Transmon Engineering has launched a Pedestrian Alert System to help reduce the number of pedestrian injuries caused by forklift trucks.

A new Pedestrian Alert System from Leicester based Transmon Engineering utilises RFID technology to help reduce the number of accidents involving pedestrians and forklift trucks.

The new device can be fitted to almost any forklift truck and detects the presence of a pedestrian, via an RFID active tag that should be worn by workers onsite at all times. The RFID active tags pulse a signal several times every second, activating the system when it enters the proximity detecting field (approximately 7 meters from a forklift). A clear warning in the form of a beacon, buzzer or LED alerts the driver and pedestrian that they are close.

Industry figures suggest that more than 40 people are injured each week by forklift trucks in the UK alone. These figures grow during busy peak periods when site pedestrian and driver activity increases.

Paul Sercombe, of Transmon Engineering explains "Transmon's Pedestrian Alert System helps reduce the risk of a forklift and pedestrian collision in any operation, particularly when visitors are onsite, such as visiting lorry drivers or during busy times when temporary staff are employed."

The Pedestrian Alert System is particularly suited to loading and unloading areas, or for areas with limited visibility at intersections between pedestrians and forklift trucks or the exits from warehouse aisles.

Paul goes on to explain that the Pedestrian Alert System should not be considered a replacement for operation supervision. "The Pedestrian Alert System requires the supervisor or manager to take the responsibility to ensure that the RFID active tag key rings are worn by all pedestrians, at all times" he says. "Managers must also ensure that all elements of the system are in good working order and oversee battery management."

The system also offers a forced signal from the key fob to the truck at 25 meters, so that a pedestrian can make a driver aware from a greater distance, when appropriate. The RFID transmitters and receivers are powered by the truck battery supply and the active tags have an integral lithium battery supply which operates for a minimum of two years (depending on pulse time setting), after which they must be replaced under a maintenance schedule.

To help managers assess the condition of the active tag key fobs, Transmon offers an optional fob management system, which includes a battery life indicator system and software, helping to accurately inform the supervisor if any batteries need changing.

"We offer a range of forklift add-ons that can be used to improve forklift operations in a number of ways, including heightening the level of onsite safety" Paul explains. "However, all our devices must be utilised in addition to the correct driver and pedestrian training.

"The Pedestrian Alert System should enhance everybody's awareness of the potential dangers, and should be considered the last line of defence against accidents, after training, staff accountability and management."

Transmon has also introduced a similar system that automatically warns pedestrians of a forklift's presence in a specific area. Transmon Engineering supplies a wide range of electronic devices and systems to improve forklift truck fleets by reducing cost, improving safety and increasing energy performance.