Focused on Safety

Each year, more than 68,000 lift truck accidents are reported in the United States. Suffice to say, operator training is not enough to reduce the number of incidents, however, it is the most important component. Naturally the best approach to preventing lift truck accidents is one that combines the efforts of every person, business and organization involved.

As for lift truck manufacturers, Toyota decided to take the lead role. The result was creating the world's first System of Active Stability™ (SAS).

Using technology originally developed for Toyota's automotive safety systems, SAS is able to electronically monitor and control lift truck operations, helping to reduce the risk of accidents. In short, when the SAS system detects instability, its advanced sensors simultaneously signal and engage the appropriate controller. The Active Control Rear Stabilizer or the Active Mast Function Controller adds stability and helps avoid accidents or injuries.

SAS Active Control Rear Stabilizer

The Active Control Rear Stabilizer, available on most models, is specially designed to create added lateral stability in situations where a slight error in judgment occurs, like misjudging the load or taking a corner too fast. When it senses instability, the Active Control Rear Stabilizer automatically activates the Swing Lock Cylinder, locking the rear axle securely in place and reducing the risk of a tipover.

SAS Active Mast Function Controller

The Active Mast Function Controller is uniquely engineered to help give operators added confidence when handling loads of varying sizes and weights at greater heights. Depending on these variables, the forward Tilt Angle Controller is designed to automatically override the operator's manual control. When it senses instability, it limits the forward tilt angle of the mast and decreases the chances of spilling a load or tipping over the lift truck. Moreover, depending on the fork's height, it governs reverse tilt speed to help prevent cargo from becoming unstable at the various heights.