Making the Right Choice
Choosing the Right Quick Hitch Coupler
With the introduction in the UK of an HSE (Health & Safety Executive) safeguard action in October 2008 relating to the safe use of quick hitch couplers and the voluntary agreement from manufacturers not to supply new semi-automatic models in the UK, it is now more important than ever to ensure that you make an informed choice over the brand of your coupler you decide to install onto your machines.
The following information is intended as a guide to help you separate the facts from the fiction, so that when you make your decision it is an informed one.
Can Semi Automatic couplers be purchased in the UK?
No, all coupler manufacturers selling into the UK have agreed with the HSE to a voluntary ban on the sale of new semi-automatic couplers into the UK market. Existing couplers can still be used and are safe providing the safety pin is used correctly. However, some large contractors have begun to introduce bans on the use of them on their sites.
Do all couplers sold in the UK comply to the current EN474 standard?
No, not all coupler manufacturers who sell into the UK market meet the current EN474 standard, which states that the quick coupler “shall not release the attachment by malfunction or loss of engagement force”, which includes accidental activation of the control system. This standard also places a responsibility on manufacturers to provide mounting, locking & checking procedures. Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure that their employees are using safe equipment and failure to do so can lead to criminal proceedings. Always check before you buy!
All Miller products have always complied in full with the EN474 standard and will continue to do so as the standard is amended in the future.
All Miller products have always complied in full with the EN474 standard and will continue to do so as the standard is amended in the future.
Is the TwinLock 2 coupler from Miller the only coupler which offers a backup safety system that locks both front and rear attachment pins?
Yes, Miller is the only coupler manufacturer capable of offering a ‘new generation’ fully automatic coupler consisting of a backup safety mechanism which ensures dual pin capture even in the event of hydraulic failure or loss of engagement forces. It also automatically locks the front pin if the back pin is not engaged correctly during the attach process.
Why is Miller driving to ban semi-automatic couplers from some of the major contractors’ work sites?
Miller is not responsible for the decision made by individual contractors to ban certain types of couplers from their job sites. Miller has simply responded to its customers’ concerns and designed a coupler to satisfy their requirement to minimise the opportunities for operator error as much as possible. Individual contractors have recently made their own decisions following meetings with all coupler manufacturers as to the best course of action to improve site safety.
A coupler which retains one pin of a bucket or attachment (i.e. doesn’t fall to the ground) in the event of a hydraulic failure satisfies all relevant standards?
No, according to the Machinery Directive 98/37/EC, even if the bucket or attachment only partially falls (i.e. swings on one pin), the fall and swing is still a potential hazard which should be removed from the fundamental design of the coupler.
The Miller TwinLock 2 features the ABS mechanical backup safety system which has been designed to automatically secure both front and rear attachment pins in the event that engagement forces are lost, preventing attachments from swinging dangerously in this situation.
Do visual indicators prove that it is the safest type of coupler available?
No, a visual indicator on a coupler simply shows that connection has been made with the front pin of the attachment, it does not mean that in the event of a hydraulic failure the coupler is safe. Some couplers will allow the attachment to swing on the front pin if switched off or a hydraulic failure occurs. This can be very dangerous, especially when using a hammer or fork attachment. Some couplers can drop the attachment to the ground.
Must a quick coupler must be inspected every 12 months?
Yes, because most couplers are supplied with a certified lifting eye, they are classed as lifting equipment. This means that they are subject to LOLER regulations and MUST be thoroughly checked every 12 months by a competent person. Manufacturers also recommend that checks for damage and wear are carried out on a daily basis.