This year marks a truly significant milestone for RCT – Powered by Epiroc and its flagship industrial fleet management system, SmarTrack. It's a moment to reflect on how far we've come and the role we've played in shaping fleet management and safety technology as it exists today.
RCT's journey began with early machine telematics, focused on operator authentication and the collection of critical operational data. At the time, these capabilities were groundbreaking, laying the foundation for smarter, more accountable fleet operations. In true RCT style, we continued to innovate to improve the system and continue to meet clients' needs.
Therefore, not long after, we introduced operator user interfaces to further streamline interactions between humans and systems. Of course, when this was first developed, it was simple by today's standards, but revolutionary for its time.
It was a basic LCD display, featuring just three rows, containing up to 20 characters. Just enough information on the screen to display information required for operators to complete electronic pre-start checklists that could be centrally managed through an online portal.
This was an early, yet significant step towards digitising processes that were once entirely manual.
Driven by relentless innovation, these early concepts provided the cornerstone of the evolution of what we know as today's world-class SmarTrack - a renowned solution in the materials handling industry. This state-of-the-art solution has now been deployed globally, and SmarTrack represents decades of refinement, real-world testing, and continuous improvement.
Early adopters such as a well-known packaging and recycling company, played a pivotal role in validating the technology and accelerating its adoption, helping to shape the platform into what it is today.
In parallel, we were also pioneering advancements in fleet safety. One of the most notable breakthroughs was the introduction of forklift GPS Zoning. By allowing companies to draw operational zones directly on Google Earth maps and integrate them with RCT's Speed Limiter technology, businesses gained unprecedented control over vehicle speeds and site safety. Industry leaders like a major Australian integrated steel manufacturer, were among the first to embrace this innovation.
Today, terms like zoning and geofencing are commonplace across the industry, but two decades ago, they were anything but. These solutions didn't just improve efficiency; they fundamentally changed how organisations approached safety in dynamic operational environments.
As we mark this 20-year milestone, it's not just the technology we celebrate, but the vision, persistence, and partnerships that made it possible. RCT's legacy is one of innovation driven by real-world challenges and most importantly a commitment to building safer, smarter operations alongside our customers.
To learn more on these technologies, visit our landing pages:
The challenges surrounding safety and operational efficiency in the supply chain industry are ever-present. With forklifts and personnel sharing the same working space, the risk of accidents and fatalities remains high. Therefore, the necessity for innovative solutions that ensure everyone’s safety is mandatory, and a bonus that these solutions also optimise operations at the same time.
Incidents in the industry serve as stark and timely reminders of the potential hazards associated with supply chain operations. For instance, the recent tragic accident involving a forklift operator in Australia underscores the critical need for stringent safety measures.
Despite the operator having a high-risk work license and recent safety training, an unfortunate lapse resulted in a fatal outcome. This illustrates the need for robust safety protocols and advanced technology to prevent such accidents.
Earlier in the year, SafeWork NSW had launched a statewide compliance operation aimed at reducing injuries caused by mobile plant, fixed machinery, and vehicles in the workplace. To date, this operation has already resulted in over 140 notices being issued, with a significant focus on forklift safety, including managing risks such as pedestrian separation, rollover and collision prevention, and ensuring proper maintenance and inspection protocols.
At RCT, safety is our top priority. Our innovative technology is versatile and can be installed on any machine, regardless of make or model. Forklift-related incidents can be a thing of the past with some of the following solutions:
RCT’s SmarTrack Fleet Management system is essential in offering a comprehensive approach mitigating risks. From monitoring, controlling, and optimising the use of forklifts, it integrates real-time data and advanced analytics to provide operators with invaluable insights into each forklift’s performance and status. This enhances operational efficiency and enables proactive maintenance, reducing the likelihood of equipment failure and accidents.
One of the most significant advancements in supply chain safety is the implementation of RCT’s Pedestrian Alert Systems (PAS). Designed to detect and alert operators to the presence of personnel near forklifts, this system prevents accidents before they occur by providing awareness. Utilising state-of-the-art sensors and communication technology, the PAS ensures operators are always aware of their surroundings, significantly reducing the risk of collisions and enhancing overall site safety.
The supply chain industry faces unique challenges that require innovative solutions. RCT’s SmarTrack Fleet Management and Pedestrian Alert System can be combined into one integrated solution, delivering full coverage for these challenges and offering a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective way to manage supply chain operations.
Ready to invest to further protect your workforce and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive industry? With a comprehensive global support team, we’re ready to hear from you. Enquire now at xxxxxxxxx@xxx-xxxxxx.xxx
Safety and efficiency are crucial in industries that rely on the operation of commercial vehicles. Sectors such as logistics, transportation, mining, and construction constantly face the challenge of maintaining optimal visibility and reducing accidents.
One of the main challenges these industries encounter is ensuring drivers have clear visibility 24/7. Blind spots and restricted visibility can result in accidents, endangering both personnel and equipment. The dynamic and often hazardous environments these industries operate in amplify the need for comprehensive visibility solutions.
In high-stakes environments like construction sites, busy logistics hubs, and mining operations, there is little room for error. These settings are bustling with activity and heavy machinery, making the potential for accidents significant. Drivers need to be acutely aware of their surroundings to navigate safely. Therefore, having a clear view of the vehicle's surroundings is not just important; it's essential for maintaining safety and operational integrity.
RCT's Maxi Vision® offer cutting-edge technology designed to meet the demanding requirements of these industries, ensuring unmatched safety and operational excellence. By providing a comprehensive view of the vehicle's surroundings, Maxi Vision® help eliminate blind spots, reduce accidents, and safeguard both personnel and equipment.
RCT's Maxi Vision® are not just tackling visibility challenges; they are redefining the standards of safety and efficiency in operations. With unmatched, round-the-clock visibility, the cameras are enhancing safety protocols and streamlining operations, day and night.
Are you ready to elevate your operations with superior clarity? Download the guide or xxxxxxx xx to discover how Maxi Vision® can provide you with a crystal-clear perspective on safer, more efficient operations.
RCT’s leading Fleet Management system, SmarTrack® Global has transformed operations at JDK Management’s storage facilities in Victoria.
JDK Management is one of the largest storage warehouses in Shepparton, with more than 35,000 pallet spaces of storage in varying temperatures from -18c to +8c. The company prides itself on providing the best facilities and the most accurate and efficient customer service.
Therefore, their decision through their materials handling partner, L&P Mackin forklifts to install SmarTrack® Global at the facility was an easy one. In this instance, the system was combined with RCT’s two-camera DVR recorder to further safeguard operations.
JDK Management’s General Manager, Paul Kalafatis, said the combination of the solutions has been very successful in enabling them to identify the causes for incidents relating to their material handling equipment.
“As a result, management has been able to identify environmental risks, initiate additional training, and generally heighten safety awareness within the organisation,” he said.
SmarTrack® Global helps to optimise materials handling operations and increase bottom-line profits. The fleet management system delivers relevant, customised information in real-time to employees, provides pre and post-start checklists, event reporting, access control and monitors the weight and speed of industrial equipment.
JDK Management noted the compliance aspects of SmarTrack® Global including the checklist reporting and access control, were big factors in its decision to purchase the solution.
The ability to understand when and what weight their forklifts were carrying was also of significant interest from a safety and utilisation perspective.
RCT’s high level of support was also another factor for JDK Management in implementing the system. The high level of support RCT provides to all its clients across its extensive solution range was also a stand-out.
“It is reassuring to know that this product is locally supported through L & P Mackin,” said.
Due to its willingness to adopt new technology over the years, to ensure a safer and more effective workplace, JDK Management has maintained its forefront of the industry for the last 25+ years. Its adoption of SmarTrack® is a great example of this.
Safety is paramount for national printing specialist, Ovato who have successfully utilised RCT’s Muirhead® Speed Gates solution at its warehouse operations in Western Australia.
Muirhead® Speed Gates automatically reduces an industrial machine’s speed depending on pre-determined speed restrictions across a logistics site.
Meaning that regardless of operator input this product effectively enforces speed limits in yards, inside warehouses and common pedestrian areas.
The technology is mounted above warehouse entrances/exits and racking aisles and communicates with Machine Location Tags fitted to the roof of equipment such as forklifts and reach trucks.
Ovato WA Logistics Manager Mark Mead said their operation uses a fleet of Toyota forklifts including plain models and machines with clamp and grab capabilities.
He said since being installed the Speed Gates have worked well and the site has not recorded any incidents.
“I have had no reports from anybody on site about any issues or problems so I would say they have definitely been a success at this location,” he said.
“The product is pretty much set and forget so the staff are aware it is there and when driving the forklifts you notice the change in speeds when you drive around inside the warehouse and then move outside.”
Mr Mead said they sought to install Speed Gates to improve safe forklift operations and ensure compliance with safety policies.
“Similar to how we have speed limits for cars onsite it is important we have the same rules with forklifts,” he said.
“If you are carrying a two-tonne load then you want to have confidence that you are in control of the machine’s speed so it makes sense to have Speed Gates for sure.”
RCT’s Muirhead® Speed Gates solution is revolutionising safe machine fleet practices across logistics and warehousing sites.
Speed Gates ensure all industrial machines – such as forklifts and reach trucks – are travelling at an appropriate speed for its surroundings.
The system is easily deployed at entrances and exits within materials handling facilities and caps maximum speeds on any piece of industrial equipment passing through the zone.
A worksite may be set up to include four safe speeds per site ensuring the materials handling equipment can only travel at designated speeds within defined locations.
The Speed Gate system consists of a gate located above entrances and exits which communicate with a Machine Location Tag mounted on or close to the roof of an industrial machine.
The Machine Location Tag then communicates with a Muirhead® Speed Limiter to manage the speed of the machine.
Additionally, depending on machine type, the Speed Gates may be able to interface directly with OEM speed limiting features.
RCT Product Manager Mick Tanner said the system will effortlessly enable safer materials handling operations.
“Speed Gates will ensure machine operators are fully compliant with site-specific speed limits and keeping in-line with government safety regulations,” he said.
“Improved speed control within your warehouse will reduce the chance of accidents and protect machine operators and other workers.”
“The system is simple to install and requires no ongoing maintenance essentially the system is set and forget.”
“The system can be applied to any type of materials handling equipment regardless of manufacturer so is ideal for both large and small sites that operate mixed fleets.”
RCT has so far received positive feedback from fleet managers at sites which have been using Speed Gates.
RCT prides itself on continually innovating to remain revolutionary, this is reflective across ALL of its sub-brands, and the Smart Service Monitor is no exception.
The newest product is part of the Muirhead® range of protection solutions designed to protect both machines and operators.
Easily installed, the Smart Service Monitor takes the traditionally basic device, which previously only gave an estimate on when a machine requires a service and delivers an all-round information system for up to eight inputs.
“This allows the monitoring of up to eight measurable components. Having the information allows for companies to schedule servicing of different components of a machine when it’s due,” said RCT’s Mining and Resources Product Manager, Mick Tanner.
“Information is power and having accurate information, delivered in an easy and concise manner allows management to ensure machines and their individual components are serviced correctly, therefore significantly increasing machine availability and extending the lifespan of equipment,” he added.
The Smart Service Monitor was developed by RCT in response to industry demand.
“Clients wanted more specific information about their machines and components in order to streamline efficiencies. Having all the machines operating at optimal performance ensures this is achieved.”
“This solution is all about minimising the costs associated with machine running costs and maximising the utilisation of machines.”
For example, it is possible for the monitor to intelligently log engine run hours; by monitoring the RPM the device can monitor the time in idle and the time in a work state off the same input. the counter has been designed to count, up or down depending on what is required.
By logging such an integral piece of information, it is possible to ensure that machine servicing is carried out regularly when required to ensure optimal performance. This is not only a legal obligation to reduce any risks because of unexpected failures but it also prevents machines running at a lower efficiency.
Designed to monitor the work hours of equipment to alert the user if the equipment requires or is overdue for a service. In addition, it is also capable of sending out both visual and audio alarms to alert the operators.
“The most impressive aspect is that the system can monitor up to 10 different things at once, which allows the end user to have a great overall picture of a machine’s health and be assured operations are running optimally,” he said.
All that is required to monitor a machine component via the Smart Service Monitor is either a frequency input, PWM input or just a straight digital or analogue voltage.
In addition, the Smart Service Monitor is complementary to RCT’s Automation solutions. The Smart Service Monitor can record the operating hours of these solutions to ensure servicing can be carried out at appropriate times to maintain optimal efficiency.
In addition to being versatile and adaptable, RCT’s Smart Service Monitor is easy-to-install and can be positioned on any machine; it does not require a specific machine to work. The device is configured through an inbuilt programming tool.
All that is needed is a smart device, PC, laptop or phone connected to the Wi-Fi. For security reasons, connection is password-protected to prevent people from making changes that the supervisor might not want including re-setting counters.
End users are provided with integral information about machines that they would not normally have access to.
“They can basically monitor the hours of anything they see of value,” said Tanner.
There are four stages of alerts when a service is nearing its due date, giving plenty of warning in order for servicing to be scheduled accordingly.
“RCT’s Smart Service Monitor is a game-changer – instead of purchasing multiple meters to monitor specific component and machine hours, you can just buy the one to do the job and do it well.”
All over the world, in warehouses, factories, freight terminals and shipping yards and all other industrial sites, companies use forklifts to move, lift and stack loads.
According WITS (World Industrial Truck Statistics), 1,534,000 units were shipped in 2018 and the lift truck market has grown from 872,000 units in 2008 to 1,534,000 (estimated) units in 2018 at a CAGR of 5.4%.
However, this increased use comes with its challenges, in particular with regards to the safety aspect for forklift operators and those working in the vicinity.
RCT’s Industrial Senior Business Development Manager, Grahame Don talks about the importance of reducing the risks in forklift operations and the materials handling industry.
The safety and well-being of forklift operators around the world is of utmost importance. In developed economies like the US and Australia, the human and financial cost of forklift-related incidents for the employees, industry and community is substantial.
According to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics, forklifts caused 85 work-related deaths and 7,940 nonfatal injuries in 2018. Non-fatal injuries in 2018, were around 16% more than that in 2015.
However, there are precautions and initiatives companies can undertake to prevent these incidents from occurring.
Around the world, Government safety bodies require personnel to obtain a forklift licence before they are authorised to operate lift trucks due to the high-risk nature associated with working with heavy equipment. Today, companies are required to keep a record of employee’s licences, making note of when they need to be renewed. It is however not easy to keep up-to-date with current and expired licences when this information is recorded manually. The use of an industrial fleet management system, like RCT’s SmarTrack® Global, can prevent unauthorised use of forklifts with workers needing a pin code or swipe card to access a machine. SmarTrack® Global can also keep a record of valid licences ensuring everyone operating the machines are legally authorised to do so.
These include the simple task of a pre-operational forklift checklist. Ensure operators check the forklift is in safe, working order before you start. This checklist would typically comprise of checking the likes of tyres, fluids, seating, warning devices, seatbelt, controls and breaks. It is important a system be implemented that is both easy to manage and has longevity. Manual, paper checklists can often become quite tedious and people can become complacent about them. Due to these reasons, many companies are going digital by implementing fleet management solutions to address this safety compliance issue. Currently, SmarTrack® Global is one of the few fleet management systems with a multi-lingual checklist function to ensure operators can nominate their preferred language.
It might sound so simple, but wearing a seatbelt while operating a forklift is the most important safety precaution that operators can take. Seatbelts play a significant role in lessening the chance of serious injury and even death should a roll-over occur.
However, it is quite common for operators to overlook this simple task when operating a forklift for just a few minutes; for example, when they need to move a forklift a short distance to relocate it. These bad habits must be broken, and with a buckle monitoring system that alerts and reports when a seatbelt is not worn, can ensure compliance as they can reinforce safety policy and training at the site. These alert systems are a feature of fleet management systems like SmarTrack® Global.
It is one thing to put in place a speed limit for forklift operators, but it is another to enforce that people abide by it to ensure safety. It is not 100 per cent reliable as there is human error/disobedience. Being able to alert drivers to exceeding the speed limit helps to prevent accidents occurring that are caused from speeding, such as driving into trucks and other equipment, or even rollovers. Speed alerts can create behavioural changes and can be executed with fleet management solutions such as SmarTrack® Global.
A forklift maintenance program should be mandatory in any organisation operating these industrial trucks. Preventative maintenance and inspections should be performed according to the manufacture’s recommendations and relevant standards. This servicing schedule should also adhere to components added to the forklift. In addition, all servicing should be carried out by someone qualified or trained to do so. It is easy to let servicing slide or perhaps forget when it’s due entirely. The use of a service scheduler, via a fleet management solution ensures the person in charge receives a notification when a service is due, based on hours and the calendar year, is extremely beneficial to ensure this important task is not forgotten about and for companies to remain compliant. In addition to this, service personnel are alerted to any checklist maintenance issues promptly.
SmarTrack has the ability through it’s “Out Of Service” feature to enable units to be locked out in the event of an impact. The unit can only be re-activated by the appropriate Manager or Technician. To assist management with the identification of risks within the workplace, SmarTrack® Global includes an area for incident reports. This enables information to be stored electronically.
While the safety and well-being of employees are, the most important reason for ensuring all these rules are abided by at all times, compliance also weighs in heavily. Companies have a duty of care for their staff, especially those operating heavy machines such as forklifts. Digitising the process improves safety exponentially, and ultimately saves organisations money.
Smart technology specialist RCT has finalised a project that guarantees appropriate and supervised control of forklift operations within a prison on the east coast of Australia.
Industrial specialists at RCT in Brisbane worked with Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) to customise a Toyota 8FG25 Forklift to meet stringent safety guidelines so the machine could be operated safely within a prison in the region.
RCT technicians subsequently designed a technology package consisting of a ControlMaster® remote shutdown solution installed on the forklift linked to a handheld transmitter.
The system is designed so that the site supervisor must use the handheld transmitter to engage the forklift after which trained and certified machine operators can use the forklift as normal.
The technology package is also designed to automatically shutdown the forklift if it is more than 200m away from the handheld transmitter or if any part of the solution is interfered with.
RCT Account Manager – Industrial Nicholas Noorman said the project will provide positive results for the client going forward.
“Our solution ensures all machine operators will use the forklift in an appropriate and safe manner in line with prison guidelines,” he said.
“We have received very positive feedback from prison authorities and from THMA and look forward to providing ongoing technical support in the future.”
“This technology package can quite easily be applied to other scenarios such as forklift driver training courses to better equip and supervise a workforce.”
The solution is another addition to RCT expansive industrial product range which includes fleet management systems, safety products and electrical spare parts.
Smart technology company RCT is pleased to have committed to a technology partnership with Integra Soluciones to provide cutting-edge products to the Mexican materials handling industry.
The partnership involves RCT supplying products including its new industrial fleet management solution SmarTrack® Global which offers advanced features including Global Reporting from a single platform and multilingual capabilities.
SmarTrack® Global manages machine access and records machine impacts as well as extensive pre-and post-start checklists, weight, seat and seat buckle monitoring and out-of-service alerts.
RCT will also supply its safety products including machine-mounted LED arc lights, heavy duty spot lights and LED smartspot warning lights.
Integra Soluciones will deliver and provide technical support for these technology solutions to materials handling fleets throughout Mexico.
RCT Dealer and Product Management Andrew Sells said he is pleased that Integra Soluciones is working as a dealer for RCT products.
“Integra Soluciones has strong connections with the Mexican industrial market and they have a proud history of providing a high level of technical support to their customers,” he said.
“RCT is very confident that Integra Soluciones is a quality machine dealer and we look forward to working with them to deliver proven technology solutions.”
“We have received feedback that Mexican companies are seeking fleet management tools to better utilise their machine fleets and keep workers safe and SmarTrack® Global will definitely meet this requirement.”
Integra Soluciones spokesperson Patricia Gallardo Sánchez said they are very proud to represent RCT to the Mexican market.
“Since we are a company focused on material handling safety, we are sure that RCT’s devices are an excellent option for our clients,” she said.
“Based on our experience for around 10 years in the Mexican industrial market we are convinced of the excellent quality and effectiveness of SmarTrack® Global since we know and have tried other models and brands of fleet management systems.”
RCT will provide ongoing support to Integra Soluciones from its office in Salt Lake City in Utah, USA.
