Lifter robots help baggage handlers

Lifting baggage is very hard work. Fortunately, baggage handlers are now getter mechanical help ranging from lifter robots to container loading systems that make the job less strenuous. A total of 41 helpers will be installed at Schiphol in 2013. That will make a real difference!

Lightening the load

Various adjustments have been made since 2004 to lighten the load for baggage employees. There were baggage robots, hoisting platforms for odd-shaped baggage, and vacuum hoists. And now there are container loading systems.

A better baggage system

The container loading system (CLS) does exactly what its name suggests. It doesn't do all the work, but it does reduce the physical load. A container holds around 40 suitcases, each weighing approximately 20 kilos, that need to be brought to the belt quickly. This new system is part of the 70 mb programme, a cooperative venture between Schiphol and KLM to further improve and expand the airport's baggage handling system.

The heaviest suitcases

The CLS was first tested extensively. This confirmed that it makes work lighter and that it is user-friendly, although it does take some practice and experience to operate it effectively. The new systems will be used in Baggage Hall E. This is a first for KLM and Schiphol, because never before has an entire baggage hall been equipped with lifting aids. They will later also be installed at the unloading bays in West and at all carrousels at the airport. Heathrow is the only other airport that has two of these systems. Schiphol is the first airport in the world to use the CLS extensively.

For more information about Schiphol en KLM's 70MB-programme .