Pallet-Track has become the first company in the UK to roll out a bespoke AI-powered forklift safety system, following a six-figure investment in cutting-edge technology.
The Wolverhampton-based pallet network has teamed up with US logistics tech specialist Samsara to develop a tailor-made AI tracking solution for its fleet of forklift trucks, marking a significant step forward in warehouse safety.
While AI and camera systems are commonly used in HGVs, similar technology for forklifts has yet to reach the UK market — prompting Pallet-Track to lead the charge in developing a solution that meets the specific demands of warehouse environments.
The company has invested over £100,000 in installing cameras, tracking devices, and AI software across its fleet. The advanced system records and analyses harsh braking, identifies areas for performance improvement, and uses AI to detect signs of drowsiness in drivers.
Using facial recognition, the system can identify individual operators and monitor their behaviour across multiple vehicles, enabling a more accurate and consistent safety profile.
Anthony Ratchford, Head of Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ) at Pallet-Track, said: “We are proud to be investing heavily in SHEQ and leading the way for forklift safety in the industry with this innovative solution.
“We want to ensure the behaviour of every forklift driver at Pallet-Track remains first-class, which is why we continually review our performance and look at how we can perform better.
“Our long-term goal is to set a target safety score for all forklift drivers at our hub and ensure this score is maintained by providing our drivers with familiarisation and refresher training, if required.
“Working with Samsara has enabled us to develop the technology we need to drive our commitment to safety forward and to utilise AI to detect, notify and report any unsafe behaviour in the warehouse.”
Stuart Godman, CEO at Pallet-Track, added: “Pallet-Track is undergoing a period of rapid growth and change, so it is vital that we continue to invest and prioritise the safety of our operations team.
“This technology is game-changing for the industry and will ensure that hub safety is not compromised as we continue to grow at this pace.”
Pallet-Track operates a shareholder member network of more than 90 distribution specialists and transports more than four million pallets annually.