CIRCULATION MANAGER I Aashish Sharma asharma@annexbusinessmedia.com 416-442-5600 ext 5206
GROUP PUBLISHER/VP SALES I Martin McAnulty mmcanulty@annexbusinessmeda.com
COO I Scott Jamieson sjamieson@annexbusinessmeda.com
PRESIDENT & CEO I Mike Fredericks
Publication Mail Agreement #40065710.
Printed in Canada ISSN 0383-7920
email: rthava@annexbusinessmedia.com Tel: 416-442-5600 ext. 3555 Fax: 416-510-6875 or 416-442-2191 Mail: 111 Gordon Baker Rd., Suite 400, Toronto, ON M2H 3R1
Subscription Rates Canada- 1 Year $45.00 + tax U.S.A. - 1 Year $79.00
Occasionally, Canadian Rental Service will mail information on behalf of industry-related groups whose products and services we believe may be of interest to you. If you prefer not to receive this information, please contact our circulation department in any of the four ways listed above.
Editorial material is copyrighted. Permission to reprint may be granted on request.
Serving the Canadian rental industry for 43 years.
www.canadianrentalservice.com
4
EDITORIAL
Here’s a new idea: hire competent people and give them responsibility.
14 SHE’S IN CHARGE
Kim Rixon leads Muskoka Party Rentals and the Ontario CRA to success.
6
INDUSTRY NEWS
Stephenson’s adds a location... new senior vice-president at Cooper...Cavalier and CES pick up new lines...
22 SUCK IT UP
Who’s afraid of a little cold? Not today’s vacuum excavators.
11 CROSS-CANADA RATE REPORT
Heavy equipment rates for Q4 2018 and Q1 2019.
28 COMPACTION SHOWCASE
No fleet is complete without great compaction equipment. 14 6 22 28
12 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Strategic thinking is on the agenda at the CRA. by Dan Spencer
26
AT YOUR SERVICE
Here’s what to do when a customer leaves. by Russ Dantu
34 SAFETY FIRST AND LAST Senior management must be hands-on. by Jeff Thorne
Give them control
I’m reading a book called Lost Connections by Johann Hari. It’s about depression and anxiety and explores some reasons why these problems are growing so fast in recent decades, especially in developed countries. Hari discusses a number of interrelated possibilities, but one part in particular caught my eye as being relevant to employers everywhere.
Hari references a study done of British civil servants in the 1970s. The researcher, Michael Marmot, wanted to find out who was more at risk of stress-related heart attacks: the bosses at the top, or the lower-ranking workers. The assumption going in was that the bosses would be most at risk because of the higher levels of responsibility they had.
Marmot’s study found the opposite. The lower the bureaucrats were on the 19-layer totem pole, the higher their levels of stress. Through interviews, Marmot was able to narrow this down to a more specific source. He found that those with more control over their jobs had less stress. The workload, the pay, the level of responsibility and the difficulty and complexity of their tasks seemed to matter much less than whether they had decisionmaking power and the freedom to structure their work and solve problems as they saw fit. Despite the fact that everyone from bosses down to typists essentially had desk jobs that involved pushing paper all day, the bosses were happier because they got to decide what they were doing and how to do it from hour to hour.
ON THE WEB:
Fore!
Looking for details on the summer and fall golf tournaments around the country? Visit our online Coming Events section to find one near you. Disclaimer: Canadian Rental Service can take no responsibility for sunburns and embarassment.
Rental Rate Review recordings
If you missed our last Rental Rate Review webinar with EquipmentWatch analyst Adam Raimond, you can listen and watch the recording at canadianrentalservice.com > webinars. Just fill out the form to register and download the file. It’s free!
by Patrick Flannery
This clicked with me because so many of the labour management trends I’ve watched over the last 30 years seem to be going in exactly the opposite direction. “Lean” processes are an example. Every Lean workshop I’ve sat in calls on companies to break down their processes to essential tasks and create hyper-analyzed plans to maximize the efficiency of literally every step an employee takes throughout the day. Now, there are ways to implement this with employee input so they retain a degree of control over the process. But the end result seems to be a work day where the person spends most of their time robotically carrying out the same sequence of tasks. Maybe that is unavoidable in some manufacturing jobs, but I’ve seen the same thinking brought to service and office jobs. In an effort to boost efficiency, employers strip even complex government jobs involving legal decisions down to their basic elements, distribute each element to a different worker and automate as much as they can.
In a rental setting, for example, you might observe and document how your mechanics do a common repair job, counting the number of steps they take and the tools they use, then draw up a set-by-step procedure with all the unnecessary and inefficient actions taken out. Then you put that plan in a binder and ask them to follow it every time. Now your experienced and qualified mechanics, instead of consulting their own knowledge and making their own plans, are essentially doing the equivalent of assembling Ikea furniture. How will they feel about their jobs and their lives now?
My instinct runs completely counter to this and I think Hari’s insights back me up. I’m a fan of hiring competent people and holding them accountable for results. How they get those results is a lot less important. Attach incentives for contributing to higher-level goals that match your own. Give them broad powers to get involved in whatever parts of the business they need to in order to reach those goals. Maybe employees will find new ways to do their jobs, or even invent new jobs, that take your company to places you didn’t even imagine. And along the way, I bet they will be happier, more productive and stay with you longer.
Giving people responsibility. Call it a new management fad. CRS
The e Ditch Witch® SK755 and C16X provide the perffec t onee, two punch on your jobsite Both machines delivver classleadding productivity and ease of operation making theem the ideal chooice for your rental fleet. Key features include a high--drive track system, enhanced operator station, more ground clearance, greeater lift capacity, and superior operator comfort and d safety. SK mini skid steers also send more horsepower to the attachment for a knock-out blow to any competitor. For your nex x t fleet adddition, insist on the industr y-leading performance of quality DitcchWitch equipment. Your customers will thank yoou. Thaat ’s Powerful Value. Delivered.
BOONE RUNNING HAULOTTE SALES
Haulotte Americas has announced the appointment of Shawn Boone to the position of general manager of the Haulotte U.S. subsidiary. Boone has responsibility for leading the business’s sales and commercial operations for the U.S. and Canada with a primary responsibility to strengthen partnerships with current and new customers.
Carlos Hernandez, executive managing director for the Americas, said, “We are excited to bring Shawn into this position. We will be relying on his leadership experience to help Haulotte capitalize on our worldwide reputation and grow our presence in the U.S. Appointing Shawn to the general manager position is part of our strategy to partner more closely with our customers as we support their business models and become more responsive to their needs.”
Boone previously held the position of independent representative firm manager for Haulotte. Before joining the company, his background in equipment sales and management included experience at Kubota Tractor and CNH Industrial.
DAVIS TO LEAD NEW HOLLAND BRAND
New Holland Agriculture has announced that Brett Davis will assume the role of brand leader for North America. Davis was most recently president of CNH Industrial Capital where he was responsible for oversight and management for North America. Davis has had a 23-year career with CNH Industrial in a variety of management roles.
“New Holland is a solid brand, and I am honoured to be part of its future,” said Davis. “Our industry is undergoing tremendous changes and with that comes exciting opportunities. I will continue to build upon the progress and momentum of my colleagues and predecessors and look forward to working closely with our dealer network, customers and employees to drive further innovation and contribute to our focus on fulfilling the needs of our customers at every touchpoint.”
Davis is originally from Bucks County, Pa., and holds a bachelor’s degree from Pennsylvania State University and a law degree from Penn State’s Dickinson School of Law.
TVH UPSIZES
TVH in the Americas, a leading provider of replacement parts and accessories for the material handling and industrial equipment industries, has announced its location in Mississauga, Ont., has moved into a larger space. The new facility is located at 75 Skyway Drive. The new warehouse is an impressive 100,000 square feet, allowing it to increase the amount of inventory on hand. The new space also has an enhanced will-call pick up for customers, a larger lunchroom for employees and an onsite gym with plenty of room to grow. TVH offers more than 39 million products from 88 locations.
CAVALIER
NOW REPRESENTING MBW
MBW has announced Cavalier Industries is the company’s representative for all of Canada.
Cavalier president and co-owner, T.J. Johnson, said, “This is a great brand to bring under the Cavalier banner and offers us potential in all the markets we serve. The MBW range will bolster our core offering and further defines our footprint in light compaction and concrete finishing equipment.”
MBW was established in 1967 and is a family-owned manufacturer in Slinger, Wis. They are known for light compaction and concrete finishing equipment.
Andy Multerer, president and CEO of MBW, said, “Cavalier is the perfect fit to represent MBW as we look to set up a dealer network across Canada. MBW has a strong history across Canada as our customers understand that MBW is laser-focused on designing and manufacturing the best light compaction and concrete construction equipment in the world. We are excited to work with Cavalier to set up a dealer network dedicated to high performance machines.”
Exce c ptional l comforrt t and d an a easasy to maintntai a n Kuboota Ti T er r IV V Di D es e el e engginne e combine e for r an impre r ssive e piece of equippment n in n Ku Kubo b ta t ’s s SSV S Seriees. s New w sidde li l ghts s ex e pand the operaator’ r s visibility on the e job b si s tee, and the e ro r ll up p do door r and d wid i e op o eratator or areea a maake k for o a more e allerrt t and pr p oductiive work en e vironm n ent t du during n thoose e loong ng all l -dday a jobobss. But ut besst of f allll, ouur r SS SSV V S Seriies s are eassy y to o maintaain, , so s you can focus u on your ur job b sitee, noot t on o youur equuipmmen e t.
SPILAK PROMOTED AT COOPER
Cooper Equipment Rentals has announced Brian Spilak will assume the role of senior vice-president. Since joining Cooper in 2016, Spilak has proven himself a strong and passionate leader by delivering strong competencies to support profitable business growth, team management, new market expansion and innovative technology solutions.
“We are fortunate to have Brian on the Cooper leadership team. With his insight and expertise, our organization has become more collaborative, forward-thinking and efficient. His ability to build team unity and execute on initiatives are important assets as we continue to build Cooper Equipment Rentals into a national brand,” said Doug Dougherty, CEO.
“Cooper’s strong values-based culture and unmatched commitment to putting customers first makes it such a fun and dynamic place to be,” Spilak said. “I look forward to continuing to work closely with this team on expanding our uniquely Canadian story.”
GENIE PUBLISHES SAFE USE WHITE PAPER
In support of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Association’s (OSHA) National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls Week in May, Genie published new resources that raise awareness about the safe use of mobile elevating work platforms in the aerial access industry. The new Genie Safe Use Plan Guidance white paper provides tips for creating a safe use plan when operating MEWPs. Additional information and resources from Genie on the new MEWP standards in North America are available for customers to access at genielift.com.
“With the new ANSI A92.22-2018 and CSA B354.7:17 standards on everyone’s mind these days, these new resources will help customers prepare for the changes going into effect in North America,” says Scott Owyen, Genie senior training manager for Terex AWP. “The goal of OSHA’s National Safety Stand-Down each year is to raise awareness of best practices for working safely at height. The new MEWP standards in North America will go into effect soon and our industry as a whole needs to start preparing now for the impact these changes will have on our fleets, our customers and equipment operators. Participating in the OSHA National Safety Stand-Down efforts gives us the opportunity to increase our customers’ awareness about the proper use of aerial equipment on jobsites in compliance with the new MEWP standards.”
According to Owyen, the current ANSI and CSA standards for safe use and training have not been updated for many years (the current ANSI boom, scissor lift and manually propelled standards were last updated in 2006, and CSA standards go back even further). Now, in an effort to align more with an international standard (ISO 16368), ANSI and CSA standards will share more similarities. For example, the current ANSI and CSA standards are product-specific (i.e. there is a standard for each type of MEWP), but the new revisions will be subject-matter-based standards (i.e. safe use, training and design). Benefits from incorporating ISO concepts into the new ANSI/CSA standards include the fact that North American aerial lift manufacturers, including Genie, will be more closely aligned with global markets like Europe, Australia and China.
STEPHENSON’S OPENS IN AURORA
Stephenson’s Rental Services’ new location at 250 Industrial Parkway North in Aurora, Ont., hosted a grand opening celebration on April 12. The Stephenson’s staff was joined by Aurora mayor Tom Mrakas as they welcomed local contractors and do-it-yourself homeowners for a day full of prize giveaways, a used equipment sale and a lunch barbeque. The event included a non-traditional ribbon cutting ceremony that made it a truly memorable affair. With the opening of the Aurora store location, the Stephenson’s network now includes a total of 37 stores in Ontario and seven stores in Alberta with additional openings scheduled in Ontario later this year. Its locations – including seven in the downtown Toronto core, over 10 in the western Greater Toronto Area, four in the eastern corridor and seven north of Toronto – cover all major markets in southwestern Ontario. In partnership with Lowe’s Canada, 23 of Stephenson’s existing stores are located inside the big box store providing a convenient rental option for Lowes’ customers. Stephenson’s is excited to be part of Aurora, a fast-growing community with a small-town atmosphere located in the heart of the Greater Toronto Area.
“The city of Aurora is a perfect complement for Stephenson’s Rental Services, offering a diverse economy and well-educated and skilled workforce,” said Crystal Hennigan, vice-president of sales and marketing for Stephenson’s. “We look forward to being part of the local community as we both grow together with a family approach built on a foundation of trust and commitment.”
INDUSTRY NEWS
COMING EVENTS
June 19-21
Canada’s Farm Progress Show Regina, Sask. myfarmshow.ca
Aug. 22
CRA Manitoba Golf Winnipeg crarental.org
Sept. 6
CRA B.C. Golf Kelowna, B.C. crarental.org
Sept. 17
CRA Ontario Golf Guelph, Ont. craontario.org
Oct. 20 - 21
Canadian Rental Mart Mississauga, Ont. canadianrentalmart.com
Bomag has named Construction Equipment Solutions (CES) and EDFA as new rental equipment industry distributors. CES, located in Pickering, Ont., will cover Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador. EDFA, headquartered in Mont-St-Hillaire, Que., will have responsibility for Quebec.
“CES has served the rental industry for more than 25 years and is well known throughout this territory for providing customers productive and reliable equipment solutions to meet their needs,” says Dan Church, sales manager for Bomag Canada. “Their staff offers more than a century of combined rental industry experience. This unmatched application knowledge for walk-behind compactors and ride-on rollers, paired with Bomag rental equipment, is a perfect match to help make their customers more successful.
“EDFA has been a part of the Quebec rental industry for 13 years and is an excellent fit to expand Bomag’s support to rental companies in this market,” Church went on. “EDFA’s founder, Erick Desormeaux, is well respected and has had an active, 20-plus year career working with rental outlets in Quebec. He has also served the rental industry as a board member of the Canadian Rental Association, representing a previous employer.”
For soil and asphalt compaction applications, CES and EDFA customers will now have access to one of the industry’s broadest lines of rental compaction equipment. The comprehensive line includes vibratory tampers, single and reversible plate compactors, walk-behind rollers, trench compactors, small tandem ride-on rollers, and smooth and padfoot single-drum vibratory rollers with weights ranging to 12.5 tonnes.
“The Bomag name and reputation for quality equipment is well known throughout our territory and we are excited to be partnering with Bomag to help expand the market for the company’s rental equipment,” commented Kim Wiles, president of CES. “We have a unique approach to sales and support through stocking the equipment we sell and the parts to support it at our facility. We’ve offered compaction equipment since Day One and are known for carrying quality and reliable equipment. Bomag will help us to carry on that tradition. Adding Bomag to the other concrete, pumping and heating equipment we supply to the rental industry will help us forge deeper partnerships with our customers.”
“I’ve known Dan and the Bomag team for years and I am excited to be an agent for the walk-behind and ride-on rental equipment line. The Bomag brand is well known in Quebec and has a reputation for innovative design, rugged durability and superior service life with low operating costs,” Desormeaux said. “The Bomag line is an excellent addition to the construction tools, fans and drying equipment we currently offer the industry. I look forward to working with all rental companies, both large and small, to make sure they have the right type of compaction equipment to serve their customers’ needs.”
EquipmentWatch is a trusted source for heavy equipment data and intelligence, producing leading database information products for the construction equipment industry. It is a world leader in heavy construction research and serves more than 15,000 professional, high-volume users of construction and lift-truck data. Find more heavy equipment intelligence at equipmentwatch.com.
Cross-Canada Rate Report
The Cross-Canada Rate Report is provided to Canadian Rental Service as a free service to the Canadian rental industry. Rates data shown are national averages generated by quarterly surveys of 441 Canadian rental stores. Rates shown are reported list rates and may not reflect the actual charges to any particular customer. For in-depth analysis and a chance to interact with EquipmentWatch researchers, register for the quarterly webinar at canadianrentalservice.com > Webinars.
Number of rental companies: 54
Number of stores:
441
Number of rates collected for the 10 subtypes: 55,220
DRAWING THE MAP
The association will soon renew its strategic vision.
by DAN SPENCER, CRA PRESIDENT
For the past 11 years, my career and focus has been dedicated to the rental industry. As a store manager, my primary role besides leadership was to protect company assets such as people, property and inventory. It was also extremely important to keep the business running smoothly, ensuring our customers were completely satisfied and the equipment kept moving in and out in good working order.
As I am now in my eighth year volunteering in the rental industry, more specifically with the Canadian Rental Association, my focus and role has somewhat changed but certainly has its similarities. As your current president, I can honestly say that I have a much greater understanding and appreciation of the true value associated with the entire industry and how important this association is to you and your business.
In April, I had the pleasure of attending the CSAE (Canadian Society of Association Executives) CEO Symposium with our vice-president, Colin Wilson, and CEO, Nathalie McGregor. After attending this symposium, it is clear to me that our association is absolutely on the right path. That being said, we have a lot of work to do to set the stage for the next five years. The next five years are important because we will be focusing on our vision and realigning ourselves with a more up-to-date strategic plan that reflects the current state of the rental industry.
Why is it important to have a strategic plan, you ask?
Unique to associations, our volunteer leadership changes every year. Without a multiyear strategic plan, the direction of the association and its priorities could change with its succeeding officers. Having a consistent plan allows for advancing the priorities set by the membership through board representation. This also allows new members joining the board to have an expectation for their board service. Strategic planning is an important tool to an association as it provides a sense of direction and outlines measurable goals which guide the day-to-day decisions, helping evaluate progress and changes when moving forward.
Dan Spencer has worked in the rental industry for 11 years and has been actively involved with the CRA locally and nationally for the past eight years. He resides near Antigonish, N.S., with his wife Heidi and their two chocolate labs, Keppoch and Cali.
How will we get there? In order to achieve our goal and to have a draft done by February 2020, and implementation of this plan by September 2020, we will need your valuable input. We will also require the CRA board of directors to piece it all together with the knowledge and guidance of our trusted consulting firm.
Your role in this? Over the next few months, you will be receiving an online survey. Our plan is for you to help by outlining the key areas you think we need to focus on in order to ensure our success. This survey will help us by gathering a spectrum of important data. Please take the time to answer the survey as your point of view will be taken into great consideration. In September, the CRA board will gather together for a two-day strategic planning session to develop a comprehensive plan aligned with the diversity in our member size, geography, industry segment, gender and age...among other things.
Our association’s goal is to provide you, our members, the necessary resources you need to make a difference and positive impact in your business and also our industry. As the industry evolves, so do we. In order to continue in the right direction, in the very near future, you will see us forming several new committees where you will have the opportunity to participate and have the opportunity to be directly involved in these changes by signing up for a oneyear volunteering commitment.
In closing, when I step back and take a look at my eight years of volunteering with the CRA, I am very proud of how far we have come as an association and extremely excited to see where we are headed in the future. CRS
SHE’S IN CHARGE
Kim Rixon drives strong party rentals in Bracebridge.
If you’ve ever attended a festival, wedding, graduation or another type of fun social event in Ontario’s District Municipality of Muskoka – the heart of the Greater Toronto Area’s cottage country for many residents – then it’s possible that you’ve enjoyed the services of Muskoka Party Rentals, based in Bracebridge, Ont.
by ANDREW SNOOK
Rixon left the legal world to have fun as a business owner in party rentals. Hard work and a creative spirit has paid off with success in cottage country.
The business has been servicing events in the region since the 1980s. It originally operated under another name before undergoing a couple of ownership changes over its first two decades and finding its way into the hands of Kim Rixon, who took over the business in December 2003 and re-opened it as Muskoka Party Rentals.
“I was working for a law firm and thought it would be a lot of fun,” Rixon says while sitting down for an interview with Canadian Rental Service at her company’s head office.
Like most savvy small business owners breaking out on their own, Rixon started out small, washing the dishes for events out of her home until she had the revenue to rent out a small space in 2004. Since then, the business
has grown and flourished.
In 2007, Rixon built a new location for her business, which featured an increased footprint and a linen facility. That facility served Muskoka Party Rentals well for a decade, before Rixon decided it was time to expand further in 2017 and she purchased her current headquarters on Gray Road, which features loading bays and double the square footage of her previous facility.
The company’s success is partially due to its ability to service a diverse number of events. Muskoka Party Rentals’ slogan is “From Tents to Teaspoons,” meaning it is willing to carry out a variety of functions of all sizes. To date, the company has provided equipment for functions ranging from as large as more than
CRA offers its very own Protected Self Insurance Plan (PSIP). This plan is member owned and provides proper coverage for your rental inventory and competitive pricing. This plan has allowed every year for a rebate to PSIP members.
These tags help you track your inventory and keep your service records up-to-date - discount pricing for members.
Network at our regional trade shows, golf tournaments, meetings, etc.
Preferred rates for members and multiple payment solutions Members are provided competitive low rates and user-friendly online reporting.
Savings on fuel and a fleet management program.
450 people to as small as a quiet dinner for eight guests. To date, the busiest segment of the company’s various activities has been servicing weddings.
“Everyone wants to get married in the Muskokas,” Rixon says. “We do a lot of weddings for camp counselors or people who used to camp up here and met their significant others. More people are looking for something different from traditional weddings.”
The company services a wide variety of events from graduations to baby showers, weddings and many other types of special events.
“We had the Prime Minister of Norway come to visit the Muskoka airport, which is also called Little Norway. We serviced that event,” Rixon says.
Additional corporate functions Muskoka Party Rentals has helped service include the Muskoka Beer Fest; the Huntsville Lake of Bays Chamber President’s Ball; the Muskoka Sound Music Festival; the Cranberry Festival; the Dara Howell welcome home; the YWCA Muskoka Women of Distinction gala; the Deerhurst Resort Family New Year’s Eve Party; the Gagnon’s Independent Grocer
Christmas Dinner; the Shriner’s Wild Game dinner; the Fowler Construction annual general meeting; and a major race in Deerhurst, Ont., that presented some unusual challenges.
“They didn’t want us putting stakes in the ground so we had to truck up big concrete blocks,” Rixon recalls, adding that some event planners have kept her on her toes over the years. “An event planner will do the setup, but a lot of the time we have no idea who the customer is, so we have to just go and do the best we can for them.”
At another occasion, a few of Rixon’s staff members were asked to go set up tents for a private party in the Muskokas, and they were very surprised when they knocked on the door of the host’s cottage.
“Darcy Tucker, I think it was, and another Maple Leaf had rented a tent. Darcy Tucker had answered the door in a towel.” Rixon recalls, adding that her staff called her immediately afterwards, over-the-moon excited to tell her about their encounter with the former NHL player. “They kept saying, ‘Why didn’t you tell us that’s who lives here?’ But I had no idea.”
CHANGING SEASONS
Although keeping up with the current trends can be challenging at times, Rixon’s biggest ongoing challenge has been managing employee retention in a seasonal business, which typically runs from May to October.
“A lot of the kids who vacation up here in the summertime are looking for work,” she says, adding that she also hires a good number of local young adults who go to school in other cities but come home to spend time with family and friends in the summers. “I have people who seasonally come back three and four years and they’ll often bring their friends.”
This works out well for the summer months when colleges and universities are not in session, but once fall comes it can leave Rixon trying to fill some serious gaps in her roster.
“Our September and October is starting to get busier so it’s getting more difficult to train summer staff,” she says.
Often this has left Rixon taking up the reins for a variety of tasks in addition to running the business – from driving the service trucks to putting up tents – since she is the most knowledgeable person at
PROFILE
the company for all aspects of the business. During the busy season last year, Muskoka Party Rentals hired 26 seasonal employees.
One way she has been able to counter some of her hiring challenges has been through bringing on staff who don’t mind the work being seasonal, and by hiring older people looking for a little work during their golden years. Another way Rixon has learned how to free up her time is by hiring a manager to oversee the employees, which she did for the first time last year.
“I can now go out and talk to my hotels and resorts. It takes time off my plate to deal with other things,” she says.
STAYING ACTIVE
Muskoka Party Rentals is very active within Bracebridge and the other Muskoka communities. The company regularly helps out local non-profits such as the Bracebridge Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club Bracebridge, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muskoka and many more.
“We do a lot in our community,” Rixon says.
She is also very active within the rental industry’s associations. Currently the past-president for the Canadian Rental Association (CRA) Ontario, Rixon has also served as the local’s president, first and second vice-president, and secretary.
She also sits as a director on the national board for the CRA.
During her time on the provincial and national boards of the CRA, Rixon has helped boost the American Rental Association’s new initiatives for the industry in Canada, including a young professionals network and the Women in Rental Initiative.
“The last few years I’ve hired women for tent installations and we’ve just hired a lady to start with us this season that is between 50 and 60 years old,” she says. “I’m really excited about Women in Rental getting off the ground and getting women interested in how things are going. When I started it was me and a bunch of guys, but now I’ve noticed a shift – there are four women on the [CRA] Ontario board.”
When asked what advice Rixon would give women considering a career in the rental industry, she says getting involved in the industry associations and touring other rental businesses are keys to success.
“Definitely become an active member in the rental association. It’s there to help you with your business so take advantage of the programs,” she says. “Travel around and see other rental houses if they’re not your direct competition. They’re so helpful.”
Rixon says any rental houses, no matter what industry they’re servicing, can provide people with great ideas for their own businesses. She says that some of the great ideas she got for her own business came from touring an equipment rental business in no way affiliated with the events sector.
“I got to wander around his shop and
PROFILE
got so many ideas. I’ve done it a number of times,” she says. “You can always find something that you can bring back to your own business.”
If you ask Rixon if she regrets leaving the law firm to pursue running her own business, you will get a definitive “No” as her response.
“I love owning my own business, and seeing what started out as a bunch of stuff in an abandoned grocery store turn into a successful seasonal business,” she says.
Back in 2013 when the CRA Ontario was holding its annual members meeting in Sudbury, Kim Rixon was elected to the board of directors for the first time along with colleagues Colin Wilson, owner/operator for A World of Rentals in Kingston; and Gord Ellis, Ontario business development manager for Cavalier Industries. Both Wilson and Ellis had nothing but good things to say about working with Rixon since that time.
“Kim has been an integral part of things getting done since 2013 when she got on the board,” Ellis says. “She supported a lot of initiatives that Colin and I have brought forward, and she has brought forward other initiatives. CRA
Ontario has benefited greatly from Kim bringing forth her experience.”
“She’s great to work with, always willing to lend a hand,” Wilson adds. “She’s definitely one of the most active people on the board, always helping out on all the committees. She’s been a great help to the association.”
Ellis was reminded of a recent tweet
from Warren Buffett when thinking of Rixon. “‘Surround yourself with people that push you to do better. No drama or negativity. Just higher goals and higher motivation. Good times and positive energy. No jealousy or hate.’ That sums up what Kim Rixon brings to the CRA Ontario board, she brings out the best in all of us,” Ellis says. CRS
PACK SOME
ON JOBSITES
Creativity and energy are keys to Muskoka’s success. Rixon brings a fun-loving personality to the business that excites customers.
SUCK IT UP
Vacuum excavation can work in cold weather.
by ANDREW SNOOK
In many of our most populated cities, the demand for faster and broader telecommunications services continues to grow, as does the need for constant road improvements and new commercial and residential construction.
As the weather dips below freezing and the ground starts to wreak havoc on traditional excavation equipment, the opportunity for rental houses to take advantage of the vacuum excavation market grows.
For cold weather applications, Chapman Hancock, product manager for vacuum excavation at Ditch Witch, says there are ground thawing solutions that make vacuum excavators more efficient, such as a heater or boiler package.
“You’ve got a boiler on either the trailer or the truck and it’s heating the water as it goes through the system about 115 to 150 degrees. That allows it to be a little more efficient. Depending on the ground conditions, once you get through that permafrost, the heater still helps with productivity and efficiency gains as you get in there,” he explains, adding that one example of a good application of this technology is for working in clay. “It helps break up clay so you can dig faster, whereas sometimes when you’re using just ambient water temperature on clay it’ll still dig, but just a little bit slower. So by flipping on that heater, whether you’re in cold weather or not, it helps productivity go up.”
ACTIVE IN THE GREAT WHITE NORTH
The most common applications where vacuum excavators are extremely active in Canada are typically for fibre-optic cable and other telecommunications installations (especially in the Greater Toronto
In Canada it is often said there are two seasons: winter and construction. These days it’s hard to differentiate between the two in many places across the country.
Area) and for oil field applications.
“Right now, it seems the bigger market segment in Canada driving some of that vacuum excavation is fibre installation,” Hancock says. “You’ve got to be able to go out there – whether you’re trenching it in or boring it in – in daylight or expose each utility as you’re crossing it or paralleling it. That way you know the existing infrastructure wasn’t damaged when you’re putting in the new telecom.”
It is not unusual for telecommunications and oil field applications to swap the number-one and number-two spots for most common applications for vacuum excavators, depending on how oil is faring in the Canadian market.
“Those two are the ones that kind of go back and forth,” Hancock says. “Oil field application is typically your pipeline, rig washing and cleaning, mud disposal for oil fields. But also when you think of pipeline installation, when you have an existing pipeline you’re trying to repair or tie into, you have to create a big bellhouse, which is just a big hole stepped back to expose the valve or the pipe that you’re trying to repair or tie into. Some
vacuum excavators can go in there and dig down effectively and safely so you don’t have any opportunity to damage that existing line with the vacuum excavator.”
Vacuum excavators are also commonly used for infrastructure applications related to water and sewer for new residential and commercial construction and during coring applications for road construction projects. “You take a core out of the road and then you need a vacuum excavator to go dig down, expose the line, tie into it, repair it – whatever the job may be –and then fill it back in,” Hancock explains.
MAINTENANCE TIPS IN COLD WEATHER
To keep vacuum excavators running smoothly in the colder months, perform the routine maintenance you would do on any normal day including dumping your debris tank, cleaning it out, and making sure your filters are clean, Hancock says.
“Most vacuum excavators have washable filters, so there’s a cyclonic filter that filters all of the heavier stuff out and we have a finer debris filter,” he says. “That finer debris material is something we want to make sure that we’ve cleaned out and we’ve washed it. It’s always a good idea to have at least two of those. I recommend three or four, so that way when you’re performing your job, you’ve got a dry clean filter ready to go in if you’re in a finer material or something starts clogging your debris filter.”
Dumping your fresh water tanks is especially important in cold weather applications.
“When you drain the fresh water tanks you want to anti-freeze the system,” Hancock says. “By anti-freezing the sys-
Boiler and heater options on vacuum excavators make it possible to use them even in permafrost. The one change to make in cold conditions is to anti-freeze the water tank.
Recognizing the next generation of the Canadian rental industry!
Canada is full of young, skilled and knowledgeable people who are driving the rental industry forward. From mechanics and store managers, sales representatives and event planners, they are the best and brightest in our industry. Join us as we celebrate the future of rental in Canada.
The Canadian Rental Service Top 10 Under 40 will recognize the achievements of the newest generation of rental industry owners and workers. Strong work ethics, leadership by example and efforts to grow the quality of our industry will be acknowledged.
WHO CAN BE NOMINATED?
Anyone who works in an equipment or event rental operation in Canada who will be under the age of 40 as of December 31, 2019.
The Top 10 Under 40 will be featured in the August edition of Canadian Rental Service magazine.
from equipment and party rental businesses to equipment suppliers and service providers, we all face a single over-arching challenge –finding the next generation of innovative, dedicated talent to drive the industry forward. Join us in celebrating that talent!
TECH TIPS
tem we’re putting an environmentally friendly anti-freeze through the water pump and through the system so nothing freezes, and you’re able to go and start performing the same job you did yesterday, even though the temperature might be -40C. As far as cold weather applications go, that really is the biggest one. We want to make sure we’re draining our water tanks and anti-freezing the unit.”
YEAR-ROUND MACHINES
Although vacuum excavators can be very handy for a variety of cold weather applications for infrastructure projects, fibre installations and oil field work, the jobs these machines perform are mostly required year-round, making a strong argument for rental houses to stock them 365 days a year.
“Whether it’s summertime or not, you still need to go and perform the same jobs, so there’s absolutely a reason for rental yards to stock this equipment year-round,” Hancock says.
Since this type of equipment will
perform differently depending on soil conditions, Hancock recommends users leverage their local dealer network for helpful information.
“Not only for service and maintenance and selling of equipment, but they’re also the experts for that region,” Hancock explains. “So as you’re going to start a new job, or as you’re new into an area, or even if you’re in an area where something isn’t working right, go back to that local dealer for ground conditions, recommendations on how to use it and different techniques. The local dealer will be able to provide all that information.”
SAFE EXPOSURE
One of the key benefits of using vacuum excavation – sometimes referred to as “soft excavation” – is that it very significantly reduces the possibility of damaging a utility when exposing it.
“Essentially we can go down and expose the utility with pressured water and a vacuum, sucking the spoils out, and you’re able to down and expose a
line without damaging it,” Hancock says. “There’s a lot of regulations out there as far as tolerance zones on where you can use an excavator and where you can’t use an excavator. Vacuum excavation really is the best means for the safest excavation for exposing utilities. That way you’re going down and you’re not damaging a gas line or breaking a water line. You’re able to expose it cleanly, wash off the area and see the utility.”
In extreme cold conditions, the utility isn’t the only thing that risks being damaged.
“Permafrost and frozen ground can be very hard on your traditional equipment, whether it’s a drill, a trencher or an excavator. Sometimes that can be as hard as a rock, depending on the temperatures outside and how long the temperature has been at that level,” Hancock says. “But hydro excavation allows you to get in there, especially with the heater package or the boiler package, and expose and dig a utility without damaging other equipment. There
CONTINUED ON PAGE 33
QUALITY RUNS IN THE FAMILY
The Snorkel SR5719 compact rough terrain telehandler delivers top performance in a compact design. Powerfully packed with full-time 4-wheel drive and variable speed drive, this telehandler is capable of lifting 2600kg (5,732 lbs) on any jobsite. An auxiliary hydraulic circuit on the boom can be controlled from the enclosed cab to deliver power and precision up to a working height of 5.79m (19 ft).
Spring into Action!
Multiquip has you covered with a complete line of light compaction equipment. The completely redesigned AR14 vibrator y roller brings greater productivity and improved performance. The MQ Rammax RX1575 is now available with bolt-on drum extensions and our reversible plate line will bring in profits with its dependability and wide model range. Ramp up your profits this Spring with Multiquip compaction!
AT YOUR SERVICE
When customers leave
by Russ Dantu
What happens when customers leave and you aren’t sure why? Maybe they were only your customer because of a one-time special project. Maybe they closed their business and therefore don’t need your services. Maybe they just wanted to try someone else and will return. Or maybe their heads were turned by a service or price-point you couldn’t offer. Knowing which of these is true is critical information for the survival of your company.
If we don’t keep in touch with our customers, some will feel we don’t value their business and go where they think they are treated better. I have lost only a handful to dropping the ball but I have lost quite a few others over the years for various reasons less under my control. I hate losing customers! So when it happens, I always do some digging to find out why. Their usual response is that my service is fantastic but management changed and had a friend offering the same service; they are downsizing; or they found the product cheaper somewhere else.
When customers leave, we can ignore it, fret about it, or actually do an exit interview with our customers to find out what truly is the reason. Here are a few ideas for you to try the next time this happens to you.
Contact your customer immediately. Ask detailed questions as to why they are leaving and see if there is anything you can do to change their mind. Get the facts before assuming you know why they left. Sometimes it can be as simple as them not liking their current salesperson and switching them to a salesperson who might work with their personality (or taking over their account yourself). You might save the business. Sometimes it’s just a matter of them feeling like you don’t value their business because you never thank them or keep in contact with them. Going on the defensive won’t help here. Suck it up, apologize, and try to save the account if you can.
Take their feedback seriously. If they complain about your processes or policies, then maybe it is time you jumped on the other side of the counter and thought like a customer. Are
your methods customer friendly or are they in place to make things easier for your employees? Change the communication channel. Some companies insist on just emailing customers. This may work well for some of your customers but others may prefer you call them, text them or visit them. If you do your homework properly, you’ll know this before it gets to the point your customer is leaving. When I first meet with a new customer, I always ask which type of communication they prefer. They appreciate this and it keeps them happy. If they have left, pick up the phone as that is the best way to get a response. Don’t burn bridges. It’s easy for us to get upset and maybe tell them to take their business elsewhere because we don’t need them. But what if they go somewhere else and realize the grass isn’t greener on the other side of the fence? If you burn that bridge, they’ll find a different provider instead of coming back to you. Always let them know you have appreciated their business over the years and hope that you can be of service to them somewhere down the road.
Apologize. Sometimes it is hard for us to swallow our pride or admit we dropped the ball. It’s always easier to pass the buck. But if you are as good as you think you are with your customer service practices, then be big enough to admit you were wrong and apologize for an error.
We all work extremely hard to get new customers and surveys show that it costs us five times more to find a new one than to keep an old one. Focus on your existing customer base and do all you can to keep them happy from the start. Maybe you only have a small piece of their business right now. By truly recognizing them as an important part of your business, you just might get rewarded with a bigger slice instead of always having to look for new customers to replace the ones that leave. CRS
Russ Dantu is a 30-year veteran of the rental industry and has been delivering workshops, seminars and keynotes on customer service for over 15 years. For more information, visit russdantu.com or email russ@russdantu.com
COMPACTION SHOWCASE
NEW THIS YEAR
rentquip.com
In 2019, Rentquip launched the Patron brand of compaction equipment which consists of small forward plates for both soil and asphalt, hydraulic reversible plates and rammers. All machines are built in Europe by an industry-leading manufac-
turer and have been proven on jobsites across the country in the harshest of conditions. The FP series of forward plates feature maintenance-free eccentrics and easily removeable optional water kits. Offered in three different sizes ranging from 14- to 20-inch widths, all FP machines are powered by Honda engines. Patron reversible RP plate compactors are powered by either Honda or Hatz engines and are offered in five different sizes ranging from 355 to 1,099 pounds. All machines are capable of producing outstanding compaction of medi-
um to deep granular soils with excellent ergonomics and a service-friendly design. The TA series rammers are extremely well-balanced and impactful machines offering excellent compaction of granular and cohesive soils. Powered by the latest Honda GXR120 engine (built specifically for rammers), these units are ideal for use in trenches or other narrow spaces. Rentquip stocks all models in all three warehouses across the country and backs all equipment with the same industry-leading service levels it has provided for many years.
BATTERIES INCLUDED ca.wackerneuson.com
Wacker Neuson has introduced its first batterypowered single-direction vibratory plate offering zero-emission compaction. The AP1850e and AP1840e series offer a new solution for contractors and rental centres looking for a cordless,
emission-free plate compactor for a variety of applications. These plates are ideally suited for use in new commercial interior or indoor renovation projects, poorly ventilated areas such as trenches and tunnels and projects with strict emission and noise guidelines, as well as traditional soil and asphalt compaction applications. The new AP series battery-powered plates are offered with a 19.7-inch operating width (AP1850e) or 15.8-inch operating width (AP1840e). The plates are available with a water tank and sprinkling set for asphalt applications (AP1850we/AP1840we). The plates are simple to operate with an easy, push-button start and charging indicator light on the battery. Wacker Neuson’s battery-powered vibratory plates are single-direction plates without a V-belt. The maintenancefree electric motor is mounted directly on the baseplate, which requires fewer wear parts and reduces service time, contributing to the low total cost of ownership. Wacker Neuson developed the batterypowered compaction equipment platform as a modular concept. The battery and charger used for the new AP series plates are the same as those used for the recently introduced AS50e battery rammer. This increases flexibility and economic efficiency as customers can use the same battery system in the rammer and any of the four new AP1850e and AP1840e plate models. Under typical working conditions, one battery charge can last a standard working day. Should the battery need to be changed, it can be easily removed without tools and replaced with a charged battery in a few simple steps. The battery system has been specially designed to withstand tough construction site conditions. The BP1000 lithium-ion battery system provides constant power output over the entire discharge phase, providing full compaction performance from the first to last minute of work. The battery management system protects against overcharging and provides long service life with active cooling during operation.
DOUBLE DRUM OR COMBINATION
8 casece.com
Case Construction Equipment has introduced the latest additions to the DV series of vibratory rollers. With models available in both double drum and combination (front drum with rear pneumatic tires) configurations, these rollers are powerful, easy to transport and nimble enough to work in a variety of residential and commercial construction applications where the operator may encounter tight quarters, curbs, structures and other obstacles. Designed with a high curb clearance, no overhangs and drum widths of 51.2 (DV36D, DV45CD) and 54.3 (DV45D) inches, these new roller models are ideal for walkways, residential driveways, bike paths, tennis courts, parking lots and other small- to midsize compaction applications. The drums can be offset to further improve accessibility and to improve performance during turns. Visibility is improved with excellent sight lines and an adjustable work station that allows the operator to get the best vantage point down to the drums. The new models include the DV36D asphalt roller (43.5 horsepower; 8,290 pounds), the DV45D asphalt roller (43.5 horsepower; 10,340 pounds) and the DV45CD combination roller (43.5 horsepower; 9,520 pounds).
The DV series combines compact size, excellent
manoeuvrability and visibility with many of the same features found in larger compaction machines. A 43.5-horsepower Tier 4 Final engine delivers high centrifugal forces and frequencies at lower RPM, making the machine more fuel efficient, while selectable dual frequencies (2,700/3,420 VPM) further improve productivity and allows operators to dial the machine in to meet the compaction needs of the job.
PROTECTED ENGINE
8 toro.com
Toro offers three models of heavy-duty rammers to handle a variety of lightto mid-duty compaction applications. All models are equipped with a high-impact polyethelyne shoe with a steel-reinforced base plate to handle challenging terrain, while the heavy-duty rubber shock mounts cushion vibration to the operator for greater comfort. Additionally, Toro rammers feature a wrap-around handle and side shield that protects the engine and other key components from damage on the jobsite. A see-through polyethylene fuel tank allows the operator to check fuel levels with ease. The Toro rammer line consists of the VR-2650 (Honda GX100 engine, 2,650 pounds impact), VR- 3100 (GX100, 3,100 pounds) and VR-3500 (GX120 engine, 3,500 pounds).
COMPACTION SHOWCASE
minutes, the compactor comes standard with 24- and 33.5-inch widths to increase flexibility. Standard padfoot drum segments with two scrapers per drum offer quick compaction of cohesive soils and clays, while optional smooth drums increase on-site versatility by compacting gravel and sand materials. Featuring front and rear drum vibration, the BMP 8500 multipurpose compactor’s fully enclosed exciter housing prevents water and debris infiltration, significantly improving system reliability. Two vibration amplitudes of 0.022- and 0.044-inches allow the operator to tailor compaction force to lift thickness. With its 2,520 VPM vibration frequency, the 3,516-pound BMP 8500 generates 16,000 pounds of centrifugal force in high amplitude and 8,000 pounds in low amplitude: ideal when compacting nearby structures sensitive to compaction forces. Powered by a 19.4-horsepower Tier 4 Final diesel engine, the BMP 8500 features lockable engine hoods that swing up and out of the way, offering unimpeded access to the engine and components for efficient maintenance. The machine’s easy-servicing concept includes a diagnostic module with fault code reporting to quickly troubleshoot issues in the field, plus no grease points on the compactor to shorten daily maintenance. Bomag’s 3-2-1 warranty coverage for the BMP 8500 delivers peace-ofmind operation by backing the exciter gear, pump and motor for three years, the
engine for two years and the entire machine with full warranty for one year.
SUPERIOR WATER CONTROL
husqvarna.com
The Husqvarna LF 75 LAT forward plate compactor is used to compact soil and asphalt for repair jobs and maintenance work, such as driveways, pathways and parking lots. When compacting asphalt, it is important to use water. The LF 75 LAT features a removable water tank with an oversized, secure cap to make refills fast, easy and less frequent.
Water consumption is optimized with an easy-to-reach flow adjustment valve. The water flows using a unique system that eliminates the need for piping, which could get clogged or broken. Additional features and benefits include an exclusive vibration-dampening handle allows operators to keep working with less fatigue; a plate design that does not leave marks on the asphalt; a maintenance-free water system that prevents asphalt from sticking to the plate and a 13-liter, corrosion-free water tank that is very easy to hook on and off for speedy refilling.
are instances where hydro excavators are the first on the jobsite. They’ll go out there, they’ll trench down into the permafrost until they’ve reached the point where the permafrost stops. They’ll create however a big of a hole the excavator needs to get in there and perform the rest of the work. Vacuum excavation has very good use for permafrost areas or frozen ground so you can get in there and remove the permafrost safely without damaging equipment.”
NEW TECHNOLO GIES AND TRENDS
While the use of vacuum excavators for a variety of applications has increased over the past five to 10 years, one regular issue that has come up over the years is that the units can run out of their supplies of fresh water. To combat this problem, Ditch Witch has designed new nozzle technologies.
“We’ve found that rotating nozzles are best for exposing utilities because
you don’t have a single-point spray, the water is always oscillating so you’re never focused on one area,” Hancock says. “We’re also able to nozzle it down and use about 50 per cent less water and still be able to outperform older nozzles… which means you’re able to stay on site longer without having to go get more water –which is downtime – and by using less water you are filling up less volume in your debris tank.”
Filling up a debris tank less often allows the user to stay on site longer, and reduce the number of trips taken off site to empty the tank.
“A trip to the dump, or wherever your dump site is, can be half a day in some cases,” Hancock says. “Two hours is probably a typical round-trip dump. That’s two hours out of your day that you’re not able to continue to perform. Staying on site longer really helps complete jobs faster.”
Another relatively recent change in trends for vacuum excavators, fuelled largely by increased demand for fibre
installations, is the need for quieter operation at jobsites.
“No one wants to be getting off work and going home to enjoy a nice evening with the family, then have this very loud piece of equipment outside working,” Hancock says. “We’ve decreased the sound of our overall units to a point where somebody inside would hardly hear it.”
In many residential areas, allowable operating times for heavy equipment are based on regulations related to the decibels that a machine puts out.
“So by getting underneath those decibels we’re able to allow our guys to work longer hours,” Hancock says.
With the combination of quiet operation, reducing the possibility of damaging existing utilities, and a reduction on the wear and tear of traditional excavation equipment in cold weather applications, vacuum excavators are set up to provide a solid option to construction contractors and telecommunications service providers for many years to come. CRS
• DRI-EAZ
Dehumidifiers, Blowers, Water Extraction and Specialty Drying
• JENNY
Air Compressors
• OZTEC
Concrete Vibrators, Backpacks and Ceiling grinders
Senior leadership should be actively involved in health and safety.
by Jeff Thorne
Ithink we can all agree that senior leadership involvement in health and safety is critical when it comes to achieving desired health and safety results, however, in the illustrious words of Noam Chomsky, “People don’t know what they don’t know.” When senior leadership – directors, managers and supervisors (yes, supervisors) –is not well informed of the state of health and safety or the communication network within an organization it becomes more reactive than proactive. This goes right down to document generation: how it flows and who it flows to. Here are some ways senior leadership and management can demonstrate leadership on preventing health and safety risks at the workplace.
Get more involved. All levels of leadership can participant in inspections, communicate health and safety status updates and ensure that safety communication channels are established and functioning. When managers are actively involved they gain credibility and respect and it promotes buy-in. This also reinforces that safety is something that is truly valued.
Manage hazards and controls effectively. Treat near-misses and hazard reports with the same level of attention as incidents and keep workers in the communication loop. When hazards are raised to management the individual that raised the concern should be aware of the resolution and action plan. Management should be actively following up with the individual to ensure the implemented controls are adequate. Management engagement leads to open communication. Focus on controls as a key component of the risk-management process. When there is a focus on managing controls and not solely on managing risk, workers gain a further appreciation of the process.
Work directly with employees. The two-way process of involving workers and gaining their constructive engagement is important to the success of management health and safety initiatives. Involve workers in the decision-making process when it comes to identifying and controlling workplace hazards. Worker partic-
ipation helps to establish a culture of communication and dialogue. Management should encourage active health and safety involvement on a daily basis. Sometimes asking a simple question of a worker or involving them in the right forum is all it takes to improve communication and obtain adequate solutions. Senior leadership needs to encourage upward communication and ensure that workers are listened to and what they bring forward is acted upon. This collaborative process helps to improve the employer/employee relationship, basing it on trust and joint problem-solving.
Provide resources and support. Too often, we don’t allow adequate time and resources to ensure that safety goals can be met.
Organizational resources are needed for planning, implementing, reviewing and improving safety performance. This includes adequate support for and promotion of the Joint Health and Safety Committee. Management support for the JHSC can demonstrate that safety is part of how business is conducted and not an afterthought. Monitor and review the safety system. It’s hard to tell if something is working if there is not a way to continuously measure and evaluate it. An organization’s safety system should have a process for reporting health and safety failures to senior leadership, but also needs to identify the timeliness of management’s response to such failures and what actions need to be taken. The tale of the tape, the success of your system, may be measured through regular audits of the effectiveness of your controls. These audits also allow you to assess the impact of changes, such as the introduction of new work processes, procedures or products, and collect worker feedback on the effect on your safety culture.
Senior leadership involvement in and knowledge of health and safety and the system that manages it are vital to the success of any organization. CRS
Jeff Thorne is manager of training at Occupational Safety Group.
SOLUTIONS FROM THE GROUND UP
Master the toughest soils, gravel and asphalt with our line of rammers, reversible plate compactors, forward plate compactors, drum rollers and trench rollers. Our line of compaction equipment is built on three basic principles: high performance, clear focus on efficiency and a strong service and support nextwork to back you up. Call your local Husqvarna representative to learn more. 800-288-5040
