Furniture Challenge

Posted on: April 19th, 2012 by Kathy Lavery

Challenge 1: Tabletops

A manufacturer of furniture experienced very difficult and hazardous manual lifting conditions. The manufacturer’s employees were handling several dangerously different sizes of wood tabletops varying in weight from 75 lbs. to 200 lbs. Productivity was compromised by slow and treacherous movements. Equally the manufacturer risked an increase in worker’s compensation claims from its employees.

Distributor’s Solution:

Our local Distributor conducted an assessment of the current tabletop application and surveyed the manufacturer’s lifting area. VLS Corporation was asked to review the findings. Together VLS and its Distributor determined the need for an install of a test system. The VLS 230 lift system and a floor mounted jib crane were installed. For easier lifting a custom VLS adjustable foot with large suction feet was designed to lift all sizes and weights.

Results/Impact:

The VLS system’s ergonomic design provided increased safety conditions for the employees

  • Overall safety improvement for employees due to the VLS system’s ergonomic design.
  • Production increased with the elimination of slow and dangerous lifting.
  • High customer satisfaction – 3 additional vacuum lifting systems were installed.