CRS - May 2015

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4

EDITORIAL

Deep thoughts from the show floor. by Patrick Flannery

18

2015 SPRING SHOW ROUNDUP

Reports from coast to coast on Canada’s rental show season.

6

INDUSTRY NEWS

Farewell to Jim Johnson, C&T wins top family business, Arsenault joins Hose Power, United goes golfing...

12 FROM EXCAVATORS TO LOBSTER POTS

A broad offering and a handson approach drives Alan Soulsby and Bay Rentals.

COMPACTION SHOWCASE Tampers, rollers, rammers, plates and more...

16

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

The rest of what we talked about at ARA. by David Mintenko

28

Who are you contracting with? by Deryk Coward

38

SAFETY FIRST AND LAST Time to change our thinking about fall hazards. by Jeff Thorne

Show season musings

Ano ther spring show season has come and gone in the rental industry and there are a few takeaways. The first is an observation of how important just one energetic, committed person can be to a region, an organization and an event. The Canadian rental industry lost two such individuals late last year and early this year in Dale Pardy of Butler Scaffolding Rentals in Halifax and Jim Johnson of Cavalier Industries in Edmonton. Both these men were leaders in the classic sense that they inspired others around them to do more and do better. In the process, they built up the organizations they touched and created an environment where everyone could find success. Their impact was visible at the shows they supported in the respect and genuine grief their colleagues were expressing over their loss.

When people like Dale and Jim leave us, we feel a profound sense that their contributions cannot be replaced. It’s actually hard to imagine the shows or their companies without them. And there is a risk that the organizations these great influencers touch will never be the same without them. If no new person can step forward to bring energy, commitment and charisma to the leadership role, organizations, companies and events can flounder and stagnate.

Online new products

You can check out the latest technology for the rental industry on our newly redesigned site with products organized into convenient categories. The section is updated frequently, so check back often!

Digital show season report

This year we have wrapped up all the news and images from Canada’s rental shows into one online document, complete with video. Watch the website to see if you got caught on chip.

by Patrick Flannery

B ut the flip side is that it only takes one person bringing those qualities to turn things around and make things trend in the right direction again. If you are someone who has leadership gifts, be assured that you can have a huge, transformative impact on this industry. All you need to do is get involved. There are no shortage s of openings.

A nother observation from show season is that the U.S. appears to have well and truly left the dark days of the Great Recession behind it. By all accounts, the American Rental Association’s Rental Show was one of the best in a long time. Many exhibitors told me they did nothing but fill out orders the whole time.

T he surging U.S. economy seems to have stimulated a surge in innovation in construction technology, especially lifts and telehandlers. Is there any theoretical limit to how high these boom lifts can get? I asked around with some manufacturers to try to find out why there has been this sudden rush to go as high as possible, and got some interesting answers. Obviously, there has been some good work on the engineering and materials to make it possible to safely lift a man 185 feet off the ground on a ribbon of steel a couple feet across. One comment was that the wind turbine industry has created an unprecedented level of demand for such high platforms.

T he Prairie Show organized a tour of some of Saskatoon’s big rental stores in lieu of a sit-down education program, and it was quite successful and possibly more educational than a seminar in some ways. Brian Schaan of Handy Group did a great job of explaining the careful thought that has gone into that massive enterprise’s warehousing and logistics, saying, “Event rentals is really just moving things around.” That had some veteran heads in the audience nodding in agreement. Getting the fleet out and back is where your money will be either made or lost. CRS

A LEGEND PASSES

Jim Johnson, founder of Cavalier Industries, passed away on Feb. 27 following a battle with cancer. He was 69. He is survived by his partner, Lillian Bowdring and three children, Tudi, T.J. and Brittni. T.J. and Brittni now own Cavalier as president and vice-president, respectively.

Johnson was born in Eriksdale, Man. He founded Cavalier in Edmonton in 1991. He grew the company to the point where it now offers a full line of rental equipment from B.C. to Quebec, carrying over 36 brands.

“Jim lived life to the fullest in every area,” his obituary reads. “His passions were his family and his business where he created a culture of fairness, respect and excellence. Jim’s presence had an impact on all of the lives he touched.”

Marc Mandin, Canadian Rental Association chairman, paid special tribute to Johnson at the Prairie Show banquet, noting his exuberance and support for the rental industry. Cavalier employees across the country were wearing special monogramed shirts commemorating their late founder.

C&T RENTALS NAMED TOP FAMILY ENTERPRISE

The Canadian Association of Family Enterprise (CAFE) Manitoba announced C&T Rentals and Sales the 2015 Manitoba Family Enterprise of the Year at a gala event held at the Inn at the Forks. C&T Rentals was founded in 1987 by Ed Dwyer. Today Ed and his wife Diana along with their three children run this family business that has since grown to include three Winnipeg locations. C&T Rentals helps contractors, homeowners, builders and industrial companies by renting them top-quality, impeccably maintained equipment they need to complete their work. The company will go on to represent Manitoba in the national competition. Attendees enjoyed the behind-the-scenes family stories told by C&T Rentals and the two other finalists, the Diamond Gallery and Rondex.

“Manitoba Family-Owned Businesses continue to be recognized as some of the most important and valued employers throughout Manitoba,” says Bob Spriggs of Vector Construction, the current president of the Manitoba Chapter of CAFE. “We were honoured to celebrate business success with this year’s Manitoba Family Enterprise of the Year Award finalists, which spotlighted families who have shown their dedication to our community and strengthening the family business footprint in Manitoba. We are so pleased to congratulate the 2015 Manitoba award recipient, C & T Rentals and Sales, and wish them all the very best as they represent Manitoba for the national award.”

Since 1983, the Family Enterprise of the Year Award has recognized significant achievements by Canadian family businesses, acknowledging their importance in Canada’s economy. Every nomination must meet eligibility requirements and undergoes a rigorous judging process to become a finalist and a winner.

“We are extremely impressed with all of this year’s remarkable finalists and their passionate success stories,” said Brent Rombough, vice-president and market manager of Winnipeg for BMO Private Banking, the presenting sponsor for the FEYA award. “On behalf of BMO Private Banking, I am pleased to congratulate C&T Rentals and Sales as this year’s winner. We are very proud to partner with CAFE in celebrating such an extraordinary, deserving Canadian family business.”

JOINS THE TOUR

United Rentals has signed up to sponsor the PGA Tour, becoming the official equipment rental supplier of the leading golf circuit. The new fiveyear agreement runs until the end of 2019 and will see United Rentals provide its services to all events operated by the PGA Tour, as well as other tournaments on the Champions Tour, Web.com Tour and PGA Tour Canada. United Rentals, the largest equipment rental company in the world with over 880 rental locations throughout the United States and Canada, already has a presence in golf thanks to an existing partnership with PGA Tour player, Ryan Palmer. “By the very nature of the PGA Tour, where so much work goes into the preparation and operation of each tournament in communities throughout the country, it is essential for the tournament organisers to have the proper equipment to handle all of their needs,” said Tom Wade, the tour’s chief commercial officer. “We are excited to align with the world’s largest equipment rental supplier in United Rentals.”

UNITED

GS 461 ROCK BOSS® Concrete Cutter

CONCRETE IS ABOUT TO GET ROCKED

When other equipment just can’t cut it, construction professionals know they can count on the quality of STIHL.

The STIHL GS 461 ROCK BOSS® is the ideal addition for your crew. It provides a deep-cutting solution that delivers the power to cut up to 16” deep into reinforced concrete, masonry bricks, asphalt and many other tough materials found around the jobsite.

The GS 461 ROCK BOSS® concrete cutter features an excellent power-to-weight ratio and high cutting speeds. Its compact design makes it perfect for a wide range of construction and renovation jobs.

QUALITY AT WORK.

For 89 years, STIHL has been a world-class innovator in outdoor power equipment. German engineered products featuring the latest pioneering technologies make STIHL the market leader. STIHL products are only available at independent STIHL Dealers who provide expert advice and on-site service. Thank you for supporting the leading team and for making STIHL the Number 1 Selling Brand in Canada.

* “#1 Selling Brand in Canada” is based on an independent market share analysis of gasoline-powered handheld outdoor power equipment from 2014. Source: TraQline Canada.

Displacement

Power Output

Weight

Torque

STIHL’s concrete cutter must be run with a water supply.

76.5 cc 4.3 kW 8.2 kg/18.1 lb 5.2 Nm

• Equipped with delayed stratified scavenging engine technology which lowers emissions

• Fuel consumption is reduced by up to 20%

• Excellent cutting performance – up to a 16” cutting depth

• Improved air filtration with HD2 filter

• Specially designed STIHL ROLLOMATIC ® G Guide Bar, lowstretch standard 36 GBM and the NEW low-stretch economy 36 GBE Diamond Abrasive Chains

• Includes water hose valve

TEMP-AIR PASSES HALF-CENTURY

Temp-Air has announced that 2015 is the company’s 50th year in business. The privately held company now has five decades of experience in manufacturing HVAC rental equipment. Temp-Air provides customized air management solutions for unique projects. Established in 1965, the founder of the company had a vision to aid the construction industry in operating year-round despite extreme winter temperatures by providing portable temporary heaters. Today, Temp-Air has expanded to become a leading provider of heating, cooling and dehumidifying rental services to the construction industry. Several company employees are simultaneously celebrating their 25th anniversaries with the company this year. These personnel survey jobs using decades of application knowledge to make sure the appropriate HVAC rental equipment is chosen and used in the most efficient way possible.

FNA BUYS BENSON

FNA Group has announced it has acquired Benson Enterprises, a manufacturer and distributor of high-end cold- and hot-water mobile power washer systems based in Knoxville, Tenn. Company officials say the acquisition is expected to immediately open up new strategic growth opportunities for FNA Group and allow it to explore professional and industrial market segments that are a natural extension of its core product assortment. The manufacturing arm of Benson will now be known as OEM Trailer Systems.

NEW CENTRAL ONTARIO REP FOR BROOKS

Jeff Sedgman has joined Brooks Construction Equipment as a territory manager for central Ontario. Sedgman has extensive experience in building construction material. He comes to Brooks having previously worked for A.L. Blair Construction for the last nine years where he had different job titles including territory manager and product specialist. Reporting to Carl Devost, Sedgman will be working closely with Jonathan Quintal, who will now take care of the southeast Ontario territory.

RIDLEY LEAVES WESTERNONE

WesternOne has announced that Mike Ridley, president of WesternOne’s modular building construction and leasing business division, has resigned to pursue other opportunities. Obie Erickson, vicepresident of manufacturing at Britco, has been appointed as interim president of Britco’s Canadian operations and has assumed the majority of Ridley’s duties. Erickson has been with Britco for over 25 years and has extensive experience leading teams in the design and construction of Britco’s full range of modular products. He will be primarily focused on pursuing modular construction and leasing growth opportunities in Canada and monitoring production levels to meet the demands of the energy, commercial and other potential markets. Brent Morgan, who has 16 years of experience in the modular construction industry in both Canada and the United States as a leader in sales, manufacturing and finance, will continue as president of Britco’s U.S. operations. Along with Erickson, Morgan will now report directly to Peter Blake, CEO of WesternOne, and together, they will actively lead the Britco organization’s team to execute on strategic growth opportunities.

“Mike has been a valuable Britco team member and strong advocate for the modular construction industry over his 18-year tenure, and we wish him the very best in his future. I look forward to working more closely with both Obie and Brent as we evolve our growth plans,” said Blake.

“We are extremely excited about this acquisition for several reasons,” said Gus Alexander, founder, CEO and president of FNA Group. “Benson has established a solid niche for itself as a manufacturer of high-quality, trailer-mounted power washers that are pulled behind motorized vehicles. However, like many small, family owned enterprises, they simply haven’t had the capacity or operational systems in place to expand beyond a limited distribution area and customer base.

“That’s all about to change,” he said. “First, factor in our expertise as a leading manufacturer of high-end brand name and private label electric and gas powered pressure washer hose, pump and accessories. Next, consider the economies of scale we have in regards to purchasing, manufacturing, research and development, sales and distribution. We are confident this will allow us to exponentially expand the market for professional and industrial trailer-mounted power washers in the U.S. and internationally during the next several years. It also gives us the opportunity to diversify our position as the leading vertically integrated manufacturer of professional-quality power washers and accessories for homeowners, contractors and industrial customers.”

William Alexander, FNA Group’s executive vice-president of sales and marketing, said FNA is in the process of introducing a new core lineup of Simpson and Delco-branded mobile power washer systems, streamlining the product catalog, launching a Web-based information site allowing visitors to review the many available options, and focusing on a national distribution strategy.

CAVALIER BECOMES NORTH AMERICA TRAFFIC REP

North America Traffic has announced that Cavalier Industries is now the manufacturer’s first factory representative, serving rental businesses, contractors and municipalities throughout Canada. Cavalier Industries is a wholesale marketing company representing many of the industry’s top brands in construction tools, power systems and portable lighting. Based in Edmonton, Cavalier also maintains a distribution centre in Exeter, Ont., supporting a nationwide network of dealers. Cavalier will offer NAT’s full line of products to all sales channels including rental equipment companies, equipment distributors and distribution houses.

Peter Vieveen, founder and president of North America Traffic, said that the appointment of Cavalier is a strategic decision to broaden his company’s base of sales representation and increase focus on its engineering and manufacturing strengths.

T.J. Johnson of Cavalier describes the North America Traffic line as an ideal fit with Cavalier’s current product offering and service philosophy. “We like to align ourselves with niche products. Peter and his team provide a level of expertise we don’t see with any other vendor. They have a unique ability to develop ideas that meet end-user needs and deliver the quality to back up their engineering expertise. We have been interested in expanding our traffic control lines. NAT products outperform other systems in achieving a high level of user acceptance, minimizing downtime and providing competitive advantage for our customers.”

North America Traffic developed the original AFAD (Automated Flagger Assistance Device) in 1994 and now has models in service on construction sites and traffic control zones worldwide. The company also pioneered the emergence of highly efficient portable traffic signals based on solar powered LED technology. NAT engineering has continued to innovate with advanced controls to meet many customized needs for contractors and utilities. North America Traffic systems have also been accepted by DOT/MOT or have approvals pending in virtually every jurisdiction in Canada and the United States. Johnson notes that NAT’s solarpowered equipment is an excellent complement to Cavalier’s recent addition of Solar Tech’s traffic control products to its product line-up. “Our forte as a company is in site support equipment. We look for products that increase efficiency and increase safety. North America Traffic is a natural extension of that.”

Vieveen sees NAT’s agreement with Cavalier as a significant step forward for customer service throughout the country. “Cavalier has earned an exceptional reputation for service and support. Their position in Canada’s equipment rental business is unmatched, and their network will dramatically increase our ‘feet in the street’ to deliver the highest level of personal service.” In Edmonton, Cavalier is preparing to move into a new 40,000 sq. ft. head office facility, doubling its regional warehouse capacity. Its eastern region warehouse in Exeter, Ont, where Cavalier originated, maintains an extensive demonstration fleet and service base for providing local support for dealers and customers.

According to Johnson, Cavalier sales and service staff will now receive extensive training on applications and technical for NAT products. Vieveen says that Cavalier’s people working closely with customers will help to drive continued innovation for his engineering team. “We have always relied on field staff to bring us unique customer requests and ideas. We got our start from our own jobsite experience in the construction business. We still thrive on close customer relationships to raise the bar for new features and maximum value.”

Vieveen reports that the sales agreement with Cavalier will serve as a distribution model for additional markets. “Cavalier will be a great partner for helping us to grow our service capability. They have already made some introductions to regional marketing organizations in the U.S. This arrangement will prove to be a watershed moment for our company and for the industry.”

HOSE POWER ADDS ARSENAULT

HosePower Canada has added Sean Arsenault to its sales force as territory manager. Arsenault brings a wealth of experience in hydraulics and hoses to his new position. He was previously employed by WHD Canada where he worked with distributers from coast to coast assisting them with both sales and technical support of the product line.

COMING EVENTS

May 12

Park Equipment Rentals auction Sherwood Park, Alta. 8 rbauction.com

June 2

CRA Alberta Golf Tournament Edmonton, Alta. 8 crarental.org

Aug. 19

ALQ Golf Tournament La Prairie, Que. 8 crarental.org

Sept. 11

CRA B.C. Golf Tournament Kelowna, B.C. 8 crarental.org

Sept. 15

CRA Ontario Golf Tournament Guelph, Ont. 8 craontario.org

WCO RED WE COVERE YOUR REAR REAR, BUT WE DIDN’T STOP THERE THE .

Primed for productivit y and protected from back to front, M-Series loaders from Bobcat handle difficult jobs and stand up to tough renters. For starters, the rear bumper protects the tailgate from obstacles on the jobsite. Recessed rear lighting minimizes damage to tail lights. Protected quick couplers, mounted directly into the front plate of the lift arm, have no exposed hoses to damage. A guard that extends beyond the couplers offers even more protection. The removable hose guide makes it simple to correctly route hydraulic hoses, minimizing attachment wear and tear. Plus, easy-to-find and easy-to-use machine tie-downs make trailering quick and easy. You’d expect nothing less from such an easy-to-rent machine.

EXCAVATORS TO LOBSTER POTS

Broad selection and close relationships fuels Bay Equipment Rentals.

Commuters in the small communities around Halifax can turn to one rental store brand for everything from excavators to lobster pots thanks to Alan Soulsby and the team at Bay Equipment Rentals.

by DAN WOOLLEY

Grown from a startup in 1984, Bay Equipment Rentals has become a community fixture serving almost two-thirds of the population of Nova Scotia thanks to Soulsby’s commitment to his family, his friends in business and his customers who keep coming back.

Not knowing what he wanted to do when he graduated with a bachelor of commerce degree from St. Mary’s University in 1984, Soulsby ultimately moved into a successful career in the tool and equipment rental business in Halifax. In 1984, Soulsby started on the front service desk at MacFarland’s Rent-It in Halifax as a stop-gap, “until I decided what I would like to do as a career,” Soulsby remembers. Some 10 years later he was the store manager. When MacFarland’s Rent-It was sold in 1994, he decided to start his own rental business in Tantallon, a suburb, just southwest of Halifax.

“I started out with a business partner in 1994. We both worked for competing companies, but we both had the same idea in our small market area. So, we decided to go into business together and we built it up until he retired in 2011,” Soulsby says.

In 1992 he and his wife, Darlene, moved to Tantallon. “I became involved in the local business group, as well as the local hockey teams, and as my children were growing up they also became involved in sports and the community.” So Soulsby met more and more local people, “which helped [his] local business grow,” he says.

As to what Bay Equipment Rentals sells

and rents, Soulsby’s enterprise has grown over the years to offer some 37 different categories of construction, auto shop, home, lawn and garden tools and equipment, plus another 20 categories of party and barbecue supplies, including a lobster cooker with large pots, wedding and convention supplies and furnishings. “We go from china dishes and party supplies to five-ton excavators and generators,” Soulsby explains. He adds, “We also sell what we rent: pumps, concrete tools, generators and much more.”

Tantallon being a bedroom community in Halifax, Soulsby’s target customers are mostly homeowners, do-it-yourselfers, handymen and small, independent contractors. Soulsby observes, “Someone who wants to put in an above-ground pool can rent a tamper and laser level here. Or for a homeowner who wants a load of topsoil or gravel, we have the little Kubota backhoes they can rent to move the material around their yard.”

Soulsby is very proud that Bay Equipment Rentals is an authorised dealer and service center for Stihl and Husqvarna power tools. “We are a full line Stihl dealer. We have done very well with our Stihl Line. We also have the full Husqvarna line.”

Bay Equipment Rentals has been a full-time Stihl dealer since 1999, Soulsby notes. “It has worked very well for our mix of customers. We are able to service the industrial markets and the backyarder who cuts a little bit of wood as well. “Adding the Husqvarna line in 2012 has given us the

Not sure what to do with his commerce degree, a stint at MacFarland’s Rent-It turned Soulsby into a rental guy for the last 31 years. Here’s Soulsby and his business partner,

ability to supply a line of lawnmowers, tractors and snow blowers, as well as fill the needs of Husky chainsaw owners.”

His back shop staff also repair and service customer’s lawn and garden equipment.

In 2002, Soulsby opened a second location in Lower Sackville – another bedroom community adjacent to and west of the city of Halifax on Sackville Drive. “My Sackville store was a former rental location of a larger chain which decided to amalgamate a few stores.”

In 2009, he relocated the Tantallon store five minutes away to Upper

Tantallon on Sonny’s Road in a new building with a back shop and yard space. Then, in 2012, he opened a third location on Cole Harbour Road in Cole Harbour – a suburb just east of the city – having taken on a rental partner who had been in the business for 20 years. Almost all his customers are either itinerant tradesmen who are working in the suburbs or residents who drop in to rent or buy a tool or piece of equipment they need for a home project on their way back from work in the city.

Asked what he believes differentiates Bay Equipment Rentals

from other rental stores, Soulsby states, “I have good locations with good people offering one-on-one service to our customers. We have service and repair shops in all three stores. They all have Stihl Master Service Technicians and very knowledgeable counter staff. Many of my staff members have been with Bay Rentals for over 10 years, which is a great asset for the company and a welcome sign for returning and new customers.”

“A lot of it comes down to being positive in one-on-one dealing with our customers,” Soulsby says.

Renting good quality, construction-

Keith Bullen outside their shop.

rated equipment, along with recognized brand names helps maintain the high quality at Bay Rentals, according to Soulsby. “I work well with all the other rental stores in the area. If we need equipment we don’t carry, we can often rent or borrow it and supply our customer. In the same manner we often will supply other rental companies.” In this, Soulsby shares a philosophy with a lot of other Atlantic Canada rental stores, who tend to operate cooperatively even as they are notionally in competition.

Soulsby emphasizes he is also a hands-on businessman. “I am out loading trucks with my staff and helping train customers to use the equipment when my staff is busy. The customers see that and appreciate it. In the busy spring and summer months I work the counter like one of the regular guys, or I do deliveries and service calls. Hours are long in these busy months, so we often have Pizza Friday or bring in coffee in the morning for the guys. We also have a few staff functions during the year. The last one was Kartbahn racing. It’s a great way to get the stress tension out and keep everyone on a level playing field.”

He has 21 employees which he supplements with university and high school students during the busier spring and summer months. “We get to know the regular customers and we get known as members of the community. The people we serve here are our neighbors.”

Soulsby also makes it a policy that Bay Equipment Rentals supports and participates in community events, commenting, “That has a lot to do with our success. You tend to know everybody in the community. I also try to keep advertising in the local and community papers and events that happen throughout our community.”

He and his partner are always ready to look at a new product

Despite managing three stores, Soulsby stays hands-on, helping to load trucks or work the counter as necessary.

line or type of equipment to increase their rental business. “Space is becoming an issue at all locations as we add more and more items all the time,” he says. “The load is shared with my partner among the three stores, however, I do make it to all three stores on a regular basis to stay in touch with the concerns of the customers and staff.”

Although Bay Equipment Rentals is situated at three locations in the Halifax area, Soulsby notes it also serves a much wider area from Chester on the South Shore to Mount Uniacke on the eastern edge of the Annapolis Valley, to Porter’s Lake on the Eastern Shore: an area encompassing the Halifax Region and the counties of Hants and Lunenburg, roughly two-thirds of the population of mainland Nova Scotia.

Soulsby views his rental business career as “a great learning experience and fun business to be involved with. I could not have accomplished any of this without my wife and my daughters, Robyn and Lauren.”

“I have also met many great people over the years: customers, business associates and suppliers,” Soulsby says, reflecting. “Many of them have become good friends. This would not be possible without being involved in the wonderful world of the equipment rental business. I thank everyone who has helped me and Bay Equipment Rentals.” CRS

From Rammers to Rollers, the Light Compaction Tool You Need.

SPRING BUSINESS

Show season is time for the CRA to get things done.

by DAVE MINTENKO

There was so much to talk about at the Canadian Rental Association’s meetings this spring that I couldn’t fit it all in to my last column. So here’s the rest of what we worked on.

We also reviewed the key highlights of the CRA’s strategic direction, which was recently adopted. These included training and education, communication, growth, branding and governance. Our AGM meeting was very well attended with many of the past year’s accomplishments being shared with the members. These include our new strategic plan, revamping the policies and procedures and the newly revitalized CRA website. We also recognized individuals for their past efforts, dedication and accomplishment with the CRA at the AGM. Doron Broadfoot of the Rent-It Store in Saskatoon, Sask., received the President’s Image award. His CRA trophy case needs a do-over I’m sure. Paul Kenyon of Absolute Group in Toronto and Jeff Campbell of St. Thomas Rent-All in St. Thomas, Ont., received CRA Person of The Year awards. Marc Mandin of 4-Way Equipment Rentals received the Alberta Regional Person of the Year award. Rentquip received the national Supplier of the Year award. Yvan Boilard from Atlas Copco received the Quebec Regional Person of the Year award. A well deserved congratulations to all of the above!

While our membership remains very strong with 1,070 members comprised of 596 member stores, 474 branches and over 300 associate members, my main goal for 2015 is succession planning. We all need to put on our collective caps to recruit new and old members into board positions. We need to ensure that the legacy past board members strived to forge continues to be built on. This is what has made the CRA the success it is today. I encourage all members to come forth with any suggestions, ideas, and strategies which will keep our association in a continuous and healthy growth pattern. There are no avenues that are unworthy of exploring to achieve this.

I was also fortunate to attend the Global Alliance Meeting, graciously hosted by the American Rental Association. It was a real honour to sit at the same table with rental representatives from around the globe and be part of the discussions on their presentations. This entourage included members from Europe, Australia, Brazil, the U.K., New Zealand, the United States , Canada and special guests from Japan. It was quite interesting to hear how much our daily business activities, interests and concerns very much mirror each others’ places of business regardless of geographical location. One discussion that rang true throughout was member engagement. Ideas were exchanged and flowed among the group on health and safety, marketing, recruitment and retention, to name just a few. Truly a rewarding experience, and hats off to the ARA for pulling it all together.

I for one am extremely pleased with the talent and professionalism that our board exudes. It is with regret that we bid a fond <i>adieu</i> to Jeff Campbell and Paul Kenyon, who unfortunately were not able to be in New Orleans for the many honours and awards that were bestowed upon them. These two individuals will be surely missed but certainly not forgotten. From what I saw in Jeff, he will resurface in some aspect with the CRA as his blood flows the CRA colours. Also during the meeting, discussion took place on recently held trade shows as well as the upcoming shows. Feedback from the members and suppliers on these shows is vital, and the CRA is open to hear what worked well and what needs improvement and adjustment. This is imperative as the CRA head office and board are only as good as the information they receive. The goal is to build an even stronger unified association throughout Canada. CRS

Dave Mintenko is senior branch manager of Hertz Equipment Rentals in Winnipeg and national president of the Canadian Rental Association. He has been in the rental business for 35 years.

A GRAND REUNION

The Canadian rental

family connects coast to coast.

The ties that bind Canada’s rental industry were never more evident than at the 2015 rental shows this spring. Friends and family of two late business owners – Dale Pardy of Butler

Scaffolding and Rentool and Jim Johnson of Cavalier Industries – were offered condolences and fond memories by their communities amid the usual buying, learning and laughter that accompanies the Canadian Rental Association’s flagship events.

B.C. REGIONAL TRADE SHOW

by Ed Cosman

From the moment I stepped off the plane on Friday morning right through to when I flew back to Toronto on Sunday, the skies in Surrey, B.C. – home of the CRA B.C. trade show – treated everyone to a non-stop downpour. That, however, did not stop some 230 rental professionals from taking part in this annual event Jan. 23 and 24.

The show started on Friday afternoon with delegates visiting and making business deals with the 47 exhibiting companies, including first time exhibitor Valley Traffic Systems with Kelly Shannon and Bill Van Esch showing their latest traffic control products. Another first time exhibitor –Vic Khosla of Unique Business Systems – showed off his rental software system. Dinner that night was served on the show floor and the hospitality room back in the Cascades Hotel allowed everyone the opportunity to unwind and exchange rental tales after the show closed for the day. The trade show resumed on Saturday morning with lunch served on the show floor.

John King from Total Equipment Sales was hard at work both days of the show even though his equipment wasn’t as it was stuck at customs and did not arrive in time. Rentquip Canada introduced their brand new line of Patron-branded water pumps at the show. Sizes range from a one-inch de-watering pump right through a four-inch

The Pardy family – mother Sara and children, Emily and Tim – brought some youthful zing to the Atlantic banquet, as well as a tear or two. Dale Pardy passed away from lymphoma in December 2014, at the age of 36.

ENGINEERED TO EXCEL

The all-new Boxer® 900HD is the culmination of two years of preparations to build the most powerful and capable mini-skid steer available in the market. Designed from the ground up, the 900HD includes many class-leading features previously found only on full-size skid-steer models:

• 48-HP (36 kW), Tier 4 Final diesel engine with Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) that does not require after treatment

• 94" hinge pin height allows easy dumping over a 6' box side

• 939 lb. rated operating capacity (at 35% tip capacity)

Wide Range of Attachments

Like other Boxer models, the 900HD accepts an expansive range of attachments for digging, lifting, carrying and placing materials—to knock out whatever work you have to do!

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trash pump. All are assembled in Canada with Honda engines.

On both show days a $1,000 prize was awarded to a rental store to spend with a show exhibitor. The daily winners were Arnold Buteau of Warner Rentals and Brad Wiebe of Star Rentals. Making his last appearance at a trade show was Multiquip’s Don Flint, who retired at the end of January.

The gala awards banquet was held on Saturday night. After a number of speeches the awards were presented. The Rental Store of the Year was won by Warner Rentals with Ralph Warner accepting the award. The CRA B.C. Supplier of the Year went to Westerra Equipment with Grant Phillips accepting the award. Afterwards the non-stop entertainment was provided by Tracey Bell who was pinch hitting on very short notice after Johnny “Bagpipes” Johnson cancelled due to illness. Bell impersonated a number of female singers including Janis Joplin, Madonna, Cher and more. The interactive show had the audience in stitches. A special mention needs to go out to Rentquip’s Jim Freeman and Bill Pedersen of Pedersens Rentals for their “voluntary” participation.

ATLANTIC REGIONAL TRADE SHOW

by Patrick Flannery

About 100 rental professionals braved the towering snowbanks of Moncton, N.B., to participate in the CRA’s Atlantic Regional Trade Show at Casino New Brunswick. Attendees toured booths featuring 42 exhibitors and swapped stories of their struggles with the extreme winter weather that has clobbered the region for the past month. Some significant buying went on, with broad smiles on the faces at the Brooks Construction booth, among others.

The event opened with the CRA Atlantic banquet on the Friday night before the Saturday show. This year’s banquet was an emotional affair as the Atlantic local paid tribute to its departed president, the late Dale Pardy, with his wife, Sara, and children, Emily and Tim, in attendance. Pardy died of lymphoma in December at the age of 36. He was widely credited with rejuvenating the Atlantic association with his energy and enthusiasm, helping to build up the trade show, recruit a full board of directors and bring back the golf tournament after some years of decline. Memorializing Pardy, national Atlantic director Hank McInnis of Hewitt Rentals said, “Dale had a vision for this association and this show. Now it is up to us to keep that vision alive.” He called for volunteers to stand for election to the CRA Atlantic’s open board positions.

Incoming CRA Atlantic president, Murray Salter of Hewitt Rentals, also honoured Pardy. “Dale wanted this association to be something people wanted to do, not something they felt they had to do,” Salter remembered.

The show floor had an indoor golf chipping game set up to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Business was brisk, with Tim Pardy filling in the gaps between paying golfers. At the end of the show attendees had raised $240, with McInnis announcing the CRA Atlantic would match the donation.

The show wrapped up as always with a draw for prizes donated by the exhibitors.

THE RENTAL SHOW

American Rental Association

Even with greater anticipation and increased expectations for The Rental Show 2015 in New Orleans, the optimism and energy could be felt from all facets of the rental industry throughout the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center on Feb. 22 through 25.

That optimism and energy also are reflected in the final attendance numbers, which increased for the sixth consecutive year – a milestone that hasn’t been achieved by The Rental Show since the early 1980s. Rental business attendance increased nearly fie per cent this year over 2014.

While the attendance growth was apparent throughout the exhibit hall when it opened, the enthusiasm wasn’t limited to the show floor. The pre-show Events and Tents workshop on Feb. 21 had been sold out since November with 450 registrants, plus the wide variety of educational seminars on Feb. 22 attracted attendees in great numbers. Then there was the keynote session featuring Denver Broncos quarterback, Peyton Manning, on Feb. 23, drawing a capacity crowd that gave the NFL’s only five-time MVP numerous standing ovations before, during and after his address.

Christine Wehrman, ARA CEO, was pleased with the remarkable way attendees and exhibitors were enjoying one another throughout The Rental Show, participating fully in the programs and events, and using the networking opportunities the show provides.

“Everything at the show was working at the highest level this year. There was strong interest in meeting with exhibitors, purchasing of equipment, excellent networking and positive attitudes from all attendees and exhibitors,” Wehrman said. “There is an optimistic outlook for the future of the equipment rental industry, short-term and long-term. Everyone is very confident of the future being a stronger marketplace and they are investing in the growth of the industry.”

Paul Phelon of Timp Rental Center in Orem, Utah, now ARA’s

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, 2015.

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN

To nominate someone to be recognized as one of the Top 10 Under 40, visit www.canadianrentalservice.com to fill out a nomination form. Nominations close on May 29, 2015. The Top 10 Under 40 will be featured in the August edition of Canadian Rental Service magazine.

ACROSS THE INDUSTRY, from equipment and party rental businesses to equipment suppliers and service providers, we all face a single overarching challenge – finding the next generation of innovative, dedicated talent to drive the industry forward. Join us in celebrating that talent!

chairman of the board, noticed that confidence as well. “The show had a great deal of energy, with a lot of people in New Orleans and a high level of buying activity. Members were flooding the show floor and vendors were excited to see people coming.”

Exhibitors felt the energy throughout The Rental Show also. “People were buying from the beginning of the show and others were shopping and then coming back to finalize quotes,” said Clay Eubanks of Takeuchi Manufacturing. “We knew it was going to be good because the economy overall is doing better. The show this year was like the old days with a buzz and buying activity.”

Next year, a celebration of ARA’s 60th anniversary will be the focus of The Rental Show. Dates for the show are Feb. 21 to 24 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta.

PRAIRIE REGION TRADE SHOW

by Patrick Flannery

Saskatoon put its best foot forward at the March 14 Prairie Show, thanks to double-digit temperatures and another strong combined effort by the Alberta,

Saskatchewan and Manitoba CRA locals. About 160 attendees made for a lively show floor and over 50 visitors enjoyed a Friday tour of some impressive Saskatoon rental operations. But the big news of the show was the announcement that it would move to Edmonton in 2016.

Cavalier founder Jim Johnson was on everyone’s minds following his death Feb. 27 at the age of 69. His son, T.J., and daughter, Brittni, were approached many times with condolences and old stories. T.J. and Brittni now own Cavalier as president and vicepresident, respectively. CRA chairman, Marc Mandin, paid tribute to Johnson in a speech at the banquet, noting his exuberance, his emphasis on quality and his enthusiastic support for the association.

ARA president, Terry Turner, was on hand for the Friday tour and to speak at the Saturday night banquet. Turner thanked the western locals for the warm welcome to Canada and mentioned his delight at suddenly becoming 25 per cent richer just by crossing the border.

David Mintenko, CRA national president, made the official announcement of the show’s move to Edmonton at the banquet.

Cavalier employees are paying homage to their late leader, Jim Johnson, with special monogramed shirts.

He recognized the strong efforts of the Saskatchewan local over the years to host the show and build it into the successful event it is. The move was formalized with the “hand off” of a Roughriders football, signed by the Saskatchewan board, to Alberta national director, Jim Boddez. Reaction around the show to the move was positive, with many exhibitors expressing excitement at gaining exposure to the hot northern Alberta oil-field rental market at the next show.

In lieu of a traditional educational seminar program, the Prairie Show featured a wellorganized tour of three Saskatoon stores (Handy Group, The Rent It Store, and Hub City Display), one equipment dealership (Earthworks) and a local micro-distillery, LB Distillers. Three guesses as to which stop was most popular.

It was a big show for Doug Krasowski of Wacker Neuson, who took home both the Doug Mitchell Award and the Dickie Doo award. The Doug Mitchell Award recognizes industry knowledge and contributions to the associations. The Dickie Doo honours those who have grown to a certain stature in the western rental industry.

Fundraising through a 50/50 draw and silent auction raised over $3,000 for the Doug Mitchell and Dorothy Wellnitz scholarship funds, awarded by the ARA to children or employees of Canadian rental operations who wish to further their education in a field relevant to rental.

QUEBEXPO

by Martin Forgues

Trade shows usually remain quiet around opening time – most activity revolves around the various kiosks where sales reps get ready to meet and greet rental business owners,

NORSEMAN DUCTING PRODUCTS

Whether it’s a temporary work shelter or party tent, Norseman has a flexible solution to ensure the ideal temperature and airflow

• Aero EvenAir Di usion Duct – Designed to provide even distribution of hot or cool air throughout closed work sites and temporary structures. For use with heater ducts or industrial fans.

• Arctic Large Diameter - Delivers high volume CFM’s to a concentrated area allowing air to be pushed longer distances in temporary or permanent structures. It can be used for ventilation, exhausting, drying heat, and general air circulation.

BOMAG TAMPER S

Renovation for Rent

hoping they got in an early “Black Friday” mode to buy the various equipment, ranging from light power tools to heavily polished lifts and vehicles. But on March 11, this relative sense of calmness contrasted with the excitement of one dynamo who kept running up and down the aisles of Laval’s Plaza Forzani, which held Quebexpo 2015.

Newly appointed as managing director of the CRA, Nathalie McGregor jumped on the rental business bandwagon after spending years in the non-profit world. “I wasn’t that familiar with the rental business when I started my mandate last year, but I love a good challenge”, she said before mentioning that her French/English bilingualism and love for contact with the public have proven to be quite an asset over the year during which she held her tenure. “I love working for people, helping them connect”.

She also innovated for this year’s edition with a new feature that proves quite popular both with dealers and shoppers. “We set up a rest area, complete with comfortable stools and free coffee and water. It brings people together in a very natural and relaxed way,” said McGregor.

With a background in accounting and sales, she confidently tackled the task of organizing the show on behalf of the CRA with the Quebec association acting as “field operators,” making sure that sparks flash between the reps showing off their latest gear and the business owners, some of them already emailing their bankers.

“We expect around 300 to 350 visitors. I’d say that Quebexpo is quite a success”, said McGregor.

Sitting at a stool in the CRA’s kiosk and chatting both with fellow business owners and Quebec local volunteers, Benoit Légaré, the association’s treasurer and owner of Location Pro, based in Quebec City, echoed his manager’s sentiment. “I buy most of my equipment here at Quebexpo. The discounts that the exhibitors offer during shows make a huge difference. Even if I don’t buy, I make contacts, which can always be useful later,” he said. “I’m assuming double duties today – recruiting new members and going on a shopping spree.”

Roughly an hour after opening time, the mood was already switching from calm to dynamic, with dozens of rental business owners chatting up with sales reps, trading business cards, negotiating deals and using smartphone banking apps to make on-the-spot transactions with their financial institutions. “Attendance is small compared to bigger

shows in the U.S., but the atmosphere is far more convivial,” said Tom Brennan from Inteq Distributors and one of 78 exhibitors present, which sells high-tech measure instruments aimed at the construction industry.

He should know, being used to much larger tradeshows and hauling his demonstrators from their Exeter, Ont., headquarters to as far as Louisiana.

ONTARIO CONFERENCE AND PRODUCT EXPO

by Patrick Flannery

The Ontario Canadian Rental Association put learning at the forefront of its conference program March 25 at the Holiday Inn in Guelph, Ont. The event drew praise and increased attendance with its full morning of education sessions featuring access to experts that rental store owners would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.

The revamped schedule featured education seminars from 8 a.m. until lunch, followed by the traditional tabletop displays in the nearby ballroom. Presentations were divided into party and equipment rental streams, with equipment rental operators hearing about scissor lift transportation courtesy of Skyjack and Vermeer, and equipment theft prevention from two York Regional Police officers. Party rental folks got a presentation on heating and air conditioning sizing for events from L.M. Temperature Control. Both groups were offered panel discussions with officials from key Ontario regulatory agencies: the Electrical Safety Authority, the Ministry of Labour’s Industrial Health and Safety program, the City of Guelph’s building permit office and a truck inspector from the Ministry of Transportation. The questions flew fast and furious and it is safe to say everyone in the room learned something. Presenters and panel members were mobbed after the sessions with additional questions and requests for contact information. The association reported 160 rental professionals at the event. The CRA Ontario banquet followed the show day, highlighted by an encouraging keynote speech from special guest, Christine Weyrman, CEO of the ARA. Weyrman praised the strong progress of the CRA and the Ontario local, pointing to economic indicators that good times for the rental industry are ahead. CRA national president, David Mintenko, also addressed the group, making special mention of the sponsors and suppliers who provide so much support to these events. All speakers highlighted the need for continued involvement from the membership, reminding attendees that positions on the Ontario board will be coming up for election at the next Ontario meeting on April 15 at Rentquip in Woodstock, Ont.

to the

and told the members things are looking up for the rental industry.

Awards went to James Morden, Region 10 director, for Rental Professional of the Year and Rentquip for Ontario Supplier of the Year. The President’s Image Award for party and event went to Muskoka Party Rentals and the Image award for equipment rentals went to Stayner Rental. Draws for door prizes and 50/50 cash capped off the evening with cheers and groans. CRS

Christine Weyrman, ARA CEO, paid a visit

Ontario Conference

MINI-MIGHT.

The new Ditch Witch® SK750 and SK755 are built to outperform on any jobsite. Both models feature a high-drive track system along with an enhanced operator station, delivering superior performance through increased ground clearance, more lift capacity, faster ground speed, longer track life, and more operator comfort. And these new SK mini skid steers send more horsepower to the attachment than any competitor. That’s a lot of might from a small machine! Count on Brandt for quality products and the support to help keep you productive and profitable, job after job. That’s Powerful Value. Delivered.

Safety in Mind This Spring!

 A quality worker uses safety best practices – even when no one is watching.

 Who owns safety? Everyone. Who is the safety champion? I am.

 No Safety, Know Injury.

 Commit to safe work for you and your coworkers.

 Every employee arrives at work, fully expecting to go home safely every day. What are you doing to ensure this happens?

 If you see something that is not right –speak up!

Upcoming Events

 CRA National

 May 2015 - Put your thinking cap on! CRA National will be seeking nominations in May for a BC National Director, Quebec National Director and Supplier Director

 CRA BC

 May 14th, 2015 - Nor-Val Rentals Open House at 5401 24th St. in Vernon

 CRA Alberta

 June 2nd, 2015 - CRA Alberta Golf Tournament at Riverside Golf Course in Red Deer

Who are you contracting with?

by Deryk Coward

Most of you reading this article employ individuals. You are generally responsible at law for the acts and/ or omissions of your employees if they are doing something within the scope of their employment. When you are dealing with someone from another company, it is often difficult to determine whether that person possesses the authourity to bind his or her employer.

These discussions centre around the legal doctrine of agency, and agency can become a very tricky area for your company depending on the circumstances. Agency can potentially affect you and/or your business in many different ways, and I will address some of those potential situations in this article.

Agency is the legal relationship which exists between two people (or companies) when one person, called the agent, is considered in law to represent the other, called the principal. The agent is legally capable of affecting the legal position of the principal with third parties, by making contracts with them or otherwise.

An example of a classic agency situation would be your real estate agent. That person is your agent, and you are the principal. If your realtor tells a prospective third party purchaser something, the purchaser is entitled to treat it as having come from you. It will not be open for you to say later to the third party purchaser that the realtor was wrong or was not entitled to make the statement.

Whether a person is your agent depends on the circumstances. A key factor courts look at, is the degree of control exercised by the alleged principal over the alleged agent and whether the alleged agent must account to the principal for money he or she receives.

It is crucial to note that an agency relationship does not necessarily need to be in writing. Most real estate agents insist on having you sign a listing agreement which details the agency relationship. In that document, it will state the limits of the authourity, payment details, and anything else that the parties deem pertinent. Often the duration of the agency relationship is a critical consideration,

and parties will want to stipulate when the relationship will terminate.

In situations where there is no agreement between agent and principal, but the principal permits a person to appear as its agent or otherwise puts someone in a position where a third party could reasonably think that they are dealing with an agent, the courts will create an agency relationship. This is called “apparent authority.”

There is much grey area surrounding apparent authority, however, because the roles of the parties have not been expressly defined. At law, if you put someone in a position where it is reasonable for a third party to believe he or she is your agent, then it is possible for you to be held liable for the action(s) of that person even if his or her conduct was outside the scope of their actual authority.

An example might be if you allow one of your employees to regularly buy products for your company with your suppliers. Let’s say that your employee is only allowed to make purchases of $500 or less (that’s an agreement between you and your employee), but you don’t tell that to your suppliers. If your supplier has been regularly dealing with your employee buying products, and you’ve paid the bills, you will be responsible to pay the bill when your employee makes a purchase of $10,000. It will not be open for you to argue that your employee didn’t have the authority to make the purchase, because you failed to tell the supplier that your agent’s authourity was limited.

This can also become problematic when dealing with other individuals. If you have any doubt whatsoever that the person you are dealing with may not actually have the authority to bind his or her principal, then go directly to the principal and confirm (in writing, preferably) that the agent indeed possesses the authority to make the deal being contemplated.

You must therefore be ever mindful of the positions and responsibilities you grant to your employees and other agents. Are you putting them in a position where, to the outside world, they appear to have more power than they actually possess? CRS

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Contractors who rent equipment want to finish the job knowing they were provided tools that enabled

productivity and offered them comfort, too. Ammann ACR rammers are designed to do exactly that. They can provide a low cost of ownership that benefits the rental operation’s bottom line. The ACR 60 weighs 62 kg, while the ACR 68 weighs 68 kg. The rammers run on gasoline-powered Honda engines. No fuel mixing is required. Other key features include comfort in the form of a height-adjustable, vibration-reducing handle and three design heights – reduced, standard and extended – to help customize Ammann Rammers for

specific jobsites. Seven easyto-change foot sizes range from 165 to 340 mm (with the standard 280 mm). An asymmetric foot is available at 340 mm that compacts tight against edges. Rammers with asymmetric feet don’t have to be turned sideways to achieve compaction against trench walls and edges. The operator simply keeps moving forward. It’s a significant factor in productivity, as is the handle. The adjustable vibration-reducing handle reduces operator fatigue, which ultimately has an impact on productivity. Rental operations may also

benefit from other ACR features. The multiple design heights and foot sizes allow the rental house to offer ACR rammers for a wide variety of applications. Extended service intervals for the selfcleaning air filter can keep the rammer in use for longer periods.

GETS INTO CONFINED

AREAS

8 brooksconstruction.ca Belle has developed the PCX13/40 for compaction of all types of granular and mixed materials with cohesive content as well as for hot or cold asphalt

in confined areas such as parking lots, highways, areas close to structures and abutments. This product can provide great value to rental houses as it has been designed to withstand the toughest applications. With the improved travel speed and frequency, it allows the operator to smoothly run the machine in a wide range of field applications without demanding frequent maintenance and repair. A key feature is the reduced hand and arm vibration exposure via the handle while maintaining a maximum vibration force of over 2,900 foot-pounds to the ground. Features include a foldable operators handle for superior maneuverability that can be lowered to operate under obstacles and

close to form work. The reinforced centrifugal clutch ensures longer belt life and simplified belt adjustment. Lifting points and a front lift cage offer easier loading and unloading for convenience and heavy contractor use. The vibration bearings are lubricated for life. Optional equipment includes a large 2.6-gallon water tank built into the protective frame. The protected spray bar has angled holes to allow complete water coverage over the full plate width to help prevent any asphalt pick-up on the plate bottom. The paving pad for compacting and protecting paving blocks is quickly attached with integral clamp points. A detachable wheel kit is available.

GAS AND DIESEL ROLLERS

8 cp.com

Chicago Pneumatic Construction Equipment offers a complete line of compact tandem asphalt rollers. The ride-on rollers offer a larger-scale compliment to the popular

line of Chicago Pneumatic light compaction equipment. The models in North America include articulated tandem asphalt rollers in both gasoline and diesel models. Used primarily for small-scale compaction work like patching, bicycle paths, small parking lots and driveways, these articulated tandem asphalt rollers are designed for easy transport and operator usability. The AR90G is a gasoline version and features vibration on the front drum with drive on both the front and rear drums. The diesel-driven AR100 comes with vibration and drive standard on both front and rear drums. Designed for quiet operation in sensitive environments,

the AR120 is most used on roadways in urban areas where a compact size and noise-reduction technology is important. Equipped with a Kubota water-cooled diesel engine, the AR120 is powerful enough for medium-duty to heavy-duty applications, yet versatile and compact enough to be used on lighter-duty applications as well. The whole line of rollers is engineered with operator comfort in mind, featuring spacious platforms, and ergonomically positioned steps. Shock mounts and a sliding operator seat comes standard on the roller models. The sleek, legible instrument panel includes a warning panel and a fuel gauge to reduce incidents on the jobsite.

NARROWED FOR BETTER ACCESS

8 atlascopco.ca

Atlas Copco has introduced two new rammers, replacing the LT5004 and LT6004. These new rammers feature ultra-slim bodies, ideal for getting closer to structures and through narrow spaces. Like all Atlas Copco rammers, the new LT5005

SERIOUS PROFIT

and LT6005 provide high centrifugal force and speed for deep and effective compaction. At a mere six inches wide, the LT5005 is three inches smaller than its predecessor and the LT6005 is nine inches wide – two inches shorter than the previous model. These slim designs enable operators to easily compact cohesive and granular soils in confined spaces, such as small trenches, ditches, backfills and foundations. The smaller size also makes it easy for operators to work close to walls or posts. Atlas Copco designed the rammers with a rubber isolator on each side of the handle to absorb vibrations that would otherwise be transmitted to the operator. This reduces the risk of injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and hand-arm vibration syndrome. The rammers also feature a single lifting point that allows users to easily move them from hard-to-reach spaces with large machinery, such as a crane. The rammers are equipped with a Honda GXR120 engine that features an overhead camshaft and timing belt that operate with minimal noise. The oil alert LED indicator on the rammers notifies operators when the oil level is too low for proper engine lubrication. The

rammers also are equipped with a throttle control with three fixed positions, stop, idle and run. This feature eliminates the risk of leaving the throttle half open, which optimizes fuel use.

OPTIMAL ECCENTRIC PLACEMENT

8 toro.com

Toro’s line of forward and reversible plate compactors are designed with a unique base geometry, optimal eccentric placement, amplitude and VPMs that allow the unit to provide maximum compaction for stable, even surfaces. A heavy-duty design provides protection to the engine and machine components for extended life. Toro offers three models of forward plate compactors with an eccentric force range of 2,200 to 4,000 lbs. Toro’s new line of reversible plate compactors offer a centrifugal force range from approximately 4,950 to14,160 lbs. and feature hydraulic travel control with an innovative safety valve to offer overload protection and a longer product life.

FROM SOILS TO HEAVY CLAY

8 doosanportablepower.com

The Doosan Portable Power RX-304H upright rammer is built for the compaction of materials ranging from mixed and cohesive soils to heavy clay. The model is ideal for a wide array

of applications including backfilling and narrow trench compaction such as utility work, trenching, curbing, drainage work, and foundation and masonry base preparation. The RX-304H comes standard with a Honda recoil-start, four-cycle engine. Impact force is applied to the compacted material by a durable wooden foot reinforced with a heavy steel plate for extended life. The average impact per blow is 3,000 lbs. with up to 650 blows per minute. Featuring a low-profile, lightweight design and a low center of gravity, the RX-304H selfbalances, providing greater maneuverability and control around jobsite obstacles. A four-point isolation and vibration-reducing grip minimizes operator fatigue and prolongs the life of the rammer components.

CONSUMES

HALF THE FUEL 8 multiquip.com

Multiquip has introduced the MQ Rammax 1575 articulated trench roller, now available with removable drum extensions. The roller has been

improved with an option for drum extensions in addition to the standard 24and 33-inch drum options. The remote controlled RX1575 delivers the compaction performance that contractors expect from MQ Rammax products. The roller has two vibration settings: high, producing 16,860 lbs. of centrifugal force, and low, producing 8,430 lbs. This enables the operator to adapt performance to suit the job’s soil and lift conditions. Powered by a fuel-efficient Yanmar diesel engine, it consumes up to 50 per cent less fuel than other rollers.

Known for its reliability, the engine delivers reliable starting and performance. Maintaining the Rammax 1575 is simplified by a maintenance-free articulation joint. Service technicians will appreciate the front and rear gullwing-style covers that open to 90 degrees to provide easy access to all service points. Multiquip backs up the RX1575 with a 5-3-2 warranty: five years on bearings, drive motor and eccentric housing assemblies; three years on the Yanmar engine; and two years on the basic machine, parts and labour.

“A

PREFERRED PIECE OF EQUIPMENT”

Larry Steele, Owner Aurora Rents, Seattle

EASY TO USE

8 apt-tools.com

American Pneumatic Tools (APT) now offers a complete range of light compaction equipment, including forward and reversible plate compactors, rammers and walk-behind trench roller. The APT forward soil plates range in operating weight between 128 pounds and 208.4 pounds, and are specially designed for compacting granular soils. Ideal for small repair and maintenance work, applications include asphalt, gravel, sand and silt. APT forward plate compactors are powered by Honda engines, and feature specially shaped bottom plates, stowable vibration-reduced handles for reduced operator fatigue, and wheels for easy jobsite mobility. The forward plate compactors also feature a removable 3.4-gallon water tank and smart water distribution system for reliable performance. Ideal for compacting medium to deep layers of granular soils, APT reversible plate compactors range in operating weight between 355 pounds and 1,719.6 pounds and offer a highspeed, balanced design with a hydraulic control system for easy, precision handling even in the toughest applications. APT reversible plate compactors come standard with a hydraulic forward/reverse lever, a heavy-duty protection frame and impact-resistant steel covers. Models RP160 through RP400 feature gaspowered Honda engines, while Hatz Diesel engines power the RP500 and RP700 models. Ranging in operating weight between 145.5 pounds and 187.4 pounds, APT rammers are ideal for

repair jobs, trenches and foundation work. Featuring a multi-functional fuel tank with a breather shutoff, electrical shut-off and throttle control with three fixed positions (stop/idle/ run), APT rammers are built with a robust steel frame and efficient shock absorbers to provide improved traction and easy operation. With its superior traction, the WR85-33 trench roller makes work on cohesive and granular soils easy. The APT trench compactor is suitable for back-fills, foundations, parking lots and similar applications. With an operating weight of 3,695 pounds and an 18-inch drum width, this Bluetooth radio-controlled, walkbehind trench roller comes standard with a Hatz diesel engine and is equipped with an emergency manually controlled system, which includes an emergency pushstop bar and a safety pushstop button.

ANY APPLICATION 8 alleneng.com

The Allen APC210H singledirection plate compactor is part of a new line of compaction equipment to make confined area compaction easier and faster. The APC210H can be used for practically every application from footings and sub-bases to paving stones and patios.

COMPACTION SHOWCASE

It comes standard with a roll cage and wheel kit for easy maneuverability on any jobsite and is equipped with a Honda gas engine for long-lasting use and power for years to come. Capable of producing 5,640 vibrations per minute and covering 82 feet per minute, each plate compactor is designed with simplicity for the on-site contractor while still maintaining high production and results on any jobsite.

HONDA-POWERED RAMMER

8 wackerneuson.com

Wacker Neuson has expanded its vibratory rammer line to include two models powered by a four-cycle Honda engine. The BS 50-4As and BS 60-4As are equipped with a 3.2-horsepower GX 100 Honda engine. The new BS 50-4As and BS 60-4As offer a unique low oil shutoff technology that protects the engine. When starting the unit, a sensor will detect if machine has no oil or low oil and does not allow the engine to start. Additionally, starting the engine is easy due to a purge bulb that evacuates air from the fuel line. A compensated carburetor maintains optimum air-fuel ratio for up to three times longer air filter change intervals. Rental store owners can conveniently choose the engine type to best fit their business preference. The

new Honda powered models join the Wacker Neuson powered four-cycle rammers as well as the industry’s most popular rammers, the twocycle, oil injection models. Also available are the premix two-cycle and diesel model. All Wacker Neuson rammers are designed for the best compaction performance offering long shoe stroke and more blows per minute as well as exceeding all environmental emissions regulations. Wacker Neuson’s newest technological enhancement to all its rammers includes a unique four-stage air filtration system. This system includes a main element with 20 per cent more capacity than the previous design and still uses the rammer’s motion to selfclean, an improved cyclonic pre-filter designed for more efficient dirt removal and a fourth stage “last chance” filter that prevents dust ingestion during filter changes. Dust is an inherent enemy of engines, so this new filtration system will provide for a virtually dust free engine for longer life and improved durability.

SMALL BUT MIGHTY

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The new CR 7 reversible soil compactor from Weber MT is a small but mighty machine that delivers powerful compaction performance without causing

operator fatigue. Its balanced running characteristics and exceptionally smooth operation as well as its low hand-arm vibrations provide for enhanced ease of use. The infinitely variable hydraulic control for forward and reverse travel allows for in-place compaction, and the height adjustable guide bar with a comfortable rubber handle is both foldable and lockable for easy transport. Its low overall height of 32 inches makes this machine user friendly and ideal for trench shoring. The CR 7 has an operating weight of 946 pounds with a Honda GX 390 engine and offers 14,625 pounds of centrifugal force. The throttle cable and hydraulic shift are located inside the guide bar for further protection, and the centrifugal clutch provides automatic tensioning of the V-belt. The all-around enclosure and sturdy frame ensures full engine protection, and the maintenance cover at the front of the machine allows for easy access to essential parts for servicing - a real time saver. Also, the large hinged lifting eye at the top of the machine and the eyelets in the engine mount for lashing make transport easier and safer. The CR 7 is impressive and economical and can be used in a wide variety of applications ranging from road construction and civil engineering to paving.

INTELLIGENT SYSTEM

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Atlas Copco’s new, easy-touse intelligent compaction system gives contractors real-time material stiffness readings to ensure superior soil and asphalt compaction. This maximizes operator productivity, which results in

saving contractors significant time and money. And, its touch screen capability makes the system user friendly and convenient. The intelligent compaction system uses a global navigation satellite system, such as GPS, to track the number of completed passes and a drum-mounted accelerometer to measure the surface’s relative material

stiffness. The system gives operators immediate materials stiffness results from within the cab to help minimize the number of passes. When using the system on asphalt, it also detects the temperature of asphalt to provide consistent, relative stiffness readings. In addition, Atlas Copco’s intelligent compaction system helps contractors detect any loose materials so they can perform additional passes to reach the right compaction. This minimizes the risk of production related quality defects, which are time consuming and costly to remediate. Contractors can use the intuitive system on a tablet to set project parameters and view compaction data. Once they achieve the optimal level of compaction, the program alerts the operator, so he or she can stop and reduce the risk of over compaction, which can affect the integrity of the material and damage the roller. The system is available on Atlas Copco CC2200 through CC6200 asphalt rollers and

CA2500 through CA6500 soil rollers.

NO GUESSWORK

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Wacker Neuson is offering a new compaction control system on its most popular diesel reversible plate, model DPU 6555HEC. The monitoring system is called Compatec and takes the guess work out of determining when soil has reached the ultimate compaction results. Wacker Neuson’s DPU 6555HEC is the company’s first reversible plate to be available with the Compatec system. The easy to read system consists of eight highly visible LEDs. The number of lights will increase with each pass and will no longer increase once the maximum compaction is achieved. This system is

an excellent tool for less experienced operators and helps avoid unnecessary passes. Compatec will also warn the operator with all eight LEDs flashing when the machine is measuring an overload or over compaction condition. The display unit is conveniently placed on the back of the machine where

the operator simply glances down to see the highly visible LEDs. The LEDs brightness will automatically adjust to the brightness of the environment so that even in bright sunlight the system is easy to read. Wacker Neuson’s Compatec device is positioned entirely in the upper mass of the plate where it is exposed to fewer

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12 Aquila Crt., Toronto, Ontario M9W 5J2 Phone (416) 748-8045 • Toll Free 1-877-748-1130 Fax (416) 748-7922 • Toll Free 1-800-748-9989

E-mail: eastcan@rogers.com

For Quebec: Erick Desormeaux • erick@equipdistribution.net Tel 514-249-9706/866-611-0843 Fax 514-221-3179/866-460-3179

strong vibrations produced by this powerful plate. This design provides durability with no wires going between the upper and lower mass of the plate. There is only one short wire between the transmitter and the display. Because of the overload protection system indicated by the flashing lights, there is less chance of damage due to operation on hard surfaces. The DPU6555HEC unit weighs in at 1,064 pounds and produces 14,612 pounds of centrifugal force. The low profile unit features standard extension plates providing for adjustable operating widths of either 22 or 28 inches. This reversible diesel (12.9 hp Hatz) plate offers infinitely variable forward and reverse operation including spot compaction for excellent results on various types of soil. CRS

Eastcan CRS dec13.indd 1

Shift your thinking

by Jeff Thorne

Falls are the leading causes of fatalities in the construction industry. For those of us that have worked at height, the actual and potential dangers are ever-present and the environment is always changing. Staying alert and paying attention to your surroundings is paramount.

On a sunny fall day last October a young worker (23 years old) was working on the 12th story of a building, assisting in the delivery of concrete blocks to the roof. A tower crane had lifted the skid of concrete blocks to the roof and placed the skid onto wood planking. The way it was placed caused the skid to rest on an angle creating a potential hazard, as the bricks weighed approximately 3,500 pounds. The workers on the roof decided that the skid of blocks should be re-landed, flat on the roof. The load was re-strapped and lifted up and out. Upon lifting the skid, it suddenly propelled toward an exterior parapet wall that surrounded the rooftop.

The young worker was situated between the parapet wall and the skid of blocks. He hung on to the skid of blocks, which proceeded to trolley out and crashed through the exterior parapet well, knocking the worker from the top of the roof. The young man fell four storeys, or approximately 43 feet.

The young worker was trained in fall protection but was not using any form of fall protection at the time of the incident. The parapet wall was only 23.5 inches tall and did not constitute a properly designed guardrail. The young worker sustained head and leg injuries and later died as a result of the fall.

This is only one example of many where there was a failure in this organization’s internal responsibility system that will have lasting effects on the company, the young worker’s family, the community that he lived in and the workers he worked with. This individual had his whole life ahead of him but worked for an organization that did not have the commitment, systems or

structure to ensure that he arrived home safely to his family and friends at the end of the day.

When fall hazards are present, there is a specific order or hierarchy that should be considered prior to selecting personal protective equipment. If this organization had given thought to the changing environment and the protective measures required, the young worker would still be alive today.

Here is a logical thought process when performing tasks at height.: thought must first be given to eliminating the fall hazard. If we cannot eliminate the fall hazard, the next best control to protect a worker is the installation of a properly constructed guardrail to protect them from falling over a leading or open edge. If a guardrail system is not feasible, thought must be given to the use of a travel restraint system, preventing the worker from reaching the edge. If a travel restrain system is not feasible then fall arrest is the last resort!

If the young worker was tied off to a certified temporary or permanent anchorage point and the system was designed and set up correctly, he would have survived.

When working at heights, your life is always on the line – literally! Tasks when working at heights should be planned and the fall hazards and protection systems identified. The plan must be in writing, shared with and understood by the workers, uniformly enforced and under the supervision of a competent person.

The message is simple: working at heights can be dangerous and this accident should not have occurred. Workplace accidents are far too common and there needs to be a renewed commitment to workplace safety and the prevention, elimination and control of workplace hazards. There must be a shift in the way we think about safety. CRS

Jeff Thorne is manager of training and consulting at Occupational Safety Group.

The safer trench compaction solution

Wacker Neuson’s trench roller with line-of-sight infrared remote control leads the rental industry in safety, performance and reliability. The popular RTx requires the operator maintain line-of-sight view at all times, keeping the jobsite and its workers better protected. The new RTx SC3 now offers a third receiving eye to ensure uninterrupted operation as the machine travels under shoring crossbars. Ask about our five-year warranties. www.wackerneuson.com 1-800-201-3346

Spring into Action!

Multiquip has you covered with a complete line of light compaction equipment. The completely redesigned AR14 vibratory 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!

SMART