The R-TYPE RFID SAFETY SWITCHES from Mechan Controls are uniquely coded RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) safety switches with volt free contact outputs. They offer protection against manipulation, interference and defeat making them ideal for use in high-risk applications. These vibration-proof safety switches feature agent resistant plastic enclosures and epoxy resin for a protection level up to IP69K. The volt free contact outputs make the RSS-SERIES compatible with most safety relays on the market. The unique coding has up to 4 billion individual codes available making code duplication near impossible.

R-TYPE RFID SAFETY SWITCHES are available in available in 5 sizes, the RDNK, RSSC, RSSK, RSSR and RSSG and utilize LEDs for guard status indication. These vibration-proof safety switches feature agent resistant plastic enclosures and epoxy resin for a protection level up to IP69K. Contact Norstat for additional information, pricing, and availability

With a flexible wide amp range from 25 to 250 amps, the MP Series 87 easily adapts to a broad spectrum of power applications, establishing itself as the premier choice for both OEMs and retrofit engineers. Installation is streamlined through a panel or surface mount design, and dual terminal stud sizes, 5/16-18 and 3/8-16, allow optimal wire sizing for even the highest amp ratings, significantly reducing wiring errors and enhancing overall safety.

The MP Series 87 sets a new standard for performance in harsh conditions, featuring ignition protection certified to SAE J1171 and ABYC compliance to safeguard marine operations from potential ignition hazards. Its IP66 weatherproof rating ensures reliable protection against water intrusion, positioning the breaker as the ideal solution for vessels, RVs, and outdoor equipment.

Reliability and fault-clearing capacity are maximized by a double set of contacts and increased copper and silver content, effectively supporting demanding loads and extending product longevity. Additional product enhancements, such as wider spacing around terminal studs and compatibility with circular panel cutouts, facilitate simple, frustration-free installation for both panel builders and service technicians.

Constructed with cadmium-free materials, the MP Series 87 responds to growing environmental compliance needs while delivering resistance to vibration (up to 8g force), shock (up to 25g force), salt spray (96 hours), and humidity (240 hours at 95% RH), ensuring robust operation and long service life under challenging conditions. Engineered in the USA, the MP Series 87 guarantees uncompromising quality control and responsive support.

About Wesgarde

Wesgarde is a national leading distributor of electromechanical and electronic power components, recognized for its deep expertise in electromechanical and electronic power components, specializing in “power” solutions for demanding environments and high-power loads. Wesgarde distinguishes itself through innovative engineering support, rapid technical problem-solving, and custom assemblies, including robust DC/AC components, sealed connectors, advanced circuit protection, and tailored solutions. Wesgarde’s “Engineered to Deliver” approach ensures end-to-end value, reliability, and responsive service for customers seeking high-performance, custom-engineered products. Serving key markets such as transportation, industrial automation, marine electronics, food equipment, construction, agriculture, and alternative energy, Wesgarde is the distributor of choice for OEMs and manufacturers seeking engineered reliability and custom solutions.

Custom-size canopy hoods can be manufactured to the exact size and design requirements.

With any of the canopy hoods, vapor-proof lights, switches, and side and rear enclosure panels are offered to prevent cross-drafts and further improve airflow while providing a way to contain chemical spills. Exhaust blowers, ducting, and inline HEPA or Carbon filters can be engineered to meet ventilation requirements.

Bright, long lasting NITEGLOW® photoluminescent epoxy filler is free of hazardous and radioactive substances, extends uniformly throughout the filler. A high content of aluminum oxide abrasive provides traction and long service life. Available in lengths to order, some to a maximum 8’0”. Clean architectural lines ensure aesthetic appeal. StairMaster® is ideal for use on all types of stairs and landings.

StairMaster® renovation safety tread includes a mill finish extruded aluminum base, with a beveled edge, and countersunk holes as standard. Anchors available include Tapcon screws, Wood Screws, Machine Screws or Expansion Screws. Anti-slip filler includes approximately 65% virgin grain aluminum oxide/silicon carbide abrasive. Photoluminescent epoxy binder is a fully cured resilient epoxy with a filler ratio of 16% minimum for enhanced cleanability.

About Wooster

Wooster Products is the industry leader in anti-slip stair treads and walkway products. They have been manufacturing anti-slip products for new construction, renovation, marine and OEM applications since 1921 from their Wooster, OH facility. Long respected for quality and innovation, their products include cast aluminum (Alumogrit®), extruded aluminum (Spectra, Supergrit®, Stairmaster®, and Flexmaster®), pressure sensitive adhesive tape/deck covering (Flex-Tred®), and coatings (WP-70, Walk-A-Sured®, and Safe-Stride®), as well as photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) nosings and treads (NITEGLOW®).

The Aluminum Enclosures from Multi-Box are manufactured with aluminum die casting or gravity casting methods and after a chromate treatment are finished with a Polyester-based powder paint. Special testing has also been carried out to prove the durability of the enclosures, including a 1000 hour salt spray test. All enclosures are available in a variety of versions and sizes to accommodate almost every possible application for the industrial and electronic marketplace.

These Enclosures when used as terminal enclosures can also be assembled as a modular system with the addition of differing clamps and cable glands. Additionally, they can serve as junction boxes for cables and lines or be used for protecting highly sensitive electronics against water, dirt, and dust. A protection rating of IP 66 and IP 67 makes these enclosures suitable for applications where more aggressive or harsher conditions exist. Contact Norstat for additional information, price, and availability.

The PICO-02 from M-P Sensor is an adjustable pressure and vacuum sensor that has an integrated rotatable display and keypad. Using two completely independent and adjustable transistor switching outputs ( which can be loaded with 250 mA each ) the PICO-02 can control actuators directly or indirectly without the need of a control unit (i.e. a PLC). Because of its lightweight and compact design, the PICO-02 is ideal for applications such as vacuum lifting technology or valve control.

The PICO-02 is available in multiple measuring ranges and can measure filtered, dry or oiled air and non-corrosive gases. It is I/O Link compatible, has a rotatable digital display and utilizes LEDs to signal the unit’s status. Housing material is plastic with M8 and M12 ( 4 Pole ) electrical connections and it carries a protection rating of IP65.

“The Carolina Star Program represents the highest standard of workplace safety in our state,” explained Farley. “Companies like Muratec USA demonstrate that investing in safety pays dividends — fewer injuries, lower costs, and stronger employee morale. Muratec’s leadership sets an example for manufacturers across North Carolina.”

Safety Certification Underscores Industry Leadership

Carolina Star certification represents the culmination of Muratec USA’s safety journey in 2025 and serves as a springboard into 2026 under the leadership of Keiji Yuasa, who assumed the role of President and CEO in October 2025 with a clear vision to embed safety as a fundamental pillar of enterprise integrity.

“Safety is a cornerstone of Muratec’s vision for operational excellence. Earning Carolina Star certification reflects the dedication of our employees and leadership to create one of the safest workplaces in North Carolina, while upholding the same high standards across all Muratec facilities in North America,” said Mr. Yuasa. “This achievement builds on Muratec’s 90-year legacy of automation innovation and strengthens our ability to deliver exceptional value to customers through reliability, quality, and trust.”

Murata Machinery USA, Inc., a subsidiary of Murata Machinery Ltd., founded in 1935 in Kyoto, Japan, is a global leader in industrial automation and reliability. As the sole manufacturer of the Muratec brand, the company delivers innovative solutions in high-speed automated turning and fabrication, logistics and material handling systems, clean factory automation, and textile machinery.

With a long-standing history of pioneering advancements in North America, Muratec USA has introduced groundbreaking technologies that are often the first of their kind, the only ones available, or the fastest in the world, supported by comprehensive sales, service, and technical expertise. Through its commitment to safety and operational excellence, recognized by the North Carolina Department of Labor with Carolina Star certification, Muratec USA sets a benchmark that influences industry standards and reinforces its position as a trusted leader in manufacturing automation.

The Carolina Star program, a state initiative modeled after the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), recognizes employers that excel in five critical areas: management commitment, employee involvement, hazard identification and control, comprehensive safety training, and safety and health management systems.

What It Takes To Be A Safety Leader

To achieve Carolina Star certification, Muratec USA underwent a rigorous and lengthy evaluation process by NCDOL experts to demonstrate excellence in five core areas:

• Management Commitment and Leadership — Embedding safety into every decision while prioritizing it as a core value through clear expectations, resource allocation, and continuous improvement.
• Employee Involvement and Participation — Employees actively engage in hazard identification, reporting, and shaping safety programs through committees and collaboration to sustain a strong safety culture.
• Hazard Identification and Evaluation — Implementing robust systems to proactively detect, assess, and eliminate potential hazards before they affect operations.
• Hazard Prevention and Control — Implementing effective measures such as engineering controls, administrative practices, and PPE to eliminate or minimize risks.
• Safety and Health Training — Providing comprehensive training to ensure employees understand hazards and know how to work safely.

Full Carolina Star certification requires performance excellence, as demonstrated by injury and illness rates that are consistently below industry averages and supported by documented programs and regular audits.

Delivering Value Through Safety Excellence 

Carolina Star certification delivers measurable benefits to Muratec’s customers and the marketplace by ensuring a safe, well-managed environment that reduces downtime, minimizes operational risk, and guarantees reliable delivery of high-quality products.

As one of the elite manufacturers to hold this distinction, Muratec sets a benchmark for safety and operational excellence, reinforcing its position as a trusted partner and industry leader, explained Muratec USA Safety Specialist Ken Dake.

“Carolina Star is not the finish line for Muratec but part of a commitment to continuous improvement. Our safety initiatives in 2026 will focus on strengthening employee engagement, enhancing hazard prevention systems, and leveraging best practices from across the industry. This recognition validates the hard work of our team and sets the tone for the year ahead,” said Dake.

About Murata Machinery USA, Inc.

Murata Machinery USA, Inc. is a subsidiary of Murata Machinery Ltd., a pioneer and world leader in high-speed, automated turning and fabrication, logistics & material handling automation, clean factory automation, and textile machinery. Established in 1935, Murata Machinery is the sole manufacturer of Muratec brand machinery and systems that support North American manufacturing and logistics companies across regional and global supply chains, accelerating their competitive edge through integrated automation. Manufacturing for half a century with thousands of installations worldwide and first-to-market innovations, Muratec is trusted by leading global brands and suppliers. Each solution uses time-tested technology and is customized to meet customers’ exact needs with flexibility and personalized support provided for the life of the system.

With its advanced low exotherm technology, the 190DP Epoxy Grout enables deep, large-volume precision placements without the risk of thermal cracking or overheating, making it ideal for supporting tanks, vessels, and rotating equipment in demanding industrial environments. 190DP Epoxy Grout’s exceptional bearing area ensures even load distribution, maintaining equipment alignment over time and significantly reducing the risk of structural damage and costly malfunctions caused by operational vibrations. Engineered for rapid strength gain, 190DP Epoxy Grout allows facilities to complete installations with minimal downtime, accelerating project schedules and improving productivity.

Denso 190DP Epoxy Grout stands out with robust corrosion and chemical resistance properties, ensuring consistent, reliable performance in the harshest settings exposed to chemicals and moisture. Its high-strength formulation delivers long-term support, stability, and vibration dampening, effectively mitigating vibration transfer and decreasing the likelihood of mechanical failures. Precision placement characteristics allow for accurate leveling and alignment, which directly enhances equipment efficiency and minimizes ongoing maintenance needs. Additionally, 190DP Epoxy Grout’s secure support for anchors and dowels provides a solid, dependable foundation, further strengthening structural integrity and installation safety.

With the introduction of Denso 190DP Epoxy Grout, Denso reinforces its commitment to delivering advanced, high-performance solutions that meet rigorous demands across industrial applications.

About Denso, Inc.

Denso, Inc. is a global leader in corrosion prevention and sealing technologies. With over a 140 years of service, Denso specializes in delivering innovative, high-performance solutions tailored to meet the needs of industrial and infrastructure applications.

Challenges in narrow aisles: minimal clearance, limited visibility

HUBTEX multidirectional sideloaders are frequently utilized in narrow-aisle warehouses. To maximize storage capacity, these vehicles operate within guidance systems with very limited safety clearance, often with less than 4 inches on each side. This increases space efficiency but restricts the driver’s visibility. It becomes particularly critical when long goods are stored at an angle or when neighboring loads are inadvertently moved during retrieval. Parts may protrude into the aisle and aren’t always seen by the driver until it is too late, especially on the engine side. This can lead to contact issues and costly damage to the chassis, battery, cabin, or rack system. In the timber, metals, and general industrial trade, with hundreds of moves per day, this scenario is commonplace.

Patented solution: monitoring with laser-based sensors

To reduce these risks, HUBTEX has developed the Clear Aisle Assist, which oversees the vertical danger zones along rack systems and reacts automatically if needed. The system utilizes Lidar sensors to assess vertical planes in the vehicle’s environment. Sensors are mounted at suitable positions based on vehicle configuration and scan both forward and in reverse. This ensures early detection of protruding loads, whether the sideloader enters the aisle forward or backward. The monitored area dynamically adjusts to key parameters, with speed, lift height, and configuration determining the size of the protective zones. This allows for precise, needs-based detection of potential collision zones without burdening the driver with additional tasks.

Classification: The Clear Aisle Assist does not replace personal protection technology but supplements it with collision protection for loads protruding from the rack system.

Now available for the PHOENIX series

If the system detects an obstacle, it issues a warning first. If necessary, the system automatically reduces speed to avoid contact or minimize its consequences. The goal is an assistance system that effectively enhances the driver’s focus and maintains material flow in tight layouts. “Our aim was to develop an assistance system that actively supports the driver without adding extra burden,” states Michael Röbig, Head of Product Management at HUBTEX. “The Clear Aisle Assist recognizes dangerous situations early and, if needed, can not only warn the driver but also automatically reduce the vehicle’s speed.” The system is now available for the PHOENIX series and complements existing personnel protection scanners by providing protection against goods protruding into the aisle.

Wintriss Controls Group LLC has announced that as of October 1st 2025, it has acquired all of the assets of ISB, a manufacturer of safety equipment for the metal forming industry based in Montreal, QC, Canada. Wintriss has formed a new company in Canada named Wintriss Controls Group ULC, DBA Wintriss ISB. With ISB’s full complement of light curtains, press brake guarding systems such as the Merlin 4000 PRO, and other safety products, combined with Wintriss’ outstanding line of Shadow® Light Curtains, the acquisition positions Wintriss as the leading provider of safety solutions for presses and press brakes in the metal forming manufacturing industry.

“We are excited to advance the ISB legacy by combining the capabilities of two top safety product companies to form one indisputable leader in metal forming safety control,” said Keith Magnant, President of Wintriss Controls. “ISB has many years of proven expertise in light curtain and press brake guarding technology, making them an ideal fit alongside our leading Shadow Light Curtain line, while further strengthening our combined brands as the preeminent safety solution in metal forming.”

“Joining Wintriss allows ISB to continue innovating in the press brake guarding and safety fields. Reinforced by Wintriss’s reputation for reliability in the metal forming industry, we are thrilled to offer safety solutions to a wider network of metal formers,” said Tony Caruso, Vice President of Sales for ISB. “We eagerly look forward to enhancing the Wintriss portfolio with our extensive line of safety products to jointly become the absolute leader of safety and automation in metal forming.”

Moving forward, the existing ISB manufacturing facility will continue to operate out of Montreal. Further reinforcing the dependability of its safety solutions, Wintriss will begin offering the new Shadow 10 Light Curtains in Q1 of 2026 and service/ repair all Shadow 10 light curtains at Wintriss headquarters in Acton, MA.

About Wintriss Controls Group

Wintriss Controls Group, of Acton, Mass., is a leading manufacturer of automation and safety products for the metal stamping and forming industry including its SmartPAC PRO press automation controller. The company’s product range includes automation and clutch/brake controllers, custom control panels, safety light curtains, die protection systems, load analyzers, in-die quality control systems, and ShopFloorConnect® production reporting and OEE tracking software.

About ISB

Founded in 1972 and located in Montreal QC, Canada, ISB was the first company to use LED’s to develop a safety light curtain. Over the years ISB has continually made light curtain advancements and in 1980, led the development of a microprocessor-based press and press brake guarding system. Since then, other developments including a compact, economical press control in addition to the New Merlin 4000 Press Brake Safeguarding Package have been introduced.