July 2009, Work Truck - Feature
Go to the Experts to Manage Cargo Effectively & Safely
Consulting end users - drivers, service techs, warehouse managers, etc. - is the first critical step in developing efficient, safe cargo management systems. They are the experts in how the cargo is used.
By Cindy Brauer
When John Beyer, director of risk, fleet, and travel management at Safelite Auto Glass, wanted to standardize the cargo system in the company's fleet of 4,000-plus service vans, he went directly to the people who knew that cargo best. He gathered a cross section of user groups, representing the geographic and functional range of Safelite's business - vehicle glass repair, replacement, and delivery. And he listened to their input.
In the past, Beyer recounted, "We sent vehicles out to the field; our techs did a lot of customizing. We provided a basic unit, but didn't provide all they needed to do their jobs."
Standardizing the vans would improve work flow efficiency and safety, and provide a familiar work environment when vehicles were transferred, enhancing technician productivity, Beyer explained.
"Techs use the vans everyday; they are the experts, and they know their own needs," he pointed out. "It's essential to spend a significant amount out in the field talking to techs and warehouse managers, getting their input and involvement."
"Spec'ing the vans wasn't difficult," said Beyer. The size of replacement windshields carried in the vehicle dictated the choice of Ford or Chevrolet models.
Prototype Field-Tested
With his fleet council's input, Beyer turned to upfitter Adrian Steel for additional guidance and to design the van's cargo management system.
"We gutted a van," said Beyer, and they rebuilt the interior to accommodate Safelite techs' particular tools, equipment, and servicing tasks. This prototype vehicle was tested in the field.
"It took 3-4 times to get it right," Beyer recalled.
The design had to meet certain objectives, including equipment organization, accessibility, safety, driver ergonomics, and work flow efficiency.
Tool and bin parts holders were specifically designed to provide "a place for everything and everything in its place," said Beyer. In particular, holders were created for the electronic cutting tools, with their sharp razor knives and blades, Safelite techs use in removing broken windshields.
"Adrian helped design tool holders to store these tools and keep them from bouncing around the floor or being in the way when the techs reach into the van," said Beyer.
Frequently used tools and equipment, including a vacuum, broken glass disposal unit, and 20-foot hoses, were relocated within easy reach.
"In the past, shelves were built on the far side of the van. They were moved to the front to avoid techs moving in and around the van," Beyer explained.
To improve the ergonomic impact on techs as they move windshields that can weigh as much as 60 lbs., storage racks were redesigned for better access and loading.
Noting "safety is always important," Beyer said the charging station used for battery-powered tools was moved "from the back of the van to the cockpit, away from fluids and water, and to provide easy access."
In addition, an LED system was installed in the van interiors, replacing the previously used dome lights. "The system lights up the inside, and our people can work safely, using all those sharp tools, in the dim lighting of a parking garage," Beyer noted.
Key to the design process, said Beyer, is "to approach it with an open mind. Forget about what you have. Don't spend time trying to improve a system; start from scratch. Design to what you need."
Get Key Employees Involved
Soliciting input from end users is a cargo management best practice at ValleyCrest, one of the nation's largest landscape development and maintenance companies, headquartered in Calabasas, Calif.
"Get your key employees involved; just because it looks good on paper does not always mean it will work out in the field," recommended Vicki Dahlquist, director of fleet and Stacy Bingel, senior fleet coordinator. "We have found when we involve our key employees, we've actually saved money in most cases because we come up with solutions that work for them and eliminate those that were not used or used improperly."
The ValleyCrest fleet includes nearly 4,000 light- and medium-duty trucks, vans, and SUVs, primarily Ford models.
In determining cargo management systems for ValleyCrest vehicles, Dahlquist and Bingel first review the vehicle's use and application.
They "go to the people using the current set-up to see what they like and don't like, look at the areas used and not used." Where the vehicle will be located "outside at a construction site or in a parking structure at a business park," is another consideration.
When spec'ing vehicles and upfits, Dahlquist and Bingel are cautious. "There are always changes in the cargo industry that bring new and innovative ways to store and secure items, but they may not always fit your current applications. Sometimes new is not always better," they noted.