Belfast-based Hy-Mate Distributors (Ireland) has secured exclusive distribution rights in Scotland and Northern Ireland for the Hy-Mate, a unique fork attachment aimed at reducing forklift accidents.

The Hy-Mate uses a self-powered articulating jib to create a mobile maintenance platform which can transport two men up to 5.5metres above the elevated forks. The Hy-Mate also uses its own controls to manoeuvre to an outreach of 3.4metres, allowing access above racking or equipment.

Hy-Mate director Andy Florence told the Belfast Telegraph that the Hy-Mate provided a safe, cost-effective solution to forklift safety issues. Coca-Cola and Guinness were already using the attachment.

"The days of lifting people on pallets or on the tines are long gone from a health and safety point of view," he said.