the road Every year loading, unloading and load shift accidents injure hundreds of people and cost businesses millions in damaged goods, damaged vehicles and lost work time.

Between 2006 and 2011 there were 509 accidents that involved loading, unloading and load securing operations reported to the Health & Safety Authority. These accidents involved workers or members of the public being struck by falling objects, workers falling from vehicles, or slipping and tripping in loading areas. 12 of these accidents resulted in death. The remainder of accidents resulted in injuries that led to substantial absences from work.

Legal Duties Employers have legal duties under the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. Employers must make sure that: n

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systems of work are planned, performed and maintained for loading, unloading, securing and transporting loads drivers and loading and unloading staff are provided with appropriate instruction, information and training about loading, unloading and securing loads adequate equipment is provided and maintained in a safe and serviceable condition for securing loads appropriate procedures are put in place to deal with an emergency such as a load shifting or load falling from vehicle there is adequate co-ordination and co-operation between all parties in the transport chain [consignor, loader, consignee and driver] and clear responsibilities laid down employees are given appropriate information and training to enable them to carry out work duties in a safe manner and comply with safety rules and procedures.

Why should loads be secured?

Apart from the human cost, think about the impact of failing to safely secure loads may have on your business. n Drivers, vehicle occupants, other road users, pedestrians and anyone who may be involved in loading and unloading the vehicle could be injured or killed. n Unsecured loads or objects may fall from vehicles and can cause road obstructions, traffic disruptions and collisions especially if drivers swerve to avoid fallen items. n Certain vehicle spillages may cause other vehicles to skid and lose control. n Unrestrained goods may crash into the vehicle cab during emergency braking. n Loads which have shifted, may have to be manually removed from the vehicle which may increase the risk of an injury or a fall from the vehicle. n Investigation of incident by statutory authority(s) n Items falling out of vehicles at delivery sites causing injury and/or property damage

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n

Unstable loads collapsing during transit or unloading resulting in damage to goods. n Delays due to delivery site workers having to manually unload shifted and/or unstable loads. n Failure to secure a load properly can also result in Cyan 100% financial losses from: Magenta 76%

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Yellow 0

Damaged goods.

Black 27% Damaged vehicles, property and roads.

Vehicle repair costs.

Worker absence through injury.

Clean-up costs.

Time delays during unloading.

Injury claims.

Damage to company reputation.

Increased insurance premiums.

As well as being a distraction to the driver, shifting loads can: Make the vehicle unstable.

Result in loss of control of the vehicle.

May cause the vehicle to overturn.

Call to action The Authority is urging employers to ensure that they discharge their legal duty to employees and others in relation to loading, unloading and load securing operations at work. Employers need to develop effective and safe systems of work that will prevent avoidable harm to workers and members of the public from unsafe loads. Employers should provide instruction, information and training on how to load, unload and secure loads safely without risk of injury to persons.

The Authority urges employers to take the following simple steps to keep loads, vehicles, employees, contractors and members of the public safe and protect business.

Plan for Load Securing Time spent planning your loading and unloading practices may prevent the problems a poorly planned and unsafe load can cause: n

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carry out risk assessment on all loading, unloading and load securing activities develop safe loading, unloading and load securing procedures for each vehicle and load type provide clear rules and instructions to employees on how to load and unload vehicles provide employees with a written vehicle loading plan provide correct equipment to load, unload and secure loads safely provide a load plan for each journey – consider multi-drop loads communicate relevant information about each delivery site to drivers, including reporting arrangements, site rules, equipment and facilities.

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safety

Safe Loading procedures Restraining securely and safely is crucial in preventing Cyanloads 100% 76% accidents Magenta in transit and during unloading: Yellow 0 Black 27%

n Load to the headboard. If the load cannot be loaded to the headboard, use blockage or dunnage to fill the gap. n Provide load restraint equipment that is suitable for the load and in good condition. n Loads should not move in any direction in transit of the trailer. n Never use curtains to secure a load. Loads that shift in transit, may fall out when the curtain is opened. n Load restraint equipment should not be secured to rope hooks. n Load restraint equipment should be regularly checked for damage and wear and tear.

Safe Journey In the course of any journey there is potential for loads to shift and become unstable which may affect the safe driving and stability of the vehicle. For example there is an increased risk of a vehicle overturning at bends, junctions or roundabouts. n

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If a load does shift, it is vital that the driver feels under no pressure to continue the journey.

An employer should provide clear written instructions to the driver on who to contact for advice/assistance in the event of load shift on how to deal with the load, if continuing with their journey.

Safe Unloading Correctly restraining loads before the start of any journey is the best way to minimise the risks of falls and crush injuries during unloading. Employers should also: n

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Avoid need for working at height to prevent falls, wherever possible.

Provide a plan to safely unload the vehicle when load has shifted.

COMBi

Other Things to Think About Prevent falls from the vehicle cab or load bed n Before you set off, check that steps or handholds are in good condition. n On refrigerated vehicles, check the floor for ice or water and follow any instructions you are given to reduce the amount of water. n Wear non-slip footwear. n Wear well-fitting, slip-resistant safety footwear when working on vehicles. n Keep the soles of your footwear clean. n Clean up spills and dirt, such as diesel or mud on the catwalk or load area. n Keep the load area tidy – pick up loose ropes and packaging.

Prevent hitting a pedestrian n

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Restrict the loading area to workers involved in loading or unloading.

Make sure signs, road markings, speed limits and one-way systems are being followed.

Remind drivers that they become pedestrians when they step out of the vehicle.

Don’t let anyone guide a vehicle unless they are a trained banksman or signaller.

Prevent injury caused by poor manual handling n

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Provide guidance and rules to employees on lifting and moving loads.

Use the correct equipment to load vehicles safely.

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.

For more practical advice on vehicle safety management and FREE resources on safe load securing, Visit loadsafe.ie or call 1890 289 389

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combilift.com www.handling-network.com

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WINTER 2017

logistics I

KUEHNE + NAGEL Moving with the times!

“With more than 70,000 employees at some 1,309 locations in 108 countries, the Kuehne + Nagel Group (K+N) is one of the world’s leading logistics and longest established logistics companies,” began Stephen Sargunaraj, Director, Auto/Industrial Contract Logistics, North America.

He was speaking from one of the company’s bases in Atlanta, Georgia, USA during a site visit by Handling Network. “Its strong global market position lies in seafreight, airfreight, contract logistics and overland business with the focus now on providing IT-based integrated logistics solutions,” he added.

As a sidebar, Kuehne + Nagel’s business volume increased by around 8 percent in the first nine months of the year, resulting from handling 230,000 TEUs (Twenty-foot container/ Equivalent/24 tonnes) more than the same period last year, with the strongest volume increases achieved in the United States. A region K+N entered in 1966, and where it now employs 10,000 staff, the USA accounted for 650,784 TEUs last year. Stephen highlighted some aspects of the business that maintain this buoyancy, and outlined current programmes underway to keep the company upwardly mobile.

As the visit was arranged by Daimler brand Mercedes-Benz, it was

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appropriate that Stephen announced that Kuehne + Nagel had signed a multi-year contract with Mercedes-Benz Vans to help operate the production logistics for its newly constructed assembly line and production facility in Charleston, South Carolina. The plant will provide flexible and efficient materials management as well as JIT – Just in Time deliveries for the assembly process. K+N’s logistics team developed a daily operations plan that includes vision picking smart glasses and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) in the warehouse and storage areas. It also uses its own KN Production System (KNPS), an in-house created method based on the ‘Lean-Chain’ supply chain principle, used initially by Japanese automotive manufactur-

ers. A similar exercise is underway in Budapest, Hungary on behalf of parts supplier Federal Mogul.

Reacting to consumer trends and the continuous evolution of the global automotive industry, K+N has spotted an opportunity with the worldwide uptake on electrically powered vehicles.

Announced at the New Mobility World 2017 forum at the recent Frankfort Motor Show, the KN BatteryChain is the first integrated supply chain to actively address the increasing global demand for lithium batteries according to Dr. Detleft Trefzger, CEO Kuehne + Nagel International AG. “KN BatteryChain demonstrates Kuehne + Nagel’s leading role in global automotive logistics and our capability to anticipate industry trends from which we derive industry-specific solutions in time. I am

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logistics I

convinced that this innovative solution developed in close cooperation with our customers and partners will set industry standards for the supply chain along the entire battery life cycle and support our automotive customers and the aftermarket to grow their businesses,” he added.

“It is assumed that in the next five years, the electric car stock will triple.

This in turn will boast demand for transportation and storage of the key component – lithium-ion batteries.”

High capacity lithium batteries used in electric vehicles are heavy and bulky and require a high level of handling detail and expertise to comply with international dangerous goods regulations and certain restrictions.

K+N addresses this complexity with its certified end-to-end solution. KN BatteryChain is specifically designed to provide safe, reliable and efficient mass transportation as well as storage of lithium cells and batteries.

Like many multi-national companies or corporations, K+N is always on the look-out for mergers or acquisitions and this summer a move was made to consolidate its leading position in perishable goods logistics. It took over CFI – Commodity Forwarders Inc, an airfreight-forwarding specialist of perishable products in the USA, with 14 distribution locations from Alaska to

Hawaii, employing 700. The company, established in 1974 as a one-man operation shipping strawberries to Europe now handles seafood, agricultural products, and flowers, amongst other products. While K+N’s perishable business continues to develop, its airfreight division is growing at more than twice the actual market rate. At the end of Q3 2017, K+N increased volumes by 19% with new contracts gained from the pharmaceutical, high-tech and automotive industries.

All regions, in particular Europe and North America contributed to the rising turnover through road transport shipments - or overland business as K+N describes this work which includes groupage.

Changes are in the air too as K+N FreightNet is its new streamlined and simplified service for the entire airfreight shipping process.

Other aspects of the K+N portfolio mentioned by Stephen included KN Emergency Logistics, PharmaChain, FreshChain and EngineChain which are operated 24/7 with the latter providing essential back-up to airline companies worldwide. Another area is directed towards vehicle logistics – with a difference. Run from 8 regional centres, K+N undertakes the transport of pre-production cars to remote locations for pre-launch testing such as the Arctic Circle to the Saharan Desert. For the past three seasons, it transports all of the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup cars to circuits worldwide.

The versatile articulated truck that does it all

Reduce Aisle Widths Double Storage Space Cut Warehouse Costs Operates inside & outside

Text & Photos Jarlath Sweeney www.handling-network.com

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Aisle-Master.com

The Original.

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Linde Material Handling Excellence at work

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WINTER 2017

launch pad I

Kalmar unveils Fully Electric Medium-Range forklift

Cargotec’s Kalmar has launched a new range of high capacity fully electric forklift trucks in the 9-18 tonne range.

Powered by emissions-free electric technology, the new machines will support customers in their efforts to reduce the environmental impact of their operations, and make Kalmar the first leading manufacturer to offer electric forklifts in this weight range.

Kalmar electric forklift trucks offer the performance of a powerful diesel

truck but without the accompanying air emissions, noise and vibration.

The operating cost of the new 9-18 tonne range is much lower than that of comparable diesel machines, and the payback time can be achieved within two years.

The forklifts have sufficient battery capacity to operate for a full eight-hour shift with lead acid batteries and are future-proofed to operate with new lithium-ion battery technology.

Operators can work in peace and comfort inside the ergonomic EGO cabin, which provides maximum visibility and features a driving seat that can be turned 180 degrees to ensure safe operation when handling heavy or bulky loads. The cabin setup can be fine-tuned for optimal operator position, while the highly responsive hydraulic system improves precision and the overall driving experience.

Hoppecke provides battery systems to SIG Hoppecke Industrial Batteries has supplied its Trak-Air battery systems to SIG, a leading distributor of specialist building products, for use with a new fleet of materials handling equipment that is operating in SIG’s brand new central distribution centre in Trafford Park, Manchester.

With strong positions in its core markets of insulation and energy management, exteriors and interiors, SIG has a large fleet and nearly 60 branches throughout the UK, Ireland and mainland Europe. The company prides itself on being able to

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supply its customers with a wide range of specialist brands and products for use on such private and public developments.

SIG has used Hoppecke’s Trak-Air battery and charger systems for over 10 years, enjoying not only energy savings in electricity used for recharging but also being able to lower its carbon footprint. Over and above these benefits the use of Hoppecke Trak-Air systems has enabled SIG to extend the expected working life of all its batteries while

greatly reducing the requirements for battery topping and maintenance.

Text: Rob Van Dieten

WINTER 2017

launch pad II

EZS 7820: Jungheinrich’s heavy-duty tow tractor

At the 21st InterAirport event held at the Munich Trade Fair Centre in Germany, Jungheinrich introduced its new EZS 7280 electric sit-on tow tractor. With up to 28 tonnes of tractive power, it is especially suitable for outdoor use at airports or the business premises of industrial companies.

Thanks to its strong torque, the tow tractor has also been designed for ramp operations with heavy loads. Automatic

parking brakes with roll-back protection and a hill-start assistant facilitate easy stopping and restarting on the ramp. A new 500 Ah lithium-ion battery guarantees outstanding efficiency. It is characterised by its maintenance-free operation and long service life and it offers the opportunity for rapid and boost charging. There is no longer any need to replace the battery. For especially long run times, a battery with up to 930 Ah capacity can be installed with an increased wheelbase.

With its compact dimensions and large steering angle, Jungheinrich has designed the EZS 7280 for manoeuvrability, even in very confined spaces.

Safety is guaranteed by the use of assistance systems. The robust and weather-resistant design with KLT coating guarantees the maximum degree of corrosion protection, making the heavy-duty tow tractor suitable for all operations even in the most adverse weather conditions. This is why Jungheinrich also offers a number of different driver’s cabs, optionally available with folding and sliding doors. The interior temperature can be controlled by a heating system, and condensation on windows during damp weather is now a thing of the past. The automotive-style pedal configuration and adjustable steering wheel positions ensure that any operator can handle the EZS 7280 with ease.

New 8-tonne electric counterbalance truck from Yale Yale Europe Materials Handling has further strengthened its electric truck offering with the launch of the 8 tonne lithium-ion counterbalance truck. The new Yale ERP80VN provides high productivity levels comparable to Yale ICE (Internal Combustion Engines) trucks of similar capacity.

The Yale ERP80VN is available to order now and will be presented for the first time at the Transport & Logistics Show in Antwerp. Designed for high-intensity operations, the ERP80VN has a load centre of 900mm making it directly comparable in many respects to the GDP80VX9 ICE truck, while performing at a low noise level of 69 dBA. The agility and manoeuvrability of the high-powered ERP80VN allows for precise and responsive load handling, achieving fast lifting and lowering speeds, as well as quick acceleration and travel speed.

By being able to equal and exceed the performance of a similar capacity

Yale ICE, the ERP80VN can help to reduce the turnaround time of loading and unloading bulky goods.

The ERP80VN offers opportunity charging, and with strategically placed chargers can support a three-shift operation. The truck can reach a full state of charge from fully flat in under two hours. The lithium-ion battery pack, which has a net capacity of 50kw/hr with a high system efficiency under full load, can complete a full eight-hour shift while consistently carrying heavy loads.

The high voltage drivetrain minimises the energy lost from battery to transmission, extending truck endurance before recharge by 40%. Even on low power settings, the ERP80VN can outperform the equivalent Yale ICE truck, making it ideal for large manufacturing plants with long driving distances.

Yale has applied its award-winning ergonomics philosophy to the

ERP80VN and the truck can be driven to its limit over an extended period of time while still being comfortable for the operator. The high visibility mast incorporates a pair of free lift hydraulic cylinders providing unobstructed forward views of the carriage.

As the truck runs on a single installed battery, additional infrastructure such as a charge room for spare batteries is not required, allowing premise space to be maximised. The service intervals for the 8 tonne electric truck are longer than that of a standard lead-acid battery, keeping the truck in action for longer periods of time.

Text Rob Van Dieten

www.handling-network.com

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WINTER 2017

case study I

Canute takes on Enterprise Software Canute Logistics has taken on Enterprise Software’s ESSential BI visibility tool to improve profitability by streamlining its supply chain operation.

The Canute Group is a global logistics provider with a turnover in excess of £100 million. Canute Haulage Ltd was established in 1977 in the UK. By 1979, it was a national operator with a significant building materials contract. It then moved into retail distribution and began to diversify into new markets. Canute Logistics is now a key division, providing supply chain solutions that incorporate transport, distribution, warehousing and fulfilment operations.

Sally Gilder, of Enterprise Software explains: “ESSential BI is a management information tool which has been integrated into our transport management system (TMS) solution. It provides business intelligence around planning orders, building loads and route planning which allows logistics companies to plan their operations and analyse performance much more effectively and quickly.”

Developed following six months of detailed evaluation, the tool can

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identify issues such as empty running and inefficient load planning, and provide the data to enable the logistics operator to improve efficiency, so making savings and improving profits.

“ESSential BI has been a real game changer as it is hugely important for us to be able to guarantee consistency in operation for our customers,” explained Alan Ringrose, Systems Optimisation Manager of Canute Logistics.

“We have been using the system for the past 12 months and it has produced great results for us, improving performance across the board.”

Canute Logistics operates from 14 depots across the UK and has found ESSential BI has not just improved driver and depot efficiency generally, but has delivered savings in terms of management time.

Canute used ESSential BI to help identify the best strategic locations for its depots. Using the tool is also proving vital when it comes to tendering for and winning new business.

“In a recent pitch for new business having this tool was vital as the customer wanted to be able to access a shared dashboard with KPI and management information. If we hadn’t been able to offer this via ESSential BI we may not have been able to meet the requirements of the Tender,” added Alan.

Enterprise Software believes that having instant and easy access to

real-time management information which can also be shared with customers, for example to confirm a service level agreement is being met, is no longer a luxury but more a necessity.

“ESSential BI really opens up people’s eyes to the potential of data for the effective management of their business,” stated Sally. “It can be used in various ways by all departments of a business; providing increased efficiency

in operational planning, as a communication tool to share information with customers, and even as a strategic planning tool to pinpoint the optimum locations – as Canute has demonstrated,” she added.

“The tool provides real-time information to enable us to make continuous improvement a reality. It is great for generating operational and KPI reports, providing flexible and dynamic information which enables us to react quickly. It saves a huge amount of management time – and is much more effective and accessible than creating and populating spreadsheets to create management information,” commented Alan.

Text: Johanna Parsons

WINTER 2017

case study II

Benefits stack up for Bond Timber Safety, accuracy and speed were key considerations when Bond Timber replaced its counterbalance forklift truck fleet with Jungheinrich products.

Shaun Getson, Bond Timber

WH Bond & Sons was first established in 1957, and has now grown into an award-winning family-owned farming supply business throughout the UK’s South West, specialising in timber sales, plant hire, civil engineering and machinery sales. The Bond Timber division sells and distributes treated timber, decking, fencing, flooring and garden products from its base in Cornwall.

Bond Timber delivers daily throughout Devon and Cornwall on a large fleet of vehicles. Operators need the ability to load trucks as efficiently and safely as possible to ensure that orders are delivered on time. It has a diverse range of retail and trade customers, all of whom may call in to the timber yard at any time. As a result, activity within the yard and around the sawmill can become busy, creating

an environment where health and safety is of the utmost importance.

The organisation’s forklift fleet is instrumental in the day-to-day handling of timber around the sawmill, as well as for loading trucks for deliveries. When the existing fleet required an upgrade, Bond Timber enlisted Jungheinrich.

They purchased six brand new trucks, creating a fleet that now consists of four DFG545 and two DFG550 diesel hydrostatic counterbalance forklifts.

Shaun Getson, Manager of Bond Timber, explained: “When we set out to replace our fleet of forklift trucks, health and safety was a top priority. Within the timber treatment and supply division, we often have a number of customers coming in to see our products in the flesh, so it’s important that we have the latest and safest technology working in the yard.

Jungheinrich took this on board and went over and above to provide solutions with increased safety features and functionality. Most notably, the hydrostatic drive system has meant that the trucks operate at a restricted speed.”

The hydrostatic drives also provide outstanding energy efficiency with wear free braking and maximum throughput, particularly when reversing and manoeuvring due to stepless power transmission and high starting torques.

To address the health and safety requirements, the trucks’

hydraulic functions are automatically disabled if the drivers’ seat is empty. An automatic parking brake means there is no uncontrolled roll-back on ramps or inclines even with the motor switched off. The machines are also supplied with damping on mast and tilt cylinders for increased handling safety.

“Our operators work to tight deadlines to enable them to get trucks loaded and orders out on time so we needed to drive efficiencies in this area - another key consideration when choosing our new fleet. Jungheinrich was able to integrate weigh scales, which provide our operators with an accurate reading of the load weight; this ensures that they don’t overload the forklift trucks or the lorries when loading timber for delivery.”

Shaun added: “Bond Timber has worked closely with Jungheinrich for more than a decade, during which time we have developed a strong working relationship with our account management team. Jungheinrich never fails to provide a 360-degree consultative approach, which complements our multifaceted company.”

Text: Johanna Parsons

www.handling-network.com

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WINTER 2017

logistics II

COOL LOGISTICS

Following a major expansion of its facilities last year, Gist’s Head of Ireland Operations, Jason McCarthy, discusses with Handling Network how the business has developed with shiny new trucks, customer collaboration and pioneering trailer design.

Gist Distribution Ltd is best known for its food logistics contracts with major international brands Marks & Spencer and Starbucks. But the Irish branch of UK based Gist Ltd has many clients and operates a full range of ambient, frozen and chilled warehousing and transport services throughout the island of Ireland, as well as running Gist’s Global Freight Management business.

Last year it opened a 23,000 sq ft warehouse in Clonshaugh, Dublin which now houses its ambient operation, whilst across the road its original 40,000 sq ft facility deals with chilled and frozen goods. As well as storing, picking and packing goods, the two sites operate as a giant distribution centre, consolidating loads arriving in from the UK and EU, so each

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truck leaves stocked with efficiently configured pallets for a network of stores ranging from Derry to Killarney, and Dublin to Letterkenny.

The firm employs some 35 drivers in the ROI and a further 22 in Northern Ireland, with a management team of eight overseeing the entire chilled distribution business as well as the Global Freight operations. Business runs 24/7, six days a week, with the first trailers departing the distribution centre at 4.30am to supply stores such as M&S with fresh produce including milk, fruit and vegetables, meat and poultry products to sandwiches and snacks.

The M&S contract is the cornerstone of the business, and one close to Jason’s heart as he has worked on it for over 15 years. After college Jason’s first job was with family run Irish Warehousing & Transport Logistics. That business was bought up by UK firm TDG in 2001 and Jason was assigned onto the ROI contract for M&S. Meanwhile Gist held the contract for M&S in the UK, and

when in 2009 it did a deal with TDG to take over the ROI contract as well, Jason moved over with the contract.

“I’ve held a couple of different roles since then. I transferred in as an operations manager, I’ve been a depot manager, and then the job I’m doing today… It was 2001 when I started working for IWT so it’s 16 years, I’ve been around a little bit.”

He says that the industry has changed a lot since he joined the workforce, with technology being the biggest factor. It’s impacting everything from the metrics shaping boardroom decision making, to looking at daily driver behaviour, and being able to pull up the data as you have the conversation.

“Drivers are now able to go on their smartphone and tell from an app what mpg they’ve done… The technology really has changed in leaps and bounds.”

A less positive change affecting Gist will resonate with all logisticians. “The driver situation within the industry is a problem currently, and has become more and more of a problem over the past number of years. There are effectively no drivers coming up, a lot of retirees, recruitment and retention is very very difficult.”

WINTER 2017

logistics II

To tackle this issue Jason says Gist has decided to invest in its fleet. In 2017 alone, the firm has taken on six new 520hp V8 toppling and Highline Scanias. As well as three vans it also bought seven new refrigerated trailer units and a new design of drop beam trailer. This innovative design was supplied by Gray & Adams. It allows double stacking of pallets and is the first of its kind in the Gist business.

“Given the nature of our work which is overnight import export, four or five nights at a time work…

We’re investing so these guys are comfortable.”

“They’re professional truck drivers.

If you give them something that’s brand new and shiny and all-singing and all-dancing they’re certainly more attracted to the job, but likewise we find that they’re more inclined to treat it as their own.”

And Jason says that the investment is paying off already, in terms of running efficiencies but also staff retention. “We’ve noticed a trend of late here whereby drivers are back once again coming to us knocking on our door.”

That’s an enviable position to be in, particularly facing into the Christmas peak. We’re all familiar with the plethora of Christmas treats and gifts that grocers like M&S festoon their stores with throughout the “holiday season”. But Gist’s other big client

Starbucks also contributes to big peak volumes. Whilst speaking to Handling Network, Jason’s team was taking delivery of some 500 pallets of seasonal treats, themed coffee cups and store decorations for the café chain.

Gist has been busy rolling out new store openings too. After a period of slow growth in Ireland, M&S recently opened its first franchise store at Heuston Station, with another store launched in Santry in November 2017.

Meanwhile Starbucks has opened ten new stores over the last eight months alone. “The growth has been very steady in the Starbucks estate, particularly in the Republic of Ireland.”

Starbucks is just one example of the seven or eight new customers Gist has taken on since moving into the Irish

market in 2009. One or two of those have come on board in the last year since the Clonshaugh expansion, but as well as the new facilities on offer Jason and his team have built new relationships by taking a flexible approach with their customers, often looking at new ways of working to reap rewards.

One example of supply chain collaboration is with Northern Ireland based Henderson Foodservice. “We’re their sole transport supplier for the Republic of Ireland… They in turn provide a facility in Northern Ireland, and we use that to cross-dock our M&S product. It’s very much a reciprocal arrangement… a strategic partnership,” says Jason.

Gist’s recent successes could well be part of an encouraging trend for new businesses in Ireland. Both DHL and Ceva Logistics recently opened temperature controlled facilities at Dublin Airport’s industrial park.

Ceva’s 15,000 sq ft site has space to store some 2,100 pallets of medical products, and DHL’s 40,000 sq ft site includes a blast & holding freezer for temperatures of -20 degrees. These are both targeted at the pharmaceutical sector, but growth and development of any logistics offerings is good news for everybody.

It’s particularly encouraging to see growth strategies such as Gist’s paying off. Expanding warehousing facilities, rolling out new stores, retaining drivers, gaining new customers and buying new vehicles is all the kind of news we hope to hear more of in the year ahead.

www.handling-network.com

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WINTER 2017

supply chain

A challenging Supply Chain Agenda for 2018

As this is the winter edition of Handling Network it is not, perhaps, inappropriate to think about the world that emerges as the last strains of “Auld Lang Syne” fade away into the New Year’s Day 2018 mists. What next year will be like for the huge network of people involved in the myriad of supply chains to get goods from the point of sale through to the the consumer, is impossible to predict.

One only has to look at the massive changes during 2017 to realise that stuff happens and does so very quickly.

Some things will happen, mainly at a practical level, and some others might happen at a political level. On the ‘will happen’ side we can count on the maritime side the arrival of Irish Ferries’ W.B.Yeats, giving a considerable lift to its Holyhead and Cherbourg services. Also arriving are the two 8,000 lane metre CLdN Con-Ro vessels facilitating the development of both container and trailer traffic on the East-West corridor and bypassing the British Landbridge. On the European and deep-sea container shipping services, a change is already happening in which feeders are increasingly taking Ireland traffic to link with the Ocean vessels at Iberian Ports instead of the much more congested Benelux ones.

On the airfreight side the assumption over the last few years that the addition of long distance flights from Irish airports would automatically increase freight capacity of the 300-seater plus aircraft, must now be re-addressed. The recently delivered Boeing and Airbus

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narrow-body aircraft have the capability to fly Trans-Atlantic routes, for example, at low cost, but with minimal cargo space. During 2018 the most likely growth will be in the all-cargo services such as that operated by Turkish Air Cargo out of Shannon.

During 2018, trucks are unlikely to change in any major way, though a number of Irish road transport operators will take delivery of natural gas-powered units. On the lighter vehicle side, change is likely to be more pronounced with electric/battery power becoming much more common, not only because such vehicles work well for carriers but also as different agencies come under pressure to deliver on the sustainability agenda before the 2020 deadline. On the rail freight side, Irish Rail will introduce longer freight trains and other measures to drive down costs so that it can position itself to meet the needs of the Sustainability Agenda.

Internationally, freight by rail will continue to develop at a rapid pace for similar reasons, with the most dramatic strides being made in freight services across Asia and in linking parts of the African hinterland with ports.

At the ‘might happen’ end, for Irish based suppliers and traders in goods BREXIT has to be the main 2018 item.

As the year goes on the negotiations will focus ever more tightly and, within the EU Member States, the task of making the Irish voice heard and the needs of Ireland met, is going to become ever more difficult. The EU has been described as being a Eurovision

for grown-ups. On the face of it it’s all a big party in which everyone participates and everyone has an equal vote, but we all know that when it comes to Eurovision voting, it’s not the merits of the song that will get a result, it’s the friends and neighbours that surround you. It now looks as if Ireland will be sadly lacking in terms of friendly neighbours, with common interests once the UK is not part of the EU set-up.

Clearly, 2018 will be a year in which that message becomes very apparent. Equally apparent is the fact that where firms wish to continue to supply customers and to take on new customers then it is not a question of waiting for some magic dust from a Government Minister, it is a question of self-help.

A valuable New Year’s Resolution for anyone involved in the Supply Chain would be to engage in training courses run by the IEA, FTAI, IIFA, CILT and others in areas including AEO Currency Management and working with the Union Customs Code.

Whatever your business

TOYOTA – TRUSTED BUSINESS PARTNER. Toyota Material Handling Ireland now brings to the market the complete range of Toyota counterbalanced forklift trucks and BT warehouse equipment, supported by services and added value solutions offering the customer a one stop shop for all your material handling needs. From hand trucks, pallet trucks, order pickers and reach trucks to gas, diesel and electric counterbalance trucks, we offer you the widest product range in the business, making Toyota Material Handling the ideal partner for your business, whatever it is. www.toyota-forklifts.ie

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