Every year within Canada, there are a few hundred forklift accidents that are reported. Though operator training is definitely the most essential part of preventing workplace mishaps, it is not enough to decrease the number of incidences. Obviously, the right method to avoiding lift truck mishaps is having the organization and business involved, in addition to combining the efforts of everybody in the facility.
Toyota applies the SAS or System of Active Stability. This technology came from automotive technology. The SAS is capable of electrically monitoring and controlling forklift operations. This particular system is vital for helping lessen the chance of accidents from occurring. When the SAS system detects any kind of instability, its advanced sensors signal simultaneously and engage the correct controller. The Active Mast Function Controller and the Active Control Rear Stabilizer help to prevent accidents or injuries occurring by adding stability.
Toyota's SAS system is a patented technology which is able to sense numerous things that may result in possible lateral instability. If and when those conditions are detected, the SAS instantly locks a hydraulic cylinder on the rear steer axle. If this specific situation happens, the stability footprint of the lift truck changes from triangular in shape to a rectangular shape, resulting in added stability. The result is an instant stability and greatly lessens the chance of a lateral overturn from happening.
Once the machinery senses instability happening, the SAS engages immediately. Then, the rear axle becomes stabilized when the Swing Lock Cylinder is engaged. This creates the lateral stability the machine needs to help reduce the risk of lateral tip-overs from occurring.
Like the active rear stabilizer control, the active mast function controller uses the same technologies. Its function is to detect the numerous things that may result in a possible longitudinal instability. Whenever the SAS controller senses potential longitudinal instability from occurring, 2 systems become engaged to help lessen the chances of forward and rearward tip-over situations from occurring: the forward tilt angle control and the rear tilt speed control.
The machines forward tilt angle control can sense the load weight and mast height, the will override the operator's manual control automatically. It would also limit the forward tilt that would reduce the possibilities of forward tipping or spilling. These safety mechanisms are in place to help the operator be safe.
The Rear Tilt Speed Control uses the same mast height sensors and same load sensors to govern the mast's reverse tilt speed to half. This really reduces the chances of having the forklift tilt backwards or spilling unsecured loads.