Ergonomic Benefits of a Work Positioner

Ergonomic Benefits of a Work Positioner

When handling heavy materials, a work positioner helps minimize back and other physical strain by lifting, rotating and positioning loads at the desired height. These lifts are a critical tool in modern industrial settings where ergonomics and worker safety are top priorities.

A custom-built work positioner can be designed for a wide range of load sizes and applications, from stacked empty skids to moving larger loads through a factory floor or onto retail sales floors. These lifts help employees focus on the highest-value production activities while eliminating stooping, reaching, bending and other repetitive motions that lead to expensive shop-floor injuries.

In addition to ergonomic benefits, work positioners can also reduce the need for manual material handling, which saves time and money for companies that are looking to increase productivity or cut operational costs. Work positioners are often used in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, automotive and chemical production.

There are several options available for work positioners, such as the Ergo Chief adjustable motorized multi-axis work holder that offers full 360-degree variable speed bi-directional rotation and up to a 90-degree tilt. This positioner has a slotted turntable that accepts mounting of any tooling, parts or work fixture. The operator controls the movement, rotation direction and speed and start/stop using a hand pendant controller. The machine's round top mounting plate features eight concentric radial mounting channels for easy object attachment.

Another option is the ML15 series of pneumatic work positioners, which are ideal for lighter applications that do not require the height adjustment of the platform to be made under load. The lift mechanism uses a hydraulic cylinder to raise the platform and the operator controls this operation with a foot pedal, while a second pedal activates a release valve to lower the platform.

For more rugged, high-load applications, there are semi-electric fork over work positioners that feature a hydraulic cylinder to raise the platform while under load and a mechanical lock to prevent lowering when a load is in place. These units have a 3,000-lb. capacity and a raised height of 36" and lowered height of 3.3". The 2.2-mph lifting speed saves time and the unit's 180-degree turning radius makes it easier to maneuver in tight warehouse spaces. There are also battery powered work positioners that have a range of features, such as accordion skirting, oversized platforms, ports, detent stops and portability packages. Regardless of the type of work positioner you choose, Handling Specialty can provide custom engineering, support and robust building materials to create the perfect lift for your specific application.

Tags:20m work platform lifts | adjustable work positioner