Radiation-proof

In response to the worst nuclear accident in Japan's history, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has called upon its diverse expertise to develop a radiation-shielded forklift truck cabin.

The clearance effort had been a slow process involving unmanned, radio-controlled heavy equipment but under the cabin's protection, operators will be able to dispose of contaminated rubble much more quickly.

The cabin has been fitted to the Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks FD150N 15 tonne diesel counterbalance with initially two trucks to be supplied.

Constructed using 100 mm thick steel plates and 230 mm thick lead glass, the air-conditioned cabin is equipped with special filters to remove dust and other contamination. It is also pressurised to prevent external air from entering.