Relying on traditional timber support blocks for heavy equipment and machinery carries significant safety and environmental risks. While timber has long been used for cribbing and stabilising equipment, it falls short in reliability, sustainability, and safety. Leading OEMs, mining companies, and contractors are now turning to Stacko™ Blocks — a load-rated, polyurethane alternative built to exceed the demanding needs of modern industrial operations.
The Dangers of Timber Cribbing Blocks
Unreliable Load-Bearing Capacity
Timber cribbing blocks inherently vary in composition and structure, making it impossible to guarantee a consistent load rating. These uncertainties can lead to catastrophic failures, especially as timber ages and its integrity diminishes. The potential for sudden shifts or collapses poses serious risks to workers and machinery.
- Vulnerability to Moisture and Decay
Wood absorbs moisture, leading to swelling, warping, and decay—particularly problematic in damp and harsh environments like mining sites. This deterioration compromises the blocks’ stability and load-bearing capacity, heightening the risk of workplace hazards and equipment failures. - Uneven Weight Distribution
Due to natural inconsistencies, timber blocks often exhibit uneven weight distribution, which can cause imbalance and instability. This unpredictability raises the potential for structural failure, endangering personnel and the equipment they operate. - Lack of Testing and Certification
Timber’s composition varies widely, making standardised testing and certification impossible. Timber blocks do not conform to safety standards, and their performance cannot be validated within specific temperature ranges or against rigorous safety factors. - Manual Handling Hazards
Timber blocks are heavy and prone to splintering, presenting risks such as back strain and hand injuries. These handling challenges can contribute to workplace accidents and inefficiencies. - Environmental Impact
Sourcing timber requires cutting down trees, which is not aligned with eco-friendly or sustainable practices. For companies aiming to minimise their environmental footprint, timber is far from the ideal choice.
The Advantages of Switching to Stacko™ Blocks
- Certified Load Ratings
Stacko™ Blocks are engineered to safely bear heavy loads, with a load rating of 30kg/cm² and a 3:1 safety factor. This reliability minimises the risk of accidents due to structural failure, providing peace of mind that your operations are supported by robust, dependable materials. - Lightweight and Easy to Handle
Up to 30% lighter than timber, Stacko™ Blocks are easy to transport and position. With built-in handles and an optional safe-build trolley, they simplify handling, reduce the risk of manual injuries, and enhance operational efficiency. - Rigorous Testing Standards
Stacko™ Blocks undergo independent testing to meet AS1170 standards, ensuring their suitability for use in various industrial conditions. Tested as single units and in 150cm-high stacks, they exhibit less than 2% deflection at maximum load and maintain performance across temperatures ranging from -50°C to +40°C. - Interlocking Design for Stability
Stacko™ Blocks feature a patented interlocking system for enhanced safety and stability. This unique design significantly reduces the risk of toppling when blocks are stacked, providing a secure and reliable solution for heavy equipment support. - Moisture and Chemical Resistance
Constructed from durable polyurethane, Stacko™ Blocks resist moisture, oil, salt water, and most workshop chemicals, unlike traditional wood. They maintain their structural integrity in harsh conditions, ensuring dependable performance throughout their lifespan. - Uniformity and Precision
Manufactured from virgin materials with stringent quality controls, Stacko™ Blocks maintain consistent size, shape, and weight distribution. This precision minimises the risk of uneven weight distribution and enhances stability compared to irregular timber blocks.
Additional Benefits of Stacko™ Blocks
- UV Stabilised: Resistant to prolonged sun exposure.
- Hi-Visibility Yellow: Enhances on-site safety.
- Versatile Configurations: Stacko™ Blocks can be assembled in various setups, tailored to specific applications.
Upgrade to Stacko™: A Safer, Greener Choice
Timber blocks no longer align with the high safety and environmental standards of today’s industrial sites. By transitioning to Stacko™ Blocks, you mitigate the risks of unstable support structures and embrace a more sustainable, reliable solution. Prioritise the safety of your workforce, improve operational efficiencies, and demonstrate environmental responsibility with Stacko™.
For more information or to request a quote, contact our team at 1300 160 875 or email sales@nationalplastics.net.au.
Choose Stacko™ for a smarter, safer, and more sustainable approach to heavy equipment support.
