VLM's Improve Safety and Security

Keeping your people safe is top priority

Above: illustration of the built-in light curtain, which shuts down the VLM if an operator reaches inside during movement,

Lean Lift is built with multiple redundant safety systems that work together to protect operators, inventory and the VLM itself:

• Photoelectric light barriers monitor the access point, stopping the lift immediately during pick or put operations if a person or object enters the retrieval area
• Emergency stop switches are positioned at user interfaces and service areas for immediate system shutdown
• Overload protection sensors detect if a tray exceeds rated capacity and halts operation to prevent damage
• Tray weight monitoring ensures proper load balancing and safe vertical movement
• Automatic tray stop functions prevent accidental motion when the access door is open

Structural design safety eliminates exposed mechanisms, chains and drive dangers

The VLM's enclosed vertical structure eliminates the risks of exposed mechanisms common in manual or rack-based systems. The VLM is contained within a steel housing that prevents unauthorized contact and shields stored items from dust or debris. This also prevents people from reaching into mechanisms during operations. Its smooth mechanical motion reduces vibrations and wear. Lean Lift can be integrated into facility fire suppression systems when desired or if required by code.

Compliance and certifications

Hänel systems are manufactured under strict quality controls. They comply with recognized safety standards, including:

• OSHA and ANSI machine safety guidelines
• CE-compliant control systems
• ISO 9001-certified manufacturing processes
• Optional UL certified configurations for added assurance

Human centered design sets Lean Lift® apart

VLMs at their core, are primarily ergonomic devices.

Like all VLMs, Lean Lift uses a goods-to-person principle to deliver items directly to the operator, eliminating walking, climbing, and bending. This reduces fatigue and risk of strain-related injuries while significantly improving picking speed and accuracy. The lengths its design goes to protect people are where Hänel shines.

The role of cognitive ergonomics

Hänel controllers feature clear touch displays and intuitive menu navigation. Visual prompts and simple user logic reduce training time and help operators focus on tasks rather than controls. The result is faster, safer performance with fewer errors. Systems that help people work faster, with fewer touchpoints and decision making points not only help them perform better. These systems help them work safer because they are confident in the work as they execute it. Hänel systems are built with these concepts in mind. People are less fatigued--mentally and physically.

Security and access control factors

VLMs are built for speed and storage density. But they're also controlled access points to parts, tools, high-value inventory and other protected loads. Multiple security options can meet your policy or compliance requirements. This includes password, keycard or RFID based login controls to access the unit. This lets you control and track personnel access. You can set user-level permissions for specific trays. Trays can be automatically locked between transactions to prevent unauthorized access.

Physical security factors

Hänel's modular design can include physical locks on access points, controlled power-down modes, and safety interlocks that disable motion when access is unauthorized. These features protect sensitive or critical materials—important for industries such as healthcare, aerospace, defense, and manufacturing. Valuable tools and inventory are in the VLM, away from prying hands and eyes.

VLMs enhance data integrity and inventory traceability

Integrated software systems allow secure connection with ERP or WMS platforms. This enables data-driven inventory management and transparent record-keeping for audits and compliance.