Clayton tankers set new safety standard
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• by Peter Lawton Exel is operating the next generation of road tanker with two new prototypes from Clayton Commercials.
The tankers started working throughout Exel's Tankfreight division, specialising in chemical, petroleum and food sectors, in June. Designed in consultation with Exel safety representatives, the company says the tankers set new standards for the industry.
As a safety measure, an angled stairway with larger steps and handrails has been fitted in place of the ladders that drivers usually climb to the tank top.
A new handrail system also provides protection on all four sides when on the deck.
The air-pistonoperated rails raise into position from the ground before the deck is accessed and are linked to the braking system to prevent the vehicle being driven away whentheyare in use.
The deck itself is improved with an open-grid pattern running the full length and width of the tanker and simple high-visibility edging, Although the preferred emphasis is ground-level operation, Exel says it wanted to provide tank-top working conditions that were close to "ideal".
The tankers are circulating through the Tankfreight chemical network to give drivers, depots and customers the chance to work with them and make suggestions.
Further improvements will be included in future designs, says the company.
Exel says it will also be showing the tankers to the Chemical Industries Association and the Health and Safety Executive to show how standards can be raised.