Author: Laura Griffiths

Posted on by

Pipeline Safety Equipment and Solutions

Two workers wearing safety headwear and holding a clipboard inside a pipeline microtunnel

As an agency within the Department of Transportation (DOT), PHMSA oversees the nation’s pipeline infrastructure, which stretches over 2.6 million miles. Its regulations cover a broad spectrum of operations, from design and construction to maintenance, inspections, and emergency response.

The Pipeline Efficiency and Safety Act of 2023, formally known as the Promoting Innovation in Pipeline Efficiency and Safety (PIPES) Act, was introduced to reauthorize and enhance the PHMSA’s safety programs for a four-year period. This bipartisan legislation focuses on advancing the safety of the United States’ energy infrastructure through efficient and effective measures. Key aspects of the Act include a significant funding allocation of $804 million between 2024 and 2027 to support PHMSA-administered pipeline safety programs.

Pipeline safety equipment

To comply with PHMSA regulations, operators must adhere to a variety of equipment and procedural requirements designed to ensure the safety and integrity of pipeline operations. Equipment and procedures include leak monitoring, internal corrosion monitoring, and integrity management programs.

Carroll Technologies provides a wide range of products suitable for microtunelling and pipeline operations.

Gas Detection Monitors: Due to the potential presence of hazardous gases in the subsurface environment, gas detection monitors are a vital safety tool. These devices can alert workers to the presence of methane, carbon monoxide, or other dangerous gases, allowing for immediate action to be taken to ensure worker safety. Carroll Technologies supplies a range of portable gas detection systems such as the Altair 4X from MSA.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): PPE is a fundamental safety requirement in any construction operation, including microtunnelling. This includes hard hats, safety glasses, high-visibility clothing, and protective footwear. Additionally, specialized PPE such as respirators may be required depending on the project’s specific environmental conditions. Carroll Technologies provides a range of high-quality wearable PPE from trusted manufacturers such as Protective Industrial Products (PIP), as well as hard hats and the award-winning NLT Polaris cap lamp.

Communication Systems: Maintaining clear and reliable communication between surface teams and operators controlling the microtunnelling equipment is crucial. Advanced communication systems ensure that any potential issues can be quickly addressed and that the operation can proceed safely. Carroll Technologies provides a range of communication equipment, offering site visit services to understand your requirements and build a customized digital radio technology solution, including amplifiers or leaky feeder systems where needed. Through Sybet International, Carroll Technologies also offers wireless communication system designed for rescue operations.

Posted on by

Fluid Dispensing Hoses and Reels

Selection of Balcrank fluid dispensing hoses and reels

As industries evolve, the demand for innovative and effective fluid management solutions has never been higher, and industries need tailored solutions to suit a wide range of applications. Among the key players responding to this demand is Balcrank, a company with a longstanding reputation for delivering high-quality fluid management solutions such as pumps and hose reels.

Fluid dispensing hoses

Balcrank’s fluid dispensing hoses are designed to handle a wide range of fluids, including oils, lubricants, coolants, and water. These hoses are engineered to withstand the harsh conditions of industrial environments, including exposure to chemicals, abrasions, and high pressures.

Balcrank provides a wide range of hose reels, from light-duty economy units up to robust extended-volume reels for heavy industries. Their lineup includes economy, evolution, classic, and premium hose reels, catering to budget-friendly options as well as high-quality demands. They also offer extended volume, extended volume extra, and extended volume + reels for applications requiring higher volume capacity. Additionally, Balcrank provides enclosed hose reels, light cord reels, hose reel stands, and hose reel accessories to complement their range and offer comprehensive solutions for hose management.

Posted on by

Forklift Fleet Management Systems

Fleet of trucks and forklifts outside of a warehouse facility

Forklift fleet management systems are designed to provide real-time information on every aspect of forklift operations. These systems integrate software and hardware components, including GPS tracking, operational sensors, and data analytics tools, to monitor the performance and usage of each forklift within a fleet. The goal is to maximize efficiency, ensure safety, and extend the lifespan of the equipment through better management practices.

Key benefits of forklift fleet management

  • Operational efficiency: Tracking the usage and performance of forklifts to optimize routes within a warehouse or scheduling forklift use to avoid bottlenecks.
  • Maintenance and upkeep: Proactive maintenance can alert managers to potential issues before they become significant problems, based on data collected from sensors on the forklifts.
  • Safety enhancements: These systems can monitor for unsafe behaviors, such as speeding or unauthorized use, and enforce compliance with safety protocols.
  • Data analytics and reporting: Fleet management systems can provide insights into every aspect of fleet operation, from individual driver performance to overall fleet efficiency. This data can then be used to make informed decisions, improving both short-term operations and long-term strategic planning.

Where to buy forklift management fleet systems

Forklift collision avoidance systems are an essential part of enhancing workplace safety by alerting forklift drivers and other workers to the presence of vehicles, personnel and obstacles.

Utilising electromagnetics, RFID, GPS or bi-directional radar (or in the case of PBE’s system, all four), facilities can configure these tracking methods to recognize different groups, such as vehicle types, personnel, or obstacles. Forklift fleet management systems are not a “one size fits all” solution, so Carroll Technologies works with customers to customize a warning system that is ideally suited for the application.

Elokon’s Forklift Fleet Management System, ELOfleet, is designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity in warehouse operations. It stands out as one of the most app-centric systems available, integrating seamlessly with mobile devices to offer a variety of advanced features.

The system provides robust safety measures, including access control that ensures only authorized personnel can operate the forklifts. Operators log in using an RFID company ID or a PIN, and there are three levels of authorization to accommodate different roles within the warehouse. Additionally, ELOfleet mandates electronic safety checklists, which drivers must complete via the app before operating a forklift, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and preemptive maintenance needs.

According to Carroll Technologies president Allen Haywood: “Facilities that just have one forklift want to make sure that they don’t collide with certain low hanging obstacles and avoid danger areas, it’s never just about collision avoidance with other forklifts, but also avoidance of personnel.

“Systems can be customized for a lot of different types of operations and programmed to set the parameters that they need. We can also incorporate remote opening gates and doors, as well as recordings of travel so that they can look back through history via mobile or desktop software. It can record everything that has been travelling, what speeds they have been travelling at, and any near misses.”

Read more

Collision avoidance systems for cranes
Collision Prevention Systems in Industrial Applications
Commercial vehicle collision avoidance systems
How does a collision avoidance system work in mining operations?
Proximity Warning Systems & Proximity Detection Devices for Mines

Posted on by

Microtunneling Safety Equipment for Sewers, Pipelines and Other Infrastructure Projects

Man working in microtunnel constructing pipeline and wearing safety gear

As the demand for efficient, less disruptive methods of laying infrastructure grows, so does the complexity of the operations involved. The industry’s commitment to safety and range of microtunneling safety equipment not only ensures the protection of its workforce but also guarantees the longevity and reliability of the infrastructure being installed.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) in microtunneling includes helmets, eye protection, high-visibility clothing, steel-toed boots, and gloves. Given the underground nature of the work, additional gear such as respirators or breathing apparatuses may be necessary to protect against potential air quality issues.

Underground construction sites are prone to the accumulation of hazardous gases. Equipment such as gas detectors and air quality monitors are crucial to detect any harmful gases early and ensure that ventilation is adequate.

Robust communication systems are also vital in microtunneling operations to ensure that all team members, especially those monitoring the operation remotely, are in constant contact. This facilitates immediate response in case of emergencies or when adjustments are needed. Carroll’s communication equipment range includes leaky feeder systems for a reliable, wireless communications infrastructure, portable, wireless communication solutions for exploration or rescue operations,  mine phones, digital two-way radios and more.

Where to buy microtunneling safety equipment

Carroll Technology supplies a range of underground safety equipment suitable for microtunneling operations, from a comprehensive range of PPE to handheld gas detection devices and digital two-way radios.

Posted on by

Distribution and Warehouse Facilities Safety Equipment

Forklift safety sign in warehouse with forklift in the background

As businesses strive to navigate the complexities of inventory management and distribution, the integration of essential safety equipment within warehouse operations has become non-negotiable.

Warehouse safety is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach, combining the right equipment with ongoing education and a proactive safety culture. By prioritizing the implementation of essential safety equipment and practices, businesses can protect their employees from harm, ensure compliance with regulations, and maintain operational efficiency.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

At the frontline of defense against workplace injuries, personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory across various sectors. In warehouses, PPE may include safety helmets, goggles, gloves, high-visibility clothing, and steel-toed shoes. These items protect workers from potential hazards such as falling objects, exposure to harmful substances, and machinery-related injuries. Ensuring that all personnel are equipped with the appropriate PPE is a fundamental step towards mitigating workplace accidents.

Carroll Technologies supplies a comprehensive range of PPE equipment, from hard hats to high visibility clothing. For its range of wearable protective equipment, such as gloves, hearing protection and high visibility garments, Carroll Technologies supplies solutions manufactured by Protective Industrial Products (PIP). According to Allen Haywood, president of Carroll Technologies: “PIP supplies just about anything that is a personal protective device. It’s a good company that we’ve been relying on for protective equipment for many years.”

Material handling equipment

Efficient material handling is vital for reducing the risk of injuries related to lifting and moving heavy items. Equipment such as forklifts, pallet jacks, and conveyor belts not only streamline the process of moving goods within the warehouse but also significantly lower the chance of strain injuries among workers. Additionally, implementing ergonomic solutions like adjustable lifting tables and anti-fatigue mats can further safeguard employees against musculoskeletal disorders.

Carroll Technologies supplies a range of material handling solutions, such as high-quality accessories, including rugged conveyor idlers which support the belt and conveyed material to prevent it from stretching and sagging, as well as impact beds built to absorb shock loads.

Collision avoidance systems

Collision avoidance systems in warehouses focus on preventing accidents involving forklifts, vehicles, and personnel. They employ a variety of technologies, including RFID (radio frequency identification), ultrasonic sensors, and laser scanners, to detect potential obstacles or personnel in the vicinity of moving equipment. When a risk is identified, these systems can automatically alert operators or even take direct action to slow down or stop the machinery to prevent a collision.

Equipment provided by Carroll includes PBE’s collision avoidance system, which uses EM (electromagnetics), RFID, GPS and bi-directional radar simultaneously for accuracy that can be configured to recognize different groups (such as vehicle types or personnel). Additionally, the dash-mounted PAS-Z Proximity Alert System alerts drivers to the presence of personnel, vehicles and obstacles.

Fire safety equipment, safety barriers and signage

Warehouses, with their high volume of goods, are particularly susceptible to fire hazards. Therefore, adequate fire safety measures are essential. This includes the installation of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and clear signage indicating emergency exits. Regular fire drills and training on how to use fire safety equipment empower employees to respond effectively in emergency situations, potentially saving lives and preventing extensive property damage.

Physical barriers and clear signage play a critical role in preventing accidents by demarcating safe pathways, highlighting hazardous areas, and directing traffic flow within the warehouse. Safety barriers, such as guardrails and bollards, protect workers from vehicular accidents, while floor markings and signs provide visual cues to help prevent slips, trips, and falls.

Posted on by

Pneumatic Grease Guns

Balcrank grease gun with grey background

Pneumatic grease guns operate on a simple yet effective principle. They are connected to an air compressor, which provides the necessary force to propel grease through the gun’s barrel and onto a specific part of the machinery. This process is controlled by a trigger, which allows the operator to manage the flow of grease with high precision. The design of these guns often includes a flexible hose or rigid tube, enabling access to hard-to-reach areas, which is a common requirement in complex machinery.

Advantages of pneumatic grease guns for industrial settings

The adoption of pneumatic grease guns in industrial environments offers several advantages over manual or electric alternatives. Firstly, their air-powered mechanism delivers a consistent pressure output, ensuring that grease is applied evenly, which is critical for the proper lubrication of machinery components. Additionally, they significantly reduce the physical effort required from the operator, enhancing productivity and minimizing fatigue during extensive maintenance sessions.

Moreover, pneumatic guns are highly durable and suitable for use in harsh industrial conditions, including exposure to dust, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Their reliability and efficiency make them a preferred choice for sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and agriculture, where machinery maintenance is a routine yet critical task.

Safety and operational efficiency

Pneumatic grease guns are designed to minimizes the risk of grease over-application, which can lead to slip hazards or component malfunction. Furthermore, the controlled application of grease reduces the likelihood of environmental contamination, adhering to the stringent environmental regulations in the US and Canada.

Operational efficiency is another significant benefit. The ability to quickly and accurately lubricate machinery reduces downtime and increases the overall productivity of industrial operations. The ease of use associated with pneumatic grease guns also allows for quick training of maintenance personnel, ensuring that a high standard of lubrication is maintained across all levels of operation.

Selecting the right pneumatic grease gun

Choosing the appropriate pneumatic grease gun involves considering several factors, including the gun’s air pressure rating, grease capacity, and the type of nozzle. The specific requirements of the machinery being serviced, such as the grease type and the precision needed for application, also play a crucial role in this decision. Additionally, the reliability of the manufacturer and the availability of replacement parts and technical support are important considerations for industrial users in the US and Canada.

Balcrank offers a comprehensive range of grease guns designed to meet diverse lubrication needs across various industries. From compact and portable handheld grease guns ideal for precise applications in tight spaces to heavy-duty pneumatic grease guns capable of delivering high volumes of grease efficiently, Balcrank ensures that professionals have access to the right tool for every task. With features such as ergonomic designs for user comfort, durable construction for longevity, and precise control mechanisms for accurate dispensing, Balcrank’s grease guns uphold the brand’s commitment to quality, reliability, and performance. Whether it’s automotive maintenance, industrial machinery lubrication, or agricultural equipment servicing, their line of grease guns empowers users to streamline their lubrication processes with confidence and precision.

Finding the right fluid management solution is not a simple “add to basket purchase”, so Carroll Technologies supports its customers to find the right product, whether it involves a simple application or a fully customized pump network. Carroll Technologies provides a range of Air Operated Hand Held Grease Pumps from SAMOA, a company that specialises in equipment for fluid manipulation and management.

Posted on by

Safety Equipment for Cave Rescue Operations

Silhouette of miner underground with cap light in

Rescue and Communication Equipment

Ropes and Rigging: High-quality, static ropes are used for rappelling and ascending vertical sections. Rigging equipment, including pulleys, carabiners, and descenders, is crucial for setting up mechanical advantage systems for hauling people or equipment.

Communication Devices: Effective communication is vital in cave rescues. Wired intercom systems or specialized cave radios that can transmit through rock are often used.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Helmets: Essential for protecting against head injuries, helmets used in cave rescues are typically equipped with headlamps for illumination in the pitch-dark environments of caves.

Gloves: Durable gloves protect rescuers’ hands from sharp rocks, facilitate rope handling, and provide grip in wet conditions.

Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots with aggressive tread patterns are necessary for navigating slippery and uneven terrain.

Where to Buy Cave Rescue Equipment

Carroll Technologies supplies high quality cave rescue equipment from trusted manufacturers:

Mine Safety Appliances (MSA) is one of the oldest safety-oriented mining safety companies in the US and is a global leader in the development and manufacturing of safety products for the mining industry and beyond. Its product range includes fall protection, hoisting equipment, repelling lines, life lines, climbing helmets, handheld gas detection and PPE.

Samson is an industry-leading manufacturer of field-proven, high-quality synthetic rope products that are used in a range of tough industries for applications such as climbing and rigging, cranes, conveyor belt pulling, and safety and rescue.

Northern Light Technology (NLT) is a globally renowned provider of lighting solutions, including the first intrinsically safe cap lamp on the market that gained IECEx, ATEX, and MSHA certification. The NLT Polaris lamp is the most used cordless cap lamp in mines across the globe, outstripping its competition both in terms of light output and total runtime with an output of 7,000 LUX, a runtime of 14 hours for the primary LED, and seven days for the secondary LED.

Sybet provides wireless node communications and radios used during cave rescue operations. Its Fresh Air Base station is an intrinsically safe transceiver device that is used as part of an emergency response support system, providing communication during rescue operations. Fresh Air Base enables the underground Rescue Operation Manager (ROM) to communicate by wire with the action manager on the surface, and along with a mPhone radio, it enables the underground action manager to communicate wirelessly with rescue teams.

Carroll provides fully customized radio communication networks in collaboration with Icom, which has been supplying rugged two-way radio products across the world for more than 60 years. Icom carries ISO9001 and ISO9002 accreditation for overall quality assurance and is considered one of the world’s leading radio manufacturers.

Posted on by

Cost Effective Mine Safety Solutions for Avoiding Collisions

Powered haulage vehicles in a mining environment with a cost scale overlay

As technology evolves, the adoption and integration of advanced collision avoidance solutions will continue to be a key focus for the mining industry, ensuring a safer and more productive future for miners and mining companies alike.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration, Department of Labor (MSHA) published its final rule regarding the Safety Program for Surface Mobile Equipment, which took effect on January 19, 2024, giving mine operators until July 17 to achieve compliance.

MSHA’s safety rule states that “mine operators must develop, implement, and update, periodically or when necessary, a written safety program for surface mobile equipment (excluding belt conveyors) at surface mines and surface areas of underground mines. The written safety program must be developed and updated with input from miners and their representatives. The written safety program must include actions mine operators will take to identify hazards and risks to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities related to surface mobile equipment. The final rule offers mine operators flexibility to devise a safety program that is appropriate for their specific mining conditions and operations.”

Compliance doesn’t have to break the bank

Achieving compliance may seem like a daunting task, but Carroll Technologies can work with mines to provide the most effective collision avoidance system for any site, application, or budget.

In some instances, increasing visibility of vehicles is sufficient enough to avoid accidents. Buggy Whip® LED safety whips are a cost efficient solution to easily identify vehicles and equipment in industrial environments. For more complex situations, an effective tracking system is essential for collision avoidance. This can take the form of tags worn by workers and attached to machinery and vehicles, which feed information into a control centre. Large, above-ground operations may utilize GPS tracking, which can reduce operational costs as satellite tracking removes the need for individual people and objects to be tagged. Holistic services that combine tracking and communication are also increasingly popular.

Collision prevention systems provided by Carroll Technologies include PBE’s collision avoidance system, which uses EM (electromagnetics), RFID, GPS and bi-directional radar at the same time for accuracy that can be configured to recognise different groups (such as vehicle types or personnel). Additionally, the dash-mounted PAS-Z Proximity Alert System alerts drivers to the presence of personnel, vehicles and obstacles.

The PAS-ZR is a ruggedized version of PBE’s standard collision avoidance system, specifically designed for both above and below ground vehicles in the construction and mining industry.

Posted on by

Pneumatic Diaphragm Pumps

SAMOA pneumatic diaphragm pumps

In the world of heavy industry, efficiency and reliability are paramount. This is particularly true in sectors such as mining, tunneling, construction, and oil & gas, where equipment must withstand harsh environments and continuous operation. Pneumatic diaphragm pumps have emerged as a cornerstone in these industries, offering robust performance under challenging conditions. Among the leading providers of these pumps is SAMOA, a company renowned for its innovative and high-quality solutions.

Pneumatic diaphragm pumps are a type of positive displacement pump, known for their versatility and ability to handle a wide range of fluids, from clean, light viscosity fluids to corrosive, abrasive, medium viscosity fluids, and even fluids containing solid particles. This makes them exceptionally suitable for the diverse needs of mining, tunneling, construction, and oil & gas industries.

Pneumatic diaphragm pumps for mining and tunneling applications

In mining and tunneling, water ingress and the handling of abrasive sludges can be a significant challenge. SAMOA’s AODD pumps are designed to handle these tasks efficiently. They are used for dewatering purposes, managing run-off water that contains abrasive particles, and for transferring sludges and slurries which are common in mining operations.

Pneumatic diaphragm pumps in the construction industry

In the construction industry, these pumps are used for many tasks, including transferring a wide range of fluids and semi-solids. Their robustness makes them ideal for handling the challenging mixtures often encountered on construction sites, such as concrete slurry and waste water.

Pneumatic diaphragm pumps in the oil & gas sector

The oil and gas sector relies heavily on equipment that can handle harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. SAMOA’s pneumatic diaphragm pumps are engineered to transfer fluids such as drilling mud, and provide chemical resistance, ensuring longevity and reliability in these demanding environments.

Posted on by

Where to Buy Harrington Hoists

Harrington Hoist on display at convention

Harrington Hoists boasts a comprehensive range of products for various industries. This includes overhead cranes, crane accessories, chain hoists and trolleys, electric wire rope hoists and trolleys, lever hoists, manual hand chain hoists, push and geared trolleys, and replacement parts. Carroll Technologies’ online mining shop offers a selection of Harrington’s top mining hoists, such as the Mini Lever Chain Hoists: 10ft (LX003-10), 15ft (LX003-15), 5ft (LX005-5), 10ft (LX005-10), (LX005-20). Harrington Hoists is ISO 9001 certified and a member of several industry associations, ensuring their commitment to quality and safety in the Canadian market.

Carroll Technologies not only supplies Harrington’s comprehensive range but also provides factory-authorized repair services, including load testing with factory-calibrated machines, ensuring proper testing and certification.

For more details on Harrington Hoist products or to consult Carroll Technologies for the best lifting solutions for your Canadian mining project, call 606-573-1000 or send an enquiry.