The North American manufacturing arm for Haulotte Group has streamlined its production process in order to follow a product’s flow and accommodate increases in aerial work platform manufacturing. The plant that manufactures BilJax-brand scaffolds and event staging has been reorganized, and over the last year, logistical improvements have been made in raw material storage, machining, welding, fabrication, assembly, paint, test, warehouse and many other areas. “We moved permanent office structures if they were in the flow of production, including my own,” said Lyle Fogerty, industrial manager for Haulotte North America.
In addition, new overhead cranes were installed, lighting system updated, racking systems, and machinery reorganized to increase overhead visibility and a new floor coating applied. “This all took place with little disruption to production,” Fogerty said. “We also took this opportunity to cross train talent maximizing employee efficiency across departments and shifts.”
Expansion in Ohio
Haulotte also is expanding AWP manufacturing in Ohio. Recently, the first electric 2632E scissor lift came off the new line. These machines join the 1930E scissors, trailer-mounted lifts, and lightweight self-propelled (X-Boom) machines.
“Most certainly we are looking forward to 2013 and driving the first HB67RTJ out the doors,” said Tami Becher, marketing director for Haulotte North America. Unveiled by Haulotte at Intermat this year, the North American market will be served with a machine manufactured domestically. “We will manufacture the ANSI/CSA version in Ohio and continue with the HT23RTJ being manufactured in France,” Becher said. “Many cross-functional teams have worked together to make this happen, all in the best interest of Haulotte customers and commitment to North America."
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
