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Manual handling experts underline importance of safety measures as fatal injuries at work statistics are released

In some sectors, injuries at work are unfortunately relatively common, while other sectors are seemingly free from accidents and injuries. Thankfully in the UK there are certain guidelines and processes that businesses must follow in order to protect their employees. And PalletTrucksUK, one of the country’s optimum providers of pallet trucks, stackers and lift tables to a range of sectors, is reiterating the need for employers to take precautions to ensure the safety of their employees, after the fatal injury statistics 2015/16 were published.

According to the report, the provisional number of workers fatally injured in 2015/16 is 144. This correlates to a rate of fatal injury of 0.46 deaths per 100,000 workers.

While there were reportedly 67 members of the public fatally injured in accidents connected to work. However this does not include any incidents that relate to railways, and those enforced by the Care Quality Commission.

Phil Chesworth from PalletTrucksUK, said, “The number of fatal injuries taking place as a result of work is incredibly worrying. It’s imperative that employers take the necessary steps, and invest in machinery and equipment in order to ensure they protect their employees as well as themselves against serious accidents that could cause significant injury.”

Over the latest 20 years, there has been a downward trend in the rate of fatal injuries, decreasing significantly since the 1990s. However in recent years, that number has shown signs of levelling off. Highlighting a seven percent drop in injuries over the previous five years, this year has bucked the trend and does show a slight increase on last year. For 2014/15, the finalised figure was 142 fatal injuries, which corresponds to a rate of 0.46 deaths per 100,000 workers.

It is worth noting however that the figures for 2015/16 are provisional at present, covering the twelve months 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2016. The figures will be finalised in July 2017, following any necessary adjustments.

PalletTrucksUK has been one of the UK’s leading suppliers of warehouse equipment for over 30 years. The perfect addition to manual handing workforces, good quality equipment such as pallet trucks, stackers, platform lifts and moving skates can help to minimise the number of fatalities in the workplace.

Pallet trucks experts greet BHS buyout news

PalletTrucksUK, one of the country’s finest providers of pallet trucks and lift tables to a variety of sectors, has welcomed the news that the online arm of BHS, one of the longest-standing retailers on the British high street, is to be sold to Quatari group, Al Mana. After weeks of talks with prospective buyers, the British institution is set to continue its international and online activities thanks to a purchase from the giant. Set to acquire more than 70 of its international stores and continue its online sales both in the UK and abroad, this news has given a welcome boost to the unstable retail industry.

Phil Chesworth from PalletTrucksUK, said, “It’s been a tough couple of months for the British high street. BHS was seen as one of the most stable and constant players in the retail sector, so it came as quite a shock to companies up and down the country. However the news that it is to live on online is wonderful as it gives hope to the country’s retailers. There’s no denying that online shopping is the future of retail, so it makes sense to take the struggling store right into the 21st century.”

The announcement came just weeks after the company failed to find a buyer after it fell into administration after a troublesome couple of years of struggling sales and falling profits. The Qatari company’s deal, which also has licensing agreements with other British high retailers such as HMV, will guarantee a further return to creditors.

Providing the UK high street with fantastic products, such as clothing, homeware and gifts, the store was much-loved by people of all ages. Unfortunately however the deal won’t save hundreds of jobs that are set to go over the coming months as the shops in the UK shut down. Phil adds, “Although it will still be tough for the BHS staff, there is light at the end of the tunnel for the company. And the fact that the BHS name will live on for years to come is certain to bring joy.”

PalletTrucksUK has been one of the country’s leading suppliers of pallet trucks, stackers and other warehouse equipment for over 30 years.

Pallet Trucks UK introduced hydraulic lifting jacks to already comprehensive range

Investing in good quality machinery is a must for businesses who manoeuvre large items, or large quantities of stock daily. However in this day and age, it can be all too easy to rely on machinery. And should something happen, such as a vital piece of equipment breaks, it can be hard to continue the day to day runnings of a business until it is repaired.

Pallet Trucks UK, one of the UK’s primary suppliers of pallet and pump trucks to a variety of sectors, is making sure businesses don’t get caught short should a vital piece of machinery need repairing. Set to stock a whole range of hydraulic lifting jacks, Pallet Trucks UK are further improving the service they deliver to their clients by making sure they become a one stop shop for all business machinery needs.

Phil Chesworth from Pallet Trucks UK, said, “We’re always looking to improve our offering to our customers, and the hydraulic lifting jack was one of the missing pieces of the puzzle on our website. By offering customers with quality solutions to aid in the repair and installation of heavy duty machinery, the lifting jacks are perfect for a wide range of businesses.”

Hydraulic lifting jacks are imperative for every business – whether small or large – that uses heavy machinery day to day. Compact yet stable, they can be used in almost any position thanks to the housings revolving 360 degrees. Going hand in hand with moving skates, they provide a complete solution to moving machinery with ease.

At present, there is one lifting jack available on the website, however additional styles and models will become available over the coming weeks. Competitively priced, they offer a real solution to businesses up and down the country. Boasting an impressive five tonne capacity, the jack is perfect for assisting in repairs, maintenance and installation of heavy machines.

 

Pallet trucks imperative for reducing carbon footprints post Referendum

As the country etches ever closer to the impending EU Referendum, the emphasis on the environmental impacts of modern life is becoming more prominent. The results of the Referendum could change the way many businesses work and revolutionise the equipment readily available. However one of the country’s leading suppliers of pallet trucks is highlighting the ‘green’ credentials of the staple machinery, stating that no matter what happens in the Referendum, companies can be sure they are contributing to the good of the environment with eco-friendly pallet trucks.

It’s been reported that an exit could signal the reintroduction of banned products such as incandescent lightbulbs, which were banned by the EU in order to reduce emissions and increase awareness of the importance of lowering carbon footprints. Pallet trucks on the other hand are notoriously good for the environment. Allowing employees to transport huge capacities around warehouses and factories without relying on any fuel other than manpower, while minimising the need for other carbon-emitting machinery, they are instrumental in saving energy around the workplace.

Speaking about the Referendum and the changes it could bring to businesses, Phil Chesworth from Pallet Trucks UK said, “No matter what happens with regards to the Referendum, it is imperative that businesses continue to make changes in order to reduce their carbon footprint. As a nation, we have made excellent progress, and we are now more clued up than ever when it comes to the environmental impacts of our actions.”

Their unique and robust construction allows heavy products that reach into the thousands of kilograms to be easily moved without the need to rely on fossil fuelled tools. They rely uniquely on the manpower of the employee operating them, making them one of the most energy-efficient methods of transportation in any setting.

Phil adds, “Within the retail industry, there are so many factors that we cannot change in order to make them ‘greener’. However making sure businesses utilise what is out there – such as environmentally friendly machinery – can make a huge difference to the future of the planet.”

Pallet Trucks UK warn businesses to put health and safety first as sales continue to fall

As it’s revealed that the month of May saw continued deflation, Pallet Trucks UK, one of the country’s leading providers of pallet trucks and other manual handling equipment to a range of sectors, is urging businesses to make health and safety their top priority to avoid costly accidents and ill health as high street sales continue to decline.

As shops continue to struggle, the importance of making sure workers are safe cannot be underestimated. Every year, thousands of individuals suffer accidents whilst at work – and most of these could be avoided. Investing in good quality equipment is imperative for businesses to ensure they provide a safe and secure working atmosphere and help to avoid accidents as a result of a lack of or poor equipment.

Although an initial lay-out, investing in correct equipment can save businesses and retailers money in the long-run. Phil Chesworth from Pallet Trucks UK said, “The importance of health and safety in the workplace cannot be underestimated. Particularly important to the industries we supply to, investing in the correct equipment makes potentially hazardous environments much safer. Those who fail to supply correct equipment – or those who use old and outdated equipment and machinery are not only putting their workers in danger, they’re also running the risk of paying out thousands, if not millions of pounds in compensation.”

According to the HSE, musculoskeletal disorders caused by manual handing is one of the main culprits of work-related injuries, with high rates in building, construction and postal and courier trades. There are currently around 1.2 million working people suffering from a work-related illness in the UK, and the estimated cost of injuries and ill health as a result of current working conditions is £14.3 billion.

Overall shop prices revealed a deflation of 1.8% during May, which compared to a 1.7% decrease in April. Highlighting the high street’s struggle to recover since the festive period – which many retailers hoped would end as the warmer weather set in, sales continued to fall.

Pallet truck experts ask retailers to focus on their offering to consumers amid falling spending

Pallet Trucks UK, one of the country’s leading providers of pallet trucks and other manual handling equipment to a range of sectors, is urging retailers not to worry prematurely and concentrate on providing good quality goods to consumers amid the news that retailers are feeling the effects due to the uncertainty surrounding the impending EU Referendum.

With the ‘Brexit‘ vote a mere six weeks away, support for leaving the EU is seemingly on the rise. And as a result, retailers have said they are already feeling the pinch due to the uncertainty surrounding the ballot. The British Retail Consortium revealed that spending was flat for a second consecutive month during April, with like for like sales down 0.9% on last year, as consumers put off buying new spring and summer clothes due to low consumer confidence.

Phil Chesworth from Pallet Trucks UK said, “The upcoming EU Referendum is on everyone’s minds at the minute, so there’s no wonder that some people are hesitant to spend money. With so many contrasting opinions on what leaving – or staying – could have on the British pound and the UK economy, many members of the general public are playing safe. However no one really knows what will happen, so it’s imperative that retailers don’t panic prematurely, and continue to offer consumers the same great goods and service that have kept them on the high street for many years.”

These latest figures show that last month consumer morale slipped to its lowest level since December 2014. However with fashion and footwear commanding a huge portion of retail market, the figures could be marred by a lack of demand for new clothing due to the unseasonably cold weather experienced by most of the UK over the last couple of months. But with the weather taking a warmer turn recently, the next month could hold the answers as to why UK spending is down.

Pallet Truck experts offer superior value for money with special offers

In these increasingly uncertain times, when purchasing new appliances for a workplace, cost always comes into play. Businesses are always looking for value for money to ensure they will not only perform to the highest possible standard, but also last for a long time. Pallet Trucks UK, of the UK’s leading suppliers of quality pallet trucks to a wide range of industries, currently has a range of excellent special offers and discounts which can help companies who might have use for heavy-lifting equipment in their workplace.

Priced at £446.25 excluding VAT, Pallet Trucks UKs’ 500kg extra large lift table is one of the heavy duty items currently on offer. Extremely useful for use in warehouses and distribution centres, the lift table is constructed from tough steel to guarantee its strength. With a 500kg lift capacity and an extra large table top size of 1600mm x 810mm, it is ideal for moving heavy or large boxes for a whole host of industries.

Useful when loading or unloading pallets, the SLTN10 is a single cylinder high lift pallet truck which helps to minimise the chance of back injury or repetitive strain injury. Its reliable, single cylinder arm is extremely robust and can support weights of up to 1000kg. An extremely useful piece of machinery for all manual handling industries, the truck also represents excellent value for money, at just £423.25 excluding VAT.

For those working on a rocky or uneven surface, the rough terrain lift truck is the perfect companion. Ideal for indoor and outdoor use on construction sites and garden centres, it features a 1200kg capacity, pneumatic tyres and a heavy duty powder coated steel frame. Competitively priced at £695.00 excluding VAT, the truck comes in handy in a range of industries.

Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Pallet Trucks UK said, “We always strive to offer exceptional value for money to our customers, and by putting on special offers every so often, we pass on extra little savings while not compromising on quality. Investing in strong, robust equipment cannot be underestimated, and at Pallet Trucks UK, we pride ourselves on the superior quality of our products.”

Good quality equipment is especially important in situations where heavy goods are manoeuvred or carried. Often getting a lot of daily use, it is imperative that businesses invest in excellent, heavy duty machinery to minimise the risk of injury in the workplace.

Industry leaders welcome health and safety news regarding EU

Pallet Trucks UK, one of the country’s leading providers of pallet trucks and other manual handling equipment to a range of sectors has welcomed the revelation that UK legislation, which is generally seen as the ‘gold standard’ in health and safety, is unlikely to change substantially in the short term, should the UK leave the EU.

When the UK joined the EU in 1973, a series of health and safety directives were issued at the European level and transposed into UK law. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 establishes obligations for employers to identify, evaluate, avoid and reduce workplace risks in order to ensure that working environments are safe and fit for purpose. Once outside the European trade rules, the UK would be free to ‘cut red tape’ and derestrict rules. However political and social realities mean that the impact on health and safety related legislation is likely to be limited, so should the UK vote to leave the EU, the UK parliament is likely to confirm the status of existing legislation but amend it where needed to take the new relationship with the EU into account – similar to other countries outside the EU.

Phil Chesworth from Pallet Trucks UK said, “Health and safety is paramount in the industries we supply to. Having legislations and guidelines which employees adhere to is so important for ensuring the safety of everyone involved. The UK has long been a beacon for health and safety around Europe, with other countries looking to us for guidance. With that in mind, it’s so important that we continue to follow these guides and ensure everyone’s safety, whether we stay in the EU or not.”

Relevant regulation dates back to 1833, and over the years, the UK has developed one of the best health and safety records in the world. The foundation of the current health and safety regulatory system has one simple principle, those who create risks are best placed to control them. The current UK health and safety regime is made up of a combination of laws that derive solely from the UK, and others that were made under EU directives.

Pallet Trucks UK Unveils Stylish Responsive Website for 2016

Pallet Trucks UK, one of the country’s leading suppliers of manual handling equipment, has this week unveiled its slick and stylish new website, with the promise of new products, new content and new features to come over the next year.

The popular pallet truck provider’s new website has been overhauled with special attention given to enhancing the user experience. Pallet Trucks UK now offers streamlined browsing, more functionality, faster page loads and superior performance across the board – music to the ears of those who regularly use the site to stock up on their lifting and handling equipment.

The team at Pallet Trucks UK will also be channelling their efforts to ensure the site is the go-to online destination for all the latest products, content, information and industry news. With the new site now up and running, all focus will turn to ensuring this site is the number one resource for industrial businesses seeking the very finest equipment.

Phil Chesworth, Managing Director of Pallet Trucks UK, says, “The brand new website has been many months in the making, and we’re absolutely thrilled with the outcome. The responsive design means it’s fully accessible on mobile devices, and the streamlined new look has made navigation simpler than ever. We wanted to ensure we created a revamped site which met all of our customer’s needs, and we feel the new layout and the backend changes we’ve made certainly lives up to that brief.

“Our attention will now turn to ensuring the site remains one of the foremost resources for anyone looking for materials handling equipment. We already have a fully fleshed-out news section, with articles on everything from safety to industry news, but we’ll now be broadening our horizons and offering bundles of exciting new content that will offer real value for our users.”

Established in 1994, Pallet Trucks UK has built a glowing reputation over a period of more than twenty years. The 60,000 square foot Midlands facility where the company is based holds more than £7m worth of stock at any one time, and has become one of the UK’s largest wholesalers within this sector. For a company so large and relied-upon by many, it was necessary to build a website that matched the scale of the business – and its future ambitions.

New stock will also be added to the site as and when it arrives at the Midlands facility – the site will be regularly updated with new special offers and exclusive discounts to reward loyal customers that keep checking back.