2011 POY Finalists: Safety

Finalists in Safety in Plant Engineering’s 2011 Product of the Year competition

By Edited by Gust Gianos, Plant Engineering November 1, 2011

Platform and stair system

ErectaStep is a universal platform and stair system designed to provide an alternative to custom metal fabrication. With only 4 components, users can quickly and easily assemble an infinite number of configurations. Popular configurations include cross-over stairs for access over obstructions, stair platforms for repeated maintenance access, ladder replacement and mezzanines. Since ErectaStep platforms and stairs are bolted together, reconfiguration of a system is easy to handle. A dolly component is also available, allowing systems to be mobile as well.

SafeRack Manufacturing LLC


Arc flash system

The Arc Vault system features an activation switch that can be used during routine maintenance to put the low-voltage equipment into a high-protection mode. When an arc flash event occurs, the system will send a signal to the arc containment device. At the same time the decision to divert the arc is made, the system will also make a decision to open an upstream circuit breaker. This will turn off the system in approximately three cycles, at which point the arc in the containment system will terminate.

General Electric Company


Personal lift

The LiftPod FS60 lifts provide an alternative to working on ladders and scaffolding. The LiftPod FS60 is ANSI A92.3-2006/CSA B354.1-04 compliant and promotes safety by combining lightweight portability with a secure work platform. It doesn’t require an OSHA-regulated two-man operation because one worker can complete tasks with a 360-degree range of motion in an enclosed platform. The FS60 weighs only 130 lbs—each of its three components weighs about 50 lbs—and can be assembled in less than 30 seconds.

JLG Industries, Inc.


Arc-flash relay

The PGR-8800 Arc-Flash Relay protects personnel, equipment, and reputation by rapidly detecting developing arc-flash incidents and tripping the circuit before significant damage occurs. The PGR-8800 can detect an arc flash in less than 1 ms, making it one of the fastest arc-flash relays on the market. It detects both current and light to minimize nuisance trips and provides overcurrent protection. With 24 photoelectric or fiber-optic sensors, the PGR-8800 offers complete coverage for your application—no matter how challenging the space.

Littelfuse, Inc.


Surface-mounted lifeline system

The ShockFusion Permanent Horizontal Lifeline (HLL) Roof System is a surface-mounted lifeline system that accommodates most industrial and commercial roof designs including standing seam, membrane, built-up, metal sheathing, concrete, and wood. In the event of a fall, the energy-absorbing, load distribution design ensures a secure connection to the roof while protecting the underlying structure. The continuous pass-through design provides safe access to all areas of a roof for up to six workers per system. Energy-absorbing end/corner posts manage system forces without tipping while minimizing lifeline deflection, which decreases the probability of a worker falling.

Miller Fall Protection


Relay line

The Guardmaster simplifies safety relay selections and reduces component inventory and lifecycle costs. Designed to meet global functional safety standards, the line of safety relays includes six basic units capable of supporting a broad range of safety devices in a variety of applications. The Guardmaster relay line features a single-wire communication capability that helps eliminate the need for dual-channel connection between relays. Users can expand and cascade safety functions up to a SIL 3 rating using a single wire to connect between relays, reducing installation time and effort.

Rockwell Automation, Inc.


Spill response pool

The Ultra-Pop Up Pool Plus is a spill response pool that quickly opens and unfurls to capture large spills. Available in 150-, 66-, and 20-gal sizes, the bladder will automatically expand/unfurl as the liquid level in the pool rises. The pool can be stored efficiently inside spill kits, under/behind seats, or in tool boxes. The Ultra-Pop Up Pool Plus features chemical resistance to diesel fuel, antifreeze, acids, caustics, and corrosives. Since the pool opens and is ready to respond in seconds, spillage and exposure of hazardous material to the environment is minimized.

UltraTech International, Inc.


Cable protection system

The Ultra-Sidewinder Cable Protection System protects cords and cables, reducing dangerous tripping hazards. Articulating pieces offer flexible design, including curves, corners, and s-curves, while maintaining a completely flat profile. The system’s modular design makes it easier to reconfigure, repair, and replace segments, without needing to disconnect the cable. The installation requires no tools, and the assembled system (with cord) can be coiled for transport. The Ultra-Sidewinder system offers a fully customizable length—from 4.5 ft to an unlimited length.

UltraTech International, Inc.


Fuse for solar applications

The SPFJ Global Fuse for 1000VDC, 125-450 A solar applications is UL 2579 Listed, designed, and manufactured in accordance with IEC Standard 602269-6. These standards ensure the safety of both equipment and personnel. Offered in UL Class J case sizes, the SPFJ provides space savings opportunities, as the installer can either mount the SPFJ to a busbar or use the UL 4248-18 Listed 1000 VDC holder, offering additional flexibility. It also offers a full-range PV time-current characteristic for added protection.

Littelfuse, Inc.