Ergonomic lifting aids make packing lines more efficient and safer

To reduce physical risks and increase efficiency within the packaging industry, numerous lifting aids are available. Erkon Tilhulpmiddelen distinguishes itself with a wealth of knowledge, customized advice and its Experience Center. This test and demo center offers companies the chance to see all the possibilities. Even better, they can bring their own goods and try them out. Advisor Mark van Ravenswaaij explains why: “It is important that companies invest in lifting aids that best suit their environment and needs. In addition to providing this Experience Center, we therefore also visit each customer at their location.”

Hovmand's lifting aids are proving especially useful in the packaging industry. For example, they are ideally suited for moving heavy rolls of packaging material or film rolls. These lifting aids are compact, easy to operate and can be moved manually. “Moreover, no certificate is required for operation; anyone can work with them,” says Van Ravenswaaij.

Multi-purpose

Hovmand's strength lies in its interchangeable attachments. With one lifting aid, this allows you to perform different tasks. For example, from a mandrel, with which an operator changes a roller, to a crane arm with which the technical service can then change blades and shoulder pieces. That makes it multi-deployable and cost-saving.

The Hovmand line contributes to an efficient work process. “The system relieves the employees, but also ensures that they are no longer dependent on help from colleagues because they can now replace a heavy roller independently. In addition, they can also have the rolls done larger, which means they don't have to be changed as often. That in turn saves changeover time,” Van Ravenswaaij points out.

Vacuum lifters

Another lifting aid increasingly used in packaging processes is the vacuum lifter. They are capable of lifting and palletizing boxes and bagged goods up to two hundred pounds. “A vacuum lifter in itself is not higher mathematics, but we make the difference by offering multi-purpose systems and always check on site which system is most suitable. We take measurements at the customer's site, take photos and look at the surroundings. If we establish, for example, that the environment is quiet, we can build a sound-insulating box around the pump. After all, ergonomics is not only about load, but also about comfort. After all, noise is tiring and reduces concentration.”

The suction cups of Erkon's vacuum lifters can be changed in seconds, making the same installation suitable for both boxes and bagged goods.

Gaining knowledge

Erkon's Experience Center plays a key role in the consulting process. “The feedback from visitors is remarkably positive. People often come for one specific solution and then discover that much more is possible. It really opens eyes. The center is also a low-threshold introduction for buyers and specialists in the field of prevention and safety. Last year we were also able to host several professional groups of ergonomists.”

In addition to a visit to the Experience Center, Erkon can also provide an on-site demonstration with the mobile lifting aids. “We will then bring a lifting aid with tool that best suits the desired lifting work and the situation outlined. And if you want to get to know Erkon, you can also visit our booth at the Empack trade show in April,” Van Ravenswaaij concludes.