Toyota has long been a leader in safety innovations. Since 1999, Toyota has equipped most of its forklifts with the Toyota System of Active Stability (SAS) to protect operators in potentially hazardous situations. SAS is a Toyota-engineered safety system comprised of 10 sensors, three actuators, and a controller that monitors the forklift’s operations and automatically takes protective action when needed. Recently, Toyota launched the SEnS Smart Environment Sensor (Toyota’s SEnS) to protect both forklift operators and pedestrians.   

According to a recent study by EHS Today, nearly all (97%) working Americans said feeling safe is important in determining where to work. However, the same study also found that only half (55%) of working Americans feel their employer has made more effort to ensure their safety than in previous years. 

If you want to attract and retain employees, looking for ways to make your workplace safe is more important than ever. Let’s look at how Toyota’s SEnS Smart Environment Sensor (SEnS) and SEnS Smart Environment Sensor Plus (SEnS+) can increase the safety of forklift operators and everyone around them. 

TOYOTA’S SEnS SMART ENVIRONMENT SENSOR (SEnS)

How does the SEnS Smart Environment Sensor® (SEnS) work?

A SEnS Smart Environment Sensor, designed and engineered by Toyota, uses advanced technology to help operators identify a pedestrian or object behind a forklift. The sensor uses proprietary algorithms to distinguish between the two. 

How does SEnS alert a forklift operator about a pedestrian or object?

If within a detectible range, a buzzer and four indicator lights alert the operator when a pedestrian or object is within a certain range of the forklift’s rear.  

Does SEnS let a forklift operator know if the pedestrian or object keeps getting closer?

Yes, the frequency in which the warning lights blink and the buzzer sound increases as the pedestrian or object enters a zone closer to the forklift’s rear. 

How far away can SEnS detect objects?

SEnS can detect objects up to 32 feet away. 

How many zones can be programmed with SEnS?

Customers can program up to three detection zones with different audible and visual alarms for each zone. 

How do I get SEnS?

SEnS is available as an add-on kit for select Toyota Forklifts. 

Which Toyota Forklifts are compatible with SEnS?

The following Toyota Forklifts are currently compatible with SEnS. Forklifts already in use can be retrofitted for this product or added to new models. 

  • 3-Wheel Electric Forklift 
  • Core Electric Forklift
  • Core IC Cushion Forklift
  • Large IC Cushion Forklift
  • Core IC Pneumatic Forklift
  • Mid IC Pneumatic Forklift
  • Large IC Pneumatic Forklift
  • Box Car Special Forklift
  • Paper Roll Special Forklift 
Can I see SEnS in action?

TOYOTA’S SEnS SMART ENVIRONMENT SENSOR PLUS (SEnS+)

What is Toyota’s SEnS Smart Environment Sensor Plus™ (SEnS+)?

The SEnS Smart Environment Sensor Plus (SEnS+) is an operator-assist system featuring truck slowdown. 

How does SEnS+ work?

The Smart Environment Sensor Plus™ (SEnS+) camera has been exclusively designed for forklifts to detect objects and pedestrians in the detection range. The system supports your operation by notifying the operator with a warning buzzer and warning lights. Audible notifications have three distinct levels based on the distance of the obstacle. 

In addition to the system notifications, the system can control the traveling speed and slow down the truck for pedestrians and objects in specific conditions. 

Which Toyota Forklifts are compatible with SEnS+?

The following Toyota Forklifts are currently compatible with SEnS+. This technology is only available on new forklift models. 

  • 3-Wheel Electric Forklift 
  • Core Electric Forklift 
Are these systems compatible with any business?

SEnS and SEnS+ work with multiple input voltages and fit a variety of applications. Contact us to set up a demo and a complimentary site visit. 

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