Transforming operations in the wood treatment industry

By Amanda Arsenault

Equipment Lifecycle, Green Fleet Management

Global Fleet Solutions helped a major wood treatment facility improve air quality, reduce downtime, and boost productivity by transitioning from internal combustion to electric forklifts. The result? A safer, quieter, and more efficient workplace. Discover how the right equipment and expert support made all the difference in our latest case study.

Challenge:

A prominent player in the wood treatment and lumber manufacturing industry faced critical operational challenges within their enclosed treatment spaces. These challenges were characterized by poor air quality resulting from emissions of internal combustion (IC) forklifts, high operational hours leading to operator fatigue, frequent staff absences due to health concerns, and overall efficiency bottlenecks. The management team was striving to enhance productivity, ensure safety, and improve air quality, while employees grappled with burnout and poor work conditions.

Opportunity:

Recognizing the unique needs of the wood treatment facility, Global Fleet Solutions proposed a groundbreaking shift towards electric forklifts. This strategic move aimed not only to improve air quality but also to elevate equipment reliability and operator satisfaction. By deploying a variety of electric forklift brands tailored to specific facility locations and based on the availability of support, Global Fleet Solutions delivered a bespoke, effective solution. The provision of a singular contact point for all maintenance further simplified operations, promising maximized uptime and enhanced productivity.

Process:

Guided by Michael Harvey, a thorough evaluation of the facility’s operational environment was undertaken. This assessment revealed the critical need for equipment capable of navigating tight spaces and executing frequent direction changes without the wear and tear characteristic of IC forklifts. The simplicity and efficiency of electric forklifts made them an ideal choice for the facility’s demanding settings.

Result:

The switch to electric forklifts heralded a significant turnaround in the facility’s operations. Immediate improvements were seen in air quality, leading to fewer employee absences and a healthier work environment. The electric forklifts’ ease of operation and reduced noise levels also significantly improved the operator experience, enhancing workplace morale and productivity. Strategic brand selection based on regional support maximized equipment uptime and operational efficiency, highlighting Global Fleet Solutions’ commitment to delivering comprehensive solutions over mere products.

Impact:

The adoption of electric forklift technology had a profound effect on the wood treatment facility’s operations:

Notable enhancements in productivity and operational efficiency, with a marked increase in lumber processed per hour.
Reduced processing times for treated wood, leading to an uptick in overall output.
Significant reductions in equipment downtime and maintenance expenses positively impacting the facility’s profitability.
Improved health and safety for operators, showed by decreased absenteeism and a more positive workplace environment.

Through Global Fleet Solutions’ tailored approach and its focus on electric forklift technology, the wood treatment facility experienced remarkable improvements in operational challenges. This case study illustrates the potential of specialized solutions and electric technology to overcome industry-specific hurdles, emphasizing the critical role of innovation and customized support in achieving operational excellence and sustainability in the lumber manufacturing sector.