10032946Smart Guard for Warehouse Pallet RackingClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKRAXPRO LTD is developing a simple, effective and unique product that warns warehouse industrial truck operators when they are in close proximity with a rack upright, with the aim of reducing damage and expense. In warehouses using industrial lift trucks and pallet racking, damage can occur to rack components due to lift truck or pallet-load impact. The most vulnerable and frequently damaged pallet rack components are the lower rack support uprights. Lift truck operators may be unaware of causing damage or unwilling to report damage. Damage to pallet racking is generally accepted as an unavoidable consequence of operating a warehouse with industrial lift trucks. The expense of pallet rack repairs across the UK is conservatively estimated to be in excess of £10m/annum. This development project brings together existing technology in a novel way to provide an effective solution to reduce damage and improve lift truck operator skills and safety behaviour. An initial prototype has been tested with potential customers. This project develops the functionality and features for a production version as a result of customer input. The product is unique with no direct competition. A patent has been applied for. This product's principle purpose is simply to reduce impact and contact by allowing the operator to take avoiding action as a result of an audible and or visual warning. The product can be readily fitted over the pallet rack upright. The audible alert makes evident a 'near miss' and this for the first time can be included into existing warehouse safety management practice and improve lift truck operator performance. The product is anticipated to have wide appeal both in the UK and Internationally.