Tuesday, January 05, 2010

Product damage is a common and costly problem in the manufacturing and distribution environment.   Product damage may be caused by using incorrect material handling equipment or using equipment that is not designed specifically for the job.  Members of the Overhead Alliance manufacture a diverse range of overhead solutions that provide workers with reliable equipment and systems that move product while reducing the chance of damage.

Overhead lifting solutions reduce product damage because they minimize product handling and operator error.  They allow for smooth direct-path transportation over obstacles with soft start features and multiple speed options for optimum control.  The variety of below the hook devices and customized cranes, monorails, and hoists means there is a lifting and moving solution best fit for any industry and application.

Three Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) Industry Groups—The Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA), Hoist Manufacturers Institute (HMI) and Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA)—formed the Overhead Alliance to promote the crane, hoist and monorail industries as alternative lifting and moving solutions that can reduce accidents, improve workplace health and safety, reduce product damage, improve workflow, lower costs and reduce environmental impact.

CMAA, HMI and MMA are affiliated trade associations of Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA). MHIA is an international trade association that has represented the material handling & logistics industry since 1945. MHIA members include material handling and logistics equipment and systems manufacturers, integrators, consultants, publishers, and third party logistics providers. Member companies come from all areas of material handling and various parts of the world, making MHIA a strong national and international representative for the material handling and logistics industry. Much of the work of the industry is done within its product-specific Industry Groups. The association also sponsors trade events, such as ProMat and NA 2010 to showcase the products and services of its member companies and to educate industry professionals on the productivity solutions provided through material handling and logistics.