DICA has received U.S. patent No. 9,550,657, issued in January 2017, for the unique handle system on SafetyTech outrigger pads. This is DICA's sixth patent for integrated SafetyTech and TuffGrip designs.
The patent covers all recessed handles used with non-round SafetyTech outrigger pads. This newest award expands patent protection previously issued for TuffGrip handles on round SafetyTech outrigger pads covering the popular recessed handle when used on square, rectangular, or other shaped SafetyTech pads.
Nearly flush with the edge of the pad, recessed handles help reduce tripping and snagging hazards. The TuffGrip design also encourages proper lifting posture and technique.
“The handle is an important part of making SafetyTech outrigger pads safe and easy to use, regardless of the size or shape of the outrigger pad,” said Kris Koberg. “Since 2011, TuffGrip handles have been as strong, dependable, and beneficial to operators and organizations as our engineered thermoplastic outrigger pads,” he said.
An industry veteran agrees, “We’ve never had a SafetyTech outrigger pad break, but the older handle design would wear out. DICA’s customer service is great. They would always replace the handles, and now they’ve improved them,” said Bob Warianka, business development manager for Crane Service Inc., a full-service crane rental and rigging company serving Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas.
TuffGrip handles provide five key benefits:
Guaranteed unbreakable strength
Comfortable to grasp, lift, carry or pull
Resistant to UV, hydraulic fluid, and road chemicals
Compact and rigid to reduce tripping hazards
High visibility safety orange color
DICA will highlight SafetyTech outrigger pads in booth C201571 during ConExpo-Con/Agg in Las Vegas, March 7-11. Additional products, including FiberMax crane pads, will be on display at Booth G4011.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
