Andover improves visibility

Andover Trailers has responded to HSE calls for improved visibility when loading and unloading plant trailers by developing a new rear light cluster design.

The new lights are designed to resolve the problem of existing lights being obscured when ramps are lowered and the subsequent reliance on cones and beacons before plant movement can take place in the dark.

"The new design allows the rear light clusters to be unclipped and attached to either side of the deck while the ramps are lowered. This means they can be clearly seen by oncoming vehicles throughout the loading or unloading process," said Lee Fuller, technical director.

"The beauty of the new system is it takes only a matter of seconds to move the clusters to the temporary positions before lowering the ramps, and it does not involve any external parts or independent lights which a driver could easily forget about and leave behind at the roadside," he added.

Surrey-based plant hirer T&M Plant, which suggested the idea to Andover, is currently trialling the new design on plant bodies and step frame trailers.

Once the tests are completed the new cluster will be available for use on existing vehicles as a retro-fit kit, including a new light, mounting bracket and fixings for the side of the vehicle.