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Serving the Canadian rental industry for 35 years.
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EDITORIAL: A b LAST f ROm Th E pAST
A look back at the days of leaded gas, black-and-white televisions and smoyking anywhere. by Patrick Flannery
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10 IN f LUENCERS
Canadian Rental Service celebrates some of the people who made they industry what it is today.
30
TECh TI p S
Here’s what you can do to help your customers operate lift equipment safely.
Our annual focus on ylift equipment and aeriayl work platforms. NEW p RODUCTS
Industry News
New CRA co-ordinator, changes at Atlas Copco, Uniquip hires, renting power in Oman.
Great
www.canadianrentalservice.com
Diesel steam cleaners, diamond bits, indoor power washers, weatherproof tents.
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George’s Corner Tea leaves, Ouija boards and multivariate time series analysis. by George Olah 34 p RODUCT S hOWCASE
A blast from the past
Our anniversary issue takes a look back and forward.
Canadian Rental Service turns 35 with this issue, which is only five fewer years than I have been alive. That makes it a little difficult for me to give any credible perspective on what the last 35 years have meant for the industry, so I have left that job to a group of people who were not only there, but also played important roles in shaping the way Canadian rental operators work today. Sometimes they did it with innovations in how they set up and ran their businesses, sometimes it was in their approach to customers and suppliers, and often it was through their work in their local and national (and even international) rental community. Reading the stories of these 10 industry influencers will give you the look back that I cannot provide. As a bonus, I think that, contained within and between the lines of each of these stories, are the secrets to success in the rental business. By paying careful attention to their examples, we can all learn a lot.
Milestones are a time to look ahead to the future, as well, so we can all be thankful we have access to the fertile imagination of George Olah. At my request, he has done his best to predict what might be in store for your companies in the next 35 years. George seemed to feel there was a certain element of risk in this enterprise but, hey, isn’t managing risk what this business is all about?
ON THE WEB:
Terex launches new website
Terex Construction has launched its new, user-friendly website providing customers with fast, efficient and easily accessible information, when and where they need it. The new website, www.terexconstruction.com, is in response to customer feedback asking for improved navigation, more dynamic product information and more direct access to Terex Constructionrelated information.
Uniquip adds Quintal, Lavoie and Gerein June 29, 2011 – With the recent arrival of David Latour as national sales manager, three new sales representatives have joined the ranks of Uniquip’s sales team.
by Patrick Flannery
To George’s erudite prognostications, I’ll add a guess of my own based on my recent experiences promoting the Canadian Rental Mart. Social media are here to stay, and are potentially very powerful tools for anyone wanting to sell anything. All you have to do is get in a room with anyone under 30 to realize that the most important communications for them are not coming from the person in front of them, but from an electronic device via text, e-mail, Facebook and Twitter. What these new information platforms are allowing people to do is to set up personalized streams of information that contain only content relevant and interesting to them. E-mail spam is a hated annoyance . . . unless it comes from a source you trust and want information about. Twitter allows you to see snippet headlines from dozens of sources that interest you, then link to more information if you want to. Facebook allows you to share information between a select group of friends. Texting allows you to quickly and conveniently hold interactive conversations with anyone, anywhere, who has your mobile number. People are turning to social media not because of what they include, but because of what they leave out: all the people you do not want to talk to, the information you do not care about and the companies that do not carry what you want to buy. If the web is the whole world, social media communities are the towns and cities inside it, with cultures, identities, preferences and industries unique to them. Rental operators of the future will need to be concerned with finding the communities where their customers live, and making themselves trusted parts of them. Those 20-somethings with their heads down around the dinner table today are the ones who will be renting your inventory tomorrow.
Another special feature in this anniversary issue is Yesterday’s Industry News, where we have republished some notable news items from past decades. This feature really illustrates the important role trade news plays in the life of an industry. It becomes a permanent record of the past, available for all to see and learn from. I had a lot of fun going through those old issues and seeing the clothes, equipment, cars and styles in facial hair from my dimly remembered youth. I hope you do the same. CRS
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New M e M ber services co-ordi NaTor
Pascale Lambert has joined the Canadian Rental Association as its new member services co-ordinator. Lambert replaces Marie Nayet, who left at the end of June.
CRA executive director Mandy Wellnitz says, “Lambert comes to the CRA with a variety of office skills and a good grasp of French. Most recently, she worked at an electrical company in Winnipeg and was looking for a new challenge.
“Her first two weeks in the CRA office have been overlapped with Marie so that she can learn as much as possible.” Lambert says she is excited about this new career path and cannot wait to start meeting CRA members.
Regarding Nayet, Wellnitz said, “Marie started with CRA in March 2007 and plunged right into the office work as I left for the Prairie Regional Trade Show three days after she started. She was a huge part of making the office bilingual. She worked very hard to update member services in English and French. Her easygoing nature was well received by all the members who came in contact with her on the phone or at the trade shows. I am grateful to Marie for keeping things going in the CRA office during my medical leave in 2010. Marie will be hugely missed by myself and the rest of the CRA members. We wish her well in her future endeavours.”
Changes at atlas CopCo
The Atlas Copco Group has decided to modify its business area structure to strengthen the focus on specific product and customer segments. On July 1 the group changed to four business areas instead of three, including a dedicated business area for construction equipment and related services. Atlas Copco’s divisions for portable compressors and generators, road construction equipment and construction tools will join forces in the new Construction Technique business area.
“With more focused business areas, each will have a strong platform from which they can develop the offering for their customers,” says Ronnie Leten, president and CEO of the Atlas Copco Group. “The modified structure also allows us to better capture the sales and service synergies between our construction businesses and capitalize on the future growth of construction projects around the world, especially in emerging markets.”
Atlas Copco will immediately begin recruitment of a president for the Construction Technique business area. The appointment of a new president for Mining and Rock Excavation Technique has been announced.
As part of the change, Atlas Copco’s Portable Air division changed its name to the Portable Energy division, a name that more accurately reflects the division’s extended product portfolio. The new Portable Energy division focuses on five pillars, each one relating to a product group: air (on-site compressors), power (on-site generators), light (on-site light towers), water (on-site pumps), and used equipment.
Newly appointed business development manager Sam Waes is developing the fifth pillar, used equipment.
Geert Follens, president of the Portable Energy division, says, “Changing the name of the division to Portable Energy is a logical step in light of the extension of our product range to our customers. With the five pillars we can offer our customers complete portable energy solutions. This extended product offering, together with the intensified focus on the construction business as a part of the new Construction Technique business area, will provide us with the tools we need to give our customers the right focus and the best service.”
Yves Pronovost, general manager for Uniquip Canada, has announced the appointment of David Latour as national sales manager. Pronovost says Latour has a strong background in sales of construction equipment and has spent several years in the rental market, working for United Rentals and also for Manulift EMI, where he had great success in developing the Canadian market.
gunn joins CFDl Canadian Forklift Distributors Limited announced the addition of John Gunn to the company. Gunn has taken on the role of director of dealer development for Ontario and the eastern U.S.
Gunn has joined the company after many years of experience with CIT – Wajax Finance, Volvo Construction Equipment, and GE Capital, managing the financing operations for leading manufacturers and distributors in the material handling and construction industries. Gunn also currently serves as treasurer for the Southwestern Ontario Branch of the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters association.
CFDL distributes Stärke Material Handling Equipment, Heli Forklifts, L-Guard Forklift Tires, MD Attachments and Vision Fork lines through their cross-country network of independent dealers. Gunn can be contacted by phone at 1-877-435-4352 or by e-mail at jgunn@cfdl.ca.
Finning workers on strike
About 700 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 692 went on strike at the B.C. locations of Caterpillar equipment dealer Finning International on June 22. The workers include mechanics, parts department staff and support personnel who repair heavy equipment for the mining, forestry, and construction industries.
The company said equipment and parts sales will continue, but shop and field services will be unavailable. It said it has a contingency plan to minimize the impact on customers.
Unionized workers at Finning’s operations in Alberta and the Northwest Territories operate under a separate collective agreement and are not on strike.
Finning said it has applied for mediation and the union has declined. The union said the dispute is over wages, benefits, shifts and subcontracting.
Vancouver-based Finning is the world’s largest Caterpillar dealer, and sells, rents and services equipment and engines. It has operations in Canada, South America and Europe.
Canadian Press
s coTTish re NTaL oPeraTor s UPPLies P ower To oMaN
Scotland-based Rental Solutions and Services, a global provider of rental power, temporary cooling and mobile water solutions, has successfully installed 80 MVA of rental power in the Sultanate of Oman.
RSS was selected by two power generation authorities in Oman to design, build and manage temporary power packages in four different locations in Oman: Ja’laan Bani Bu Ali Grid Station, Al Mulladah Intersection Station, Dibba and Ghundham.
The 80 MVA of temporary power will support the Oman’s power grid during the summer period when demand is high. In general, most Gulf Cooperating Countries experience seasonal power shortages during summer months where demand outstrips supply.
Milan Balac, managing director of RSS, says, “We are delighted to deliver our first power project in Oman. RSS has a very experienced power project team coupled with the most fuel-efficient rental generators in the market. We appreciate the trust and confidence that our customer has in our products and services.”
Peter den Boogert, general manager of RSS power projects, mentions, “The power projects recently executed in Oman are full turn-key power solution for both the Oman power generation authorities. RSS designed, mobilized, installed and commissioned 80 MVA temporary power in four different locations. RSS has also deployed 24-hour technicians, operators and project engineers to ensure uninterrupted supply. It is also worth mentioning that out of the 80 MVA installation, RSS delivered 68 MVA at 33 kV, which only a few rental companies can currently provide.”
toro aCquires l awn solutions
Toro has announced it has acquired Lawn Solutions Commercial Products, a manufacturer of turf renovation equipment for the landscape, rental, municipal and golf markets. The acquisition, which includes a dedicated lineup of aerators, seeders, power rakes and brush cutters, is intended to add product categories to Toro’s portfolio to support growth across its core global businesses. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Based in Louisville, Ky., and founded in 2006, Lawn Solutions has quickly established its position in the turf renovation market and become known for its reputable line of products. As part of the purchase, David Cook, owner of Lawn Solutions, will continue to consult with Toro after the acquisition and provide important product development and category expertise.
ae M oPPosed To GPs PLaN
The U.S. Association of Equipment Manufacturers has released a statement calling on American authorities to stop a proposed project by LightSquared, a telecommunications startup, that they say will disrupt public GPS signals across large parts of the country. LightSquared is seeking approval to build a new wireless broadband network using 40,000 transmitters across the continental United States.
In a statement, AEM president Dennis Slater said, “Not only would the 40,000 ground stations very likely render commercial and private GPS signals unreliable and in some cases useless, but implementing LightSquared’s plan would add unnecessary burdens to the U.S. economy.”
Boehler to leaD skyjaCk
Linamar Corporation has announced that Brad Boehler has been named interim president for Skyjack. Since joining Skyjack in 2003, Boehler has progressively held various strategic positions including previous titles of both vice-president of engineering and vice-president of sales and marketing.
Linamar said Boehler’s extensive knowledge of Skyjack’s business structure makes him well positioned to spearhead an aggressive business plan of new product development and global expansion which will target expanding market potential encompassing North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Boehler says, “We have launched a very aggressive product development plan which will roll out in concert with our expanding global footprint including sales offices with service and support in China, Brazil and Australia.”
Prior to joining Skyjack, Boehler obtained a Bachelor of Engineering Science from the University of Western Ontario, and holds a professional engineer designation. He attended the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering where he started his career as a military engineer. Boehler also recently completed the Executive Development Program at the Ivey School of Business. In 2006 he was appointed chair of the ANSI A92.6 subcommittee, which is responsible for the U.S. standard for self-propelled elevating work platforms. He is also involved with other global standards development organizations, and is currently the chair of the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) Manufacturer’s Technical Committee.
Linamar president and COO Jim Jarrell says Boehler’s appointment will further stabilize Skyjack’s position as it moves ahead with its global expansion strategies. His leadership will include focused efforts on product quality, customer responsiveness and product offering as the industry is poised for growth.
UR AMAZING LIT TLE ARMY SCALES TO GREAT HEIGHTS.
TThe Hatz small diesel line has risen to the top in choices. In fact, our horsepower range (2 to 10.6 hp) is as wide as the Rockies: 1B20 (2 to 4.6 hp); 1B30 (3 to 7 hp); 1B40 (4.8 to 9.9 hp); 1B50 (5.3 to 10.6 hp) and vertical shaft models (2 to 10.6 hp). Plus, features as great as Everest: fully auto recoil starting, electric starting option, dependable cold starting, easily changeable PTO shafts, excellent fuel efficiency, extremely quiet running and proven durability. They’re also emissions compliant. Put a little Hatz in your products and we’ll help you climb to the top.
email: info-quebec@marind.ca www.marind.ca
New faces –March 1989
A new face at Tyrolit Abrasives is Bill Murchison. Rental operators had an opportunity to meet him at the Canadian Rental Mart.
There are two new faces at MBW Canada. Shawn Parks is the western Canada sales agent and Peter Kimber is the Ontario sales rep.
ara allows CanaDian DireCtors –DeCemBer 1999
Recent changes to the American Rental Association’s (ARA) membership bylaws would have allowed a Canadian director to complete his term in office. Jim Lehman of United Rentals, formerly Reitzel Rentals in Kitchener, Ont., stepped down as the Ontario director for the Rental Association of Canada (RAC) after discovering he was not eligible to hold the position under the bylaws defining its requirements.
“The bylaws are not very clear. He had to be a general member and at the time national members were not eligible,” says ATA executive vice-president James Irish, describing it as an unfortunate bad-timing situation. However, the bylaws distinguishing general members from nationals have been changed, dissolving the requirements that divided members into different categories. “Now, national companies are included in the general membership regardless of their size,” says Irish, adding the proposal to make the bylaw changes was made in April, but didn’t get approved until after the elections.
Dorothy Wellnitz, executive director for the RAC, says Lehman brought a tremendous amount of experience to the position and will be missed. Peter Storey, past president, 1998, for the Ontario division, will fill the position for the remainder of the term.
Also, George Ogston has resigned as 1999 RAC Ontario division president and has been replaced by vice-president Shirley McCormick.
Growi NG PhysicaLLy aN d
e LecTroN icaLLy – March 2000
Multiquip and MQ Power have opened a new, 86,000-square-foot building that will house a number of Multiquip departments, including all MQ Power operations, parts sales, purchasing, inventory control and the parts warehouse inventory. The company has also created a Web site designed to enable dealers, rental centres and contractors to easily and efficiently find the exact service or piece of equipment they are looking for, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Visit www.multiquip.com.
Some of the features visitors can expect to find at the site include detailed descriptions and specifications for each piece of equipment, including weight, engine performance, dimensions and capabilities, product selection without needing to know specific model numbers, a detailed listing of used equipment for sale and other services provided by Multiquip.
nasato joins waCker – DeCemBer 1999
Dean Nasato has joined Wacker Canada as sales representative, based in Mississauga, Ont. He is responsible for sales of compaction equipment, generators, light towers and other Wacker products in Ontario and Manitoba. Previously, Nasato had been employed by Atlas Copco for 12 years.
d oN’T wi Pe Those s P oTs – J UN e 1986
If you have ever watched a bartender shining up the glasses before he hangs them on racks above his head, you can be sure you aren’t in Ontario! The Ontario Ministry of Health states that any dishware, glasses or cutlery used for public consumption must be washed in water which exceeds 180 F in temperature, or disinfected by means of a chemical and must be air dried! Since party rental houses rent dishes for public consumption, this rule applies to you.
new raC seCretary – DeCemBer 1985
The new secretary of the Rental Association of Canada is Dorothy Wellnitz of Winnipeg, who can be reached at (204) 452-1836. The new address is 848 Jubilee Ave., Winnipeg, Man., R3L 1P9.
Dorothy Wellnitz
[Editor’s note: There is an error in this story. Dorothy Wellnitz was made executive director of the RAC in 1985, not secretary.]
Bill Murchison Shawn Parks
Dean Nasato
Stephenson’s Rent-All, 2111 Dunwin Drive, Erin, Ont., won a plaque recently from Flexovit Canada Abrasives, Brampton, Ont., for their efforts to display and promote floor refinishing products. From left: Yvon Lalonde, vice-president, Flexovit Canada Abrasives, makes the presentation to Pete Morrison, store manager. Jonathon Brown (third from left) is a member of the rental store staff and John Nosal is area salesman for Flexovit.
Members of Uniquip Canada were presented with the Supplier of the Year award by representatives from Joe Loue Tout (Joe Rent All) during the Rental Association of Canada Quebec division trade show in St. Hyacinthe. The Joe Loue Tout franchise was founded by J.M. Bissonnette in 1981 and now has 48 rental stores in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and the Maritimes. Twentythree franchise stores are dedicated to renting tools and equipment with some offering party and special event supplies, while others rent recreational vehicles. The Supplier of the Year award was voted on by all the franchise stores which had a list of 80 suppliers to choose from.
Photo courtesy of Breck scaffold solutions Inc.
Company on the move
In 1993, after 15 years in the rental industry, Rick Darche made the bold decision to create his own company. He set forth with a plan to represent companies that shared his business philosophy: high quality equipment coupled with excellent personal service and a commitment to his customers. His company, RDSI, based in Markham, ON, services the equipment rental industry in eastern Canada with several well-known lines such as BE Pressure Supply (pressure washers), Metaltech-Omega Inc. (scaffolding and temporary fence), Crown Construction Equipment (concrete and mortar mixers), Crown Verity Inc. (barbecues and popcorn machines), CEP (electrical cords and lights), ConX Equipment (U-Pump, Xair compressor, Merry tillers), and MK Diamond Products (concrete and tile equipment).
In 1979 Rick started working for Leigh Mair, owner of Canadian Rental Yard Supply, as a shipper/receiver and then moved on to work for Uniquip Canada Ltd., and then on to Rapid Erection Scaffold before deciding to go out on his own. He started his own sales agency, then called “Pizazz Sales”, but was quickly told that he had developed an identity in the rental industry and should name the company after himself.
“My customers asked me to change the company name,” says Darche, explaining that many of the rental operators he dealt with had come to associate equipment lines with him directly. In fact listening to his customers’ suggestions is how he decides which products he adds to his line card. “As a result, RDSI is somewhat of a one-stop shop for rental companies who prefer to deal with one company for a multitude of requirements.” But a customer request is only a suggestion until Darche
decides if a product is rental worthy, a decision that only comes from years of experience. “Once you have been around this industry for a while you get to know there is a certain level of quality that is needed in the rental industry and you develop an eye and a gut feeling for it. It becomes almost second nature to look at a new product and say that will make it or that won’t cut it,” says Darche.
In addition to the quality of equipment, Darche says he also looks very closely at the manufacturer before picking up a new line. “I consider the quality of product support coming from the manufacturer very important because it enables us to better serve our customers,” he explains, adding that quick information, reasonable pricing and product availability are the three essential components of the customer service he provides.
“Rental operators now expect a call returned that same day and have a part shipped out that same day or early next day.”
This was the reason he added Verena Flipping as a full-time employee to work the order desk . “She is 100 per cent dedicated to returning calls the same day if not sooner, quoting prices, and of course accepting orders. The rapid growth of the sales agency soon demanded that he add another rep to his sales force. From the background of ladies’ lingerie and repping for Revlon, came Bill Hadley. Better known by his customers and friends as “Mr. Bill”, Hadley is another long-standing and appreciated associate of RDSI.
It has been 10 years since RDSI went to the cloud by setting up their entire order system on their new website. Their site, www.rdsi.ca, has turned into an essential tool similar to what the Internet has become to many facets of business today. It not only allows customers access to the entire product line, but also to view a list price as well as their net cost when assigned a login and password. Obviously, this is a 24-hour seven-day service available from anywhere in the world.
Over the years RDSI has been able to ride out recessions and flourish by being innovative and focusing on integrity and prompt customer service. “Advertising in the Canadian Rental Service magazine is a staple for being popular in the rental industry not only in Canada but also North America,” explains Darche.
Wishing to stay ahead by soon adding social networks to its daily routine, RDSI is poised to continue its service to the rental industry for many years to come.
For more information on the company’s products and services, visit www.rdsi.ca
Rick Darche (centre) discusses product options with Don and Netta Robertson at a recent Canadian Rental Mart show.
hammers next? – oCtoBer 1985
According to a report in a recent Financial Times, the attachment industry could be in for a change. The report said: “The era of the plastic nail has dawned, according to Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Co. of Japan. It has developed a new elastic engineering plastic, Reny, that can be a substitute for metal. The company said the plastic should find applications in building materials, electronic and electrical components and car parts. Reny is based on a polymide plastic reinforced with carbon or glass fibre. It has high mechanical strength and a low rate of thermal expansion.”
coNve NTioN G eTs a N ew NaM e – s e PTe M ber 2003
The American Rental Association has changed the name of its convention and trade show to “The Rental Show” in order to bring more visibility to the annual event. “The Rental Show name provides a distinct brand identity recognition and it will give that recognition consistently, regardless of location,” says Christine Wehrman, ARA CEO.
Chris Wehrman, executive vice-president and CEO of the ARA, says “The Rental Show means everything rental.”
Traditionally, the ARA convention featured a unique theme each year and a logo that often focused on the location of the show. Discussion began earlier this year at the ARA about creating a new identity for the show.
“The Rental Show means everything rental. It is a quick, easy way to summarize the sheer comprehensiveness of the show – the only event of this magnitude devoted to bringing together rental store owners and rental equipment manufacturers with the focus on business and success,” Wehrman says.
There was also a simpler reason for choosing The Rental Show as the convention name. Many exhibitors and attendees already were using the name informally. “We saw the value in recognizing that,” Wehrman adds.
The Rental Show traditionally draws more than 700 exhibitors in 300 product categories, 10,000 attendees and visitors from dozens of countries. The equipment and products displayed span the spectrum of the rental industry serving the heavy and light construction, building maintenance, groundskeeping, business tools, party and special event industries.
suntraCt wins – june 1991
John Byrne (left), general manager of Suntract Rentals (a division of Blackwood Hodge Equipment) receives the First in Contractors Pumps award for the third consecutive year, a a cumulative Five Million Pumps award, from Bill Horn, vice-president and general manager of Gorman-Rupp of Canada.
polyquip turns 20 – may 1991
ce LebraTi NG 25 years – J UN e 2003
Équipment L.A.V. has celebrated its 25th anniversary. The company, located in Quebec City, specializes in renting and selling tools and construction equipment. The company says the key to its success has been in the quality of its service to its customers. “The client never waits for equipment and we strive to make deliveries within the hour it was ordered,” says Donald Tessier, director of marketing. He adds that the company has evolved alongside its clients and now offers a wide variety of products from hand tools to large construction equipment.
Seven years ago, the company introduced larger construction product lines to answer specific customer requests and to broaden its equipment fleet to include compaction equipment, such as plate compactors and rollers, hydraulic platforms, track excavators, bucket loaders and light towers. Its suppliers include Bomag, MQ Power and Bosch.
The company employs 25 people and was awarded the Rental House of the Year in 2002 by the Rental Association of Canada, Quebec division, of which it has been a member for 20 years.
Polyquip celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. From its humble beginnings in St. Laurent, Que., with three products, Polyquip now boasts four offices in Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal and Toronto stocking 150 different types of machinery. When principals Jim Joseph and Allan Swartz met at McGill University 24 years ago, they both knew they wanted to go into business for themselves. The two gained early business experience working for others – Jim in sales and Allan in marketing and purchasing – prior to starting Polyquip in 1971.
Swartz attributes Polyquip’s success to assembling good, competent staff and suppliers and to remembering that the customer is king.
BattleFielD Buys Craig ConstruCtion – FeBruary 2000
Battlefield Equipment Rentals, a division of Toromont, purchased the assets of Craig Construction Equipment. Founded in 1955 and based in Ottawa and Kingston, Ont., Craig Equipment has become a recognized leader in construction equipment rentals and sales in eastern Ontario. William Agnew, chairman of the board, will step down and the current president, Graham Forest, will continue to operate the Ottawa business along with the existing personnel.
This acquisition is indicative of the ongoing strategy of Battlefield Equipment Rentals in continuing its aggressive expansion in Canada, now totaling 24 locations throughout Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador.
still growing – oCtoBer 1986
Wally Mach presented Wally Carruthers with a special gift to commemorate Carruthers’ retirement from Kango International. This took place at the RAC Ontario chapter meeting held on September 30, 1992.
When you gotta grow, you gotta grow! That’s the motivation behind construction of Stihl Limited’s new multi-million dollar facility on Sise Road in London, Ontario. Stihl Limited, which was set up in 1981, has already outgrown its 10-year plan and thus its present building. So it had to have larger facilities even sooner than originally anticipated.
The new, 30,000 square-foot Stihl Limited building will provide expanded warehouse and office space as well as dealer-oriented support areas which the company feels will further strengthen the working relationship between itself and its customers. These support areas include a dealer seminar area and a technical training facility equipped with a soundproof indoor test cell. Sod turning ceremonies for the new building were conducted by Stihl president Fred Whyte and deputy mayor of London, Jack Burkhart.
Order Early and Save
Mach and Carruthers
r e P orT froM aLberTa –d ece M ber 1997
Dale Frederick of Park Equipment Rentals in Sherwood Park, Alta., writes, “Thirty-five people attended the October meeting, dinner and tabletop display at Big Top Rentals in Edmonton. Fourteen suppliers provided RAC members with an opportunity to view products and speak directly with knowledgeable suppliers.
“The keynote speaker, Dave Black from Alberta Customs Brokers, provided an informative session with the strong message that successful importing from the U.S. is dependent on how well we do our research, understand customs regulations and, most importantly, possess the required documentation. Members were also advised to become familiar with the changes that will occur on Jan. 1, 1998, with the CanadaU.S. Free Trade Agreement.”
Alberta director Frederick was privileged to recognize Tom and Elsie Hill for their many years of service with the RAC, Alberta division. “Tom and Elsie were instrumental in building the association in Alberta through the 1970s and ‘80s, paving the way for the strong support demonstrated today. Alberta president Paul Dorion ensured the evening flowed smoothly.”
rental Company FineD $100,000 – FeBruary 2001
A party and special events rental company in Calgary has been handed the second largest jobrelated fine in the province’s history. The rental company was slapped with a $100,000 fine at a sentence hearing for failing to protect workers under the province’s Health and Safety Act following the death of a 19-year-old employee in July 1999.
SJ 12 Vertical Mast Lift
Skyjack’s new SJ12 self propelled vertical mast lift provides a compact footprint and superior maneuverability. When operating in tight workspaces, a high degree steer angle allows for maximum functionality and flexibility by offering zero inside turning radius. The SJ 12 also features a 20” traversing platform, providing increased access and the ability to reach over potential obstacles. A unique slide away platform provides easy access to components, when raised or in the stowed position.
Skyjack’s standard color coded and numbered wiring system with hard-wired relay based controls help to ensure the new SJ 12 lives up to Skyjack’s reputation for quality and serviceability.
For information call 1-800-265-2738 or visit us online at www.skyjack.com
See why Bobcat delivers the best-built machines in the industry today Never before has there been a website where visitors can watch Bobcat® machines go head-to-head with other compact equipment brands. The Bobcat Advantage website helps you see how specs on paper don’t always translate to actual performance. And how Bobcat compact equipment outperforms the competition when put in real applications.
The Bobcat Advantage website, which you can visit at www.BobcatAdvantage.com,
features over 30 short video segments showing Bobcat compact excavators and compact track loaders performing against the likes of Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, Kubota and Takeuchi. In addition to performance, the videos highlight serviceability, comfort, uptime protection and the overall quality in manufacturing. After watching these videos, it’s clear that Bobcat compact equipment is simply better than the other brands.
Testing
Bobcat tested its compact track loaders and compact excavators against similar competitive models. The compelling results can be witnessed by anyone with internet access, in a series of brief video segments.
The goal is to show users how Bobcat stacks up against the competition in simple, easily reproducible tests. Excavator tests include digging, backfilling, lifting, traveling, servicing and attachment readiness, just to name a few. Compact track loader tests include multifunctioning capability, cab comparisons, cooling, serviceability, hose routing
and suspension durability. The results are impressive. Minor differences can translate into significant production differences at the end of the day.
Not only do the tests show the differences between the manufacturers, they quantify how much more work you are going to get done in a day.
Sometimes it’s easy to read a spec sheet or a piece of literature and compare machines on paper. The real test, though, comes when two machines work in a real application and you see how they perform. Some features; like in-track swing frame on Bobcat excavators; or drive, lift and tilt multifunctioning on Bobcat compact track loaders; can best be seen on video.
SEEHEADTOHEAD. WHO WINS GOING
The results: Bobcat equipment shines
The results are clear. Bobcat is simply the best performing compact equipment available today. Don’t take our word for it, though. Visit the site and watch how Bobcat equipment outdigs, outlifts, moves more material and stands up to tough working conditions while being easier to service than all other brands.
Visit www.BobcatAdvantage.com today to watch the video clips and decide for yourself if Bobcat compact track loaders and excavators are indeed the best in the industry.
Take a picture with your mobile phone to see the Bobcat Advantage in
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b i LL pedersen
Location: Vancouver, Victoria, B.C., and Seattle, Wash.
Years in rental: 44
Sectors served: Party
Bill Pedersen has done it his way, and that means family. His parents started the business as a catering company back in 1949. When Pedersen graduated from college in 1967, his father asked him if he wanted to join the family business. Pedersen said yes, but wanted to change from catering to rentals. So very soon after getting into the family business full time, Pedersen changed its course entirely.
Pedersen also had his own ideas about how to succeed in rentals. “In those days, everything we read in trade magazines indicated you had to do everything,” he remembers. “You had to rent everything from toilets to tablecloths and that is the direction we went in for about a year. I figured out that the worst thing in the world to be in was renting tools. I had no background and we just didn’t feel like that was our area. It is funny looking back, because when we decided to go all into party equipment we were quite apprehensive because all the information we had indicated that you had to do everything.” Bucking the accepted wisdom paid off. Over 40 years later, Pedersens Rentals is going strong with locations in three cities and Pedersen’s daughters, Rhonda and Kim, and his wife, Albina, all working in the business alongside him.
The martha Stewart effect Pedersen says competition and such star designers as Martha Stewart have driven the party business to evergreater heights since he started out. “In the old days we could get away with what we used to call gas station glasses,” he says. “Now our basic quality is fine glassware. On the whole, people are just more demanding. We have created the situation in the industry ourselves.” On the whole, however, Pedersen says the party rental business is better than ever, with more inventory choices, better software, better shipping materials and more choice for the consumer. “I remember going into rental stores in the ’70s and a lot of them looked like secondhand junk stores. Nowadays, you go into almost any tool or party rental store and everything has to be neat and clean. Expectations are just that much greater.”
d oroThy wellnitz
Company: Simmons Equipment
Rentals, CRA, CMT Rentals
Location: Winnipeg
Years in rental: 47
Sectors served: All
She was the first female officer of the Rental Association of Canada, with terms in all chairs up to and including national president. She was national CRA executive director for 22 years, with responsibility for setting up the first national office in Winnipeg and bringing in such member services as the protected self-insurance program and discount banking. Her name is attached to a scholarship supporting education for young rental operators. If the CRA has a mother, it is Dorothy Wellnitz, and if it is a strong, active association today, it is because of her. Can an induction into the ARA Hall of Fame be far behind?
Even with all her accomplishments, Wellnitz can be hard on herself. She notes her work in helping to set up regional trade shows across the country as one of her most important contributions to the industry. But she still dwells on the struggles of the Canadian Rental Mart. “Unfortunately, when we took on the Canadian Rental Mart, that was our worst failure. We were unable to produce the show to a point where it was a workable show where a profit was realized. That was sad, that was my worst [moment] when I said I had to stop the Canadian Rental Mart. I really wanted that to work into a series of trade shows so exhibitors would have one right across the country and I couldn’t. I just could not get the Canadian Rental Mart on its feet.” When it is pointed out to her that trade shows are a tough business, Wellnitz shows an unflinching refusal to make excuses. “Failure is failure,” she says, “and you know it doesn’t really matter why you fail, that was a failure. It certainly wasn’t for lack of trying.”
Wellnitz started in the rental industry working at Simmons Equipment Rental in Winnipeg in 1964, and is still participating today at C&T Rentals, also in Winnipeg. Her daughter, Mandy, has taken up the torch of association involvement and serves as executive director of the CRA today. Dorothy says she did it all because she loved the people she met in the industry. “I made a lot of friends in the industry over the years,” she says,” and we shared our love of the industry and did what we could do to make it better. We worked very hard to make things better.”
s hir Ley mcCormick
Company: Party Time Rentals
Location: Ajax, Ont.
Years in rental: 31
Sectors served: DIY, lawn and garden, party
Volunteering with the Ontario CRA was always a social thing for Shirley McCormick. She started out on social committees in the 1980s, planning dances and dinners as well as organizing the regular meetings. McCormick rose through the chairs to become Ontario president in 1999, the first woman to do so. She went on to become Ontario director on the national board.
McCormick and her husband, Claude, started Harwood Rentals in 1975 as a tool rental store. They added a party rental store next door in 1980, and briefly expanded to another two locations in Pickering, Ont. The recession in the late ’80s hit the area hard, however, and the McCormicks were forced to close all but the one party rental store. Claude retired, and Shirley changed the name of the store to Party Time Rentals in 1992. By the time she sold the business in 2006, she had amassed nearly every award the CRA gives out, including Rental Professional of the Year and the Ontario Regional Award.
McCormick was a fixture at every association event, collecting fees, taking minutes at board meetings and keeping everything organized. She was so indispensable that when she sold her business, the CRA gave her an honorary membership so she could continue to serve as secretary. McCormick retired from her duties as secretary this year, handing the reins to Penny O’Sullivan. “I mentored Penny,” she says, laughing. “I brought her on the board and she and I got very close.”
waLTer Chapman
Company: Basic Tool Rentals
Location: Sydney, N.S.
Years in rental: 29
Sectors served: Construction, party, lawn and garden, DIY
Walter Chapman was a police officer in the RCMP before starting his first rental operation in 1982, and the habits of careful observation and analysis he learned on the force seem to be a big part of his success. For Chapman does not just do things that seem right at the time. He takes time to learn and understand a situation, then constructs a careful structure of reasoning to support a final conclusion.
Take his decision to locate his store where it is on the outskirts of Sydney. “I’m out on the fringe here in a residential area,” he says. “This is where the transient people move in and out of the city more. There are three other tool rental places in town, but they are all at the other end. I saw when we belonged to the Welcome Wagon at the party store that 75 per cent of the people moved out into this area when they came here. The American Rental Association has shown that people who buy properties spend more money on the property in the first four months than they will in the next four years. And they don’t know the guys they are working next to well enough to borrow a ladder or a rototiller or whatever else they might need, because they are transients where they came from and they are already trained to go to a rental store. Plus I have two major building supply dealers nearby, so the contractors pick up their materials and then they pick up the tools they are going to need when they go by.” It is hard to imagine a more thorough rationale for a store location than that.
Company: Rent-It Store
Location: Saskatoon, Sask.
Years in rental: 39
Sectors served: Construction, DIY, lawn and garden
When Doron Broadfoot thinks about the rental industry, he thinks about people. He recommends people starting out in rental surround themselves with good people they can rely on. “No matter what level you are going to enter in, you
really need to develop a good board of directors,” Broadfoot says. “Even if you are not a public company, you need that kind of a professional team you can use for guidance and as a sounding board. That would include your banker and your accountant and whomever else you might be able to find as a mentor. It is a very capital-intensive business and you want to make sure you are setting yourself off in the right direction.”
After nearly 40 years in the sometimes uncertain Saskatchewan economy, Broadfoot considers his top accomplishment to be simple survival. But his most impressive business accomplishments may still lie ahead, as the Rent-It Store rides the recent wave of oil, mining and potash development in the area.
d oroN Broadfoot
Doosan Portable Power: Reliable, durable and innovative products for the rental industry Company on the move
With a celebrated legacy — and a keen focus on the future — Doosan Portable Power is a major supplier to the portable power industry throughout Canada.
Doosan Portable Power is a business unit of Doosan Infracore Construction Equipment, a leading worldwide manufacturer (Portable Power was formerly a Division of Ingersoll Rand). With more than 100 years of manufacturing expertise and application experience, Doosan Portable Power provides the highest quality in rugged and reliable generators, air compressors, light towers, light compaction equipment and truck-mounted equipment.
Doosan Portable Power Canada serves the rental industry across the country from its main office location and warehouse headquartered in Mississauga, Ont. Equipment is also stocked in Western Canada. Doosan Portable Power Canada provides rental customers with local Canadian parts support, service support, customs brokerage, equipment shipping logistics and availability of wholesale financing. The products offer high utilization with a high return on investment, as well as a high resale value.
Along with Canadian Rental Service magazine, Doosan Portable Power Canada has also been supporting the rental industry throughout Canada for the last 35 years (and longer) with products that offer forward-thinking design and function while keeping the operator top of mind.
The mobile generator portfolio from Doosan Portable Power includes a total of 10 models ranging from 25 kVA to 570 kVA, all of which comply with current EPA emissions regulations in North America. Doosan Portable Power now has fuel tanks available that comply with Transport Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act* (TDG) and Regulations in mobile generators with fuel tanks over 450 litres (G90 and larger).
Doosan Portable Power also offers a range of 185 to 1600 cfm portable air compressors to the rental market. All large highway towable portable air compressors from Doosan Portable Power are designed with fuel tanks that are compatible with Transport Canada’s TDG requirements.
The P260WYM/HP220WYM dual-pressure, dual-flow air compressor from Doosan Portable Power operates at either
260 cfm at 100 psi or 220 cfm at 150 psi. A simple control panel switch allows the operator to easily change the pressure setting when needed — this allows the machine to tackle more applications and keeps up rental fleet utilization.
End users of the market-leading HP750 air compressor from Doosan Portable Power can now choose an optional clean, quiet, construction-market-focused electric motor instead of a diesel engine. The electric model is 100 percent emissions-free and ultra-quiet. The HP750e is a rugged, portable air compressor fit for any construction application and provides a reliable and durable solution to Tier 4i packaging and technology.
Another significant product line in the rental industry is light towers. Lighting systems from Doosan Portable Power are built with professional-grade reliability and durability. The equipment offers dependable engines, lighting in a larger coverage area and protective reflector housings. The L20 is ideal for applications where an electrical power source isn’t easy to come by. Four 1000-watt lamps light up the work site, while the 20 kW generator powers the required tools for the job.
Doosan Portable Power is a major player when it comes to the Tier 4 realm. The company strives for innovation in sustainability. All new products are designed to meet and exceed requirements for Tier 4 Interim (Tier 4i) and ultimately Tier 4 final engine and emissions standards. Doosan Portable Power Tier 4 packages also feature improved measures for noise, debris and maintenance. Tier 4i compliant products currently offered above 129 kw are the XP825 air compressor and the G325 mobile generator, with a Tier 4i-compliant HP750 on the horizon.
For more information on Doosan Portable Power or any of its product offerings, please visit doosanportablepower.com.
*Diesel fuel Class 3 UN 1202 PG III is classed as dangerous goods by Transport Canada’s Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act (TDG) and Regulations. Diesel fuel tanks that are integral to motorized equipment (that are not self-propelled), such as mobile generators and portable air compressors, to be transported over Canadian roads in any manner with fuel tanks larger than 450 L are required to comply with Transport Canada’s TDG.
Doosan Portable Power Canada, Mississauga Headquarters.
Doosan Portable Power’s main product lineup.
Company: Carruthers Rental, kango
Location: Barrie, Ont.
Years in rental: 40
Sectors served: Construction, DIY, lawn and garden
“Most people are in sales first, then go into business. I was a businessman first, then I went into sales.” According to Wally Carruthers, that was the secret of his success as a supplier of power tools and accessories to the Ontario rental industry. That, all the many friends he made both on the road and in his long involvement with the Ontario CRA. “Joining the RAC was the most important business decision I ever made,” he says.
Even in an industry full of entertaining personalities, Carruthers stands out. Whenever he tells a story about someone with a foreign accent, he imitates the accent perfectly. In a one-hour conversation with Canadian Rental Service, he did Newfie, Irish, Scottish, British and Swedish and nailed them all. He has dozens of funny and unusual stories from the industry, most of which he was directly involved with. One of his friends made up $50 bills with Carruthers’ face on them, and he got a laugh wherever he went handing those out.
friends all over the country
The most valuable thing Carruthers has taken away from his time in the rental business is a long list of friends he remembers fondly. The late Danny Cameron of Atlantic Rentals was one of his special favourites, and he enjoys telling the story of the Alberta regional show where Casey Jones hired a train to take attendees to see the glacier in Jasper, and Cameron woke everyone up at 6 a.m. playing the bagpipes. “There was a piano on board and lots of singing,” Carruthers remembers, “which was great for me because I was in a barbershop group.”
Carruthers collaborated with Peter Watkins, the founder of Canadian Rental Service, to launch the first Canadian Rental Mart. “He stopped by my house on his way to the cottage,” Carruthers remembers, “and started asking me if I thought the Rental Mart would be a good idea. I liked it and took it to the board [of the Ontario CRA]. They didn’t like it much at first, but we put it to a vote and it got passed.”
Carruthers lives in Barrie with his wife Audrey. He is still active in the Ontario CRA, his church, the Rotary Club and the Masons.
JeaN-Marc turcotte
Company: Location Turbo
Location: Montreal
Years in rental: 31
Sectors served: Construction, DIY, lawn and garden, heating and cooling, party, plumbing, metalworking, cleaning
For a man who loves to laugh, Jean-Marc Turcotte is dead serious when it comes to service in his rental operation, Location Turbo in Montreal. “Did you notice when you called here the phone did not ring more than twice?” he asks. “After the second ring, we answer. Never the third ring. And the same person who answers the phone will also be the one serving you when you get here.” When Turcotte was in sales, prior to starting into business for himself, he traveled around the five eastern provinces and carefully observed how the rental houses he called on operated. He came away full of ideas for how rental services could be improved, and has continued to learn and discuss the theory of the rental business over the last 31 years. In the process, through his involvement with the Quebec branch of the CRA, Turcotte has helped to train 56 new rental operators, of whom all but three are still operating in the province.
Turcotte played a critical role in revitalizing the Quebec association, hosting meetings at his location twice a month, starting a newsletter and, later, helping to launch Quebexpo. Turcotte says his November member forums are opportunities for rental operators to share knowledge and business tips together. “We have rental stores facing each other and we talk about business,” he says. “So it could be that we talk about damage waivers and some are for and some against, and everything that pops into their heads gets put on the table and we discuss it and we get crowds. We had 110 people once.”
What advice would the man who loves knowledge give a person just starting out in the rental industry? “Stop buying on the first of September,” Turcotte advises. “The summer is great for rental stores, starting in May. We invoice a lot and by September we have nearly paid off all our debts from the shows where we bought in March because all the suppliers offered us 30-, 60- and 90-day payments. So we pay them over May, June, July and August and by September the money is starting to come in and there are some leftovers. You have temptation because you have money in the bank, but that is where you go broke over the winter. The winters are hard.” Turcotte advises socking away small amounts over the entire year to fund purchases in the spring, instead.
waLLy Carruthers
Your new sidekick.
No other power cutter in the world is so packed with features that boost efficiency and reduce impact on the environment as the Husqvarna K760.
It features the new Active Air Filtration™ system which allows up to one year of running time without filter service. Thanks to its X-Torq ® engine, the saw produces up to 75% fewer emissions and lowers fuel consumption by 20%, reducing its environmental footprint.
The K760 is easy to handle due to low vibrations and the power-to-weight ratio enables the saw to be used full time, reducing operator fatigue.
The new Husqvarna K760 is a further development of the popular K750. Therefore it has a firm base of knowledge and experience built in, more than any other power cutter in the industry.
HUSQVARNA CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS
2077 Bond Street • North Bay, Ontario P1B 8J8 • 800-461-9589 • www.husqvarnacp.com
• Models Cool from 500 Sq. Ft. to 4000 square feet
• Portable on heavy-duty casters for easy spot cooling
• Durable one piece plastic polyethelene housing
• Operates with tap water for pennies per day
• Long term dependability virtually maintenance free
• Uses genuine Pads
• Effective, affordable cooling –when you need it
Company: R.H. MacFarland
Location: Halifax, N.S.
Years in rental: 30
Sectors served: Construction, DIY, cleaning, lawn and garden, party
Just call him The Innovator. Bob MacFarland came out of construction and into the rental industry in 1963 at a time when the rental business barely existed in his area. “It was interesting in those days,” he says. “There were rental companies across Canada, but it was very sparse. There was one in Newfoundland and in New Brunswick and ourselves just starting up here.” MacFarland’s initial chore was to introduce the idea of renting small tools and equipment to his target market. “You came into an area where no one has heard of such a thing as renting lawn mowers or rototillers or pumps for contractors. They had all been buying everything, and trying to get it across was quite a chore. The party was the same way. Once it was started and word got around and we did some advertising it finally took off and was very successful,” he remembers. MacFarland advertised heavily in the local newspapers, on radio and TV, and even had a city bus painted up with his promotions.
MacFarland relied heavily on trade shows and association meetings to learn how to run a successful rental operation and to trade new ideas with colleagues. “I discovered an ad in a rental magazine in Boston. It was advertising a rental show by the American Rental Association in Washington, D.C., in February of 1966. So I sent in my membership dues and went to the convention and what an eye opener that was. I did find some Canadians; several in fact, from across Canada were there and were just starting. They had more or less formed a group in Ontario, so that is the history there. From then on I visited places over the years. I wanted to have something they didn’t, because all the conventional tools and equipment were pretty well established.”
MacFarland’s understanding of the need for a strong brand image, combined with his drive to stay ahead of the competition, led him to get into computers and custom software long before most rental operators. “I was the first one to have an in-store computer to look at equipment and how to use them,” he remembers. “That was in the 1981, ’82, ’83 period. The biggest thing with the rental business is dealing with a person who has never used a floor shampooer. You have got to take the time, and the better job you do, the better job you are going to get with the customer being satisfied and not calling you with little problems like not putting water in it. So I tried to cut down on store time. When people said ‘I’d like a floor shampooer,’ I had four of them set up in the store and display modules to say, ‘Look here, it is very simple.’”
s hawN parks
Company: Rentquip Canada
Location: Richmond, B.C.
Years in rental: 27
Sectors served: Construction, DIY, lawn and garden, heating and cooling, plumbing, cleaning
Jim Clipperton of Nor-Val Rentals in Vernon, B.C., has fond memories of his first encounter with Shawn Parks when he and his father were first starting out in the rental business. “We sat around the kitchen table and me and Dad are more or less country bumpkins, but Shawn did not take advantage of us,” he remembers. “He pared down our order. He came to us and we said, ‘We need this stuff,’ and he said, ‘No, you don’t need two of these plates. Use this money to buy something else so you have more inventory to offer more options. If you do need something, I have them in Vancouver so I can have them to you in one day. You shouldn’t spend money on these now. Spend money on broadening the equipment base instead of two of this and two of that.” Parks’ fair dealing at that early stage won him a relationship that strengthened and grew as Nor-Val grew into a large, three-location rental operation. “Shawn is one of my best friends,” Clipperton says.
In 1984, Parks was a manufacturer’s representative for Makita Power Tools. “I was a pretty young guy and thought I had it all figured out,” Parks says, “so I left Makita, where I actually had a pretty good job, and decided I could do better on my own.” Ed Murphy, the provincial manager for Kango at the time, gave Parks that chance by appointing him his agent in the rental industry. “I told my wife it would take me three months to get back into the same income bracket that I left,” Parks remembers. “About three years later, I was almost there.”
Parks and Murphy went on to form P&M Sales in 1995, with a focus on servicing tools, supplying parts and selling some equipment. By 2008, P&M Sales was operating throughout western Canada from B.C. to Manitoba. At that point, Parks, who was now sole owner of P&M, merged with his longtime friend Jim Freeman of Rentquip Supply to build a national equipment dealer operating right across the country.
For Parks, there are no finish lines. “Three years ago, when my business was doing very well in western Canada, we were profitable and my wife worked in the business and everything was going very well, we decided that this was not all we could do,” he says. “There was more we could do and at the age of 49 we are going to keep moving and we are going to keep building this business and that is our approach today. We are still looking for new opportunities and new acquisitions.”
b ob macFarland
by PATRIC k F LANNERY
u p with SA fety
Get your lift platforms, and your customers, back in one piece.
Safety experts agree that operator training is the single most important factor when it comes to lift platform safety. Knowing what kind of training is needed and educating your customers could prevent problems around your yard, and in the field.
Sometimes, the simplest thing can lead to tragic consequences. Ron (not his real name), an apprentice glazier with a Toronto-area glass contractor, was driving his boom lift out of a mall where he had been installing some interior windows. He was driving from the lift basket with the boom folded completely down, being directed by his supervisor. As he guided the lift out through some large service doors by the loading dock, his supervisor did not notice that there was a curb just beyond the doors. As Ron drove through the doors, the front tires of the lift dropped over the curb, levering the back end of the lift up and driving the boom’s basket, with Ron in it, into the upper jamb of the door. Ron suffered a severe concussion, head lacerations requiring hundreds of stitches and neck injuries that kept him off work for over a month. In fact, he was lucky to have survived at all.
Ron’s boom lift wasn’t even rented, but there is little rental operators can do to prevent similar accidents with their equipment. However, understanding that operating lift equipment on uneven or unstable ground is one of the main causes of injuries and accidents can help you to caution you customers against the kind of actions that injured Ron. Dhananjai Borwankar, a technical specialist with the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, says tip-over incidents are the most common kind of accident with lift equipment. “Maybe the ground is not level, or maybe the machine might be struck with something,” he explains. “On a tree trimmer, a branch comes down or on a highway over a bridge it might be struck by another vehicle. Tip-overs in general are the largest hazard associated with these machines.”
Borwankar says locating and properly anchoring lift platforms is the key to avoid these kinds of accidents. They are usually related to “just not knowing the lift limits of the machine, what kind of ground the machine should be used on, how to make it stable and when not to use it because the ground might be uneven or too soft for the particular weight of the machine,” he says. “Maybe they have not been trained or maybe the training was not effective.”
Th E I mpORTANCE Of TRAINING
Scott Owyen, a global marketing training manager with Terex Aerial Work Platforms, agrees that training is the difference between safe and unsafe operation of work platforms. “Training and certification is absolutely critical to the safe operation of an aerial work platform, and training extends beyond simply learning how to operate the machine,” he says. “Through general training, operators become educated on such very important safety aspects as the governing standards and regulations that concern aerial platform operation, how to identify and avoid the hazards associated with operating and aerial platform, the five principles of safe machine operation, factors that affect stability, proper use of personal protective equipment and the importance of reading, understanding and following the information found in the operator’s manual.”
General training of this kind is not enough by itself to prepare the operator to work safely, Owyen cautions. “The next step is machine-specific familiarization, which must be facilitated by a qualified person. The operator must be able to demonstrate knowledge of the location and contents of the manuals stored on the machine, the purpose and function of all machine controls and safety devices, and knowledge of the operating characteristics specific to that model.”
Training on operating lift equipment is available from technical schools and community colleges across the country, so you may not always be familiar with the document an operator has showing he is certified to operate the equipment he wants to rent. However, there are several important pieces of information Borwankar says you should look for. Most provincial health and safety codes across the country reference CSA standards in their language describing what kind of training operators need, as does the federal Labour Code that governs industries operating across provincial boundaries. An operator’s training should list compliance with the applicable CSA standard. These are:
• B354.1 Portable Elevating Work Platforms
• B354.2 Self-Propelled Elevating Work Platforms
• B354.4 Self-Propelled BoomSupported Elevating Work Platforms
“Typically, the information that would be on a document [from a training course] would be the name of the company that provided the training, the name of the trainers, a kind of clear identification that the training covered a particular piece of equipment, the date the training took place and the name of the actual individual who was trained,” Borwankar says. He adds there is not a certifying body for training schools in Canada presently, but he is aware of plans in Ontario to bring in some kind of official certification of trainers and programs.
Borwankar says lift platform training covers a number of critical areas for safe operation. “They go over emergency plans,” he says, “basic setup, how to use [the equipment], what are the weight limitations, load limitations, how to find out, how to do a hazard assessment, how to do a pre-use inspection and how to survey an
area you are actually working in to make sure that area is safe to use that particular piece of equipment.”
The equipment supplier can be helpful in providing guidelines for pre-use inspections, Owyen says. “Operator manuals for Genie equipment carry a complete list of pre-operation inspection items and function test that should be performed on the aerial platform before each use,” he says. “This process is designed to discover if anything is wrong with the machine before it is put into service. If damage or any variation from the factory-delivered condition is discovered, the machine must be tagged and removed from service until it has been repaired.”
pROTECT yOURSELf fROm
Th E SAfETy pOLICE
Borwankar says liability in accidents involving rental equipment is something that is assessed on a case-by-case basis, but there are several things rental operators can do to reduce their exposure to lawsuits or prosecution by Ministry of Labour officials:
• Ask to see the operator’s training certificate.
• Keep thorough maintenance records.
• Inspect returned equipment and record its condition.
• Note damage and repairs in detail.
• Keep a log showing adherence to the manufacturer’s scheduled maintenance program.
• Give renters a pre-use orientation explaining the machine’s performance specs and load limitations.
• Show renters how to do a site assessment.
• Keep a copy of all manuals with the machine, along with a number to call for troubleshooting.
• Give renters a pre-use inspection checklist and ask them not to use the machine if they find a problem.
• Have a lock-out mechanism that prevents unauthorized people and children from using the machine.
• Educate renters about proper protective gear.
When it comes to safety, a little organization and documentation can lead to big savings on equipment repair and legal bills. CRS
p ROD u Ct
w
CAW p 9.6 DESIGNED TO m EET DE mANDING CONDITIONS
8 www.absolutee-zup.com
The new CAWP 9.6 construction aerial work platform from Absolute E-Z Up made its debut at The Rental Show in Las Vegas. With its all-steel chassis, the self-propelled CAWP 9.6 is engineered to meet the demands specific to the construction job site environment.
“The rugged CAWP 9.6 features an all steel chassis and was designed and built for the harshest sites and most demanding of jobs,” explained Absolute’s managing partner, Mike Buley. “High productivity,
durability and portability make the CAWP 9.6 the ideal worksite solution, both indoors or outdoors.”
The CAWP 9.6 features a maximum working height of 16 feet and offers 397 pounds of unrestricted capacity on its dual extension decks. One operator can easily manoeuvre and transport the unit, however the CAWP 9.6 is approved for two-person occupancy.
A high-productivity machine, the CAWP 9.6 offers 35 per cent gradeability and the unit’s twin 12-volt batteries ensure over 250 lift cycles or a drive distance of seven miles. Batteries can easily be recharged in a few hours using the on-board charger.
While ideal for the outdoor work environment, operators will find the CAWP 9.6 is the perfect solution for indoor worksites as well. The unit features a zero inside and 39-inch outside turning radius. At just 1,212 pounds, the CAWP 9.6 has the lowest rolling tire floor load and unit weight in the industry and can be used on a variety of floor surfaces. Combined with its narrow footprint, the CAWP 9.6 can easily manoeuvre within confined locations such as elevators,
congested office spaces and constricted aisle ways. When you’re ready to move to the next job site, the unit’s compact size, low weight, three-inch ground clearance and integral forklift pockets make light work of loading and transporting the CAWP 9.6 by van or pickup truck.
N EW f ULL DRIVE LI f T f ROm G ENIE 8 www.genieindustries.com
Genie introduced a new series of 69-inch wide rough terrain scissor lifts at The Rental Show in Las Vegas.
The three new models (GS2669 RT, GS-3369 RT and GS-4069 RT) are a significant redesign of the 68-inch series through increased capacity and improved jobsite performance. The new 40-foot model introduction is the only one of its kind in the market.
e
The new GS-4069 is the world’s first 40-foot full driveheight rough terrain scissor lift in its class. Providing end user uptime while on the jobsite, the 26-feet and 33-feet models are also equipped with the full drive-height feature.
An increased platform workspace of 13 per cent gives end users more room to get their jobs done more efficiently. Increased lifting capacity on the GS-2669 RT of 20 per cent, from 1250 pounds to 1500 pounds, provides the end user with more lifting capability. The GS-3369 RT has a lifting capacity of 1000 pounds; the GS-4069 RT has a lifting capacity of 800 pounds.
A standard front activeoscillating axle keeps all four wheels on the ground during operation, providing the end user with more machine control and power when climbing hills and jobsite obstacles. Up to a 30 per cent increase in horsepower from dual fuel engines will enable the machines to drive through sand, snow, mud and uneven terrain with ease.
Wheel drives and high efficiency piston motors were added to get more torque to the rear wheels, providing jobsite performance similar to
CANTHERM HEATERS The Heat
Several
Parts
the large Genie boom products.
Full swing-out doors provide easier service access to electronics, manifolds, hydraulics and engine.
The new Genie Rough Terrain Scissor Series will be available in ANSI markets beginning in the second quarter of 2011, and in CE markets in the third quarter.
MEC PREPARES FOR FIRST CROSSOVER RT DELIVERIES
www.mecawp.com
The MEC Crossover project is nearing completion and preparations are under way to begin production on another game-changing machine. The Crossover RT program conducted a set of studies and inquiries into the aerial work platform industry with the aim of identifying an under-served niche or an unaddressed jobsite scenario. The Crossover was then designed to satisfy both needs.
On the surface, the Crossover is another electric scissor lift, but that is just the beginning. In addition to being a battery-powered scissor, this machine is designed for rough terrain, but with a chassis that is only 59 inches wide. MEC has produced a narrow, rough terrain, battery powered scissor lift – an allpurpose scissor – fully capable of duty outside on dirt and gravel paired with a narrow chassis and an electric power source for movement up onto a slab or through double doors into a finished building.
A 26-foot version of the machine made an appearance at ConExpo last March and proved to be quite popular among an impressively knowledgeable visitor base. These attendees recognized the value of a single machine that can be tasked to both RT and slab duties without
Phoen Series
Jumbo Series
Introducing the Fire 155 Infrared Heater...
EC Series
Tel:416-748-8045/877-748-1130
Fax:416-748-7922/800-748-9989
Email:eastcan@rogers.com
Fax:1-800-665-0597
E-Mail:mssales@telus.net
compromising safety or suffering internal combustion emissions indoors. The current model features a completely re-designed, low profile chassis with six inches of ground clearance and a comfortable entry height.
AWARD -WINNING SCISSOR LI f T
8 www.hybridlifts.com
Custom Equipment’s Hy-Brid HB-830 has recently received the Product of the Year - Low Level Access award at the International Awards for Powered Access (IAPA) in Amsterdam on April 14. The show, organized by Access International and IPAF, had an audience of more than 450 people.
The Hy-Brid HB-830 was being judged against the best offerings in the Low Level Access category and was chosen to be the best machine. The judges said, “In a fast growing sector of the access market we were impressed by this company’s approach to developing low weight scissor lifts. The winner was recognized for its performance in combining capacity, compactness and mobility.”
The HB-830 is a new and exciting aerial scissor lift, now being manufactured by Custom Equipment. This aerial scissor joins
CEI’s growing line up of lightweight, highly manoeverable aerial lifts, designed specifically for today’s contractor. The overall goal of the HB-830 is to give tradesmen a cost favourable alternative to traditional scaffolding, leg stilts, and step ladders. By blending CEI’s long-proven scissor lift design with a highly manoeuvrable zero turn radius steering and drive system, the new HB-830 successfully delivers value by harnessing today’s technology and increasing worker productivity. DESIGNED
Titan work platforms from Plafolift can reach working heights of 10 to 64 feet by adding a second floor to any model. Platform bases and floor are identical for the 25-, 37- and 48-foot models, allowing flexibility and fast delivery. The fold-down and removable platform rails facilitate transport. The new modular design enables users to add a second set of scissors to maximize the height of their existing platform. All Titan equipment functions are on a joystick with quick disconnect. Remote control and anti-theft systems are standard. The platforms use Perkins or Kubota engines
with automatic speed control systems. They are built to meet CSA B354.2 and ANSI A92.6 standards for safety. Options include winter kits, lateral bar extensions, urethane-filled tires, independent hydraulic leveling jacks, four-directional wheels and more.
N EW bOOm LI f T
8 www.jlg.com
JLG has introduced a new model to the JLG line of boom lifts, the 340AJ. With a lift height of 34 feet, 20 feet of horizontal reach and a 17-foot up-and-over reach, the 340AJ has all the features of a traditional JLG aerial work platform, with a low gross vehicle weight of 9,700 pounds.
“We are pleased to add the 340AJ to our existing line of boom lifts,” said Chris Mellott, JLG Industries vicepresident of sales and market development for the Americas. “As with all JLG’s aerial work platforms, the 340AJ delivers excellent terrainability, enabling operators to reach their work and efficiently complete their jobs.”
The 340AJ is easy to service and maintain. In addition, the 340AJ features steel hoods to increase its durability, and boasts a 500pound capacity in addition to its 34-foot lift height and 17-foot up -and-over
reach. The 340AJ meets sustainability regulations with its environmentally friendly Tier 4 diesel engine. A gas/ liquid propane engine is also available.
The lower cost of ownership and acquisition cost, coupled with its reach and terrainability, make the 340AJ suitable for general contractors, steel erectors, painters and commercial construction workers, among many others.
Consistent with Skyjack’s robust and reliable design features, the SJIII 3219 offers an easy to service, low maintenance design in a compact and versatile package. Featuring a 3-foot roll out extension deck, a working height of 25 feet and 25 per cent gradeability, the SJIII 3219 boasts an industry leading capacity of 550 pounds. Equipped with variable speed front wheel hydraulic drive and 90-degree steering, it is capable of maneuvering in the smallest spaces.
The SJIII 3219 features durable steel swing-out component trays, providing unrestricted access for easy maintenance and service. Using Skyjack’s standard colour-coded and numbered wiring system with analog based controls ensures the SJIII 3219 will maintain its industry leading life cycle value. CRS
Pearl’s new look, improved products and new products combine traditional quality, consistency and unique products, with a better-than-ever costper for mance value Pearl’s strong brand is getting a refreshing new look, from product ar t design, to unifor m packaging, to a new product hierarchy blade grade system The new blade grade system is consistent, logical and easy to understand by using color codes, standardized descriptions and graphics
✓ NEW PRODUCTS
✓ IMPROVED PRODUCTS
✓ NEW UNIFORM LOOK
✓ BETTER GRAPHICS
✓ BETTER AND CONSISTENT PACKAGING
OLD LOOK
by J ESSICA FOSTER
J
ESSICA FOSTER WRITES
ON BEHALF
OF
MIND Z PLAY S OLuTIONS – A LEADIN g PROVIDER OF MASSAg E THERAPY WEBSITES AND PRACTICE MANAg EMENT SOLuTIONS
SpA mme RS bewAR e
bill
C-28
and
what it could mean for you.
bill C-28 will come into effect in September 2011 and rental operators will want to make sure their marketing communications methodologies are on the right side of this law. failure to comply could cost individuals up to $1 million in fines and corporations up to $10 million dollars per infraction. The bill is 79 pages long, and it is complex. here is what you need to know.
Bill C-28 is called the Fighting Internet and Wireless Spam Act (FISA). Its intended effect is to deter and prevent deceptive and damaging forms of spam and Internet practices. After long consultations with industry, organizations, legal experts and interested parties, Canada has now passed a bill that is intended to increase the reliability and trustworthiness of the digital economy for Canadians. A full copy of this bill can be viewed on Industry Canada’s website at www.ic.gc.ca.
The legislation will deal with how, when, where and why you are authorized to send commercial electronic messages. For the purposes of rental operators, this includes e-mails, text messages, instant messages, social media messages, telephone calls and voicemail messages that are intended to solicit business.
In a nutshell, under the new rules of the FISA you are now required to obtain permission (either implied or expressed) from your potential clients before you can legally send them electronic messages about your business and services. In addition, you would be well advised to maintain records so you are able to prove, if needed, that you have received this permission from them.
E-SOLICITATION
A commercial message is a message that contains content that is intended to solicit busi-
ness or commerce. FISA covers more than just the words contained in the message. It also includes commercial website page content, but only if a link to that page is included in the transmitted message.
FISA requires that you receive permission from your clients and potential clients before you communicate with them electronically about your business and services. Within the act, both “expressed” and “implied” permissions are acceptable. What is the difference between the two?
“Express” permission describes a situation in which clients, or potential clients, have formally opted-in to receive commercial messages from you. They check a box on a website registration form or mail in a point-of-purchase postcard requesting your communications. This is, by far, the strongest form of consent, as it is very clear what your clients’ intent is with respect to you marketing to them.
“Implied” permission, on the other hand, denotes consent that is not actually stated, but is inferred by another action taken by your clients. For example, when you already have an existing business relationship with customers or clients, it is implied that they expect ongoing business-related communications from you.
In addition, “implied” permission may include persons you may not even know, as long as their businesses and duties are relevant to
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your business and their contact information has been made publicly available to you. Residential homeowners, even though they may be your potential customers, do not fit this description, but contractors or professional landscapers in your area would. You do, however, need to ensure that businesses publishing their contact information have not also published a disclaimer along with it, stating they do not wish to receive commercial messages.
G ETTING p ER m ISSION
When you stop to think about this for a minute, you will quickly recognize it can be very easy for you to obtain permission from your customers without deviating from your regular day-to-day practices.
You could add a checkbox to your rental agreements stating, “I agree to receive electronic communications about future offers and promotions of interest to me.” Once checked, this would be an example of clients giving you “expressed” permission for you to communicate with them about your business and services.
An example of implied consent would be when a new client visits your website and requests information from you. This action is inviting a business relationship with you and therefore is “implied” permission for you to communicate with them.
In both cases, there will be adequate documentation for you to provide proof of consent later, if you are ever required to do so.
bEyOND p ER m ISSION
There are two more important issues with FISA compliance that may affect the way you presently communicate with your clients. First, all the commercial message e-mail and electronic newsletters you send to your clients will have to contain the full name of the sender along with valid contact information. You are likely already doing this, as it is only common sense to provide your clients with a way to get back in touch with you. That said, with FISA, it is no longer an option, but a requirement.
All of your commercial messages must provide the recipient with a working mechanism, manual or otherwise, for them to “opt-out” of receiving any
C O ng RAtul Ati O n S O n 35 ye ARS
by WAYNE BEC k ETT, CRA PRESIDENT
Thirty-five years goes by pretty fast. Do you remember where you were 35 years ago? I was still in high school and the thought of owning a rental store and/or being the president of the rental association was . . . well, I hadn’t even heard of a rental store back then. You never know where life’s highway will take you, but I’m pretty happy with the road I followed.
Wayne Beckett owns and operates Wayne’s Rental Service in Moosomin, Sask., a small community of 3,000, and has been involved with the CRA almost since the day he opened shop 25 years ago. He can be reached at 306-435-4143.
Back in 1976, a fellow by the name of Don Williams was the CRA president and another fellow by the name of Bob MacFarland from Halifax was the region 10 Rental Person of the Year. These are just a few of the great leaders we’ve had in over 35 years of association. Each one has left a mark and we all hope that we will leave the CRA in better shape than it was when we took office. Many programs and benefits have come and gone over the years, but the one that has remained as one of the best values for your dues continues to be this very magazine. With the CRA’s help and support, it brings suppliers to your fingertips and always has articles that are informative and educational to those of us trying to manage our stores. There aren’t many issues that I haven’t read cover to cover, even ripping many articles of interest out and putting them in a scrapbook for future reference. You just can’t help but be a better operator when you read this magazine.
Did you know that 35 years ago our dollar was at about the same value as it is today against the American dollar! That’s right, but I expect we didn’t do as much cross-border shopping back then as we do now. For those of you who read my last column, you will know that this topic is of some interest to me. Although we may have vacationed across the border a little back then and taken the odd day trip across for shopping, it was nothing compared to the travelling we do today. You can thank or curse the Internet for that.
The rental industry is much more prominent today, and more widely accepted by the general public and contractors alike. There are several rental stores in every major city, at least one rental store in every other city, and at least one rental store in most larger towns and even small towns like Moosomin (population: 3,000). You just have to know your market, whether it is a general market or niche market. Then provide good-quality products that are clean and well maintained, make sure your staff is trained and courteous, and then sit back and watch the customers and the money roll in! Ha, ha.
Maybe the biggest change we’ve seen over these 35 years is how our image has changed for the good. We no longer have that dirty old garage stereotype, but one that is similar to a department store full of things in clean, well-lit showrooms full of modern amenities and technology. And where will it go from here? Who knows for sure, but I think it will only get better. CRS
Teamwork.
Comprised of a DM 280 motor and a DS 450 drill stand, the DMS 280 drill rig is full of features that enable the user to operate the machine safely and efficiently. It is perfect for a variety of applications, including openings for ventilation and plumbing as well as holes in corners for wall saw openings. The motor is equipped with a LED indicator to show the load of the machine and to make it possible for the operator to drill at maximum pressure for best results. The stand features a two-speed carriage gearbox, which allows the user to select the appropriate speed for maximum drilling performance. The motor and core bit travel smoothly on the column with minimal adjustment thanks to the V-groove roller carriage. With all these features, the DMS 280 drill rig is one powerful machine.
HUSQVARNA CONSTRUCTION PRODUCTS
2077 Bond Street • North Bay, Ontario P1B 8J8 • 800-461-9589 • www.husqvarnacp.com
Known industry-wide for their innovation, toughness and dependability, Miller Buggies are a great addition to the Allen® lineup of equipment for the concrete professional. Models B-16 and B-21 Available.
par WAYNE BEC k ETT, PRESIDENT DE LA CRA
féli C itAti O n S à l A R evue CRS
félicitations à la revue Canadian Rental Magazine pour leur 35 ans de couverture des nouvelles et des points de vues de l’Association Canadienne de Location et de ses fournisseurs.
Trente-cinq ans passent assez vite. Vous rapellez-vous où vous étiez il y a 35 ans? Moi, j’étais encore au secondaire. Je ne pensais pas qu’un jour j’aurai été propriétaire d’un centre de location, et encore moins que je serai président de l’Association Canadienne de Location… À vrai dire, à l’époque, je n’avais même pas entendu parler d’un centre de location. C’est dire que bien qu’on ne sait jamais où le chemin de la vie nous mènera, j’ai été heureux d’avoir suivi le chemin qui s’est déroulé devant moi.
Retournons en arrière… En 1976, un homme du nom de Don Williams était président de la CRA, et un autre du nom de Bob MacFarland de Halifax fut choisi comme locateur de l’année de la région 10. Ce ne sont là que quelques-uns des plus grands dirigeants que nous avons eu en plus de 35 ans d’existence de l’association. Chaque personne qui s’est impliquée dans l’association a laissé sa marque et souhaite toujours laisser l’association en meilleur état qu’elle ne l’était avant qu’il ou elle commence son mandat. Beaucoup de bénéfices et de programmes ont passé par l’association. Certains sont restés et d’autres ont été délaissés, mais de ceux qui sont restés et qui apportent une des meilleures valeurs pour votre cotisation, est cette revue que vous êtes entrain de lire. Avec l’aide et le soutient de la CRA, elle vous apporte les fournisseurs à la portée de vos mains et contient des articles informatifs et éducatifs pour ceux d’entre nous qui gérons un centre de location. Il y a très peu de numéros que je n’ai pas lu d’un bout à l’autre. J’ai même déchiré des pages d’articles d’intéressants afin de les placer dans un album pour les garder en sorte de référence. Vous ne pourrez devenir qu’un meilleur entrepreneur en location en lisant cette revue.
Wayne Beckett est propriétaire et gérant du centre de location Wayne’s Rental Centre à Moosomin, en Saskatchewan, une petite communauté de 3000 habitants. Il est impliqué dans la CRA depuis le jour où il a ouvert son centre, il y a 25 ans déjà. Vous pouvez le rejoindre au 1-306-435-4143
Saviez-vous qu’il y a 35 ans, notre dollar était environ à la même valeur qu’il l’est aujourd’hui par rapport au dollar américain? C’est vrai, parcontre je crois que dans le passé, nous ne faisions pas autant d’achats au sud de la frontière qu’aujourd’hui. À ceux qui auront lu mon message de la dernière revue, vous noterez que c’est un sujet important pour moi. Même si, jadis, nous allions passer nos vacances quelques fois au sud et même parfois avions pris une journée ou deux pour y faire quelques achats, ce n’était en rien comparable à ce qui se passe de nos jours. Vous pouvez remercier l’internet pour cela.
L’industrie de la location est beaucoup plus forte aujourd’hui, et plus acceptée par le publique général et les entrepreneurs. Il y a plusieurs centres de location dans chaque grande ville, au moin un ou deux dans les petites villes, et au moin 1 centre de location dans les gros et petits villages comme Moosomin, (qui déssert une population de 3000 habitants). Vous devez connaître votre marché, que ce soit un marché général ou créneau. Vous devez ensuite offrir des produits de qualité qui sont propres et bien entretenus, vous assurer que vos employés sont bien entrainés et courtois, puis ensuite vous pouvez vous asseoir et regarder défiler les clients et l’argent qui entre! Ha,ha.
Il est possible que le plus grand changement que nous ayons pu constater en 35 ans est notre image qui s’est améliorée. Plus de stéréotype de vieux produits de garage, mais plutôt une image semblable à celle que l’on retrouve dans centre commercial remplis de produits propres, étalés sous un bel éclairage, et où l’on retrouve toutes les commodités. Et maintenant, où nous reste-t-il à aller? Je ne sais pas, mais je pense que ça ne peux aller que pour le mieux. CRS
We congratulate Canadian Rental Service Magazine on 35 years of outstanding coverage and promotion of the Canadian Rental Industry. Your dedication and insight have ensured that your readers are kept informed, educated and motivated. Established in 1947, ECHO Power Equipment has a long history of success and industry firsts within the Outdoor Power Equipment Industry. We are proud to have been a part of your magazine and we celebrate your milestone.
ECHO Power Equipment (Canada)
EQUIPMENT DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, INC.
NEW p RODUCTS
DIAmOND CORE b ITS 8 www.husqvarnacp.com Husqvarna Construction Products has unveiled the latest addition to its lineup of diamond core bits, the Husqvarna VersaCut Turbo. The Versa-Cut Turbo bit features a turbo segmented shape, which promotes high productivity for completing wet drilling jobs quickly. The bit has a 1-1/4 to seven-inch adapter, a 14-inch drilling depth and is available in a range of diameters from two to eight inches. The Versa-Cut Turbo is a general purpose bit made to cut a wide variety of materials. It facilitates fast and smooth drilling of concrete with or without steel reinforcing, brick, block and stone materials.
DIESEL STEAm CLEANER
8 www.intersteam.com
Until now, dry steam vapour cleaning machines have always been electric. The only problem with that is the limit imposed by your available electrical supply. The new Kolumbo steam cleaner from InterSteam is designed to change all that. The Kolumbo can make dry steam vapour anywhere, and plenty of it. An electric machine would require a 600-volt supply to produce the same volume of steam vapour. The Kolumbo is diesel-fired and features battery-powered controls. It can achieve 125 psi at 171 C in two minutes.
CAb COOLING
8 www.hammondac.com
New cab designs in many tractor-loader backhoes mean new air conditioning systems are required. To keep up with the changes, Hammond Air Conditioning recently announced newly redesigned
aftermarket integrated air conditioning systems for the following manufacturers’ tractorloader backhoes: John Deere, Komatsu, Case, Caterpillar, JCB and Terex.
According to Jeff Lemon, senior system designer for Hammond Air Conditioning, “Cabs with more glass give the operator increased visibility all around the machine but the extra glass, along with the additional cooling required for Tier III engines, places an extra load on the system and we needed to accommodate for that.”
These new drop-in air conditioning kits use a Sanden compressor. The redesigned compressor mounts fit the new engines and, like all Arctic Wolf systems, are packaged complete with a condenser, a compressor, electrical connectors, mounting brackets, an installation manual and tie wraps.
Depending on the system, it generates between 20,000 and 25,000 BTUs. The blowers circulate the air at between 400 and 500 CFM.
Rental operators may like having the flexibility to order new machines for inventory either with or without factory air and being able to install it according to the customer’s requirements.
GAS SAW CART
8 www.ca.hilti.com
The Hilti DSH-FSC Gas Saw Floor Cart is designed to handle small cutting jobs that require the flexibility of a handheld gas saw as well as the precision cut and performance of a larger, dedicated floor saw.
When a large walk-behind saw just takes too long to set up, requires too much space, is not available or is just not practical, the Hilti DSH 700 and DSH 900 gas saws with the floor saw cart can be the solution. This combination is suitable for such applications as cutting expansion joints in concrete; floor sawing asphalt, cured or green concrete; and demolition and removal of concrete or asphalt with a maximum cutting depth of 5 ¾ inches (16-inch saw).
The gas saw floor cart is made of heavy duty steel construction and is supplied complete with a gravity-fed water container that makes the cart completely portable while still giving you the dust suppression needed to help you meet local ordinances or other requirements.
The Hilti DSH 700 and DSH 900 hand-held gas saws give operators more productivity with less downtime. The Hilti gas saws can perform well in a variety of construction materials including wet/dry concrete and asphalt for small repair projects, expansion joints and curbs, as well as brick and concrete block for small floor or wall openings. These Hilti hand-held gas saws
also excel in cutting metal deck, rebar, bolts, dowel bars, grating and other metals. When the DSH 700 and 900 saws are used with Hilti Equidist custom diamond blades, these saws offer improved power-to-weight ratio for good cutting speed and productivity.
These hand-held saws also come standard with a cyclone filtration system (no pre-filter) and simple starter rope replacement for easy maintenance and better durability. The DSH 700 and 900 saws come with up to six months of maintenance parts.
fLExI b LE TENTS
8 www.weathermax.net
WeatherMax 80 and WeatherMax FR from Safety Components are available in 20 colours. Because tents are set up and taken down frequently, they must be lightweight and stand up to abrasion. Environmentally friendly, WeatherMax 80 has twice the strength and six times the abrasion resistance of acrylic. It further outshines acrylics with superior water resistance, yet the extensively tested and proven HydroMax finish ensures WeatherMax remains breathable to combat mould and mildew. Made from solution-dyed SaturaMax yarns, WeatherMax 80 maintains its rich colour and dimensional stability for a minimum of five years. WeatherMax FR fireretardant fabric incorporates the same qualities as WeatherMax 80, and meets CSFM Title 19, CPAI 84, and NFPA 701 test methods 1 and 2, as well as FMVSS 302 specifications.
pRECISION hyGROm ETER
8 www.legendbrands.neht
Made exclusively for Dri-Eaz, the new QuickNav professional meter incorporates an easy-to-use backlit menu for accessing pin, scan, and thermo-hygrometer modes in a single hand-held unit. This 3-in-1 precision instrument quickly calculates dew point, grains per pound and vapour pressure.
The QuickNav is designed and manufactured by Delmhorst Instrument, in New Jersey, established in 1946. “Delmhorst brings decades of moisture meter expertise to the table,” said Brandon Burton, education manager for Dri-Eaz and Restoration Sciences Academy. “When we approached them about developing a kit focused on the needs of the restoration professional, they knew exactly what we needed.”
The QuickNav kit includes the QuickNav meter, carrying case, hammer probe, a short pin electrode and another Dri-Eaz exclusive: an electrode extension harness used to extend the reach of the meter to check for moisture under cabinets and other hard-to-reach areas.
The QuickNav (F471) is the latest in a full line of Delmhorst
meters offered by Dri-Eaz. Models include the new HT-4000 and the HT-3000 thermo-hygrometers, and the BD-2100 pin meter and dual-mode TechCheck Plus Package. Each Delmhorst meter features rugged construction, a sturdy shock-resistant plastic carrying case, a nine-volt battery, and a one-year, no-hassle warranty.
Delmhorst meters are now available for order through DriEaz distributors, who also sell Delmhorst’s hammer probe and baseboard probes as well as a full array of replacement pins, sensors and fittings.
Since 1946, Delmhorst has been designing and manufacturing moisture meters in its New Jersey plant. Delmhorst’s first customers were building superintendents in New York City, who used the devices to help them identify leaks in roofs and plaster walls.
DIGITAL LEVELS
8 www.boschtools.com
Bosch Measuring Tools has introduced two digital levels accurate to plus or minus 0.05 degrees. Concrete workers will find the 24-inch DNM 60 L and 48-inch DNM 120 L invaluable as the levels offer accurate grade application in accordance with ADA requirements. In addition, the levels offer distinct benefits to finish carpenters, framers, and sewer and water workers. Ironworkers, plumbers and hardscape landscapers will also find the levels very useful on the job site.
The rugged aluminum levels measure precisely in degrees, per cent or inches and feet, enabling users to find the proper measurement mode for their needs. The angled, easy-to-read display automatically rotates values when working overhead, making the levels readable in any position. The quick and easy field calibration ensures users of accurate measurements every time. The new digital levels offer direction arrows and an audible tone at zero degrees and 90 degrees for precise alignment, level and plumb findings. Up to 200 hours in battery life means more time working and less time replacing batteries.
The DNM 60 L and DNM 120 L come with a padded carrying case and one nine-volt battery.
I NDOOR pRESSURE WAS h ER
8 www.kaivac.com
Kaivac has introduced the No-Touch cleaning machine, which is similar to an indoor pressure washer. The system is designed to take care of challenging, unpleasant cleaning tasks quickly and thoroughly.
In one case, a kitchen grill had to be removed to allow custodial workers to clean the tile and floor behind it. It was a nasty job and could take one worker as long as three days to complete. The manager approached Kaivac and found the
No-Touch machine could do the job faster, more thoroughly and more safely.
Before the No-Touch system is used, chemicals are applied to the surfaces to be cleaned. Then the areas are rinsed, literally blasting away grime and soil. Finally, the solution and soil are vacuumed up, leaving the areas ready to use almost immediately.
“We were amazed at how effective it was,” the manager said. “The tiles came out fantastic and in only three hours. That was unbelievable.”
N EW TRACK pATTERNS
8 www.bobcat.com
Bobcat has introduced new replacement rubber track patterns for Bobcat compact track loaders, compact excavators, and mini track loaders. In addition to factory installed rubber track replacements, Bobcat has tread designs available to suit a variety of applications.
The new EarthForce H-pattern rubber tracks are a great multiple application choice for compact track loaders. The H-pattern lug design features a pyramid structure for even weight distribution and wear, along with a specially designed feature that helps to prevent lug cracking damage to the track body. The tracks also feature patented continuous cable belting, forged heat-treated steel links and proprietary rubber compounds containing multiple rubber layers for dynamic track functions resulting in reliable performance.
Like the H-pattern track, the line of EarthForce compact excavator rubber tracks also feature the patented continuous belting technology, forged and heat-treated steel links and proprietary rubber compounds. The tread design of each
size is matched to the equipment application to provide less vibration and a smoother ride, as well as enhance operator comfort. The short-pitch technology of the EarthForce compact excavator tracks reduces vibration and helps extend sprocket life.
The popular multi-application, multi-season track is now available as a replacement track option for Bobcat mini track loaders. The double offset tread pattern contains the growth of cuts and cracks and protects the track body from damage. The unique tread pattern also provides superior traction in snow.
CLEAN SWEE pERS
8 www.protechsnowpusherh.com
As a complement to its line of Sno Pusher containment plows, Pro-Tech introduces five new Sno Broom attachments for skid steers and compact tractors. Sno Brooms are designed to minimize the potential for damaging surfaces, and to excel at removing snow against curbs, walls and other hard-to-reach areas.
Skid steer models are available with 60-, 72- and 84-inch broom widths and come with a universal coupler for attaching to equipment with various hydraulic flow ratings. Furthermore, they can be hydraulically angled 30 degrees left or right. The PTO-driven tractor model is 84 inches wide and is designed for machines with at least 30 horsepower. It comes standard with a three-point hitch mount. Other standard features include storage stands, high-density poly bristles and a 155-degree brush hood. Maximum broom speed is 200 RPM.
In addition to the Sno Broom, Pro-Tech also offers its Sno Blower and Sno Blade attachments, as well as a full line of Sno Pusher containment plows. CRS
continued from page 42
further electronic correspondence from you. It will be very important that you monitor and honour these “Unsubscribe” requests to ensure FISA compliance.
Th E SKy IS NOT fALLING
FISA will probably not reduce or hinder your legitimate business practices. The core requirements of FISA are straightforward to adopt, and are not costly.
One of the results of this legislation will be an increased need to maintain relevant and legitimate contact with
customers and potential customers. Business management software may be able to help you engage your customers and prospects through professional, interactive website tools and legitimate e-mail correspondence. These systems also will help you maintain your customer list and minimize the time required to legitimately correspond through mass e-mailing tools and automation – all the while maintaining FISA compliance.
While visiting your website, potential clients will gladly provide you with consent if by doing so they believe it will be
beneficial to them. They will welcome the convenience of such online website tools as rental booking, newsletter subscriptions and equipment specifiers, to name a few, through which they may willingly provide you with their e-mail address and consent to receive further communications from you, all well within the rules of FISA.
The new FISA legislation will come into effect in September 2011. Now is the time to consider its implications and put appropriate business practices in place to ensure your compliance in electronic communications. CRS
back to the future
George gazes deep into his crystal ball.
by George Olah
To write this column, I decided to rely on my background in economics and training in multivariate time series analysis. After ploughing through reams of time series data, I pulled out my Ouija board. What follows constitutes my best guesses, which are clearly open to heated discussion at your nearest tavern and bar.
The next generation of both customers and rental operator staff will increasingly embrace and rely on laptops and improved electronic communication devices. Likewise, rental business websites and electronic web catalogues are burgeoning and will continue to be an inextricable part of our rental industry.
The continued computerization of equipment, along with the plethora of new technical and safety regulatory requirements, will continue with vigour – and so too will the need for more and much more training of both rental staff and customers. Better-trained rental customers will use your equipment more safely and hopefully return it in better condition for the next renter.
Recent observations of events in the rental industry in Canada point to what appears to be a never-ending consolidation of our industry. And I wonder out loud if this is an indication of where we are really going and perhaps may end up. All of us have seen industry consolidation going on in earnest for the last decade. When is this going to end or stop? More importantly, will the majority of the rental industry simply be consolidated into five or six major corporate entities?
So what does the proliferation of all these types of rental stores mean for our future business? Well, for one thing, it is getting clearer that customers like one-stop shopping, or should I say one-stop renting. Remember, the larger the work projects or special events, the larger and more varied the equipment and supply needs are. After all, why not rent from a location where you get all your rental requirements and accompanying supplies so you don’t
have to spend your valuable time travelling to get what you need from several locations. In this era of high-priced fuel, the customer is sensitive to spending extra for delivery from different rental shops and locations. Also, shopping one super rental shop can simplify your billing. Well, that’s one point of view at least.
In addition, a full-service location makes it easier for future rents. You usually end up with the same contact individual, the same delivery drivers. As a larger rental operator you can buy more products and reap the benefits of buying more at discounted prices. This all spells convenience and cost savings for both the rental operator and the customer.
Using somewhat the same logic, smaller rental shops will establish more satellite locations. In fact, several smaller rental companies are already co-operating in loosely knit strategic relationships, allowing them to share and provide more marketing, supply and rental products to meet head on the competition from larger corporate competitors.
Ultimately, of course, the real question will be to merge or not to merge. Merging can have benefits, but big is not always best. Ironically, only time will tell. Discriminating customers do and will demand and expect the provision of specialized and particular expertise in rental areas such as special events, temporary winter heating, aerial equipment and skid steer equipment to name a few. Such rental services will make for better project completions and higher returns on investments.
While clever marketing programs will proliferate electronically, no crystal ball need be consulted to conclude that, in the future, consistency and excellence in personal service will continue to be the key component for every rental business, big or small. CRS
george A. Olah has over 35 years of experience in training, marketing, and renting commercial appliances and equipment. He is presently the general manager of operations at ABCO Equipment & Supplies, a family-owned rental company.
