LiftEx 2013, as reported last month, was a fantastic success with record numbers flocking to the Bolton event. In addition to the wealth of products on the show floor, visitors could take a closer look at the pinnacle of industry innovation thanks to the event’s comprehensive Innovation Theatre programme. Featuring presentations from companies such as Van Beest, Modulift, Crosby Europe, Holland 1916-RFID and Hoist UK, a diverse selection of industry developments were on show.
Strong showing
"This was only the second year of the Innovation Awards, but we attracted a wide range of very impressive entries, ranging from lift planning software and RFID tags to ingenious modular lifting systems, says John Williams, operations manager for LEEA. "However, the judges ultimately agreed that Van Beest and Hoist UK had demonstrated the most compelling evidence of innovative thinking to address demanding lifting applications."
The LEEA ‘Most Innovative Application of an Existing Product Award 2013’ was given to Hoist UK for its Ultra lightweight aluminium centre eye-lifting frame. Speaking about the accolade, Hoist UK explains the frame as a challenging project that called upon the company’s expertise in the field.
Van Beest fought off tough competition over the two days to walk away with the ‘LEEA Most Innovative Product Award 2013’ for its P-5365 – Green Pin ROV Release Polar Shackles, with locking clamp. Speaking at the show, Anton van der Zalm, senior product and marketing manager at Van Beest said the award capped a successful two days for the business which attracted a wealth of visitors to its stand. "The show has been great for us, good quality visitors, it has been specially good because we presented at the innovation theatre at came away with the award."
LiftEx was also an important date in the 2013 calendar for Kenny Wright, business development manager for Servtech, who has was elected chairman of LEEA, with Oliver Auston, managing director of Checkmate Lifting and Safety, chosen to serve as vice chairman.
Safe hands
"LEEA has enjoyed phenomenal growth over the last few years, both in terms of membership and the range of training and accreditation services it provides. It is a huge privilege to serve as chairman, and my priority is to support the work of the board and employees of LEEA as they implement our future development plans and further enhance the association’s worldwide reputation," he says. "I also hope to encourage the widest possible participation by our members, and will be listening carefully to their aims and aspirations for LEEA in the years ahead."
Wright trained as an electrical engineer and has taken on roles in sales and business development throughout the lifting equipment industry. Joining Servtech from EnerMech in August 2013, Wright has also served as chair of the Aberdeen Crane Forum for the past two decades and been an active member of OMHEC (Offshore Mechanical Handling Equipment Committee).
Training the masses
Elsewhere, LEEA has also recently launched two new ‘hands on’ practical training courses that cover the thorough examination of electric overhead travelling and portal cranes, runways and crane Structures.
The five-day courses can be held at LEEA’s dedicated training centre in Huntingdon, featuring a purpose-designed and fully functional electric overhead travelling crane. The courses can also be held at any suitable premises worldwide. It’s worth noting that these courses are open to employees of LEEA member companies.
Promising future
Hot on the heels of a successful showing in 2013, LEEA has announced that LiftEx will co-locate with the Safety & Health Expo this year, running from June 17th- 19th at London’s Excel venue.
The association has opted for this move to help put LiftEx exhibitors and visitors "at the heart" of Europe’s leading annual exhibition for the occupational safety and health industry.
"Overhead lifting remains a significant cause of death and serious injury across a wide range of industries, and LEEA is committed to playing a key role in raising standards," says Geoff Holden, chief executive of LEEA.
"It therefore makes perfect sense to partner LiftEx with the Safety & Health Expo, and give our exhibitors the opportunity to promote solutions for overhead lifting to an audience of over fifteen thousand health and safety professionals".
