“Extremely effective…and simple to install.”

In 2019, Marine Operations Manager, Joe Purcell of Alaska Marine Lines (part of the Lynden group) was looking for a solution that was affordable, effective and reliable, simple to install and easy to roll out across the enterprise. Compared with AI and RFID technology, Joe says there really is no question that SEEN’s pedestrian proximity sensors meet these requirements. Seen Sensors are now installed in over 50 forklifts on Lynden barges and docks in Alaska.

The Alaskan freight operation relies on barge transport from Vancouver to Alaska. When loading and unloading the barges - which can be up to 430ft long - there are often up to 5 heavy forklifts (18 tonnes +) operating in a tight workspace and extreme environment. Pedestrian workers are required to work in close proximity to these machines. After a near tragedy Joe was tasked with finding a proximity sensor that would provide an extra layer of safety for pedestrian workers at the docks. 

Key learnings from using the sensors for nearly two years are - the detection distance should be configured differently for different barges (some are smaller than others), the sensors are easy to install and most importantly, they operate effectively in some of the most challenging workplace environments including strong winds, extreme cold, snow and rain and salt water. 

Joe says that “once configured appropriately for individual worksites, the sensors have been extremely effective”. Watch him here.

Download the full case study here.