The Safe Mark Extender® is a tool developed specifically to improve visibility and safety of under-deck load and unload containeroperations. The entrance of the hold at containervessels is equiped with ‘cell guides’ that reach down all the way to the bottom. These steel rails hold the container in position as it goes downwards while loading or upwards in case of unloading. The total width of the hold is equiped with these rails. Each position has the measurements of one containerwidth: approx. 2.5 mtr. They are placed at exactly the same position on both sides of the hold (front and rear). Mostly but not always each containerposition has one high and one lower placed rail (left or right). This improves the speed of the operations because this difference in hight is an advantage for the crane operator who has to bring every container or spreader in the exact position first. A well marked entrance of the cell guides (steel combs) is very important for the crane operator. (automated or not)! The speed and efficiency of operations depends on it, due to an improved depth sight at all times. More containermoves means more profit and less delay. New containerships have bright painted cell guides to improve visibility towards the crane operator. Within a few weeks or months however this paint is completely gone due to multiple container movements that scrape the paint off, and all of its benefits with it. Containerterminals worldwide use chalk to put markings on top the cell guides. A very effective solution! Depending on the weatherconditions, these markings have to be re- applied after several hours. Unfortunately, this is a very dangerous task for those who are pointed for this job. They have to leave the safety area (behind the railing) and crouch or lay down next to the edge of the hold (abyss) than reach out with one hand over te edge to put the marking on top of the cell guide. (Images) Than walk towards the next position and do the same thing, until all markings on both sides are applied. Each step can be fatal…, an unacceptable situation! However, not having this markings means less containermoves/hour.
Crane operators need, and require maximum visibility. But not without compromises towards safety, obviously!
The missing link here is the Safe Mark Extender®
This lightweight telescopic tool provides the ability to put chalk markings at distant positions without leaving the safety area. (approx. 140 cm in the compact position) With an approx. range of 3,30 mtrs it can reach every possible position at the many different types of containervessels. Also at places impossible to reach before. (Images)
A customized piece of industrial chalk is applied and pinched in position. This safety tool provides continuity, safety and efficiency without compromises! A clear view for the crane operator at all times! A win/win situation!
An innovative safety tool that helps to increase speed of operations and can be applied at every containerterminal worldwide.
