The ground level coupling technology has been fitted to its entire fleet of 130 articulated vehicles.
Previously, as with most haulier fleets, it was a common sight to see drivers climbing onto vehicle platforms to couple up trailers but now drivers can easily complete this operation with their feet firmly on the ground.
Lafarge Cement said that it was always looking for ways to improve health and safety, and this was an example.
Transport Manager Andrew Brodley said: “Across Lafarge Cement’s UK operations it was calculated that during the coupling of semi-trailers there were approximately 900 ‘falling from height’ near misses each year. By designing our new trailer technology, drivers are not required to work at height, therefore we eliminated the falling from height risk for our employees.”
The ground level coupling technology produced additional benefits. For example there is no requirement for vehicle body access equipment - this reduces the overall tare weight of the vehicle, allowing the lorry to carry more in a single load. A higher payload means fewer deliveries are required.
Mr Brodley added: “Lafarge’s design in ground level working technology has set a new industry safety standard by removing the need for drivers to work at height on vehicles and I am encouraged to see other major companies adopting this good practice.”
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