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Serving the Canadian rental industry for 45 years.
10 A-1 RENTS ALL A-1 Rent Alls in Saskatchewan hits all the markets in the rental industry.
16
FLOOD TRAILERS
Our specialty trailers item focuses on what you need to help customers in flood zones.
18 COMPLIANT HAMMERS
Did you know there are special rules for chipping hammers on bridge decks?
4
EDITORIAL
Trade shows can’t be replaced by any other medium in at least one respect.
22 CONCRETE SHOWCASE
Top concrete products for 2022.
14 WHAT WENT HONG
A new silica control tool can help prevent dangerous exposure.
By James Hong
26 HOPE IS NOT A PLAN
How to get top dollar for your business. By Adam Snook
15 AT YOUR SERVICE
Giving back to your community for the right reasons goes a long way.
By Russ Dantu
Wellspring of the unexpected
by Patrick Flannery
Trade shows offer the chance to learn what you didn’t know you didn’t know.
Iattended the Concrete Expo in Mississauga, Ont., recently along with our new associate editor, Daniel Reale-Chin, and our slightly less new brand manager, Robert Elias. It was the first in-person event I’d attended where there was a significant presence from the rental industry. It was great to see old friends and get updated on what they’d been up to for the past two years. Let’s just say the pandemic was not always kind to the robust rental physique – and I can say that as a prime example.
Overall the show was excellent with nearly two halls of exhibitors and a fairly busy show floor. But something happened there that really reinforced to me why we need to continue to support our live shows across the country.
Trade shows are like a big lake...when you throw your line in, you never know what you will draw out.
Daniel and I were at the show with a general objective to find a story for this issue, which has a focus on the concrete sector. I knew from past experience that if we went in with an open mind, something was likely to fall in. Trade shows are like that.
Sure enough, we got into a deep conversation on Cooper Equipment Rental’s booth with one of their suppliers, Cliff Kniesly from Michigan Pneumatic. Kniesly turned out to be an absolute firehose of information about concrete breaking technology, including Canadian regulations for tools on road deck projects that I had never heard of. It turns out that there is a lot to know about supplying the right tools for these projects, and I suspect very few of us know it all. Scott MacKinnon of Cooper limped over to join the conversation, still smarting from his all-star performance at a baseball
game the previous evening. He’s been renting equipment to projects on Toronto’s elevated Gardiner expressway for decades and probably does know it all, but he confessed that he’d like to see an article on the topic so he could share it with his staff. Well, Mr. MacKinnon, ask and ye shall receive. You can check out Reale-Chin’s debut Tech Tips feature on page 24 telling you what questions to ask when customers are renting breaking equipment for deck work, and how to avoid sending them away with equipment that might not be right for the job.
It occurred to me later that something remarkable had happened. When we walked onto the show floor, neither Daniel nor I knew of Kniesly’s existence. We weren’t specifically thinking about chipping hammers and had no idea there was any regulation about their use on deck work. Yet we walked away with not only a whole new awareness of an issue in the concrete business, but also a couple helpful new friends and some dynamite content for this magazine.
Try doing that online.
Trade shows are like a big lake full of everything that is in the industry. When you throw your line in, you never know what you will draw out. The opportunity to discover unexpected things is unique and, as far as I’ve seen, not replicable by any other means.
In-person trade shows have suffered declining trends in support from attendees and exhibitors for a couple decades now. The pandemic interrupted the usual show cycle and reduced budgets, which has caused many shows to limp back smaller than they were before. They need our support. Get out to your local rental show and take advantage of the chance to learn something new. CRS
KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS STEP UP TO SUPPORT RENTAL MART
Point of Rental Software, Alert Superior Rental Software, CM Equip and Western Global have stepped up to support Canadian Rental Mart 2022. With their support, we’ll be rolling out the red carpet to construction contractors and landscapers as well as rental stores on Sept. 27 and 28 at the International Centre in Mississauga, Ont. Rental Mart’s gold sponsor, Point of Rental, is a rental- and inventory-management software provider. Through its rental software, Point of Rental has served over 5,000 businesses in 78 countries. Alert Superior and CM Equip are Rental Mart’s silver sponsors. Alert Superior is a rental software provider with a fleet of products for rental stores including applications for event and party rentals, heavy-equipment rentals, industrial rentals and general rentals. CM Equip is a distributor of equipment for the construction industry with a huge array of products including its own manufactured abrasive disks; slings, binders and hoses; and heavy equipment from companies like Groundhog, Dosko and others. Western Global provides temporary storage units to construction sites, disaster zones and anywhere else looking to store clean fuels like renewable diesel in their secure cubes. They’ll be providing some great fuel – beer– at Rental Mart in September. Register to attend or apply to exhibit your products at canadianrentalmart.com or over on our website, canadianrentalservice.com.
ARA FORECASTING GROWTH
Even with supply chain issues and labor shortages, the American Rental Association has projected Canada, will see 9.6 percent rental revenue growth in 2022, reaching $4.5 billion followed by increases of 6.4 percent in 2023, 3.8 percent in 2024, 2.1 percent in 2025 and 1.8 percent in 2026, to $5.2 billion. U.S. equipment rental revenue, including both construction and general tool, is expected to grow by 11.1 percent to reach nearly $56 billion in 2022. According to the study, U.S. construction equipment rental is leading the way, with 13 percent growth this year to total $41.7 billion in revenue following a 10.2 percent increase in 2021. General tool in 2022 is expected to grow seven percent to reach $14.1 billion. While equipment-rental revenue growth slows to six percent in 2023, 2.9 percent in 2024, 3.6 percent in 2025 and 3.9 percent in 2026.
“One thing we know is that rental
revenues grow when the fleet expands or when rates increase,” says John McClelland, ARA vice-president for government affairs and chief economist. “Today, supply chain issues are inhibiting fleet growth while inflation is pushing rates higher. In the past we saw a lot of revenue growth that we attributed to fleet growth. Now we are seeing revenue growth that is being driven by higher rates. Meanwhile, price pressures are rippling through the economy, impacting producer prices in some cases even more than the better published consumer price indexes. Supply chain constraints are endemic throughout manufacturing, including construction and materials handling equipment. The result is shipment delays and a scarcity of equipment. Rental companies are more likely to be able to provide equipment more quickly than any dealership, which gives them pricing power.”
REALE-CHIN JOINS CANADIAN RENTAL SERVICE
Daniel Reale-Chin has joined the Canadian Rental Service team as associate editor. In the role, he will assist editor Patrick Flannery with all aspects of content production for Canadian Rental Services print, online and social channels, as well as coordination of the Canadian Rental Mart trade show. Reale-Chin brings a background in the financial press to the role, having prepared reports for Investment Executive and editing articles for Investor’s Digest. He’s a graduate of the University of Toronto’s professional writing program and lives in Toronto.
“Daniel is a valuable addition to the team and is bringing lots of enthusiasm and can-do spirit to the role already,” said Flannery. “He’s got his first article already under his belt and his writing skills are outstanding. I think we’re all going to enjoy the stories and insights he brings us as he gets to know this exciting industry.”
“My Dad works in dry-wall, uncle’s were mechanics and I come from a family of contractors. I’m excited to learn more about the equipment-rental business, learn about some of the projects our readers have helped make happen and maybe pass down some knowledge at the next family dinner. I had my first crack at writing an article for this month’s edition of Canadian Rental Service, and now that I’ve got a pair of steel-toe safety boots, I’m excited to go visit some more readers, see more rental stores and share the stories of great people in the equipment-rental business,” says Daniel.
INDUSTRY NEWS
UNITED RENTALS INVESTS IN FORD ELECTRIC TRUCKS
United Rentals has announced a new agreement with Ford Pro to purchase all-electric vehicles for its North American rental and company fleets. The agreement initially includes orders for 500 F-150 Lightning trucks and 30 E-Transit vans, with 120 trucks and all 30 vans to be delivered in 2022. The vehicles will be used by United Rentals customers on construction and industrial jobsites and by the company’s sales, service and delivery personnel. United Rentals has selected the Ford F-150 Lightning model with a maximum target range of 320 miles and a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. The E-Transit is an all-electric commercial cargo van with a target range of 126 miles.
Matthew Flannery, CEO of United Rentals, said, “We’re pleased to demonstrate leadership in the use of 100-percent-electric vehicles. We’re committed to helping our rental customers meet their GHG reduction goals.”
United Rentals will partner with Ford Pro Solution experts to provide charging options for customers that include home, worksite and Ford’s BlueOval Charge Network. Additionally, Ford Pro Solution experts will assist United Rentals with the optimal placement and use of the new vehicles in the company’s electrification plan and installation of charging infrastructure. United Rentals has set a goal of reducing the greenhouse gas emissions intensity of its business by 35 percent by 2030, from 2018.
SUNBELT PLACES ORDER FOR 700 FORD F-150 LIGHTNING TRUCKS
Sunbelt Rentals, North America’s premier equipment rental company, is pleased to announce the expansion of its electric on-road fleet with the order of 700 Ford F-150 Lightning trucks. The purchase of the trucks will contribute to the goal Sunbelt Rentals set to reduce greenhouse gas emission intensity by 35 percent by 2030.
“This investment highlights our strong commitment to reduce our GHG emissions through the adoption of new on-road fleet technology,” said Al Halvorsen, vice-president of environmental, social and governance at Sunbelt Rentals.
“Starting the conversion of our truck fleet to electric alternatives, like the Ford Lightning, is critical to our ability to reach our ambitious GHG reduction goals and still continue to serve our customers with availability, reliability and ease.”
Sunbelt Rentals will also purchase and install Level 2 wall-mount chargers at employees’ homes for more efficient charging.
“The demand in the market already exceeds supply for the next few years for these electric vehicles, so we are incredibly excited to be receiving the first shipment of these trucks this summer,” said Eric Jahnsen, director of transportation management at Sunbelt Rentals. “This initiative aligns with the commitment we make to our customers and team members.”
Sunbelt Rentals is actively investing in new low- and zero-carbon technologies for both its on-road fleet and its stable of rental equipment. Making this investment not only supports Sunbelt Rentals vision, but it also helps its customers as they look toward their own ESG goals.
WFW JOINS FORCES WITH MOVIETECH CAMERA RENTALS
William F. White International, a Sunbelt Rentals company, is joining forces with Movietech Camera Rentals, an independent camera, lens and grip rental specialist for the film and television industry in the U.K. This was made possible through the acquisition of Movietech by Sunbelt Rentals. This is a significant move for WFW, kicking off its international expansion to meet the growing demands for content worldwide, driven by international streaming services like Amazon Prime, Crave, Netflix, Disney plus and Apple TV plus. Movietech was established in 1991 and has bases at Pinewood Studios and Great Point Seren Studios in Wales. Toronto-based WFW is Canada’s largest film equipment rental company with a more than 50-year history. It was purchased by Sunbelt Rentals in 2019.
Movietech Chairman, John Buckley says, “We are delighted to join the team at Sunbelt Rentals. Having enjoyed a long-standing relationship with our friends and colleagues at WFW in North America, we are certain this represents a perfect opportunity for Movietech to offer a scaled-up version of the respected boutique-style service we are known to provide.”
The senior team will remain with Movietech to ensure a smooth integration of the business and look after its clients, with Trevor Huys, vice-president of camera and virtual production at WFW, overseeing the operations.
“Our business revolves around the relationships we have with our clients. They trust us,” says Huys. “This is what we see and know of Movietech, having worked with them in the past. With a shared purpose and set of values, our employees and clients will only benefit from our combined reach and expertise. We are looking forward to the future.” Huys is an associate member of Canadian Society of Cinematographers and American Society of Cinematographers.
A-1 RENTS ALL
How a Saskatchewan company grew its operations to offer one of the most diverse rental fleets in Canada.
Strength in diversity – that’s long been the philosophy for success at A-1 Rent-Alls in Regina, Sask. Beyond the regular roster of contractor equipment for rent, the Wright family has a booming event rentals division and a scaffolding division with equipment for rent and erection services for scaffolding, hording, superchutes and swing stages.
by Treena Hein
A-1 also has a thriving repair section and offers a wide variety of operator training courses. If that weren’t enough, there are equipment operators on hand for hire, and freight delivery is also available.
It was back in 1963 when Roy Wright started the business with some hand tools, landscaping equipment and tables and chairs. His son Dave took over in 1978. “It was a small business at first,” says Dave. “The demand for rentals wasn’t strong at the start, but over the years, as Saskatchewan’s natural resources became more important, the population and the trades grew, and so did the demand for rentals.”
During the 1980s, Dave transitioned procedures to ensure rental items were cared for and returned on time. At a rental show one year, he looked closely at rental software and decided to go for it. “As hard as it was to learn how to operate the system, it was a really big step towards being able to organize and get the most out of the inventory,” he says. “It took a few good years to implement, and it’s safe to say it’s a on ongoing process to get it running smoothly but it’s been very worthwhile. We’re ever-evolving with the new technologies.”
Dave’s wife Debbie entered the A-1 picture in 1987 to do the accounting. One of their daughters, Desiree, started working in 1998 and now manages the event and party division. Their other daughter, Jamie, started in 2004 and manages the equipment division. “We’ve both grown into our roles and we both have had a very hands-on approach to all aspects of the business,” says Jamie.
Within the past year, Dave and Debbie have also taken on their son, Stephen, as a human
resources manager. “We’ve always been proud of our level of employee satisfaction, and as we continue to grow and expand we want to maintain that satisfaction,” says Debbie. “Stephen’s prior HR experience made him a great fit for that role, and since he’s come on board we’ve rolled out multiple initiatives to maintain our spot as an employer of choice.”
DIVING INTO EVENTS AND BIGGER EQUIPMENT
After attending a number of rental shows, it was around 1985 that Dave and Debbie started talking about expanding their event offerings. “Some smaller event equipment was making a profit, so we knew the demand was there,” says Dave. “We started with some smaller tents and it grew and grew. Eventually we had to put events in another location as we simply just didn’t have any more room. But when we decided to split the locations and really focus on growing the event division, in turn it allowed us to better focus on each division separately. I think it allowed both divisions to grow beyond what they would have if we’d kept them together.”
On the equipment side, with the Regina area population growing, there were more and more calls to A-1 for more commercial and industrial-scale equipment. “I could see the return on investment with bigger equipment would be a good way to continue to grow the fleet,” says Dave. “I’ve always had an interest in construction and had worked in the construction trade prior to taking over A-1 from my dad, so that made for a seamless transition.”
With the arrival of bigger equipment, deliv-
ery was a must as customers either didn’t have the proper vehicles to move it or liked the convenience of delivery. “Over the years we’ve grown from using a truck and trailer, to a tilt deck and most recently have added a semi to our fleet,” says Jamie. “Repair of customer equipment and small engine repair started because we were getting a lot of questions about where there was servicing and parts available in the area. And we also had a lot of people coming to us to buy our used equipment. So, it seemed like a natural fit to offer new and used equipment and repair. Most of the repair is through word-of-mouth.”
In 2014, a construction boom started in the Regina area and operator training became a requirement for the staff at A-1 and everywhere else. “We decided to offer it to our customers as well,” says Jamie. “We now offer training in fall arrest and operation of skid steers, forklift and aerial work platforms. We also have for hire operators for forklifts and telehandler jobs per hour, and offer delivery and truck drivers in Classes 1, 3 and 5.”
Before the pandemic, business was split at about 70 percent equipment division (rental, operator training etc.) 20 percent events division, with the remainder the scaffolding division.
USING TIME WISELY
Desiree explains that prior to COVID, the event division was flourishing with weddings, tradeshows and more. The months of the widespread shutdowns were tough, but she and her family used their time wisely and moved in a positive direction with the events side of the business. They established an e-commerce website, put some new business procedures in place and refreshed the retail and rental showrooms, which had expanded over the last ten years.
“We sell all types of different party themes and have an extensive line of party gear all year round to cheer on our
Roy Wright started the family business in 1963. Decades later, the family has grown along side the business and the Wright’s are happy to still be at the reigns.
COVER STORY
favourite CFL team,” says Desiree. In 2016, the Wrights renovated the building they owned next to the party store. “We had it rented out to a boxing club and when the lease came due decided it should become the equipment store as we simply had run out of space in our old location,” says Jamie. “Now we do business side by side. We joke about this being Regina’s rental block. We also have a large yard and structure down the block where we keep all our large fleet equipment like site trailers, storage containers and big lifts.”
ONGOING CHALLENGES AND FUTURE HOPES
One big challenge for A-1 over the years is, as Jamie puts it, “staying in tune” with what the economy does. “We find when the economy is down, we really suffer as all competition tends to cut their rates and come after your business,” she explains. “We took some of those slower opportunities to really show our customers that we may be less competitive in our prices but our service speaks for
itself. On the other hand, when we see the economy really amp up we get so busy it’s hard to keep up, but you want to be able to take care of everyone. For these circumstances, we’ve really built up our service department and hired extra people.”
Looking forward, the Wrights hope to continue to grow their fleet and gain market share in contractor business. Jamie would really like to grow traffic control rentals (signs, arrows and message boards) in the future as well. “We really pride ourselves on being a local
company that strives to be the best rental option out there,” Jamie says. “One call rents all! We want to keep providing the best service in the city, and the customers and referrals will hopefully continue to follow.”
As a family, they are certainly proud of their business, but Desiree says they are most proud of the work they do with the community. “Over the years, we’ve supported many different organizations and have been recognized for this with the Philanthropist Award for community involvement as well as being a runner up
A-1 uses sites like Pinterest to generate fresh ideas for event rentals.
Beyond the rented equipment, A-1 offers its staff and customers training in fall arrest and operation of skid steers, forklift and aerial work platforms.
What started out with some hand tools, landscaping equipment and tables and chairs has grown into a full-spectrum equipment and event rental operation.
in the Diversity category for the Paragon Awards,” she shares. “We’re also proud of the fun and exciting atmosphere that we provide for both customers and employees. We are thankful for all of the great
customer relations that we’ve kept over the years as well as our excellent staff retention rate. Our team is second to none.”
As for working with family, Desiree
notes that as with any family business, personal relationships can certainly invite complications.
“When the family is involved, items that might be strictly transactional for other businesses are subject to a family dynamic,” she says. “But it’s extremely rewarding at the same time to work together every day. We get to make decisions and execute in a way that’s unique to our ownership structure, and we get to connect with each other on a daily basis. It works for us really well. We have a great business environment with an air of personal care, which our employees and customers love to engage with. People like to engage personally with our organization, and we like to engage with them back.” CRS
Check out our complete archive of Canadian rental store profiles at canadianrentalservice.com > Features > Profiles
The all-new Hamm HTC 15 trench compactor from Brandt delivers reliable compaction and enhanced safety in a remotely controlled unit.
More Productive
The flexible 22- or 32-inch-wide drum and articulated joint increases maneuverability on tight turns.
Safer Operation
Near-field detection ensures the machine stops when the line of sight is lost, if the operator lets go of the joysticks.
Low Maintenance
The fully-enclosed compactor ensures maintenance-free operation of the lower end vibration exciters and drive motors.
WHAT WENT HONG
Preventing exposure
by James Hong
The BCCSA’s new silica control tool can prevent dangerous exposures.
One of the most dangerous materials found on all sizes of construction sites, crystalline silica dust is created by abrasive actions from tools coming into contact with stone, rock, concrete, brick, block and mortar. In 2017, it was reported that approximately 380,000 Canadians are exposed to silica at work with estimates increasing exponentially as cities struggle to keep up with the growing demands for habitation. Regulation outlines the requirement for exposure control training, control measures and safe-work practices and procedures based on the upper limit of possible exposure. This calculation requires sampling to measure airborne silica.
Until recently, wearable dust monitors were the only method for sampling, requiring a certified industrial hygiene specialist or other trained specialists to advise as to the best sampling technique and to obtain dust samples with wearable dust monitoring samplers within inches of the employee’s mouth for eight hours. The sample is then sent to a certified laboratory to determine the silica dust level, at which time the regulated exposure control measures are implemented.
The B.C. Construction Safety Alliance (BCCSA) has announced the silica control tool, an alternative to direct sampling by the employer. This is indeed a very good step for the construction industry. In some cases this tool is a means to use previously collected data for implementing exposure control measures without the need for sampling.
The tool guides the user through the assessment of risk from exposure, identification of the expected exposure, suggestions for appropriate controls, identification of expected exposure with the controls, PPE that may be required, and production of components of a related exposure control plan.
As we all know, more often than not, construction sites have a short duration of work with ongoing changes in work type and project
requirements. This makes it very challenging to sample for respirable crystalline silica dust-producing activities. The silica control tool provides an invaluable safety measure to ensure employers meet their obligations and workers are protected. The standard approach to many worksite hazards is to rely on commonly accepted and used PPE guidelines. While these guidelines are and continue to be very reliable methods for protecting workers from harm, they were not meant for extreme dangers.
Extensive research on the effects of crystalline silica dust exposure have recorded that workers who inhale these particles are at increased risk of developing serious silica-related diseases, including silicosis, an incurable lung disease that can lead to disability and death, lung cancer, COPD and kidney disease. These serious and life threatening illnesses can take years to develop by which time it would be almost impossible to identify the direct cause, leaving workers without any recourse or possibility for financial support to care for their illness.
I always return to the topic of the responsibility of employers for training their workforce and the rights of workers to refuse unsafe work and demand training and protection. The threefold problem here is that employers often assign the lowest possible budgetary requirements for safety training; workers can be worried about losing their jobs; and, perhaps most importantly, workers cannot ask for their rights if they do not know what they are. Any steps to make it easier for employers to be compliant are steps in the right direction, as long as it doesn’t omit the science behind the issue.
The silica control tool full details can be found at silicacontroltool.com.
Be safe. Be well. CRS
James Hong is an OHS consultant and writer for the construction industry.
by Russ Dantu
AT YOUR SERVICE
Giving back
Doing the right thing for the right reasons is good business.
Iget asked for donations almost monthly.
Sometimes it’s to speak for free at an event and sometimes it’s in my other business where branded swag and apparel is requested. Sometimes it depends on the time of year as to how much I can do but I almost always do something when asked because it is just good business sense.
I have made it a priority the past several years to give back to the community as much as I am able. Obviously, like many of you, the past few years have been challenging, but that didn’t mean there weren’t opportunities that wouldn’t cost me a lot to make a real difference. People remember companies or individuals that help out with their causes. Case in point: in the past three years, I’ve been volunteering for a Christmas organization that provides gifts and Christmas hampers to families in need. They have strict criteria and a family can only be nominated or apply once every four years. After the first year of volunteering, I told them I’d love the opportunity to see if I can save them some money on the sacks and bears they use for their Santa-themed handouts. I didn’t ask to see what they were paying. I just truly wanted to see if I could save them some money.
In the past two years, that has now turned into almost $47,000 worth of business and it’s saved them a large chunk of money they were paying the previous supplier.
Here’s the rules for giving back to the community that have worked well for me and maybe will help you as well:
Always do it because you truly want to give back and make a difference. I see so many people who volunteer that have hidden agendas. This becomes apparent very early on and people may call you out on it or ask you to leave. If you have a hidden agenda, you are doing it for the wrong reason.
Don’t give more than you can afford.
Whether financially or through time commitment, if it is going to stretch you, you may let them down or have to back out of what you said you will do. There is nothing wrong with being conservative in your offering and then upping it if you are able. If we offer too much and then fail to follow through, it could leave a bad taste in their mouths.
It’s OK to promote your business when volunteering, but be strategic with it. Build the relationships first. Slow and steady wins the race. Learn about the organization or the other volunteers and what they do and see if you can offer them some business.
Let your suppliers and customers know what you are doing. If done properly, it won’t be seen as bragging. Saying it is part of your strategic planning sessions that happen every year shows them that your company mandates giving back to the community. The added bonus is that I’ve recruited several companies and many individuals over the years to join in on different causes and make a difference.
Think of it as an educational opportunity. If you have the budget or time, look for some of your employees to get involved as it is an incredible way to build a positive workplace culture.
There are many ways we can give back, including financial contributions, sponsorship of events, volunteering on a board, joining Rotary or other volunteer organizations or taking the lead ourselves and organizing a fundraiser for a worthwhile cause.
Check out your city or town and see what you can do to give back. The benefits just might surprise you! 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. Visit russdantu.com.
SPECIALTY TRAILERS
RISING WATERS
Flood-relief trailers can get you ready for the deluge.
The second installment in our specialty trailers series looks at an especially timely niche given the terrible flooding that hit B.C. this winter. Here’s some advice on creating a ready-made trailer full of equipment to respond when your customers are in danger of being washed away.
by Treena Hein
Pumps are the first thing that come to mind when you think of floods. But equipment for saving and repairing buildings may be an even higher priority.
We think of floods occurring when major rivers thaw in the spring, but floods – the most costly type of disaster in terms of property damage, according to Public Safety Canada – can occur anytime. This was demonstrated in late 2021, when torrential rains surprised southern British Columbia. Rivers burst their banks and landslides tore down mountains, causing several deaths, massive property destruction and widespread livestock loss.
It’s a good idea for rental companies to be ready to ship trailers out with ready-to-go equipment needed for floods, says Jim Mandeville, senior project manager at First Onsite Property Restoration, a disaster remediation company that serves Canada, the U.S. and Puerto Rico. “Having a trailer of equipment that can be transported quickly to a flood zone can pay off handsomely when disaster strikes,” he says. “With a flood, there are many types of equipment needed and as with any disaster, the faster that equip-
EQUIPMENT TO CONSIDER FOR READY-TO-GO FLOOD DISASTER RELIEF TRAILERS:
• Pumps
• Industrial fans
• Dehumidifiers
• Generators
• Porta-potties
• Light towers
• Heaters
• Mini-excavators
• Skid steers/track loaders
ment can be brought on site, the better.”
The first thing that needs to be done in a flood after saving lives is to secure buildings, says Mandeville. “Our buildings aren’t designed to get wet, and if it’s a flood caused by an extreme weather event and not overland, roofs may need to be secured,” he says. “That means generators, light stands, aerial work platforms of various sizes and types. With any type of flood, the water has to be removed with pumps
FLOODING CAUSES, FREQUENCY AND FUTURE
• Floods in Canada can be caused by snowmelt runoff or freshet flooding, storm rainfall, ice jams during ice formation and spring break-up, and bursting of natural dams; coastal flooding can result from storm surges, hurricanes and tsunamis.
• Most floods in Canada are due to spring thaw issues, with sudden heavy rainfall events taking second place.
• There have been many small and large floods in Canada’s history, from coast to coast. They can occur in any region at any time of the year.
• Floods are the most costly natural disasters in Canada in terms of property damage.
• Frequency of flood events are expected to increase, particularly in coastal areas, due to climate change.
of varying sizes, fans and large dehumidifiers. To remove damaged materials and debris, we need smallish equipment such as skid steers and plenty of dumpsters. After debris removal and buildings are dried and disinfected, other types of equipment are needed for the re-construction phase.”
CONSIDERATIONS FOR PREPARING A FLOOD RELIEF TRAILER
On the question of how to mount flood-related equipment on trailers, Mandeville says large dehumidifiers are preferably skid-mounted because this makes it easy to move them around using a crane. Large diesel generators can be accessed pretty easily whether they’re mounted or not mounted.
In terms of concerns over types of trailers that are best transported to and through a flooded area, Mandeville says this really isn’t an issue because clearing roads has already been a top priority in order to save and safeguard lives. “We’ve had a few situations where we’ve used helicopters to move equipment up north and when there was extensive flooding, but it’s very rare,” he says.
The size of trailer obviously relates to what it will carry and the weight of that load. Flat deck, single-axle or multi-axle trailers can be considered and the tow vehicle for the trailer also needs to be properly sized.
MAKING IT PROFITABLE
Mandeville acknowledges that floods and other disasters don’t come at regular intervals, but points out that the
particular equipment (large fans and dehumidifiers) to deal with floods may be needed year-round more than rental company leaders might think. It’s up to each rental company to research their specific market in terms of the yearly demand for flood equipment and the “surge potential” for disasters as well.
And, it may make sense to store equipment on trailers, making it fast to ship out, says Mandeville, for those rental stores with bigger warehouses. This way you avoid the costs of loading trailers. “It takes six guys at least a half a day to load a trailer with flood equipment,” he says. “It’s all hand-stacked and awkward shapes and it may be worthwhile to buy more trailers rather than load trailers as fast as possible when disaster strikes.”
To keep trailers secure, consider adding GPS beacons to them, using wheel locks or removing tires after delivery if a trailer is going to be on a site for a long time. Take pictures at delivery so you can verify later the condition that the trailer was in on day one.
MOBILE RENTAL STORE
The idea of a mobile disaster-recovery equipment rental store on a trailer was realized in December 2021 in Kentucky after a tornado hit, spearheaded by Lowe’s and other rental industry companies. Tools and equipment available for rent on the Lowe’s tool rental disaster response trailer includes generators, dehumidifiers, breaker hammers, ladders, and more. The trailer is 53 feet long and can haul a maximum weight of 45,000 lbs.
Customized product assortment is possible for floods, tornadoes and other types
of disasters. “In case of flood,” says Sean Reilly, Lowe’s vice president of tool rental, “the disaster response trailer is ready to respond with ladders, sump pumps, dehumidifiers, blower fans, pressure washers, generators, chainsaws and more.”
The trailer’s software, a cloud-based platform called Essentials, is made by Point of Rental, which markets rental and inventory management software used in several countries. Brian Beaudry, content manager for Point of Rental, says if no power and no cell network or other internet source is available to operate the trailer, satellite internet and a generator could be used.
Using Essentials, Lowes “can not only rent out stock that’s assigned to the trailer,” Beaudry explains, “but transfer stock to and from other stores as needed. Essentials allows them to update the address and GPS coordinates for their trailer store and include it in their online storefront, allowing local customers to see the trailer as their closest store if, in fact, it is.” CRS
for moving compactor plates and has a 1,200 lbs. lifting capacity. It can also move other items like landscape rocks, tree balls, and other building materials.
COMPLIANT HAMMERS
How to recommend the right concrete-removal tools.
Highway bridge repair is a multi-billion-dollar industry. This year alone, the government of Ontario committed $3 billion to repair and expand provincial highways and bridges between April 2022 to March 2023.
by Daniel Reale-Chin
And that’s just Ontario. With over 51,717 publicly owned bridges in Canada and more than a quarter of urban and rural highway bridges built over 50 years ago, big-ticket bridge rehabilitation projects are inevitable; along with the big-bucks need for rented equipment.
By offering customers the right tools for concrete removal, Cliff Kniesly, key-account manager for Michigan Pneumatics, says rental stores can help their clients finish bridge-deck rehabs more efficiently, with less costs, all while avoiding hefty fines from regulators.
UNDERSTANDING THE REGULATIONS
“All government jobs in the U.S. or Canada will specify in the contract the tools and the specifications that are needed on the job. The recommended tool for concrete removal on bridge deck work throughout Canada is a chipping hammer,” says Kniesly.
Beyond the simple chipping hammer recommendation, Kniesly says there’s certain provincially regulated specifications that are often overlooked when choosing the right air tools. In Ontario, the Ontario Provincial Standard Specification, OPSS.PROV 928 provides the guidelines for structure rehabilitation, regulating the air tools used for concrete removal on bridges.
“From what I’ve seen, most rental stores aren’t aware of their province’s specific specs and most contractors that go into rental stores aren’t aware of the specifications they need to look for, beyond the need for a chipping ham-
mer,” says Kniesly.
Ontario’s standard was updated in April 2012 and, like most provinces in Canada, the regulation specifies that for concrete removal on bridge decks all chipping hammers have a maximum weight of nine kilograms (before any handle modifications) and a maximum piston stroke of 102 millimetres. Jack hammers must have a maximum weight of 14 kg
Graham Scott from Cooper Equipment demonstrates how to use a rivet buster with “T”-handle
PHOTO:
and all rig-mounted breakers that use pneumatically driven equipment should produce a maximum energy of 1,000 joules per blow. The Ministry of Transportation also specifies that jack hammers should not be used within 25 millimeters of reinforcing steel that’s to remain in place or within 100 mm of the edges and faces of structural steel that will remain in place. Rig-mounted breakers aren’t permitted within 600 mm from the edge and faces of both structural and reinforcing steel that’s to remain and concrete crushers shouldn’t be used within 300 mm of structural steel to remain in place.
“From what I’ve seen, most rental stores aren’t aware of their province’s specific specs.”
- Cliff Kniesly
“As a contractor, if all you do is read the specifications that are passed down to you by your foreman, which might only state that the required tool is a chipping hammer, a rental company might provide you with a standard chipping hammer, which will be underpowered and overweight, so you’re actually taking an inferior tool to a job site and you’ll be frustrated with the result. Even worse, you’re not in compliance with the weight limit. So, with a standard chipping hammer, you will not only be subject to fines, you’ll also be completing less work in more time.” says Kniesly.
SAFETY FIRST
Not using the right tool for concrete removal on bridge decks can have multiple repercussions. Heavier tools used too close to the rebar on decks or within the areas stipulated by the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario, can cause damage to the tools, the bridge and to the people on and around the site.
“I’ve seen issues like that quite often
An inside-throttle configuration is better for overhead work to avoid hitting the throttle by accident and causing dry-firing.
in the U.S. I’ve been to sites where the entire job site was having issues with tools physically breaking in half. When I went to the job site, I saw they were using 30-pound pavement breakers to do the job of a chipping hammer. They were punching through the bridge deck, knocking concrete out from below. Had they used the correct tool, they would not have had the down time, the broken tools or the broken chisels, but more importantly they were punching concrete the size of a small brick through the deck,” says Kniesly.
Using heavier tools in areas not permitted by the regulations can also cause microcracking –small cracks that form in the concrete. Microcracks on bridges caused by concrete removal may not be seen until after the construction, if at all, but can cause lasting damage to the bridge decks. In Canada, the changing seasons might exacerbate the microcracks made during bridge deck work. After construction season, rain, snow and sleet might widen those fractures in the bridge and cause things to come falling down.
“The Canadian speculations aren’t being vindictive or trying to make your life difficult. These regulations were
Operating a rivet buster with T-handle saves the worker’s back for floor-level work.
written after thousands of bridge re-deck jobs, and the regulators have learned that if you use too heavy of a tool on the top surface of a bridge, it breaks things underneath the bridge,” says Kniesly.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT TOOL
Cliff says many people in the industry might not know about the specification for multiple reasons. Regulations like the MTO’s have existed for decades, but Kniesly says availability and communication might be the biggest issue for industry-workers who might not know about the regulations. He says that good communication may be the greatest remedy.
In response to Ontario’s provincial standard specification and other similar specifications across Canada, some equipment manufacturers have created air-tools with weight, piston stroke and energy specs that comply to the regulators. Tools like the Moto MP-Motoc, which weighs in at 18.5 pounds, carries a four-inch stroke and delivers 1,500 blows per minute and the MP-Motoc-T, which weighs 30 pounds with a four-inch stroke and 1,500 blows per minute, are part of Michigan Pneumatic’s Canadian chipping hammer- and air tool line.
“Those tools were created to comply
Operating a tool with outside-throttle configuration for horizontal work avoids dry firing when the worker is leaning into the task.
specifically with the Canadian specifications, which are different from the U.S. regulations. So, customers are getting a tool that meets the MTO’s weight requirements and delivers the power they need to get the job done quickly,” says Kniesly.
DIRECTION MATTERS
As for tools, Scott MacKinnon, director of sales for Cooper Equipment Rentals agrees with Kniesly who says that knowing the orientation of the work that’s going to be done is vital to helping customers select the right concrete remover.
“It’s the first thing I train my counter staff to ask. You should be asking questions like are you going to be working overhead? Are you going to be working underneath? All of these help determine the type of tool we’ll give you and where your trigger location will be,” says MacKinnon.
Both MacKinnon and Kniesly recommend that contractors working overhead use chipping hammers or rivet busters with inside triggers, while tools with triggers on the outside of the handle are designed for working horizontally and T-bar handles are designed for working down. Choosing the right trigger loca-
tion depending on the direction you’re working in helps contractors avoid issues like dry-firing that could cause retainer failure, destroy the tool or injure you or the person working next to you.
“When recommending a tool, trigger location is a critical decision. For over-head use, contractors will need air-tools with inside triggers so they can safely rest the handle in the palm of their hand and not be inadvertently resting on the trigger. For working horizontally, using a tool with a trigger on the outside of the handle helps avoid the same problem. When a contractor is working down and at floor-level, a t-handle rivet buster will not help avoid accidentally squeezing the trigger, but also save the workers back. I’ve personally seen the damage that using the wrong tool with the wrong trigger location can do – dry-firing, broken tools, safety, these things can be avoided with the right tools,” says Cliff. He adds, “providing contractors with multiple tools with the proper trigger locations helps save them on cost, safety and productivity.”
COUNTER RECOMMENDATIONS
“For the contractor, my recommendation is to select a rental company that can make sure the tools are available on site to meet the specification. Be aware of your province’s specifications, know what you’re looking for and let your rental company know well in advance so you’re likely to get the right tool,” says Kniesly.
Beyond that, MacKinnon recommends that his team goes out to the job site to make the delivery so they can get acquainted with the type of work their clients are doing and so that they can ask the right questions: what orientation are you working in? How many people are going to be chipping? Do you want spare tools?
“Always recommend spare tools. Air tools break frequently, so I always recommend 25 percent more than the job requires because you can avoid so much down time and extra costs by having the right tools,” says MacKinnon.
As for rental stores, MacKinnon recommends that every rental store carry compressors, the proper air tools (including chipping hammers and rivet busters that not only comply to the province’s specifications, but also air tools with various trigger locations), a selection of manifolds, various-sized hoses, sharp steel of various points, chisels and lengths and of course, the proper protective equipment.
“Air tools are temperamental, it’s very important that rental equipment stores have more air tools in reserve than standard rental equipment. I like to make sure that for every air tool that we own, we have a spare,” says Scott.
“It all boils down to communication. There’s multiple layers between the engineer in the office who bid the job, the foremen and then the contractor who is doing the work daily on the bridge deck. These bridge rehabilitation projects can take years and can require multiple visits to and from your equipment-rental company. Knowing your customers work intimately, providing multiple air-tools and spares and communicating with your client will help you help them,” says Cliff. CRS
Pour, seal and finish. These concrete products will help your customers with all their masonry needs.
CONCRETE SHOWCASE
TELEHANDLING
8 snorkellifts.com
Snorkel’s compact rough-terrain telehandler, the SR5719 is Snorkel’s latest iteration of the company’s line of compact telehandlers. With full-time four-wheel drive, power-assisted steering and a proportional joystick, the telehandler has a maximum lift capacity of 2,600 kilograms, a forward reach of 3.1 metres and multiple options for carriages, tires and fork tines. The telehandler operates on a Yanmar 52-kilowatt Tier 4 Final diesel engine and is compacted into a 4,700-kilogram unit with a wheelbase of 2.5 metres, width of 1.89 metres, stowed height of 1.93 metres stacked on 12- by 16.5-inch tires. For maximum power and productivity, the SR5719 has a hydraulic flow capacity of 70 litres per minute, hydrau-
lic-oil capacity of 70 litres, fuel capacity of 80 litres and turning radius of 3.25 metres, with a 6.9-second raise time and five-second lower time.
DUST BUSTER
8 innovatech.bartellglobal.com
The HD3 dust collector from Innovatech is a two-stage filtering system with variable suction strength and power. With three motors, the HD3 is a HEPA dust extractor that features a conical main filter and three HEPA filters that remove at least 99.97 percent of airborne particles 0.3 micrometres in diameter. The machine’s three individual motor switches allow variable suction strength and power, and its reverse air jet-pulse filter cleaning system cleans and removes dust build up on the filters. The HD3 comes equipped with a continuous-bad disposal system and easily connects to hand-operated power tools to extract concrete dust while cutting and grinding.
SLIMMER, HIGHER, FASTER, STRONGER
8 imergroup.com
The Easy Up 5SP is one of the latest in Imer’s mini scissor lift line-up. With a selfpropelled platform, the Easy Up 5SP has a working height of 5.20 metres and a carry capacity of 200 kilograms, including one person. With three scissors, the 5SP carries all the safety inclusions like its manual emergency lowering device, non-slip surface deck, an inclinometer with cut out and alarm and a control box on platform IP6 that features a proportional joystick and emergency stop. The 5SP also has a hybrid electric/oil engine with a two-kilowatt electric motor, 24-volt per one-kilowatt electric drive motors, a twovolt by 12/105 amp-hours battery capacity with a
two-litre oil capacity. With two-wheel drive traction, and DC electric motors, the 5SP comes with pothole protection, electromagnetic brakes and non-marking tires for optimal indoor use.
COMPACT LOADERS
8 bobcat.com
Bobcat’s new S510 skid steer loader features a new fuel system with a diesel engine with 24.8-gallon fuel tank capacity that generates 55 horsepower. With an operating capacity of 1,790 pounds, the S510 has a tipping-load capacity of 3,754 pounds, operating weight of 6,208 pounds and can travel 7.6 miles per hour with an auxiliary standard flow of 17.1 gallons per minute. The S510 has a reach of 17 inches and comes with lift-arm support, a spark-arrestor muffler, BobTach attachment system and optional joystick control, air conditioning and heating, radio, hydraulic bucket positioning and a sound option.
FOR A SMOOTH FINISH
8 bartellglobal.com
The BC436 is Bartell’s standard 36-inch walk-behind trowel for concrete finishers. The BC436 is precision-balanced for smooth operation and features a robust gearbox with high-tensile steel shafting. Its cast iron spider assembly and precision ground arms allow for tight
tolerances and faster troweling. The BC436 comes with a Honda GX160 with 4.8 horsepower and the BC436 Mega-T comes with a Honda GX270 engine and 8.5 horsepower. With a 10-inch by 14-inch float blade size and a six-inch by 14-inch combo blade size with a 36.5-inch float pan, the BC436 clocks in at 75 kilograms and can be safely used indoors with Bartell’s optional muffler.
FOR THE VERSATILITY
8 cormidi.com
The Cormidi CMF1500 is a 1,500-kilogram machine, part of Cormidi’s family of multifunctional products. The machine’s “quick attach” system makes it possible for one person to change the equipment of the mini-dumper. Packaged on a heavy-duty undercarriage with a rubber
track, the CMF1500 has a 1,294-kilogram tip capacity, 910-kilogram machine weight and can be attached to a swivel, mini loader, dumper skip, concrete mixer, hi-tip, and other available attachments. The machine’s universal plate can also take non-Cormidi brand attachments like fourin-one buckets, a stone burrier and other accessories used in Bobcat, Toro and others.
REMOTE VIBRATIONS
8 minnich-mfg.com
Minnich Manufacturing showcased its Control Speed Vibrator this year at World of Concrete in Las Vegas, Nev. The CSV is Minnich’s latest concrete vibrator. The CVS is lightweight with a durable electric flex shaft for concrete that’s controlled through Bluetooth and the Minnich app through iOS and Android. The vibrator’s 15-amp (115-volt) universal motor lets operators reach speeds of 6,000, 8,000, 20,500 and an open speed. Once the speed is chosen, the vibrator will maintain that speed even as the concrete load changes. The universal
EXTREME capacity
What’s bigger than big? Only the largest ultra-capacity rough terrain scissor lift in North America. Meet the new Snorkel S9070RT-HC , built with a dual-powered twin extension deck as standard for a substantial lifting capacity that maximizes productivity on the job. Designed with a large platform working area and extra-wide pallet gate, this lift has added rough terrain capabilities that makes the S9070RT-HC a premier performer on all jobsites.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT AHERN CANADA ON 780-467-0600.
CONCRETE SHOWCASE
motor drives a full line of Minnich shafts and heads and comes with a quick disconnect that adapts to the vibrators of many manufacturers.
EVEN LIGHTER
8 wackerneuson.com
Wacker Neuson’s battery-powered backpack vibrator has been redesigned to reduce the overall weight making it even more comfortable and convenient for the operator. The ACBe backpack concrete vibrator is a portable, cordless backpack concrete vibration system that provides excellent consolidation of thick concrete with and without reinforcing steel. Because of the portability, the system is ideal for use anywhere as there is no need for additional power while providing a quiet, zero-emission option for indoor and outdoor use. The three-part modular system consists of the backpack with integrated converter, removable/replaceable battery and internal vibrator. The backpack itself was engineered by a leading hiking backpack company that understands the need for ergonomic comfort. It is fully adjustable for varying heights, chest, shoulder and waist sizes. The weight of the new backpack has been reduced by 40 percent and weighs in at only 9.3 pounds. (With the battery inserted the unit weighs under 30 pounds.) The lightweight fabric, padded shoulders and even weight distribution allow for extended working periods. The vibra-
tor shaft connects to the bottom centre of backpack that allows for easy left-hand or right-hand operation. The heart of the ACBe backpack vibrator is Wacker Neuson’s BP1000 lithium-ion battery, which is the exact same battery that powers the company’s zero-emission battery rammers and vibratory plates. The battery is easily inserted into the converter backpack without the need for any special tools and, because there is no cord, the operator has flexibility and mobility to move around the job site. By running on battery power, as opposed to a gasoline engine, the operator is no longer exposed to heat, exhaust fumes and engine noise. The modular vibration system allows for variety of internal head diameter and shaft lengths to connect to the backpack. Because the backpack includes the integrated converter, once the vibrator shaft and head are connected, the vibrator provides high cycle/high frequency performance for effective concrete consolidation on construction sites with vertical structures, columns, foundations, walls, and thick slabs. The nine combinations include head diameters of 1.5, 1.8 and 2.3 inches and shaft lengths of five, 10 and 16 feet. Wacker Neuson’s maintenance-free battery operated equipment is designed for convenient, easy operation.
HALF-SECOND
tying tool, the latest TwinTier series are the most advanced rebar tying tools Max has to offer to concrete contractors today. Utilizing many new technologies that have never been incorporated in previous models, TwinTiers tie at approximately ½ second per tie, reducing the time spent on repetitive snap tying to complete each jobsite faster. Equipped with a five-amp lithium-ion battery, the RB441T is able to tie 5,000 ties before needing to recharge. Each spool of Max TW1061T series tie wire can tie up to 265 ties (when tying #3 by #3 rebar) before needing to reload. With the newly added wire pull-back mechanism, each TwinTier tie only dispenses as much wire as needed for each rebar combination, cutting down unnecessary wire waste and making stronger ties compared to older rebar tying tools. Each wire tie tip is also pushed down automatically due to the wire bending mechanism of the TwinTier to allow shallow concrete pours. The RB441T weighs only 5.6 pounds and the single hand operation of the tool can give operators the ability to use their second hand to adjust rebar in place or support the weight of their back while bending over to tie flatwork. Max offers a full line of TwinTiers depending on the type of rebar tying job at hand. The RB611T has a large tying capacity, tying up to #9 by #10 rebar and for massive flat-work jobsites. The RB401T-E stand up TwinTier allows the operator to stand up and tie rebar without bending their back or pulling the trigger. This battery-operated stand-up rebar tying tool can reduce the risk of back strain as well.
REMOTE LOCK-OUT
8 milwaukeetool.com
Milwaukee Tool announces another innovative, dedicated concrete finishing equipment solution for the concrete contractor. Part of the MX Fuel equipment system, the MX Fuel vibratory screed is critical to the concrete leveling process, ensuring the slab is flat and meets grade. Delivering the power to pull a 16-foot bar, eliminating gas headaches and offering two hours of runtime per charge with a 12-foot bar, the new vibratory screed reduces user frustrations while meeting power requirements and exceeding runtime needs. With the power to pull up to 16-foot bars and consolidate up to six inches of concrete without sacrificing power, users have maximum control in both stiff and wet concrete. The push-button start provides instant power with no gas headaches and eliminates the repetitive motions of a pull start, reducing downtime. The battery-powered screed requires no regular maintenance, eliminates the need to mix gas and oil, produces less noise and vibration, and has zero emissions–making the workplace safer whether indoors or outdoors. When paired with a 12-foot bar and one MX Fuel RedLithium CP203 battery pack, the MX Fuel vibratory screed delivers up to two hours of runtime per charge, or up to 10,000 square feet.
CORE DRILLING
8 hilti.ca
Hilti has unveiled a semi-autonomous core drilling solution. The DD 250-CA diamond core drill, paired with the cut assist auto feed unit, gives the operator an assisted experience by intuitively guiding the drill through the entire drilling process. With this semi-autonomous drilling system, contractors can achieve significant productivity gains and convenience on jobsites. The DD 250-CA diamond core drill leverages integrated technology to provide the operator guidance for proper drill setup, real time drilling feedback and valuable productivity data once the drilling is complete. The smart tool has expanded range for all applications including drilling penetra-
tions for ducts, pipes and cables and drilling blind holes for setting anchors or post-installed rebar. Hilti customers can leverage the DD AF-CA H auto feed unit to assist with the drilling process. With Hilti cut assist technology, the unit delivers greater operator safety, higher worker comfort and less fatigue when coring drilling in difficult conditions. Intelligent features include automatic surface detection, tracking of drilling depth, water management and hole starting and through-hole detection. Hilti customers with the DD 150-U diamond core drill can aslo utilize the DD AF-CA L auto feed unit.
HEAVY-DUTY COMPONENTS
8 mbw.com
MBW walk-behind power trowels feature heavy bearings, output shafts, gears, spiders and blade arms for superior longevity. They feature a tool-free height-adjustable operator handle. The ISOcompliant, low profile guard ring allows for easy cleaning and blade changes. Three handle options are available: standard, EZ pitch or the a patented low vibration
version to reduce operator fatigue. A high-torque option with a continuously variable transmission clutch enables low speed/high torque and high speed operation. The F24 is a two-foot edging trowel ideal for jobs that require a lightweight, highly manoeuverable, professional finishing tool. This specialty finishing power trowel allows professional results even in confined areas or where weight restrictions are a concern. The F36 three-foot trowel and F46 four-foot trowel hav Honda GX160, GX270 and GX270 high torque engine options.
STRONGER AND SAFER
8 husqvarnacp.com
The new range of demolition robots from Husqvarna offer more power and more control, which means users can take their skills to a whole new level. The four new DXR models offer, on average, a power increase
above 20 percent when compared to previous models. This results in more effective and powerful machines that allow the user to get more demolition work done, faster. Complimenting this, the new machines have functionality that optimizes available power in a way that allows work to continue at high power levels, even if the task gets tougher due to circumstances such as hot environments, for example. With an all-new remote-control unit, precise operation is easier than ever. The new unit enables an improved overview of machine status, which contributes to increased uptime and productivity. The long-distance remote connection keeps the user safer and clear of any potential risks, enabling them to work in challenging areas with a remote control range of up to 984 feet. CRS
HOPE IS NOT A PLAN
Courting costs
by Adam Snook
How to get the highest bid when selling your company
Irecently read an article about the rental industry being in another period of aggressive consolidation. The author was previously employed with the large national chains through the last major acquisition cycle. He figured that there was likely another 12 to 18 months in the cycle, providing macro events don’t derail the economy.
Given the hell that business owners have been through the last two years, and the continued struggles discussed here selling definitely has some appeal I’m sure. Especially for those who were already close to the age of retirement, 2020 to 2021 may have been the push they needed.
I’ve been involved in a number of acquisitions both from my time with the major rental companies, and then through our own growth as private companies.
If you’re considering selling there are a number of things buyers look for if you want to get top dollar for your business.
The reality is your business should be able to run as well with you on the beach as it does with you at the counter.
1. COMPANY IMAGE
This is fairly broad, it includes things like making sure your fleet is up to date and well-maintained. Same goes for your facilities...paint is cheap. The thing that requires sustained effort is your profile in the community. Are you the go-to supplier for local events? Do you support local causes? This always makes a difference for brand loyalty. It goes a long way toward not having to be the cheapest guy on the block, and your prospective
buyer knows it. If you’ve built a strong brand, they know they start from a strong position when they take over responsibility for setting prices and making sales for your company. How is your social media presence? Are you actively promoting yourself? It’s mostly free and very easy. This will be one of the first places a buyer looks when kicking tires.
2. FINANCIALS
Are your books in order? If you’ve got to “normalize” your income statement to make your business profitable, don’t expect anything other than asset value for your business. No buyer will pay any goodwill if you don’t have a reasonable net income. This also isn’t a one-year “cook the books” situation. Buyers will want to see a minimum of three years of consistent profits. A good accountant is worth their weight in gold.
3. STAFF
Do you have a key person in the operation? We pride ourselves on being indispensable to our business, but the reality is your business should be able to run as well with you on the beach in Mexico as it does with you on the counter. Do you have family members in key areas that will need to be replaced when you sell? If so, do that ahead of time. Also be prepared to stay on for a while to facilitate a smooth transition.
4. YOU
When you’ve become accustomed to going to the shop five or six days per week for the last 20 years or more, the shift to “freedom” can be hard. What can you focus on? We all know someone who seemed to age a decade within a couple of years of retirement. You’ve put your blood, sweat, and tears into something. Enjoy the rewards of your hard work. CRS Adam Snook owns Just Bins, a Regina-based provider of waste disposal solutions.
Make drain cleaning easier with General’s Speedrooter 92R with automatic feed. Instead of wrestling a snake in and out of the drain, the automatic feed drives the cable into the line at up to 20 feet per minute, saving customers both time and labor. The automatic feed features a guide tube that keeps your customers’ hands clean and away from the spinning cable. The Speedrooter 92R keeps customers happier and coming back for more.
Call the Drain Brains® at 800-245-6200, or visit www.drainbrain.com/rental.
