The Environment Agency is committed to creating ‘better places for people and wildlife, and support sustainable development’. With its huge nationwide responsibilities it has to maintain its fleet to the highest and latest standards. Therefore, the Environment Agency has taken the decision to replace ‘roll-on, roll-off’ bodies with the much more versatile beavertail body and crane configuration. This allows the Agency to transport a much greater range of plant and agricultural machinery in a safer and more sustainable method. Sterling’s multipurpose beavertail body is capable of transporting any type of plant equipment run by the Environment Agency.
The Environment Agency’s key priority was to utilise best practise in safe and efficient transportation. The air-operated, automatic, slide-out walkway system allows plant to be loaded in total safety whilst the LED lighting around the body assists safe operation at night. Sterling’s latest cheesewedge ramp design gives a totally flat platform deck when folded. This creates increased deck space and up to 12% savings on fuel consumption whilst still allowing low ground clearance machines to be loaded safely, even in adverse weather conditions. The specification also included a full on-board Axtec Weighing System allowing safe operation at maximum capacity without the risk of overloading axles. An FORS Compliant Camera Safety System also increases safety with pedestrians and cyclists in areas with restricted access.
The first 8×2 MAN fitted with Palfinger PK24 SH Crane and Sterling Plant Body was delivered into Bridgend Kendal Depot, with another due later this year which will be heading for the South West.
The local Environment Agency Fleet Operations Manager commented that, “the vehicle will undertake the movement of key assets and equipment both in the area and nationally, helping our Operations teams to share equipment, increasing utilisation and ensuring value for money. The vehicle is equipped with a modern, super-clean Euro 6 engine which offers significant benefits for the environment, in terms of air quality. To protect our staff from harm the vehicle has been fitted with some of the latest health and safety features, including a demountable fall arrest system, LED runway lighting and comprehensive cyclist friendly features.”
