Forensic Clues Sample Excerpts:

The following are excerpts from a few of the issues of Forensic Clues. Each issue of Forensic Clues contains two pages of valuable information in an easy-to-read newsletter style. Donegal Bay Publishing can provide back issues of Forensic Clues for $10 per issue. To order, simply click back on your browser or on the links below the excerpts to return to the Forensic Clues Order Page.

Issue 3: Ladder Accidents Part I: Stepladders

"...Racking in step ladders can be greatly reduced at a relatively low cost, without interfering with the function or usability of the ladder. A stepladder was modified by adding two light chains connected diagonally between the front and rear rails of the ladder. Whether the ladder is folded or unfolded the chains are contained within the rails, and do not hang outside the ladder. Therefore they do not interfere with the ladder being climbed, transported, or stored..."

Modified Stepladder with Anti-Racking Chains

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Issue 6: Lawnmowers

Rear Bumper with Collision Sensor

Another guarding solution was developed at the University of Iowa. It incorporates a rear bumper and a blade brake and clutch. If the mower bumper contacts a child, the blade clutch disengages and the brake stops the blade. The co-author developed a similar system. This system consists of a bumper/sensor which attaches to the rear of the mower. When the mower backs into something, the engine is immediately stopped, and the driver can attend to the source of the collision.

Riding Lawnmower Guarding Solution

Issue 7: Forklifts

Operator Enclosures

Engineering design principle dictates that the operator’s workspace must be protected from intrusions from stationary objects and falling objects. Guarding the operator from collisions with stationary objects involves incorporating an operator enclosure into the lift design with a restraint system. An operator enclosure is a protective barrier of some sort that separates the lift operator from the hazard of foreign objects entering the workspace.

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