Elevator Safety Integration Plan
Spencer Stover
Project Timeline
Jul 2025 - Jul-2025
OVERVIEW
On a certain production line, baskets were being loaded incorrectly onto the conveyor feeding the elevator, causing repeated elevator crashes. These crashes resulted in equipment downtime, production delays, and potential safety risks for operators. Because the entire line would shut down after each incident, the issue had a significant operational impact. A coworker and I were to develop and present a safety integration plan to prevent improper basket loading and reduce elevator crashes. We analyzed the loading process and identified how side-loading and double-loaded baskets caused failures. We researched and evaluated multiple solutions, including adding a second photo eye sensor, implementing an infeed conveyor, installing guarding and signage, and modifying sensor timing through programming. Our recommendations were organized into a professional PowerPoint presentation and reviewed with senior engineers. A permanent solution using signage and caution tape was implemented immediately, followed by plans for permanent guarding and safety improvements. These changes reduced unsafe loading practices and helped improve system reliability and workplace safety.
HighlightS
-Identified root causes of repeated basket elevator crashes caused by improper and double loading
-Analyzed production flow and safety risks affecting line downtime and equipment reliability
-Developed and presented multiple engineering solutions, including additional sensors, guarding, and control logic improvements
-Created a professional safety integration proposal for review with senior engineers
-Collaborated with a fellow co-op to evaluate cost, feasibility, and implementation impact of each solution
-Helped implement temporary signage and physical deterrents to immediately reduce unsafe loading practices
-Contributed to long-term safety improvements by recommending permanent guarding and system upgrades
SKILLS
Industrial electrical systems analysisSensor and photo eye system evaluationProcess flow and safety risk assessmentTroubleshooting and root cause analysisControl system logic and timing conceptsSafety system design and integrationTechnical research and solution comparisonTeam collaboration and project coordinationProfessional presentation and reportingCommunication with senior engineering staffTime management and project planning
External Links
ADDITIONAL CONTENTS
Spencer Stover
Electrical Engineering Student & Intern
I'm an electrical engineering student at the University of Toledo with hands-on internship experience at Whirlpool Corporation. There, I gained experience in AutoCAD, vendor communication and quoting, collaboration, leadership, and discipline.
I'm proficient in C++, AutoCAD, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Suite, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively with senior engineers and cross-functional teams to improve processes and ensure system reliability.
My hope is to have a career in the electrical side of building design/architecture.
I'm an electrical engineering student at the University of Toledo with hands-on internship experience at Whirlpool Corporation. There, I gained experience in AutoCAD, vendor communication and quoting, collaboration, leadership, and discipline.
I'm proficient in C++, AutoCAD, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Suite, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively with senior engineers and cross-functional teams to improve processes and ensure system reliability.
My hope is to have a career in the electrical side of building design/architecture.