Latest tools for HGV RTCs

Published: 01 September, 2008

Jan-Pieter Maarschalk, General Manager of a rescue tool manufacturer, outlines some of the latest tools for HGV RTCs.

Truck accidents tend to be very serious and cause terrible injuries, because unlike light motor vehicles they do not really have crumple zones, and therefore impact in a collision is much larger. So what type of tools should FRSs be using?

Maarschalk of ResQtec recommends both an all-round cutter (one that can cut through a wide range of different structures and materials) and lifting bags to create operating space. “You need a spreader that is easy to position and handle, and because there are greater distances involved with trucks, several rams with a high stroke and an average capacity of 10 tonnes are definitely a necessity. Once the heavy duty cutter can cut the structure the rams can create enough space.”

For the stabilisation process ResQtec has developed a fixation system called Profix for lifting and shoring an HGV. “Profix can be operated mechanically as well pneumatically, and it is designed to keep load fixed at all times during the lift, whilst being engineered for maximum safety.”

The ProFix system comes with many attachments and modules, so the rescuer can increase the system’s capabilities over time. With all of these, the shoring, stabilising and fixating can all be carried out with just one system.

As a result of British research that shows two thirds of all work- related illnesses are handling injuries (caused by lifting heavy weights the wrong way), ResQtec has designed a new range of rescue tools. Firefighters are highly exposed to these types of injuries because of the nature of their job. Especially when dealing with truck accidents where handling heavy duty rescue tools (often in extremely uncomfortable positions) is the norm.

According to Maarschalk, the new tools are lightweight, balanced, and also easy to handle. They feature special foam handles (360 degrees), and hoses that are positioned under an ergonomically designed handle. The key feature of the range is the ergonomic weight optimisation technology (EWO), designed to allow the rescuer to change positions easier and faster. The clever weight distribution also makes the rescue tool feel lighter, whilst giving more control in complex positions.

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