Glencore Enhances Forklift Safety Measures at Recycling Facility with Advanced ELOshield System
Glencore, a global leader in commodity trading and mining, has successfully reduced safety incidents involving forklifts at its recycling facility in Rhode Island by implementing the ELOshield proximity detection system from Elokon. This innovation was highlighted in a new case study released by Elokon on National Forklift Safety Day. Glencore selected ELOshield for its advanced warning capabilities, particularly effective in areas with limited visibility.
The Rhode Island facility employs 35 workers who handle the shredding of electronic materials, reducing particle size, and preparing samples for smelting and refining. The complexity of these processes, combined with high forklift traffic and close proximity of pedestrians, posed significant safety challenges that required a proactive technical solution.
"Since we installed ELOshield, we haven't had any significant incidents involving forklifts," said Juan Carlos Molines, plant manager at Glencore. "The system has increased everyone's awareness and hazard perception, making our facility much safer."
Glencore equipped all forklifts and personnel, including visitors, with ELOshield. The system uses 2-way ranging ultra-wideband (UWB) proximity detection to warn operators when pedestrians, objects, or other vehicles are too close. The adjustable alert distances allowed for customized safety zones tailored to specific facility needs, ensuring comprehensive protection for everyone on site.
"From the start, it was clear that Glencore was fully committed to the safety of its workers," said Mark Stanton, Elokon president and general manager. "With so many forklifts and employees working in close proximity, being able to keep all parties alert and aware at all times is of utmost importance. That's what Glencore gets with ELOshield."
According to the National Safety Council, forklifts were responsible for 73 work-related deaths in 2022 and 24,960 non-fatal injuries in 2021-22. To reduce these incidents and raise awareness about the safe use of forklifts and the importance of proper operator training, the Industrial Truck Association (ITA) founded National Forklift Safety Day in 2014 in the United States. The 11th annual event is now a hybrid conference featuring forklift manufacturers and experts speaking about safe forklift use, the value of operator training, and the need for daily equipment checks. The in-person event is held today at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., with a live stream available for those unable to attend.
