Fleetowner 1220 Truck Rollover Sm
Fleetowner 1220 Truck Rollover Sm
Fleetowner 1220 Truck Rollover Sm
Fleetowner 1220 Truck Rollover Sm
Fleetowner 1220 Truck Rollover Sm

Shell Chemicals introduces rollover-prevention device

Aug. 31, 2011
Concerned for its global customers and truck operators, Shell Chemicals has developed a technology designed to prevent tanker rollovers. The device, the “rollover warning device (RWD),” is available for order now around the world, the company said, following testing in Europe, Asia and the Middle East

Concerned for its global customers and truck operators, Shell Chemicals has developed a technology designed to prevent tanker rollovers. The device, the “rollover warning device (RWD),” is available for order now around the world, the company said, following testing in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

“We took the initiative to collaborate with our business partners to develop the rollover warning device because we want to do all we can to reduce the risk of road tanker rollover,” said Jack Eggels, general manager for global land logistics. “We did not do this just for ourselves, but also to help customers and other transport operators across the globe make roads safer. Safety is a top priority for Shell and we recognize it has a direct impact on our customer service. We want our drivers to deliver products safely and return home to their loved ones.”

According to Riccardo Magliocchi, HSSE (health, safety, security and environment) advisor, excessive speed while cornering can affect the stability of a trailer.

“Sudden or severe changes in direction or speed can create inertia in the load being carried which, in certain situations such as on roundabouts, is sufficient to tip the trailer over,” said Magliocchi.

He says drivers of tankers are usually unaware of an impending rollover.

“By the time they see or feel something wrong, it’s usually too late,” Magliocchi added.

The device consists of a sensor that is attached to a tanker trailer and a receiving unit that can be fitted to the dashboard of the truck cab, Shell said. If the acceleration data sent by the sensor exceeds the safe theoretical rollover threshold for the vehicle, the device alerts the driver.

It was developed with the help of components manufacturer Bertocco and engineering company Studio Merli.

“There was nothing like this available on the market so we had to develop a system ourselves,” said Magliocchi.

The RWD offers drivers both visual and audio warnings when the vehicle is approaching its rollover threshold, Shell said, allowing the driver to take corrective action before a rollover occurs. In 2010 the RWD was recognized for its contribution to safety, and Shell and Bertocco were awarded an EuroTra Safety and Innovation Award by the Freight Transport Assn.

Shell is encouraging its contractors to adopt the device. It takes only a few hours to install, the company said, adding that is it “relatively inexpensive.”

“We trialled the rollover warning device in our fleet last year and I am really convinced of its benefits,” said Eugene Mayne, CEO of Tristar Transportation, which contracts with Shell in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. “Our drivers said they feel safer because they have greater awareness of the rollover threshold of their vehicles. There is no doubt that this simple yet effective device really makes our fleet safer, and that helps me sleep better at night.”

About the Author

Brian Straight | Managing Editor

Brian joined Fleet Owner in May 2008 after spending nearly 14 years as sports editor and then managing editor of several daily newspapers.  He and his staff  won more than two dozen major writing and editing awards. Responsible for editing, editorial production functions and deadlines.

Sponsored Recommendations

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

How to Choose the Right Route Planning Solution

This free buyer's guide will help equip you with the knowledge and insights needed to analyze route planning software and vendors in the market and, ultimately, make an informed...

How to Put Your Trucking Data to Work

How fleets can overcome data overload to optimize operations and get ahead.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!