Both the WAV 50-84 and the new WAV 50-118 models allow employees in many different applications to complete their tasks quicker, safer and more comfortably. Both models offer a load capacity of up to 90 kg on the load tray and an additional 115 kg on the load deck above the battery compartment. Since the introduction of the Wave^®, companies in hundreds of different industries throughout the world already benefit from its productivity enhancing features.

Safety first
Health and safety organisations in the EU place special emphasis on falls from height in a campaign to address one of the greatest dangers in the workplace. With the Wave these dangers can be avoided, as the risks associated with the use of ladders, such as tripping, losing balance become a thing of the past. On the Wave the operator stands firmly on a cushioned platform with padded wrap-around safety rails, whilst the product is transported securely on a steel load tray. A report by the European Commission* shows that strains and sprains accounted for 26% of all injuries that resulted in four or more lost work-days and 14.9% of those injured were unable to resume their previous work activities. Using the Wave can eliminate these risks.

Increased productivity
In many situations, the majority of lifting and maintenance tasks requires two people to position materials at height. With the Wave this is no longer the case – one employee can carry out these tasks safely and quickly without the need for assistance. Productivity is further heightened as a worker with merchandise or tools can be at the required height ready for the task at hand before a worker on foot can even walk to the location. On the Wave the operator can travel at speeds of up to 6 km/h, twice as fast as the average walking speed. In addition, its ability to drive and lift simultaneously saves time, although for safety reasons the travel speed is then reduced to 3 km/h. By comparison, rolling ladders are difficult to move from one place to another and block up to three square metres of floor space, whether they are in use or not. Productivity is increased not only by the considerable time-savings, but also by the reduction in product damage. Loads are transported securely on the load tray or load platform and cannot be dropped accidentally.

Intelligent control
Speed, lift and lower functions, steering and braking are coordinated by a built-in safety system. This intelligent control system keeps the operator working through the task, securely and confidently – when travelling, braking, raising the platform or working at height. Hand sensors ensure that the operator has both hands on the controls before the Wave will function. The control buttons for raise and lower are arranged so that they can be operated even when travelling. Foot pedals with sensors ensure that the Wave stops all travel, lift and lower functions automatically as soon as the operator removes either foot from the pedals.

Efficient use of space and unlimited possibilities
At 750 mm wide and 1525 mm long, the Wave passes through standard doors and fits in most elevators. Unlike a rolling ladder, which is difficult to manouevre around corners, the Wave can turn in its own length. In rail guided applications, such as in a small parts warehouse, it requires an aisle width of only 900 mm and guarantees even more efficient use of space. In manufacturing applications the Wave can also be used for transporting, to deliver parts to the production line, to fill shelves or retrieve products for assembly. In retail applications, the use of the Wave in place of ladders increases safety and efficiency of picking and restocking. Tasks such as inventory checks can be accomplished much quicker and signage or light bulbs can be changed in an instant. In addition the Wave makes an ideal service tool for housekeeping and maintenance tasks in office buildings, hotels and hospitals.

When the time comes to recharge the maintenance-free batteries the Work Assist Vehicle^® simply plugs into any standard 240V power outlet and the intelligent on-board charger automatically cuts out when charging is complete. An investment in the Wave will quickly impact on a business bottom line through significant productivity gains and risk reduction.

*Eurostat: European Social Statistics – Accidents at work and work-related health problems, 2002 Edition.