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12
4
EDITORIAL
Partnerships must be the number one cause of business failure. by Patrick Flannery
22 COMPACT EQUIPMENT SHOWCASE
Everything your customers need to be productive in small spaces.
6
INDUSTRY NEWS
Global Rental Alliance meets, Paladin buys CWS and Jewell, Marion to lead Atlas Copco Construction Tools...
20 22 30
12 THE ABSOLUTE END
A look at the rise and fall of a major Toronto event rental operation.
10 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Thoughts from the golf course. by David Mintenko
20
SMALL BUT MIGHTY Compact utility loaders are offering more than ever before.
30 PEEK UNDERNEATH
There’s a difference between rigid and suspended undercarriages in track loader design.
34
SAFETY FIRST AND LAST Preventing slips, trips and falls needs to be a high priority. by Jeff Thorne
Perils of partnership
Our rental store profile this issue is a little different. Usually, Canadian Rental Service focuses on a going concern in the rental industry. This time, we are taking an in-depth look at the Absolute Group, a consortium of event and film location rental operations that ceased operations back in April. As you will read on page 12, Absolute could not finalize deals to sell most of its member companies and was forced to liquidate its physical assets through auction. We are indebted to its former owner, Paul Kenyon, for his willingness to share his story at what must be a difficult time.
Some will complain that dedicating space to a “failed” company paints an unflattering picture of the rental industry in Canada and conflicts with this magazine’s mission to promote and support it. But that is only one of the aims of this publication. Our goal, first and foremost, is to give Canadian rental operators information that helps them succeed in business. Mistakes are almost always more educational than successes. Paul has been very forthcoming in discussing his mistakes, as well as his many successes, and the result is a story I hope we can all learn from. And any perception that Absolute is a failed enterprise misses the fact that for 18 years it was a story of almost unmitigated success, growing swiftly into one of the largest rental operations of any kind in the Toronto area.
The Canadian Rental Mart
Visit canadianrentalmart.com for all the latest updates as planning continues for Canada’s national rental show, coming March 8 and 9 to the Toronto Congress Centre. Follow @TheRentalMart for instant notifications whenever a new exhibitor signs on.
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by Patrick Flannery
Having logged over 20 years now working closely with small businesses in such diverse sectors as machining, wood product manufacturing, flooring, window and door manufacturing, commercial glazing and, of course, rental, I feel confident in saying that the number one source of business closure has nothing to do with sales levels, expenses, red tape, market conditions or any of the other economic factors normally blamed. The most common reason Canadian small businesses involuntarily close their doors is because of breakdowns in partnership arrangements. Anyone contemplating entering into a business partnership needs to remember that no matter how strong and trusting their relationship is now, tying fortunes together and taking the myriad decisions that company ownership requires will create new strains that are difficult to imagine and plan for. As our legal columnist, Deryk Coward, constantly reminds us, “get it in writing.” Your partnership arrangement needs to be structured and specific, with clear processes for dispute resolution and the exit of one or more partners from the business. Do not fail to get a lawyer involved. I personally feel that 50/50 arrangements are a bad idea. Ships sail better when everyone knows who the captain is.
Since we are talking about things that threaten business, I might as well note that the R-word is floating around again. Statistics Canada says the Canadian economy contracted for the second straight quarter in the second quarter of this year. If you aren’t in the West, the news probably came as a surprise. Manufacturing is already strengthening in Ontario, even though the dollar spread has not had time to really affect exports yet. Employment numbers here are strong, and housing has resumed its apparently never-ending boom. Looking for a recession-proof niche to buffer sales in slow times? A recent report by realtor Re/Max says sales of multi-million-dollar luxury homes are at all-time highs in major metropolitan centres, and that most of the buyers are rich foreigners, especially in Vancouver. Time to look around your store and see if you have anything that a wealthy homeowner looking to renovate her new property might need. CRS
CRA ELECTS NEW SUPPLIER DIRECTORS
The Canadian Rental Association has introduced two new national supplier directors representing eastern and western Canada. As of September, David Bisson of National Hose will be representing eastern associate members, and Gary Webb of L.B. White will be representing western associate members. The CRA also thanked Justin Klassen of Heater Sales and Service for also allowing his name to stand in the western supplier director election. The CRA national board thanked Dean Nasato of Wacker Neuson for his devotion to the rental industry and a job well done as national supplier director for the past three years.
MID-YEAR MEETING OF THE GLOBAL RENTAL ALLIANCE
Seated: Chris Wehrman, (American Rental Association); James Oxenham (Hire and Rental Industry Association of Australia); Allan Siscic (Brazilian Rental Association); Dave Mintenko (Canadian Rental Association); Michel Petitjean (European Rental Association); Graham Arundell (Hire Association Europe); Phil Tindle (Hire Industry Association of New Zealand). Standing: Paul Phelon (ARA); Terry Turner (ARA); Peter Lancken, (HRIA); Fernando Forjaz (ALEC); Tim Ranson (CRA); Adrian Watts (HAE); Tim Mikkelsen (HIANZ). (Photo taken at The Rental Show 2015 in February.)
The Global Rental Alliance (GRA), made up of seven peer equipment rental associations from throughout the world, held their mid-year meeting via webinar in late-August with executives of member associations present. Consistent with their purpose to increase the profile of the industry worldwide and benefit their individual membership, the Global Rental Alliance representatives discussed pertinent common initiatives, and also unique issues and programs of their respective associations. Differences exist within the industry of each country due to their specific economic, social and regulatory environment. Membership initiatives are central to each association, with the performance of their rental industry within the global economy always being pertinent. Of particular note among the group were standards and education for the party/event industry and aerial equipment, as they impact safety. Availability of skilled labour remains a topic of priority, as does equipment theft and efforts to address theft rates. Representatives identified topics for further discussion at their 13th annual meeting to be held Feb. 25, 2016, at The Rental Show in Atlanta. This fall, an Australian rental representative will travel to the United States to participate in the GRA International Business Leadership Program.
SENNEBOGEN
GOES EXCLUSIVE WITH STRONGCO
Strongco has announced that it has entered into an agreement with Sennebogen to be the exclusive dealer for its full range of green line material handlers for much of the Quebec north of the Greater Montreal Area and in portions of southern Quebec. The arrangement builds on the existing agreements that Strongco has with Sennebogen in Ontario, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island, and further extends the company’s geographic reach in the forestry, scrap, ports and recycling markets in Canada.
“We have achieved meaningful success in our existing distribution network since taking on this product line in 2010,” said Bob Dryburgh, president and CEO of Strongco.
More importantly, we have developed an excellent working relationship with Sennebogen, such that both companies are enthusiastic about this expansion.”
“Strongco developed the market for us in the Atlantic provinces and Ontario, so we have experienced firsthand their commitment to servicing and working closely with both the customer and the OEM, and we are pleased to lever the same effective strategy in Quebec,” said Constantino Lannes, president of Sennebogen.
“This strong partnership offers us a distinct platform for our products.”
David Bisson Gary Webb
MARION TO MANAGE CONSTRUCTION TOOLS FOR ATLAS COPCO
Atlas Copco Construction Equipment Canada has appointed Mike Marion to be business line manager of its construction tools division. Marion was previously national business development manager for power generation and light towers.
Matt Le Cornu, general manager, said, “Mike has over 20 years of experience in the Canadian construction equipment industry and we believe that his previous experience, in conjunction with his strong customer focus and dedication, position him well to bring further growth to the construction tools business across Canada.”
Marion joined Atlas Copco in 2011 as product and business development manager for air compressors and generators. In 2015, he was promoted to national business development manager, a position he has held until now. His extensive experience of the construction equipment industry includes exposure to generators, light towers, portable compressors, motor graders, excavators, compact equipment, articulated trucks and wheel loaders. He has an extensive background in industrial engines, with over 10
AIELLO PROMOTED AT TVH
TVH in the Americas (TVH), a provider of replacement parts and accessories for the material handling and industrial equipment industry, has announced the promotion of Chris Aiello to business development manager. In his new role Aiello will lead TVH’s outside regional managers to continue the growth of sales and customer experience. Aiello joined the company in 2012 and since that time has served as a business analyst and most recently as the corporate quality assurance manager. Prior to joining TVH, Aiello worked for five years for Equipment Depot, holding various positions including service manager. Aiello is a graduate of Northern Illinois University where he earned a degree in Marketing.
“Chris is a great fit to take the lead in continuing the growth of our sales and customer experience,” said Cathy Diaz, U.S. sales manager at TVH. “I am confident that Chris’s experience, dedication and leadership skills will ensure his success in this new role.”
FORSYTHE TO LEAD GENERAC ENGINEERING
Generac Power Systems has announced the next steps in the growth of its engineering team, strengthening the company’s ongoing commitment to product line diversification and globalization. On July 2, Patrick Forsythe joined Generac as executive vice-president of global engineering, reporting directly to company CEO, Aaron Jagdfeld. Forsythe has more than 25 years of experience in progressively higher engineering positions. He began his career in the power generation industry with FG Wilson and Generac. Forsythe’s experience also includes three years as vice-president of global engineering for Ingersoll Rand, which included leading engineering integration activities following the business’ acquisition by Doosan. Most recently, he served as vice-president of engineering and technology for Hayward Industries, a global manufacturer of pumps and other filtration equipment.
“Adding Patrick to our team is an important step in securing the future leadership of our engineering functions,” Jagdfeld said.
Forsythe received his engineering diploma from the Belfast College of Further Education and a higher national diploma in mechanical engineering from the University of Ulster. He also holds a master of science in manufacturing management and technology and a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering.
PALADIN ADDS ON
Paladin Attachments has announced the integration of CWS Industries and Jewell Manufacturing into its North American business operations. Canadian-based CWS is a manufacturer of highly engineered attachment products sold through a network of dealers and end-users in the mining, oil and gas, forestry and construction markets. It has provided solutions to unique applications and geological conditions for over five decades. Prior to the integration, CWS was a Paladin Distributor in Western Canada since being acquired in 2012 by International Equipment Solutions (IES), Paladin’s parent company. Jewell Manufacturing, based in Portland, Ore., provides custom machines and attachments for the world’s harshest environments including the forestry, demolition, scrap recycling, material handling, and construction industries. The addition of both strong brands supports Paladin’s continued product diversification objectives and improves its presence in the market a large manufacturer of coupler systems and attachment tools.
Mike Flannery, vice-president and general manager of Paladin commented, “The combined excellence of our expanded operations that produce and market our 12 brands will provide even more value to our one-stop-shop provision of the widest breadth of equipment attachment solutions.”
Mike Marion
WE COVERED YOUR REAR, BUT WE DIDN’T STOP THERE.
Primed for productivity 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.
SWINGING INTO FALL Socializing leads to membership.
by DAVID MINTENKO
As I write this, I am recovering from taking a few days of vacation this past week and getting my fill of golf in. One of the highlights of the past week was participating in the Manitoba Local Golf tourney which was held at Southwood Golf and Country Club on August 20. While the tourney was quaint in size, it is still one of the tournaments I have the most fun at. The people that work so very hard to make it a success deserve many kudos, including CRA Manitoba President Kelly Dwyer, vicepresident Denise Hiraoka and secretary-treasurer Stacey, as well as suppliers Tony Gudel from Hilti and Jason Enns from Multiquip. (If I missed someone deserving accolades, please forgive me.) These people, time and time again, overachieve at putting together a remarkable tournament and meal. Kudos to all and a bow to the staff and management of Southwood who always make us feel at home. It was also great to see the suppliers who made the trek from their home provinces to attend and show their support. We were blessed to have Nathalie McGregor, the CRA managing director, along with two longtime rental people who have just recently retired in Roland Campbell, formerly of United Rentals, and Wayne Beckeet of Flaman Rentals and Sales (formerly Wayne’s Rentals from Moosomin, Sask.).These people just added to the flavour of a great day. Both the golf and the weather were terrific.
One of the reasons I mention this tournament is that CRA local golf days are a absolutely ideal time to invite potential new members to come out, mix and mingle and generally enjoy themselves in a very relaxed atmosphere. With fall and winter fast approachin, we are all getting back to setting up regular board meetings and elections for a lot of the locals. Having potential new people out to golf tournaments or other informal social outings is a perfect prelude.
Dave
Fall is also a great time for review in many facets of your rental business. It’s a good time to grade yourself and your business. Think about how you did not only financially but also in many other facets of your business. Are you on track with your numbers? How about staff training? Are your personnel reviews complete? It is a good time to look at equipment needs for winter. Are your heater orders placed? Heading into the home stretch is always a good time to reflect, review and adjust where necessary to make sure you are on track for year-end. It is also a great time of year to get your customers along with suppliers out for a fall open house.
Inviting customers to an open house is a perfect time for an annual heater orientation. The start of the winter season never fails to generate a flood of heater service calls. Having a pre-season orientation and review tends to cure a lot of these service calls. Power supply and issues with the gas, regulator or fuel pressure seem to cause more issues than the actual unit. Orientation sessions also give suppliers a chance to obtain great feedback from your staff and service personnel, not to mention your customers. They appreciate the chance to learn about your products and you receive a great marketing opportunities for new products that they can tell their friends about.
By the time you read this, I will have attended the CRA/ARA inaugural summit meetings as well as the CRA board meetings in September. I certainly am looking very forward to both and know I will have some great information and feedback to pass along in the next issue.
Have a great last gasp at summer and let’s hope fall will be a classic. CRS
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.
THE ABSOLUTE END
Lessons from the demise of a prominent rental house.
If fate were kind, it would have written a more fitting ending for The Absolute Group of Companies. After nearly two decades in business, the Toronto-based rental giant voluntarily ceased operations in April after co-owners Paul Kenyon and Henry Mahdi were unable to reach an amicable agreement to buy one another out.
by ROB BLACKSTIEN
LEFT: Just last year, Absolute was conducting tours of its massive warehouse while hosting an Ontario Canadian Rental Association meeting. Today, it all must go.
RIGHT: Last-minute difficulties with the auction software forced two delays of Absolute’s big liquidation. At times, Kenyon may have resorted to prayer.
A potential sale to a third party fell through, so Absolute opted to auction off all its assets in August, and even that turned into a SNAFU as the auction company’s software kept forcing delays.
All in all, it was a very inauspicious way to cap an 18-year run that included many high profile clients and an impressive record of successful events, platitudes and awards.
However, there were valuable industry lessons to be gleaned in both the way Absolute ascended into an empire and in its ultimate demise.
But first, a trip into the wayback machine to where it all began.
Sudbury native Kenyon studied “the unlikely subject of biology and psychology” at McMaster University in the mid-eighties – not exactly the expected background given his career path.
He endured a couple of false starts in careers
that weren’t suited for him or ill-fated, but in 1989 – at the age of 26 – he was out of a job again and “I was living probably beyond my means,” he admits. That’s when he was introduced to a TV commercial producer and got his start in that industry “at the bottom of the totem pole” as a production assistant – a position in which “you’re made to feel like pond scum quite a bit.”
Kenyon flashed potential and was elevated to progressively more responsible positions, from production coordinator to video post supervisor to producers assistant and then ultimately becoming a location manager.
It was this time that Kenyon had his light bulb moment. Commercial location managers tended to shoot the same locations over and over again; wouldn’t it be a great idea to put the ones used most often into a database to allow online
scouting?
Kenyon approached Partners Film Company – Canada’s largest and oldest commercial production house.
“I pitched the idea of my sweat equity and their deep pockets and brand to put these locations online into a digital location
ABSOLUTE TIMELINE
archive,” he says.
In November 1997, Absolute Location Support Services was launched with a singular purpose: to build a database (the Digital Location Archive) to help producers, directors and location managers find locations online. By February, they’d blown through
Highlights of Absolute’s nearly two decade history:
• November 1997: Absolute Location Support Services forms as an affiliate of Partner’s Film Company.
• January 1998: It’s My Potty opens for business.
• February 1998: Absolute opens its online Digital Location Archive (DLA) to serve the needs of film producers and location scouts searching for the perfect location in which to film.
• 1998: Moves out of Partners Film Company’s back room at 102 Berkeley Street into its own offices at 207 Eastern Ave.
• September 2002: First month with sales in excess of $500,000.
• April 2003: SARS outbreak hurts foreign commercial and film production industry in Canada.
• February 2004: Kai and Ariss – Kenyon’s ubiquitous Irish Setters – are born.
• Spring 2004: In response to the film industry downturn, Absolute expedites the launch of its special events division.
• 2004: Absolute lands its biggest client to date, Toronto Pride, providing beer gardens, theatrical spaces, stages, portable restrooms and pop-up tenting for the immense festival.
• 2005: Acquired IN-Tents Inc. and the replacement ‘event’ assets of a Western Canadian Acklands Granger rental store destroyed by fire; Kenyon wins his first CRA Person of the Year award. Absolute becomes a founding member of the Toronto film industry’s Green Screen initiative, an environmental cause.
• December 2005: Absolute Support Services Inc. is born.
• 2006: Kenyon again takes home CRA Person of the Year honours. He also wins the ARA Region 10 award.
• 2007: Kenyon wins his second straight ARA Region 10 award. He also is recognized by the Commercial Production Association of Toronto (CPAT) in the Honourary Member, Lifetime Achievement category, for having co-chaired the resurrection of the Association after several years of dormancy.
• Absolute moves to 185 Eastern Ave. and oversees its first of eight Woofstock Festivals, featuring more than 350 10’ x 10’ tents.
• October 2009: Absolute’s on-line Digital Location Archive (DLA) is rebranded as Absolute’s Film Location Finder after the Ontario chapter of the Directors Guild of Canada breathes new life into the database used by most every location manager in the GTA.
• May 2011: Finished buyout of Partners Film Company interest, making Absolute a completely independent entity.
• September 2011: The company moves to its final location on New Toronto Street and Absolute Self Storage Solutions begins operations.
• January 2012: Henry Madhi buys in as minority shareholder of Absolute.
• 2015: Kenyon earns third CRA Person of the Year award. ARA recognizes Kenyon with the prestigious Outstanding Leadership Award for his work to further improve CRA/ARA coordination.
• April 17, 2015: Absolute voluntarily ceased operations.
• April 30, 2015: It’s My Potty sold to Ampot Portable Toilets.
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$250,000 of seed money they’d been given, so it was time to figure out a revenue stream.
There was a lot of service production work in Canada at the time, so they took the location-related assets that Partners owned, put them behind a locked door, and each individual TV commercial would have to rent it. Previously, had the production crew of, say, Fruit Loops, lost $5,000 worth of equipment, the Partners wound end up eating that cost.
“The business model that I proposed to them was such that if Fruit Loops lost $5,000 worth of gear, then Fruit Loops would pay for it and that would end up getting charged back to the American company that was in fact responsible for the loss,” Kenyon explains.
“It just sort of took off from there.”
That is, until the film industry in Toronto dried up in the wake of the 2003 SARS outbreak.
In the meantime, Absolute still had 35 full-time employees that it needed to find work for, “so therein the special event
component of Absolute (Absolute Tent and Event Services) was born,” he says.
The other components of the Absolute Group of Companies included: It’s My Potty: VIP portable restrooms; Absolute Self Storage Solutions: large scale public storage; and Absolute Furnished Suites: A short-lived venture that involved furnishing condos that were being sold to offshore interests.
Over the years, Absolute landed several high-profile projects such as Pride Toronto, the Toronto Independent Film Festival (TIFF) and the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition. (TOAE) the largest and longest running juried art show in the country. . Kenyon’s status in the industry grew along with the business.
He chaired the Canadian Rental Association and was extremely active for the American Rental Association as well, earning plenty of hardware for his efforts (see sidebar, Absolute Timeline, for a list of his awards).
The secret to Absolute’s success was a very customer-centric approach based on
the following philosophies:
Accept responsibility: “My employees all had a blank cheque to make the situation right,” Kenyon says. Unlike many companies that rebut fault, if Absolute made a mistake, they would own up to it. “If they said something was wrong, we did whatever we could to make it right.”
That could mean sending out different equipment, or discounting fees or even swallowing the project cost. “That is what I think separated us from a lot of other companies – our willingness to do the right thing.”
The three-metre rule: Absolute employees were trained so that if they ever came within three metres of someone they didn’t know or recognize, whether in the office or on location, they were to introduce themselves and ask if there was something they can do for them.
No requests denied: “A film employee could call here at 3 o’clock in the morning and order a roast beef sandwich on rye and we won’t ask why or how or anything else,” Kenyon explains. “You go and you find him
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the roast beef sandwich on rye and you give it to him. The only thing that has to change is the price.”
In January 2012, Madhi – Kenyon’s longtime account – bought in as a minority shareholder to Absolute, bringing financial expertise that Kenyon did not have. Later, Madhi believed Absolute had other opportunities to pursue but needed more capital to do so, so he told Kenyon he was prepared to invest that money in
exchange for a 50-50 ownership split in which Kenyon would have veto power over all matters.
“I didn’t take that contract to a lawyer,” Kenyon laments. He says he found out the hard way that verbal commitments regarding control over a company are not worth the paper they are not printed on. Shortly thereafter, he realized how different his and Mahdi’s approaches to customers and employees were.
“He would always talk about commoditizing things, like that a hamburger in McDonald’s is the same in Toronto as it is in Tokyo as it is in Tel Aviv.” Kenyon says. “But we’re not serving hamburgers here. No two orders are the same, no two customers are the same, no two solutions are going to fit for the same customer requests. So you can’t commoditize it. Others, far bigger and better financed than us, have tried and failed.”
Kenyon acknowledges that every rental organization struggles in the ongoing balancing act that is the sales department’s promises to the customer and operations’ obligation to deliver. “In a perfect world, you’ve got a singular owner who can look at it from the perspective of what’s in the best interest of the customer and the company, and remove the personalities from it. In this case, all we did was escalate the problem. I was advocating on behalf of sales and Henry was advocating on behalf of operations. And we simply couldn’t agree.”
Kenyon’s advice based on what transpired: “Good contracts make for good friends and you don’t really know somebody until you’ve either travelled with them, eaten with them, slept with them or worked with them as a partner.”
Kenyon is going to wait until the auction has completed before contemplating his next move. He’s already had job offers from some international organizations, but having just turned 52, he says he’s “basically having my own mid-life crisis” so a move out of the industry altogether is not entirely out of the question.
It would be surprising, however.
After all, Kenyon is a man that lives and breathes the rental industry. At the auction preview, a young couple just starting out in the industry were seen vociferously thanking him for all the advice he had dispensed. As he turned and walked away, he wistfully talked about the next generation of rental industry people. There was pride in his voice as he happily seizes his role as a mentor giving back to an industry that’s always been more of a community to him.
If this is Kenyon’s final chapter in the rental industry, it’s clear he will be missed. CRS
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Capabilities
by SEAN O’HALLORAN, The Toro Company
SMALL BUT MIGHTY
are expanding for compact utility loaders.
The compact utility loader (CUL) is essentially the construction equipment equivalent of a Swiss army knife, making it an extremely attractive option for your customers on a job site or DIY home project.
The compact utility loader is a multi-purpose machine that can use a variety of attachments to tackle a range of landscape and construction applications. Ask any contractor, and they will tell you that they without a doubt appreciate a machine that can do the job of many workers out in the field.
The first compact utility loaders began entering the North American market almost two decades ago, and since that time, contractors have been realizing the tremendous potential for these machines because they can maximize manpower, increase efficiency, manoeuver in tight spaces, and handle a number of applications, thanks to the broad range of attachments.
WEIGHING THE OPTIONS
If you’re considering offering compact
New compact utility loader designs are making it possible for customers to do things that used to demand a skid steer. Load capacities in excess of 1,000 pounds and new attachments are giving more material-handling versatility than ever before.
utility loaders to your customers, make certain to evaluate your equipment options. Many factors should weigh into the selection decision, with the three most critical being ease of operation, versatility of attachments and after-sale support. These factors are of the utmost importance to your customers, and should be high on your list as well. Many rental customers are faced with the decision of renting either a compact utility loader or their beefier cousin, the skid steer loader. Each application warrants different tools, and it is up to the contractor or homeowner to decide which piece of equipment best fits the need of the job. It’s your job to make sure you can offer an excellent equipment solution for any application. That being
Continued on page 33
COMING EVENTS
Popcorn Machines
2015
Oct. 1
ICUEE - The Demo Expo Louisville, Ky. 8 icuee.com
Nov. 13 - 14
ARA Young Professionals Network Conference Phoenix, Ariz. 8 ararental.org
2016
Jan. 22 - 23
BC Regional Trade Show Langley, B.C. 8 crarental.org
Feb. 12 - 13
Atlantic Regional Trade Show Moncton, N.B. 8 crarental.org
Feb. 22 - 25
The Rental Show Atlanta, Ga. 8 ararental.org
March 4 - 5 Prairie Regional Trade Show Edmonton, Alta. 8 crarental.org
March 8 - 9 Canadian Rental Mart Toronto, Ont. 8 canadianrentalmart.com
March 22 - 23 Quebexpo Laval, Que. 8 crarental.org
SHOWCASE
HED: T-BAR CONTROL AVAILABLE
8 gehl.com
The all-new V270 GEN2 and V330 GEN2 vertical-lift skid loaders offer Tier 4-certified Yanmar 72 horsepower diesel engines, meeting emissions regulations. Answering the demands of equipment users, the new generation of verticallift skid loaders offers the T-bar control option – the Gehl
brand proprietary control pattern. Both loaders fall into the large-frame category. The rated operating capacity on the V270 is 2,700 pounds and on the V330 is 3,300 pounds. For those operators and contractors who need large capacity and high loading heights, the V270 offers a little over 10
feet, 10 inches of lift height and the V330 offers over 10 feet, 11 inches of lift height. These vertical-lift skid loaders come equipped with Tier 4-certified Yanmar engines that incorporate diesel particulate filter technology. This engine technology is environmentally sound and does not require
2016 Trade Shows
BC Regional Trade Show: Friday January 22 Saturday January 23
New this year we will be in the Agriplex Building at Cloverdale Rodeo & Exhibition, Surrey BC
Atlantic Regional Trade Show: Friday February 12 Saturday February 13 Casino NB, Moncton NB
The ARA Rental Show: February 2016, Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta Hurry—take advantage of the special $60 registration fee before October 31, 2015!
Don’t forget to register for the CRA Hospitality Night Sunday February 21
Prairie Regional Trade Show: Friday March 4 Saturday March 5 Edmonton Expo Centre, Edmonton AB
Quebexpo: Tuesday March 22 Wednesday March 23 Place Forzani, Laval QC
fuel after-treatments, such as urea. With a maximum torque rating of 217 foot-pounds, these machines efficiently transfer engine horsepower into effective performance. The newest generation of vertical-lift skid loaders now offers the complete control option portfolio. The T-bar control option is now available, in addition to the joystick and hand/foot control options. A fully-customizable digital in-cab display provides coolant, fuel, battery, environmental, engine regeneration and other system information in real time for an overview of complete system performance. An updated self-leveling option now provides an on/off switch in the cab. A large operator’s compartment with a cabforward design provides ample room for the operator and excellent visibility to the front,
the cutting edge, and the sides of the loader. Lowered rear towers and a moveable rear support brace provide excellent visibility to the rear. A side-folding restraint bar and armrests with multiple adjustments enhance operator comfort and safety. The joystick and hand/foot control towers are fully adjustable for further customization of the cab. Mechanical or air-ride suspension seat options deliver outstanding comfort.
GENERAL PURPOSE WORKHORSE
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The upgraded Genie GTH5519 is an ideal workhorse for today’s jobsites. As a general purpose machine, it can fit into tight spaces, help unload trucks, and can efficiently carry tools. The unit was purposefully designed to offer
a Tier 4 Final engine to meet today’s emission standards. Not only does it comply with the latest standards, but also incorporates a number of other improvements offering benefits to customers. It is even simpler to use and service, easy to drive and offers industry-leading load capacity for its size. The chassis includes an additional housing to allow access to the hydraulic connections and air bleeding valves. A redesign of the combined engine and hydraulic system radiator offers better cooling capability to the new engine and to the new hydrostatic transmission.
From Rammers to Rollers, the Light Compaction Tool You Need.
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Integrated to the radiator top block is the coolant expansion tank which now includes an electrical coolant low level sensor. The cabin interior has been completely upgraded. Now with a black dashboard, the new main instrumentation cluster offers an integrated display showing messages coming from the engine’s electronic control unit. A new and more efficient air defroster and ventilation unit keeps the cabin comfortable.
GREAT AT VERTICAL APPLICATIONS
8 toro.com
The Toro Company recently announced the newest and most powerful Dingo in their lineup — the Toro Dingo TX 1000. The newest member of the Dingo family has a rated operating capacity exceeding 1,000 pounds. When the
loader arms are fully-extended, the hinge pin measures an impressive 81 inches from the ground to allow the TX 1000 to easily reach over the side of dumpsters and one-ton trucks to maximize jobsite productivity. Also unique to the industry in the category is the vertical lift loader arm design, which keeps the load closer to the machine to allow operators to lift more weight with greater confidence. Additionally, this feature increases the reach at full height to make dumping more efficient. The vertical path of the lift arms is also exceptional in vertical applications with
JOB DONE MORE EFFICIENTLY
the auger or concrete breaker. Another exclusive feature on the new TX 1000 is the weight-to-power ratio. The narrow track model is 2,610 pounds and wide-track is 2,790 pounds.
QUARANTINES CRACKS AND CUTS
8 mclarenindustries.com
McLaren Industries is the manufacturer of the NextGen TDF series track loader rubber tracks, featuring SpoolRite belting technology to handle the workload and abuse of the most powerful track loaders on the market. This proprietary continuous (jointless) belt
system radically increases the tensile strength of the tracks’ internal structure. McLaren’s SpoolRite belting is a pre-stressed, aligned, nonoverlapping continuous belting system, which guarantees equal tension throughout the track belts. In addition to offering the industry’s strongest track structure, the NextGen TDF series tracks include a crack-and-cut quarantine system, which uses a multiple lug profile to contain the growth of cuts and cracks, prevent the spread of track surface damage and extend the service life of the tracks. Other innovative product features are incorporated in the NextGen TDF series tracks for maximum cut resistance and peak performance on tough terrain. They include an exclusive four-step metal-torubber bonding technology, an
improved guiding system, and a unique double-offset tread pattern. Also, a proprietary rubber compound formulation helps increase track lifespan by as much as 50 per cent. NextGen TDF series rubber tracks are available for OEM or aftermarket. They are also offered in a non-marking orange variety.
LESS VIBRATION AT SPEED
8 terex.com
Featuring a 74-horsepower turbocharged Tier 4 final diesel engine with variable flow hydraulics for powerful
Built tough enough to withstand the daily grind, Vermeer brush chippers offer years of rugged and dependable service. Each is engineered with exclusive features that promote operator safety, easy operation, high efficiency and a wide range of chipping material capacity. They’re also convenient to maintain and transport, making Vermeer a great value for arborists, contractors and tree care crews looking to boost productivity and capitalize on secondary chip markets.
THE VERMEER ADVANTAGE
• The SmartFeed feed-sensing control enhances productivity by stopping and reversing the feed roller to optimally process large, hardwood material.
• EcoIdle™ engine control system is adjustable, saves fuel and reduces noise by automatically reducing engine speed after one or five minutes of inactivity.
• Select models are available with a remote control, conveniently enabling operation from a loader while still maintaining control of the chipper.
productivity and quick cycle times, the new 2,650-pound rated operating capacity Terex R265T compact track loader is the newest member of the Terex Generation 2 (GEN2) loader line-up. Boasting a narrow machine width of 70-inches, the R265T radial lift path compact track loader can easily maneuver and operate in confined or congested work sites, making it an ideal loader for rental stores and contractors working in site preparation, construction, landscaping, infrastructure development and demolition applications. Its purposebuilt chassis is designed for heavy-duty applications within a compact package. The R265T loader has 221 foot-pounds of peak torque, a tipping load of 7,571 pounds, a bucket breakout force of 5,800 pounds and a lift height of 125 inches, enabling it to execute loading, picking and carrying, grading, back dragging or snow removal jobs faster and more efficiently. Compact track loaders, like the R265T unit, engineered with a radial lift path — meaning the loader arms raise in an arc pattern — excel at digging and grading applications. Another benefit of the radial lift path configuration is the visibility around the unit it provides to operators, especially when working around existing infrastructure, such as homes and in backyards. The Terex R265T compact track loader comes standard with 18-inchwide tracks and patented Posi-Track undercarriage technology with multiple levels of suspension that distribute the machine’s 9,180-pound operating weight down to only 3.6 PSI of ground pressure. The low ground pressure prevents damage to the ground below and provides extended track life. For exceptional
ride comfort and traction, this loader’s undercarriage is suspended from the chassis of the machine by torsion axles. These torsion axles are independent, so there are multiple levels of suspension points connecting the chassis to the undercarriage. This design allows the bogie wheels on the Terex R265T compact track loader to flex, creating a smooth ride and taking away much of the vibration and shock associated with running over rocks, curbs and other rough terrain. This model is also available with optional 20-inch tracks for increased versatility to keep operators working year-round, even in wet, muddy or snowy conditions. GEN2 compact track loaders, including the new R265T model, use a proprietary all-rubber track rather than a rigid track technology with steel embedded tracks mounted on an existing skid steer chassis. With this system, these compact track loaders achieve more traction, higher flotation and better operating comfort so operators can make full use of the machine’s higher travel speeds. By using composite materials rather than a steel skeleton, Terex tracks do not corrode or rust.
NEW HYBRID LINK SYSTEM
8 kubota.ca
Kubota Canada has introduced two new additions to its compact wheel loader lineup: the R530 and R630. Both models are new inside and out and feature Kubota’s Tier 4 Final diesel engines along with
a choice of a deluxe factory cab or four-post ROPS/FOPS canopy. Kubota’s new hybrid link system allows for nearparallel loader lift while still giving full bucket breakout force. A choice of either a skid steer or Euro-type hydraulic coupler will be available on both models with bucket sizes starting at .85 cubic yards for the R530 and a full cubic yard for the R630.
BETTER VISIBILITY
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JCB’s 260 skid steer loader is one of 18 models designed, manufactured and engineered at the company’s North American headquarters in Savannah, Ga. As a verticallift machine, the 260 offers increased capacity and greater reach at maximum lift height. Its rated operating capacity is 2,600 pounds, making it one of JCB’s large platform models. The 260 features JCB’s unique PowerBoom design, which uses a single-arm loader, rather than the conventional two-arm loader design. A unique left-side entry door allows the operator to enter and exit the machine clear of the attachment and loader arm. The machine does not require a torque tube across its rear side, allowing operators to enjoy an unobstructed rear view and better all-around visibility. Multifunction joystick controls and an optional heated air-suspension seat with adjustable armrests make the 260 comfortable to operate. With O-ring face
seal hydraulic fittings and a simplified design resulting in 38 per cent fewer parts, the 260 is also easy to service. Its tilting cab gives technicians improved access to the machine’s power train and hydraulic components. The 260 also features a rear service door for easy access to the engine and daily checkpoints, a top-opening hood for radiator access and a hinged radiator for improved engine access. Switching to any of the machine’s impressive 30 attachment families is a snap thanks to a standard universal mechanical hitch or an optional hydraulic quick hitch.
STAYS WITHIN THE TRACK WIDTH
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The Bobcat Zero Tail Swing (ZTS) E20 compact excavator is equipped with 13.9-horsepower engine and features a retractable undercarriage, unmatched cab comfort, increased uptime protection, attachment readiness and an ease of serviceability. The E20 replaces the 324 excavator model and features an automatic slew brake. Available as options are autoshift drive and a fingertip auxiliary boom swing control. The new Tier 4-compliant E20 has a maximum reach of 14 feet, dig depth of eight feet, six inches and dump height of eight feet, eight inches.
Installs
Installs
L Cleats 18ga
Cleats T 16ga L Cleats 16ga
Cleats
Ben Cooke, Owner Cooke Rentals, North Carolina
SERIOUS PROFIT
The rear of the house stays within the width of the tracks through full rotation, allowing operators to work flush against a structure to help minimize damaging nearby objects.
SLEWING BOOM 8 jcbna.com
be available on the 100C-1, and operators will be able to program individual hydraulic flow settings for attachments through the in-cab monitor, making it easier and faster to change between powered attachments such as breakers and grabs. Two digging modes, including an “eco mode” for maximum efficiency, or a “heavy” mode for increased productivity, make it possible to tailor the machine’s performance to the application.
LIFTS MATERIAL BEFORE CUTTING
8 vm-logix.com
JCB’s durable new 100C1 conventional tail-swing excavator features an H-design undercarriage, steel body panels, a spacious operator environment and a powerful 74-horsepower, Tier 4 Final JCB by Kohler engine. Increased hydraulic pump capacity and larger hydraulic cylinders result in a maximum bucket tearout force of 16,231 foot-pounds and a dipper arm tear-out force of 9,510 foot-pounds. Longer digging equipment provides a maximum dig depth of 15 feet, a dump height of 18 feet, six inches and a reach at ground level of 24 feet, four inches. The 100C-1 has 100-per cent pressed steel body panels for sturdy component protection and easy repair. Its cab can be tilted by 30 degrees to allow excellent access to hoses and hydraulic components. Removable side panels offer maximum service access along with improved access to the cooling pack. A new graphite-based pin and bush design delivers 500hour greasing intervals for reduced daily maintenance and lower operating costs. The machine’s swing bracket design, with a slewing boom, is proving increasingly attractive to customers for confined site access. Twin auxiliary circuits will
Loftness offers the TimberAx skid steer attachment as part of its VMLogix line of products. The TimberAx uses an exclusive knife system to efficiently cut grass, vines, brush or trees up to six inches in diameter, or intermittently cut material up to 12 inches diameter. The 17-inch rotor of the TimberAx features an innovative reverse-rotation design to lift material off the ground for proper cutting. Unlike forward-turning rotors, this design offers improved cutting performance and finer mulching without driving uncut material into the ground. The knives are constructed of a durable, lowmaintenance alloy and can be sharpened directly on the machine. An adjustable shear bar maintains a consistent distance from the knives to precisely control mulch size. The TimberAx is available in 53-, 63-, 73- and 83-inch cutting widths and comes with a universal mount for attaching to all major makes
and models of skid steers. Nine different hydraulic motor options are available to accommodate flow rates from 22 to 54 gallons per minute. The drive system consists of a three-groove banded belt with taper-lock sheaves and a spring-loaded belt tensioner. Units are also equipped with heavy-duty, oversized bearings with anti-wrap protection. Other standard features include an adjustable tree-pusher bar with claw hooks, dual crossover relief protection, a pressure gauge, steel deflector chains, a tachometer, a spare parts kit and adjustable skid shoes. Options include a high-pressure, piston-type hydraulic motor.
ADJUSTABLE
HYDRAULIC FLOW
8 mustangmfg.com
The all-new Mustang 250Z compact excavator goes above and beyond the size class expectations with its performance features and technology. This new model incorporates innovative features that enhance productivity, operator comfort, efficiency and cost savings on the jobsite. This compact powerhouse brings eight inches deeper dig depth and 8.3 inches additional reach at ground level compared to the previous model, the 270Z. The new 250Z is equipped with a 20.4 horsepower electronicallycontrolled Yanmar Tier 4 emissions certified diesel engine. No engine regeneration is required on the 250Z, reducing downtime on the jobsite.
The low exhaust position on the machine reduces noise, increases safety and improves visibility. Cold-weather starting is easy with an electric glow plug starting aid, reducing the need for block heaters or starting fluid.
The operator’s station on the 250Z compact excavator is built for optimal productivity and controllability. Joystick controls, operated by simple wrist movements, reduce fatigue during a long work day. The controls on the 250Z include a proportional auxiliary hydraulic rockerswitch with detent on the joystick. This allows the operator to adjust the hydraulic flow for precise attachment performance while keeping his/her hands on the joysticks. The operator can easily select standard ISO or an optional backhoe control pattern with a turn of a mechanical lever. The two-position, high-speed travel switch is conveniently integrated in the blade control lever for easy accessibility. A digital operator interface features an hour meter and clock, recordable maintenance history with adjustable time intervals and reminders, fluid levels, fluid temperature, and more. Machine hours can be reviewed for the past 90 days without starting the engine. Multiple language selections are also available. The operator’s compartment is designed with comfort in mind. A four-way adjustable seat offers custom height, weight and backrest positions with a retractable belt. Elevated, folding travel pedals allow for additional foot room when performing stationary work. An optional cab enclosure with heat provides comfort and protection in extreme weather condition. CRS
Wallenstein CR is the new commercial grade brush chipper designed for tree service contractors, arborists and municipalities with a need for powerful and reliable equipment. Start your season by contacting BROOKS CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT today
by DAVID STEGER, Takeuchi
PEEK UNDERNEATH
Undercarriage design tells you a lot about a track loader.
The undercarriage design of a track loader contains some of the most critical components of the machine. It is also subjected to the brunt of the punishment in extreme operating conditions.
While the life expectancy of a compact track loader’s undercarriage depends on many factors – including application and ground conditions – the main influence on the life of a machine’s undercarriage comes from the actions of the operator, along with its associated impact on the cost of ownership.
RIGID VS. SUSPENDED UNDERCARRIAGE
There are two types of undercarriages: rigid and suspended. In a rigid-mount frame, the left and right track frames are fixed to the main frame by bolting or welds. A suspension
undercarriage uses movable track frames supported by torsion springs, or in some cases rollers suspended by a leaf spring.
The rigid undercarriage is most like a bulldozer that was built for grading or pushing. The lower boom stops also play a critical role in the grading and pushing ability of a machine.
The soft ride of a suspended undercarriage can be accomplished on rigid undercarriage designs by properly adjusting the deluxe suspension seat. For operators traveling over rough terrain, they may also consider the ride control option that suspends the boom with
Different undercarriage designs have important ramifications for how a track loader performs. A rigid design (top) improves the loader’s capacity and durability, while a suspended undercarriage (bottom, photo courtesy of Bobcat) improves the ride and material retention on uneven ground.
an accumulator for improved operator comfort and better material retention.
There are unique advantages to each kind of undercarriage. There are fewer moving parts with a rigid undercarriage, which calls for less maintenance. Fewer moving parts means a rigid undercarriage is more durable and has less to go wrong than suspension track systems. Pound for pound, rigid undercarriages have a higher rated operating capacity and tip load than suspended undercarriages. However, suspension undercarriages typically provide a smoother ride for hard surface or long travel applications by reducing shock and vibration throughout the machine.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
The undercarriage will be a large portion of the operating and maintenance cost over the life of the machine, so taking the time to closely evaluate and understand each machine is crucial to your investment choice. Choose poorly and the machine will drain your profits. Choose wisely and reap the benefits of durability, uptime and increased production. Some key considerations are how the undercarriage is constructed. Look at how much steel is used. Thicker steel
equals higher strength. Look at the size of the rollers. Larger diameter rollers mean slower turns, which result in longer bearing life. Larger components typically mean larger bearings, which results in greater capacity, especially with the front roller.
KEEPING THE UNDERCARRIAGE IN TOP CONDITION
There are a few ways to ensure that the machine’s undercarriage is in top condition. Track maintenance should include proper tensioning, cleaning and inspection and should be done on a regular basis. It is crucial to follow the schedule in the operator’s manual, but inspections should be more frequent when in muddy or abrasive conditions.
Operators should also check for patchy or uneven wear on the tread. If some components were wearing more than others,
PHOTO COURTESY OF BOBCAT
it would cause additional wear on the other components. Keeping the machine clean is helpful because it makes it easier to see any issues relating to the undercarriage. Undercarriages drive over rough terrain, which would include rocks, mud, and clay that can get wedged between the components. Having a clean machine at the end of the day makes it easier to see if any loose particles did get wedged into the components.
Each day make sure to check the track for cuts, punters or tears. Sprockets and rollers should be inspected to ensure they are in good condition with no damage, excessive wear or flat spots, which may be an indication of material buildup or bearing seizure. Any oil leakage from rollers, hoses or travel motors should be repaired immediately. It is also recommended to replace the sprockets each time new tracks are installed.
For more information on Hilti products and rental market, call 1-800-363-4458.
Hilti. Outperform. Outlast. Rental tO ug H .
It gets dirty under there. Check your track loader’s undercarriage after each rental for accumulated dirt and lodged debris to keep your equipment in top operating condition.
Last, but not least, maintain track tension regularly. You do not want to be too loose or too tight. Being too tight will cause premature wear, while too loose will make the tracks come off entirely.
The best operators know how to get the most performance out of a track loader while still doing their best to minimize wear on a machine. By taking good care of your machine’s undercarriage, your track loader in return, will take good care of you.
Finally, make sure to look at all the models that are offered by a brand and if the components are the same size on both the small and large loaders. If they are, that should raise a red flag. Instead, you should see matched sizes that are optimized for the loaders intended applications.
In real estate, the mantra is location, location, location. For track loaders, it’s durability, durability, durability. CRS
Continued from page 20
said, on jobsites where space is at a premium, a customer may opt for the more streamlined frame and increased manoeuverability that a compact utility loader can provide. Depending on the jobsite, a full-sized skid steer loader may be too large to carry out the functions of the job efficiently. Furthermore, increasing lift capacities of compact utility loaders — like the 1,075-rated operating capacity on the new Toro TX 1000 — also give customers the ability to do more with a CUL than ever before, increasing the overall versatility of this kind of machine.
Compact utility loaders are becoming more popular as contractors become more aware of the need to avoid repetitive strain injuries that can cause worker’s compensation claims. Reaching up to dump loads is a key application.
KEEPING IT SIMPLE
When comparing CULs, ease of operation is an important factor to consider and something that your customers factor in to every equipment decision. It is important for you and your customers to remember that numerous operators with a variety of skill levels may be operating jobsite equipment and even a novice operator should be able to understand the basic operation quickly. Furthermore, easy-to-understand controls create workers who are more productive and allow homeowners to quickly become comfortable operating the equipment. With a variety of control options on the market, the best advice is to choose something that is well-labelled and designed, easy to understand and offers a comfortable and familiar feel to the operator.
Most wheeled units feature a control system of valves similar to that of a typical skid steer. Though not as simple as the T-bar system found on some tracked models, the valves provide
BUSINESS
familiar operation to those accustomed to using a skid steer. The five valves manipulate the wheels, provide zeroturn capabilities and control the lift and tilt of the attachment and base plate. An auxiliary handle controls hydraulic attachments. These controls allow the user to regulate and direct the hydraulic flow and enable optimum operation for attachments such as augers and trenchers.
VERSATILITY IS KEY
It can be said that a compact utility loader is only as good as its attachments. When selecting equipment to rent, consider the features of the base unit but also the manufacturer’s breadth of attachments and their potential. Generally speaking, the most popular attachments are high torque earth augers, trenchers, soil cultivators, and hydraulic breakers. For instance, Toro carries more than 35 attachments, which allows the Dingo compact utility loader to perform big-machine applications like grading soil or carrying large amounts of material. Even though the hauling capacity of this compact utility loader is less than a skid steer, the bucket attachment allows it to serve, secondarily, as a material-handling machine.
MANUFACTURER SUPPORT
Performance, flexibility and versatility are key, but your equipment is only as good as the support you receive after the sale. Look for companies that offer rental stores wellstocked parts inventories to help ensure speedy response to any need. Many manufacturers now make ordering easy with sophisticated online sites, offering product and parts drawings, price and availability lists and the ability to check order status and history. Rental customers should be able to purchase all the parts they need through the online portal. Compact utility loaders can potentially provide the opportunity to expand your rental business, and deliver outstanding equipment solutions for your customers. By carefully exploring your options and your customers’ product needs, you can provide a new equipment line to complement any existing product offering and seriously boost both your bottom line as well as your customers’ bottom lines. CRS
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Don’t wipe out SAFETY FIRST AND LAST
Slips, trips and falls are major workplace hazards.
by Jeff Thorne
The numbers are staggering! Slips, trips and falls account for approximately 42,000 annual incidents in Canada. These incidents account for about 17 per cent of the “lost time injuries” accepted by workers’ compensation boards across Canada, according to the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada.
The majorities of falls occur from a standing a height and happen on the same level, while the remaining falls are from a working height to a lower level. Let’s focus on falls from a standing height only.
Slips occur when there is too little traction between the sole of the footwear and the walking surface. Slips can be a result of wet or oily surfaces, spills, weather conditions, poorly anchored rugs or mats as well as surfaces that do not have the same degree of traction in all areas. In most cases, slips cause us to fall backwards.
Trips occur when your foot strikes an object, causing you to lose balance resulting in a fall. Trips can result from clutter, cables or cords, poorly conditioned steps or walking surfaces, poor lighting or obstructed views.
Additional factors that may contribute to these incidents include fatigue, failing eyesight or the use of bifocals preventing clear view of the walking area, inappropriate, loose or poorly fitting footwear as smooth or worn soles may cause an individual to slip.
So why are these types of falls from a standing height such an issue? Here’s an example. Take an individual walking across the floor, hands full with an obstructed view, contacting an object resulting in a trip. Most of us in our lifetime will have the unfortunate pleasure of being involved in this type of scenario. When we fall, the most common and quickest reaction is to put out our hands or to reach for something to break our fall. A 1.25-centimeter-squared area absorbs most of the energy on the body. This could be the wrists, elbow, hip, tailbone, knee or the back of the head. In our scenario, if this individual was five-foot-nine and weighed 185 pounds, this is approximately 150 kilograms of force absorbed by that small area. Ouch!
The severity of these incidents can be increased by hazards in the surrounding environment. These may include open rotating parts, sharp or hot materials or blunt edges at lower levels.
In order to reduce the frequency and severity of these incidents, one must always focus on prevention. Prevention of slips, trips and falls on the same level rests mainly with solid housekeeping practices. Good housekeeping includes having a policy that identifies employer and worker responsibility with respect to slips, trips and falls. Policy sets the commitment that poor housekeeping practices will not be tolerated and can identify when and how often slip, trip and fall conditions are evaluated.
Additional housekeeping practices include ensuring aisles and passageways are free from clutter and lighting is adequate to ensure glare and shadows are reduced so that trip hazards or irregularities in the surface are clearly visible. Replacing burnt out light bulbs promptly will also assist in this area.
All spills should be cleaned up immediately or marked so that the condition is clearly visible. If wet conditions are commonplace, matting or provisions for dry standing should be provided. Carpeting or matting that doesn’t lay flat should be tacked down or replaced and any irregularities in walking surfaces should be clearly identified.
There have been some great advancements in footwear, however, there is not one type of sole for every type of surface condition. It is essential that the proper footwear be selected.
Last but not least, we can be part of the problem! In short, take your time and pay attention to the path of travel, ensure your footwear, walking pace and stride matches the surface conditions and be conscious of high-traffic areas. Don’t let your ego get in the way and load up your arms obstructing your view. Take two trips if you need too.
Some say that working safely may get old, but so do those who practice it. CRS
Jeff Thorne is manager of training and consulting at Occupational Safety Group
Honda sets the standard for reliable, hard-working engines you can always trust to get the job done.
*Warranty applies to all Honda GX Series Engines, 100cc or larger purchased at retail or put into rental service since January 1, 2009. Warranty excludes the Honda GXV160 model. See full warranty details at engine.honda.ca. For optimum performance and safety, please read the owner’s manual before operating your Honda Power Equipment.
