ESG in progress: No more awkward lifts for cylinder handling

10-10-2024

ESG in progress: No more awkward lifts for cylinder handling

In our mission to ensure industry-leading manufacturing facilities at Svanehøj, we continuously strive to improve the work environment. Two solutions, implemented at our production facilities during 2023, have had a real positive impact on our blue-collar staff.

By introducing a customized gripper and an electrified mover for pump assembly, we have significantly improved the ergonomic conditions for our assembly teams and reduced the time spent on final assembly by over 40%.

Our most frequently produced pumps previously required heavy lifting and awkward positioning during assembly. Introducing the customized gripper has optimized this process by being designed to handle heavy pump cylinders.

“Previously, we relied on cranes to lift and maneuver heavy components, often resulting in awkward positions. With our new gripper, employees can easily grip, rotate, and maneuver cylinders without relying on cranes, which improves ergonomic conditions”, says Mikkel Bülow Bundgaard Sørensen, Head of Production.

Less movement of people, tools, and materials

Another significant enhancement to the work environment comes from the investment in an electrified mover for assembling deepwell pumps, which can extend over 30 meters long. This setup minimizes crane handling and reduces employee movement during the final assembly of pumps, allowing them to remain in one place while gradually moving the entire pump as it's built, instead of repeatedly relocating tools and materials.

“By introducing this mover, we have enabled our assembly team to complete tasks without frequently changing positions or relying on cranes for moving heavy items. The fewer lifts using cranes, the lower the risk of accidents from falling items, which enhances workplace safety even further. This initiative has also reduced the time spent on final assembly by over 40%”, Mikkel says.

Preserving the health and safety of our people is key in Svanehøj. These two investments exemplify our commitment to optimizing manufacturing processes, reducing physical strain on our workforce, and creating a safer, more efficient work environment across all departments.