Thule, Inc.
Challenge – Protection for employees during inclement weather
Solution – Hercules Truss Arch Building
Size – 20′ wide x 42’6″ long
Application – Covered unloading dock
Established in Sweden in 1942, Thule, Inc. is a manufacturer of car rack systems for a wide range of outdoor equipment, including bikes, skis, canoes, kayaks and luggage. The company’s U.S. headquarters facility is located in Seymour, Conn., where Dan Orth serves as facility manager and manufacturing engineer manager for the company.
Employees at the facility are frequently required to unload shipments from flatbed trucks and this task was made difficult during inclement weather with an exposed unloading area. “We were using an unprotected loading dock and we were concerned with the safety and comfort of our employees,” stated Orth. “We wanted a structure to protect both the workers and materials during unloading operations.”
After conducting research on various structures online, Orth decided that a Hercules Truss Arch Building from ClearSpan Fabric Structures was a good fit for the company’s facility. “The cost effectiveness and speed of assembly were why we went with a ClearSpan building,” explained Orth. “We love how it lets in natural light during the day, offering good visibility and safety for employees. Plus, the building requires virtually no maintenance.”
The company is pleased with their 20′ wide by 42’6″ long building. “We have had no problems with leakage during rain, snow or sleet. Everything went as planned and the building is effective for its intended purpose, but we also have had the surprise benefit of using it as a garage for other vehicles when employees aren’t using the unloading dock,” added Orth. “The structure is working out great.”
For more information on Thule, Inc. and their ClearSpan structure, contact Dan Orth at Dan.Orth@Thule.com.
