Cummins Engines is the latest company to entrust the well-being of its warehouse staff to Salvo, the innovative drive-away prevention system from Castell. All three loading bays at Cummins' Daventry distribution centre, in Northamptonshire, have been fitted with Salvo, after management identified the need for a reliable method of safeguarding loading operations at the new site.
Although Cummins initially considered vehicle-restraint technologies as an option, it decided that both the cost and installation time were prohibitive. Paul Woodcock, the site's Transport Analyst and the man responsible for choosing the new safety system, was quick to appreciate the benefits of Salvo.
"I couldn't see any disadvantage to it, really. It's quick and easy to install and everyone has accepted it quite happily. Our warehouse operatives feel reassured and drivers like it because they can keep hold of their keys and listen to the radio or make themselves a hot drink while they're waiting in their cabs."
Having reversed their trailer into position, drivers collect a Salvo lock from inside the warehouse. The emergency airline is removed and the lock fitted to the airline coupling, causing the trailer's brakes to be applied and effectively immobilising the trailer. A uniquely-coded Castell key is released from the end of the lock and inserted into an electrical switch located next to the bay door.
Turning this key illuminates a green light inside the loading bay, alerting the operative that it is safe for loading to begin. The operative then presses one button to raise the bay door and another to position the dock leveller.