Coupler Confusion

What are the facts?

Following the recent focus on the use of quick couplers in the industry, in particular semi-automatic couplers, manufacturers Miller UK say it has become apparent through talking to their customers that there is still a huge amount of confusion surrounding the issue.

According to Miller, as things stand at present:

• All coupler manufacturers have agreed to a voluntary ban on the sale of semi-automatic couplers into the UK following a series of incidents which occurred after the operator failed to insert the safety pin.
• Existing semi-automatic couplers fitted to machines can still be used and are safe providing the safety pin is used correctly.
• A number of individual contractors have reviewed their own on-site policies and have announced further measures and restrictions to improve site safety following discussions with all coupler manufacturers.

To address coupler safety on a worldwide scale, ISO 13031 is currently being developed to ensure that only safe couplers are put into the market in future. Miller have been invited to be part of the ISO working group to advise on coupler safety and to review current standards (eg EN474), which may lead to changes in future legislation.

ISO 13031 is not due to be published until 2011, but when it is all coupler manufacturers will have to adhere to it.

In order to satisfy customers’ immediate concerns about potential incidents that may occur through operator error, Miller have recently launched their new-generation TwinLock 2 device, a fully automatic, universal quick coupler which has evolved from an existing proven product that is used on sites around the world.

The coupler features a back-up safety mechanism which ensures dual pin capture even in the event of hydraulic failure or loss of engagement forces, thereby preventing attachments from swinging dangerously in this situation. It also automatically locks the front pin if the back pin is not engaged correctly during the attachment process.

According to Miller, the TwinLock 2’s special safety features have been immediately widely recognized as offering a new dimension to coupler safety.

For further information on coupler legislation, Miller’s ‘Confused about Quick Couplers’ fact sheet can be downloaded from their website at: www.millergroundbreaking.com

Alternatively, call Miller UK on tel: (01670) 707 272 to discuss any concerns in person.