WHO SAYS YOU CAN’T FIT A SMARTGRADE™ DOZER INTO SMALL SPACES?
WE FIT ONE INTO A CTL.
THE 333G SMARTGRADE IS HERE. THE WORLD’S FIRST COMPACT TRACK LOADER WITH INTEGRATED 3D GRADE CONTROL. It’s the brain of a SmartGrade dozer inside the nimble body of a CTL. So you can now precision grade in tight spots crawlers can’t reach. The 333G automatically controls the custom-engineered six-way blade, helping both new and experienced operators finish faster. It also helps operators learn faster thanks to the exclusive DozerMode control solution, enabling the electrohydraulic (EH) joysticks to function like a crawler. Precision. Speed. Versatility. It all just fits.
JohnDeere.ca/SmartGradeCTL
Annex Business Media
P.O. Box 530, Simcoe, Ontario N3Y 4N5
(800) 265-2827 or (519) 429-3966
Fax: (519) 429-3094
READER SERVICE
Print and digital subscription inquiries or changes, please contact Shawn Arul, Audience Development Manager
Tel: (416) 510-5181 Fax: (416) 510-6875
Email: sarul@annexbusinessmedia.com
Mail: 111 Gordon Baker Rd., Suite 400, Toronto, ON M2H 3R1
EDITOR I Patrick Flannery pflannery@annexbusinessmedia.com (226) 931-0545
ASSOCIATE EDITOR I Sukanya Ray Ghosh srayghosh@annexbusinessmedia.com (647) 203-7031
GROUP PUBLISHER/VP SALES Martin McAnulty mmcanulty@annexbusinessmeda.com
COO I Scott Jamieson sjamieson@annexbusinessmeda.com
Publication Mail Agreement #40065710.
Printed in Canada ISSN 0383-7920
Subscription Rates
Canada- 1 Year $45.00 + tax
U.S.A. - 1 Year $102.50 (CDN)
Occasionally, Canadian Rental Service will mail information on behalf of industry-related groups whose products and services we believe may be of interest to you. If you prefer not to receive this information, please contact our circulation department in any of the four ways listed above.
Annex Privacy Officer
Privacy@annexbusinessmedia.com Tel: 800-668-2374
All rights reserved. Editorial material is copyrighted. Permission to reprint may be granted on request.
Serving the Canadian rental industry for 44 years.
4
EDITORIAL
The rental community as a whole can contribute to finding useful truths for your business.
20
WHAT WENT HONG
6
INDUSTRY NEWS
High Arctic acquires new equipment…United Rentals partners with NASCAR… Rental Mart 2.0 report.
Columnist James Hong discusses how to perform correct risk assessment. 22
Certificates of Recognition showing adherence to a safety program are a growing part of the industry landscape. Here’s what you need to know.
12
CLEANING UP
Joe Johnson Equipment has expanded across borders by catering to a niche demand in the rental space.
28 LIFT SHOWCASE
Reach new heights with the latest lift equipment for your customers.
Happy employees = happy customers = happy you. By
Prepare yourselves for the events that will be coming your way
HOPE IS NOT A PLAN
You have braved the circumstances so far; be proud and be ready for the next phase. By Adam Snook
PHOTO:
Constitutional crisis
Gaining knowledge is a community effort.
Just finished a really great new book by Jonathan Rauch called The Constitution of Knowledge. It’s all about how we know things and how we agree, as a society, on what is true. Until recently, these weren’t things any of us had to think about very much. If someone asked us how we knew a certain fact, we’d say “I read it in the paper,” and that was pretty much that.
If you’ve been following the news for the last five or six years, you’ll know things aren’t that simple any more. In the early days, proponents of the internet promised a brave new world where more ideas and information than ever before could be put into the public square, debated, and the very best conclusions reached through the inherent wisdom and intelligence of many minds. A brave new world of free-flowing data, freed from the choking influence of narrow-minded editors. Unfortunately, things haven’t worked out like that. It turns out that in an ocean of unfiltered information, the human reaction is to cling to that which confirms what we already wanted to believe, and to accept sources based on their membership in our particular tribe rather than on their expertise or honesty. Rather than a wider pool of knowledge and opinion, people have segregated themselves into bubbles where only the information that confirms prejudices and stokes outrage is admitted. In recent years, this has been aided and accelerated by social media platforms that use algorithms to selectively feed their users content based on what they have
CounterTalks Episode #24: Women in Rental
If you think women have the same experience as men in the rental world, think again. Canadian Rental Service associate editor, Sukanya Ray Ghosh, led a discussion with four women who have risen to leadership roles in the rental industry. The panelists talked about what it took for them to make their careers, the changes they’ve seen over the years, the challenges women still face and the prospects for young women in our stores and yards. Store owners looking for the next generation of talent – listen up! Download episodes of CounterTalks at canadianrentalservice.com > Podcasts or subscribe on your favourite podcasting service
by Patrick Flannery
previously seemed interested in, with the goal of driving clicks and views rather than a well-rounded picture of an issue.
All this may seem terribly academic, but we have seen the real-world consequences in recent years. Without getting into the sticky world of politics, I’ll just point to the effects on our response to the pandemic. Depending who you talk to, lockdowns and masks were an unnecessary burden imposed by bureaucratic busybodies – or necessary and perhaps even insufficient measures to protect every single person from COVID infection. Vaccines are either a godsend from modern medical technology that will save us all – or an experimental money-grab by corrupt Big Pharma. Our inability to arrive at anything like consensus on these urgent issues that are, in the end, primarily questions of provable fact, raises the question of whether our society can ever again pull together for a common cause.
Rauch laments this decline in our ability to arrive at shared conclusions that add to our body of knowledge. He calls for a re-focus on the principles that have underpinned our legal, political, scientific and economic systems, and a renewal of the institutions that have used those principles to such great effect since the Enlightenment. Of course, institutions are not perfect. But they at least offer hope for reality- and reasonbased determinations of truth and the possibility of error correction when they do go wrong.
What does any of this have to do with your business? In the business world, we have institutions of our own. Associations where leaders come together to share and formalize best practices. Government agencies that regulate and enforce rules. Unions that conglomerate and communicate their members’ concerns. Dare I mention B2B trade publications that tell our stories and pass along helpful insights and information? And your companies themselves, which pull in different people to find the right way forward through collaboration and reaction to markets.
Good information and good decision-making are obviously critical to your business. Perhaps we need to refocus on our institutions – on participating in and supporting them as much as we can – in order to be sure our businesses are finding the useable truths we need. CRS
When you need extreme durability and heavy-lift performance in a small-framed package, you can’t beat the Ditch Witch® SK800—the construction-grade mini skid steer for a variety of jobs large and small. The SK800 is built for heavy-duty operation in landscaping and other underground construction tasks, delivering maximum power and uptime while increasing your ROI. This compact powerhouse easily runs with the big dogs!
You can always count on Brandt for quality Ditch Witch products and the support to help keep you productive and profitable, job after job. That’s Powerful Value. Delivered.
PIXOMONDO AND WFW TO OPEN SECOND VIRTUAL PRODUCTION VOLUME
Oscar-winning visual effects company Pixomondo and Canada’s largest provider of production equipment and studios in the film and TV industry, William F. White International, a Sunbelt Rentals company, opened their second virtual production LED volume in Toronto on Aug. 3. This offering comes following PXO and WFW’s recent partnership announcement and multi-year commitment to build virtual production studios across Canada. The new, state-of-the-art installation, known as Stage 6, is a 16,100-square-foot stage with a large semi-circle LED volume that measures 62 feet across. Far more advanced than any other volume currently in use, Stage 6 is equipped with a ceiling consisting of four dynamic modular sections, each with the ability to move and angle itself independently or as a single unit. This new feature has the advantage of giving directors of photography more flexibility when it comes to lighting. Stage 6 is designed for shorter-duration shoots including film and TV productions, as well as commercials that only require the space for a limited amount of time compared to the multi-month bookings associated with large scale, visual effects-heavy TV and film projects. In addition to providing turnkey, cost-effective solutions to filmmakers, this new volume will create ample training opportunities for content creators wishing to enter this emerging space.
“We are dedicated to virtual production and see it as an integral part of the future of filmmaking,” says Garin Josey, executive vice-president and CEO. “This new volume, located in the heart of Toronto, will continue to fuel growth in content creation and provide opportunities for productions of all sizes to utilize this emerging technology. By making this level of investment in virtual production, we are strategically positioning ourselves for the future, while clearly demonstrating our ongoing commitment to the industry through the creation of new jobs and opportunities in this space.”
“Stage 6 marks the completion of our second LED volume in Toronto, a city which PXO has had a close association with for many years,” says Jonny Slow, PXO CEO. “With this new installation, we will be able to provide virtual production facilities for the producers of a wider range of content and this will drive broader adoption of this cutting-edge production technique. Toronto is one of only a few places in the world where large scale LED volume facilities exist, and we are very proud to have been able to deliver this with Canadian talent and partners, as well as the support of all the government agencies who have helped make the city one of the biggest and most attractive physical production hubs in the world.”
Stage 6 is based at Studio City’s recently completed development in the Port Lands district of the city’s downtown core, a short distance away from PXO’s Toronto office at Revival Studios and Sunbelt Rentals, as well as WFW’s Toronto head office on Islington. As with the first Toronto stage, this new volume will be operated by on-set PXO personnel for all productions, including those using the company’s 3D environment-creation services. PXO and WFW have designed and built this volume in close collaboration with their technology partners Brompton Technology, Epic Games, Lenovo, NVIDIA and ROE Visual. The opening of Stage 6 is part of PXO and WFW’s multi-year commitment to build virtual production studios across Canada. The next volume, slated for completion by September 2021 in Vancouver, will be one of the largest volumes in the world.
UNITED RENTALS NAMED OFFICIAL RENTAL EQUIPMENT PARTNER OF NASCAR
NASCAR and United Rentals announced a multiyear partnership on July 8 that will designate United Rentals as the “official rental equipment partner of NASCAR,” beginning in 2022. The wide-ranging agreement will span across the sanctioning body and NASCARowned facilities.
“United Rentals is the premier equipment rental company around the globe, so their expanded presence in NASCAR will further enhance support for both the race and the event experience at our facilities,” said Jeff Wohlschlaeger, NASCAR’s vicepresident and chief sales officer. “As we build on our new partnership with United Rentals, we will feel the strength of the organization’s support behind the scenes and showcase our collaborative partnership through race entitlements at three of our NASCAR-owned tracks.”
“Our customers count on us to provide high-quality equipment, service and expertise, and we are excited to bring those resources to our partnership with NASCAR,” said Dale Asplund, United Rentals’ executive vice-president and CEO. “With a shared focus on exceeding customer expectations and delivering exceptional results, we see NASCAR as a natural partner. We look forward to working together.”
United Rentals, a preferred partner this season, will become an official partner of NASCAR beginning with the 2022 season. The brand will also be the “official heavy power rental equipment company of NASCAR” and the “official Port-O-Let partner of NASCAR.” As part of the partnership, NASCAR-owned facilities will work collaboratively with United Rentals for access to rental construction and industrial equipment, supplies and tools and additional items for ongoing facility maintenance and race preparations and support. The partnership will also extend to non-race events hosted at NASCAR-owned facilities.
HIGH ARCTIC ACQUIRES RENTAL EQUIPMENT
High Arctic Energy Services has announced the execution of an agreement to acquire 17 modern hydraulic catwalks from a vendor in the Cold Lake area of Alberta for $1.1 million. A total of 14 of the units are currently deployed with an existing High Arctic customer in Cold Lake and the remaining units are in ready working condition. As part of the transaction, High Arctic and the vendor will equally share revenue from July to December 2021, while High Arctic incrementally takes possession of each machine, assumes title of the units and upgrades each one to the latest specification, safety controls and mobility expected by its customers. All upgraded units will be deployed by the end of the year and High Arctic will assume full control of all of the assets and all revenues from Jan. 1, 2022.
CEO Mike Maguire stated, “This transaction represents a low-risk investment in the provision of highly mobile and efficient automated tubular handling machines. The assets are acquired from a company with a great reputation for reliability. In addition, the assets are deployed in a location where we have established long-term operations with top-tier customers. I am excited to be growing our successful HAES Rentals brand and expect that hydraulic catwalks will become a key Canadian service offering within it.”
ALTEC PRESIDENT JON STYSLINGER DISCUSSES THE UTILITY EXPO
The Utility Expo is looking forward to bringing the industry back together again in Louisville, Kty., this fall. Set for Sept. 28 to 30 at the Kentucky Exposition Center, show attendees will be afforded the uniquely valuable opportunity to see, touch and learn about the latest tools and cutting-edge technology impacting their jobs. As this year’s show continues to draw near, its organizers caught up with Jon Styslinger, president of Utility Expo exhibitor Altec, to discuss what he’s most looking forward to at this year’s event.
The Utility Expo: Over the course of a year or more, our ability to connect as an industry was dramatically reduced. What have you taken away from that experience?
Styslinger: The utility industry never shuts down and it’s comprised of essential workers. And whatever other challenges the industry faces – fires, hurricanes, freezing temperatures – employees in the industry keep going to work.
UE: Now that we’ve seen things open back up, what are you looking forward to in terms of being able to participate in events and connect with your customers?
Styslinger: Exhibitions and events are a fantastic way for us at Altec to show our appreciation and express our thanks to our customers who embraced being essential workers and continued to do their jobs throughout the pandemic. In-person events provide a great opportunity to re-establish connections and relationships with customers we’ve had for years.
UE: Your company has had a presence at The Utility Expo in the past when the show was ICUEE. Can you share what you’re most looking forward to at the upcoming edition of the show?
Styslinger: The expo really gives us an opportunity to communicate the fact that Altec is a lot more than just our products. It’s about the services we can provide, our capabilities to manufacture and our ability to provide parts support.
UE: Why should utility industry professionals invest their time and resources in attending this show?
Styslinger: Attendees of The Utility Expo get the chance to truly see the full range of equipment and accessories available on the market.
RAY GHOSH MOVES ON
Canadian Rental Service associate editor and host of the Women in Rental panel at Canadian Rental Mart 2.0, Sukanya Ray Ghosh, has been promoted to editor of Manufacturing Automation and Pulp and Paper Canada, also published by Annex Business Media. She leaves Canadian Rental Service for the new role with the thanks and congratulations of the whole Light Construction Group team.
“Sukanya’s remarkable intelligence and commitment to her trade has taken this channel to a new level,” said Patrick Flannery, editor. “While her contributions will be sorely missed, we are all terribly proud of her and know she will do great things in two great B2B brands.”
“Covering the rental industry has been a wonderful experience. I am excited to take up my new role but sad to leave this brand just when the opportunity to meet people in-person was opening up,” said Ray Ghosh.
Ray Ghosh joined Canadian Rental Service in May 2020, swiftly taking over most of the organizational elements of producing content for the print magazines. Her writing credits include “Flying high,” our profile of Falcon Equipment (December 2020) and “A flourishing brand,” on Flaman Rentals (last issue).
Dhonnobaad, Sukanya!
INDUSTRY NEWS
ROUND TWO OF CANADIAN RENTAL MART SUCCESSFUL
Back in March this year, Canadian Rental Service hosted the first virtual Candian Rental Mart. It offered a great chance to connect with industry professionals while the pandemic was still raging on throughout the country. The sessions generated a lot of interest. It was a well-attended event with people dropping in from all over Canada throughout the day. The success of the first virtual edition of the event prompted Canadian Rental Service to host a second edition. Held on July 20, Candian Rental Mart 2.0 hit the screens with fresh and engaging content. The overall format and event platform (Pheedloop) remained the same.
The keynote was presented by Point of Rental’s Ben Sinclair, director of business development for Canada, and Caleb Yell, CEO of rental hosting. Interestingly, Sinclair joined the event from Australia to present the keynote. The focus of the keynote was on enhancing customer service with eCommerce. Sinclair and Yell talked about consumer expectations for eCommerce, what they mean for rental companies and what successful online rentals can look like. They began with the subject of embracing change in technology – is it something to adapt or reconsider approaches to? The discussion then moved on to the patterns seen in rental eCommerce space. Sinclair and Yell also talked about the challenges within rental eCommerce, touching on the payment systems, marketing promotions,
portal setups and education tactics that currently exist. The presentation then moved on to the advantages of eCommerce solutions, how they differ from traditional commerce and whether it is worth making the switch. The keynote session ended with an interactive round of questions and answers put forward by the audience.
Candian Rental Mart 2.0 was heavily dominated by two excellent panel discussions. The second session of the day was the Women in Rental panel hosted by Canadian Rental Service associate editor, Sukanya Ray Ghosh. Angie Venekamp, general manager of Rental Network; Amy London, operations manager at Snowbird Rentals; Jule Elia, owner of Rapid Equipment Rental; and Michelle Nicol, account manager and festival specialist at Higgins Event Rentals came together to talk about their experiences in the industry, how they overcame several challenges throughout their careers and what it took for them to reach their leadership positions today. They shared anecdotes and offered their suggestions and advice for women who are in the rental industry today and for those who wish to come in and find a place for themselves.
Patrick Flannery, editor of Canadian Rental Service, moderated the third session of the day, the Ask the Mechanic panel discussion. Moving away from the highflautin’ business talk, the panel focussed on certain things that really affect the rental industry in their day-to-day operations. The equipment hassles that rental companies experience are probably the number one unknown factor impacting profits if we don’t count global viral pandemics. Therefore, Lee Forster from All Choice Rentals, Ray Legrandeur from Cooper Equipment Rentals and Lee Wright from United Rentals came together to discuss some common problems and solutions. The discussion touched on differnt points such as preventing wet stacking in generators, Tier 4 diesel issues, what are telematics good for, the importance of cleanliness, underloaded light towers, changing generator bearings, how to prevent tow-behind lifts from icing up in winter and much more.
With succesful vaccination drives across the country, reopening of provinces and signs of normalcy returning all around, Canadian Rental Mart is all set to return live in 2022. Stay tuned to our channels for for more updates.
COMING EVENTS
The Utility Expo
Sept. 28 to 30
Louisville, Kty.
The ARA Show
Oct. 18 to 20
Las Vegas, Nev.
2022
World of Concrete
Jan. 18 to 20
Las Vegas, Nev.
Canadian Concrete Expo
Feb. 17 to 18
Mississauga, Ont.
World of Asphalt
March 29 to 31
Nashville, Tenn.
National Heavy Equipment Show
March 31 to April 01
Mississauga, Ont.
A TOOL FOR
Big or small … soil, aggregate or asphalt … BOMAG has a compaction machine that fits the size and challenges of every job site.
AT YOUR SERVICE
It’s quitting time!
by Russ Dantu
The Burger King in Lincoln, Neb., is in the news these days. Why? On July 13, lettering was put up on their outdoor sign to let everyone know how the employees felt about their employer…and it went viral. It stated, “We all quit! Sorry for the inconvenience.”
Wow, can you imagine having your whole team walk out on you during a regular business day? What would that do to your business? What reputation would you garner from the public? Would you survive?
TV crews from Channel 8 were quick to follow this story and interviewed a few former employees. The reason their nine employees quit? Upper management.
Now before you give me the evil eye, I know there are two sides to every story and you are only hearing one side, but their perception is our reality. What our employees see and feel or what our customers see and feel is their perception and it becomes our reality. We have to remember that. So, whether you agree with what happened in this story or not, please remember that perception trumps reality when it comes to your company’s image.
No employee is bigger than the company or irreplaceable. We can all be fired at any point. I’ve seen rumblings before in workplaces, but never seen what happened at Burger King.
Here’s what happened. The manager, Rachel Flores, stated, “They’ve gone through so many district managers since I’ve been general manager and no one has come to the store to help me out. They’re so in and out.”
Flores had handed in her two-week notice and her eight employees decided to follow suit as they were all fed up. Flores said they had been working in the kitchen in 90-degree heat and no air conditioning. She ended up in the hospital for dehydration. Her boss told her she was being a baby.
They had been working 50 to 60 hours a week with a small staff during busy times but no additional staff were hired.
Her boss heard about the sign very quickly and Flores was told to hand her keys in and was fired.
Food for thought. We’ve all heard that we should work on our business and not in our business but here is a classic case of what can go wrong when you aren’t working in the business as well. It truly takes a mixture of both to be successful.
We can only expect so much out of our employees. If you are hearing rumblings or people are complaining about issues at a certain branch, it’s a sign that you, as an owner or manager, need to pay attention to what is going on and help to fix issues as quickly as possible. Allowing employees to work in an unsafe work environment could lead to fines or being shut down…or having your team walk out on you.
I can only imagine how bad the culture was in this Burger King. A poor culture breeds negativity. Once that sets into your team, it’s like mould. It spreads and becomes more dangerous.
Our employees are the key to our success. Treat them well and they will treat your customers well and your customers will become raving, referring fans which is a wonderful recipe for success. This is my formula that I share quite often while running customer service training events. It’s simple but so true.
Happy employees = happy customers = happy you!
Hopefully you aren’t experiencing any issues like this but, if you are, take care of it quickly. Hiring new staff is costly and interrupts the flow of business. More mistakes happen with newer staff and customers see what is going on. Do you want to chance losing the trust of your employees or customers? I hope not!
Take care of yourselves, your customers and your employees. CRS
Russ Dantu is a 30-year veteran of the rental industry and has been delivering workshops, seminars and keynotes on customer service for over 15 years. Visit russdantu.com.
CLEANING UP
Joe Johnson Equipment has made a clean sweep in the rental market with its unique offering.
by ANDREW SNOOK
Being the leader in a market in the rental industry is no small feat. So, for Joe Johnson Equipment to start up in 1988 and grow to become Canada’s leading infrastructure-maintenance equipment supplier – and one of the largest in North America – is an impressive accomplishment.
JJE founders Joe Johnson Sr. and his son, Jeff Johnson, were able to identify a niche demand in the rental space for serving municipalities, contractors, haulers and industrial companies.
“I started with my father in 1988. I had worked for my father previously for three years at a heavy equipment manufacturing company,” Jeff recalls. “During those three years working with him I learned a fair bit and we came to the conclusion there was a great opportunity to do this on our own.”
The company specializes in the rental of vacuum excavation and hydrovac equipment, as well as street sweepers, sewer equipment, industrial equipment, water blasters, refuse equipment, snow removal equipment, trailers, mowing equipment, leaf, litter and parks equipment, and more.
Headquartered in Innisfil, Ont., JJE has 11 locations across Canada and 13 locations across the U.S. employing approximately 300 people.
The company originally operated like a distributor similar to a truck dealership, but opted to add the rental side of the business as the company grew.
“We never want to have to say ‘No’ to a customer, and that’s how we added on rentals in our business. For the first 15 years, we didn’t have rentals. But there was a customer need and that was one of the opening reasons for getting into rentals,” Jeff says.
JJE’s current rental fleet consists of about 450 units. Of those, 250 would be in Canada and the remainder in the U.S. The fleet value is approximately $150 million.
“Our utilization goal is 70 percent,” Jeff says. Unlike many traditional equipment rental houses, the biggest component in JJE’s fleet are vacuum trucks. It is this niche that made JJE attractive in 2016 to its largest supplier, Federal Signal Corporation, a global designer, manufacturer and supplier of products and solutions for municipal, governmental, indus-
they realized that they were equipped to enter the rental
RIGHT: Joe Johnson Equipment founders worked in the heavy equipment manufacturing segment for a few years until
market on their own.
With its unique rental offering, especially vaccuum excavation and hydrovac equipment, JJE has been sweeping up success in every area it expands to.
trial, and commercial customers headquartered in Oak Brook, Ill.
“One of the main reasons we sold Joe Johnson Equipment was because of the rentals,” Jeff explains. “That industry was growing so quickly, and each asset is north of $500,000. We were falling on challenging times to add units to our fleet. We had reached out to Federal Signal, which manufactures those vacuum trucks, and we were looking at bringing on more debt and possibly a business partner. They liked our approach so much that within 90 days they decided they wanted in and they ended up buying 100 percent of JJE. That gave us another $60 million to put towards the rental fleet to get where we are today. And there’s still growth opportunity out there.”
In addition to the rentals JJE offers its clients, the company sells new and used equipment. The rent-to-own equipment side of the business works well with its fleet management philosophy.
“We typically don’t keep anything in the fleet that’s more than two years old,” Jeff says, adding that the COVID-19 pandemic had created an exception to that rule due to lower-than-average utilization rates. “We like to replace units within 18 to 24 months.”
With the cost of brand-new equipment unattainable for some smaller companies,
rental and rental purchase options make the most sense. Jeff says his favourite part of the rental side of the business is helping those smaller companies meet their equipment needs.
“Our rental business was spawned because of a lot of smaller companies had needs but couldn’t afford to go to the bank and get $300,000,” he says. “My favourite part of rentals is offering a solution to our customers to be able to grow their business. They can pay the monthly rental rate versus going out and committing to a five- or seven-year lease of hundreds of thousands of dollars. They can finance and run their business smarter knowing we have their back. We helped a lot of small fleets of one or two units turn into 10and 20-vehicle fleet companies.”
JJE’s fleet turnover strategy also works well for servicing its larger contractors. Jeff says some larger companies prefer to rent a new unit for a specific number of months for a more accurate line-item estimate when bidding jobs.
“We see a lot of the bigger companies using it as a job-costing advantage. It’s been a unique trend we’ve seen in the last 10 years,” Jeff says. “In between all that is a good blend of customer base. It creates a good used unit for somebody else. PCL, for example, takes it for six months then gives the unit back. Now
COVER STORY
you’ve got a group of companies, smaller guys, looking for a deal that would love to buy something and save $50,000 or $60,000. Of our 450 units, our turnover is 25 to 30 units per year we try and sell. We focus on 100 to 150 units we’ll want to replace every year.”
One challenging aspect of operating
the rental side of the business across two countries is making sure clients have the right equipment they need to pass through the scales.
“Almost all our trucks are going up and down roads that have scales on them, so they’re very weight sensitive. That has created a real challenge for
us throughout North America because each province and state have different weight laws,” Jeff explains. “We need to buy different axle configurations to get through different states and provinces. You can’t use the same truck in Ontario as in Alberta, or in Quebec or Atlantic Canada.”
Customers also have different needs for their vacuum trucks, depending on the jobs they’re tackling.
“Depending on how they’re going to work, they’ll need a different size.
Vacuum trucks, small and big ones, are based on what that next job is. They may need a different style or capacity, or a different configuration of wheels, depending on the province. Having that additional flexibility is very appetizing to the customers,” Jeff says.
AFTERSALES SUPPORT
A big part of how the company has grown its business in recent years is in aftersales support.
“We’ve grown our business on aftersales service, always being there from a mechanical and technical perspective.
BUILT TO A HIGHER STANDARD
When you need to reach high places, the Snorkel S3220E delivers peak performance. Featuring a high lift capacity, this electric scissor lift offers a working height of up to 8.1m and a platform capacity of 409kg. Engineered to elevate jobsite efficiency, upsized pins provide additional rigidity for safe and secure performance. Its super-heavy-duty steel construction and over-engineered components maximize uptime and minimize ownership costs. That’s performance that stands above the rest.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT AHERN CANADA ON 780-467-0600.
Offering after sales service and resolving mechanical and technical issues that customers face has helped Joe Johnson Equipment build up its reputation further.
COVER STORY
We resolve our customers’ pains as efficiently as possible,” Jeff says. “Each facility has standalone buildings with full service with technicians in each location.”
While every rental unit at JJE is equipped with GPS technologies that are used to run reports based on hours and
mileage, some clients are asking for more.
“Some customers are asking for more data in real time from a service and operator perspective,” Jeff says.
JJE’s fleet of vacuum trucks are far from the cheapest products available, but the company makes up for the additional cost with strong service and
reliable equipment.
“Customers have come to the realization that we have their back. We can juggle and fulfill their immediate needs,” Jeff says. “We’re not the cheapest but our products are the Cadillacs of the vacuum truck industry. We spend more money on the units than others would, especially from a safety perspective. It makes the customer feel that much more secure.”
COVID-19 IMPACT
Like most equipment rental houses, JJE quickly felt the impact of COVID19 when the pandemic was officially declared in March 2020.
“Everything came to a halt,” Jeff says. “We were exceeding all of our utilization targets until March of last year. One of the unfortunate things is that as soon as infrastructure or roadbuilding stops, the easiest thing to get rid of is the rental unit. So, we had an influx of vehicles come back all at the same time.”
To keep operations running, JJE was forced send many of its employees home and run locations with skeleton staffs.
Joe Johnson Equipment’s rent-to-own business strategy keeps its fleet up-to-date while also enabling its small business customers to grow.
“It even got to a stage within the office that employees had to have their own office or work station to keep some extra distance, and get used to using Zoom and Teams for meetings,” Jeff says.
JJE shifted much of its equipment rental training and employee training to online platforms.
“Our deliveries increased as well, instead of customers picking the units up to keep that distance. Made it easier for both sides,” Jeff adds.
The company also created a rental parts package for its customers.
“It used to be customary they would come into a showroom and handpick all the tools. The rental tool packs are designed to fit their needs, and you only pay as you use them,” Jeff says. “This eliminated people from the showroom. It was a good learning experience. The customers liked it and it helped increase our parts business and simplified things.”
“Some customers are asking for more data in real time from a service and operator perspective,”
BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD
Jeff is happy to announce that JJE’s rental equipment business has recently been returning to its pre-pandemic utilization time targets.
“In Canada, we’re optimistic. It’s definitely picking up. The first six months of 2021 we’re back to our Canadian 2019 numbers,” Jeff says.
The company is currently reviewing opportunities for further expansion.
“We are planning on growing and adding additional locations in southwestern Ontario. We’re continuously looking at growing the fleet but it’s all utilization based. We’ll continue to grow the fleet in a smart, timely manner,” Jeff says. CRS
PLUGR
• The next level of aeration productivity.
• Cores up to 2.75" deep.
THE EVOLUTION OF KUBOTA
It is said that the most successful companies adapt to changing times so they can meet the evolving needs of their customers. With more than 130 years of experience under its belt, Kubota has certainly achieved this level of success.
Kubota Limited was founded in 1890 by Gonshiro Kubota, whose company produced some of Japan’s highest quality castiron pipes for decades. In 1922, the company jumped on the opportunity to produce oil-based engines for agro-industrial use. By 1960, Kubota began producing its own tractors in Japan for the agricultural market and, by 1969, sold its first tractor into the United States (an L200).
Just three years later in 1972, Kubota Tractor Corporation was founded in California. While expanding their market share in the agricultural sector in the 1970s, the company also entered the world of compact equipment for the construction sector.
“In the early 70s, Kubota developed its first mini excavator to enter the construction equipment,” says Jonathan Gardner, product manager for construction equipment at Kubota Canada Ltd.
Since that time, the popularity of Kubota’s mini excavators has taken off around the world; and Canada is no exception.
Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Markham, Ont., Kubota Canada Ltd. works with its dealer network of 140 locations across the country to bring Canadians hardy, easy-to-operate compact equipment, which includes its popular line of mini excavators, skid steers and compact track loaders.
“We’re local and we’re here to protect the Canadian interests. Working with our engineers, we’re making sure our products will work in Canadian environments and meet Canadian needs,” Gardner says.
All the equipment Kubota Canada supplies dealers and rental houses across Canada is cold weather tested.
“We do cold weather testing for all new equipment, so we have the right products for the Canadian market,” Gardner says. “All the winter testing for North America is done in Timmins, Ontario. We make sure we set the level for where our equipment is going to work here in Canada.”
When it comes to the design of Kubota Canada’s compact equipment, they always try to keep things simple.
“We build an easy to use, quality machine that’s going to fit the customer needs. We take pride in that. It’s going to last. It’s going to be out there for a while,” Gardner says.
COMPACT EQUIPMENT FOR EVERY OPERATOR
By sticking to a simple design, Kubota Canada offers compact equipment that is simple to operate, which is equally important for both contractors training new employees and do-it-yourselfers renting the equipment for the first time.
“Customers find the hydraulics easy to use. Beginners can use Kubota excavators,” Gardner says.
Simplicity was also the theme behind Kubota Canada’s service access points.
“Maintenance is something that Kubota makes sure its easy. All the routine maintenance items are easily accessible. The machines can be greased easily,” Gardner says, adding that well maintained Kubota equipment can last for decades. “Customers have excavators of ours from the 1980s and they’re still running.”
Gardner says that quality has been the key to Kubota’s loyal and returning customers. The company’s mini excavators are manufactured in Hirakata, Japan and Zweibrucken, Germany; while the compact track loaders and skid steers are manufactured in Sakai, Japan.
“When it comes to mini excavators, Kubota is the leader. We’re still known for being the innovator in mini excavators,” Gardner says.
Kubota’s current lineup of mini excavators is offered in 1-to-8.5-ton sizes with zero to tight tail swing and conventional tail swing options across 12 different models.
Gardner says zero to tight tail swing and conventional tail swing both have their advantages, depending on the application and the equipment owner.
“In the rental business they like tight or zero tail swing, cause the units sometimes get damaged because operators aren’t watching out the back,” he says. “But if someone is buying the machine, they’ll buy a conventional tail swing to get the extra reach and lift.”
To assist equipment rental houses renting out their fleet to less experienced operators, Kubota Canada has its own training department and technical support team.
When it comes to compact track loaders, Kubota Canada has made great strides in a short period of time.
“With compact track loaders we’ve made great traction,” Gardner says. “Kubota saw that compact track loaders were an ever-growing market. They’ve only been around since the early 2000s, but people want them, so we got into the market at the right time.”
One option offered on Kubota’s compact track loaders that equipment operators and equipment rental houses deeply appreciate are the roll-up doors.
“A lot of our competitors have swingout doors, and they have a tendency to get broken,” Gardner says
Kubota’s compact track loaders are also designed with hydraulic controls.
“A lot of competitors moved from hydraulic to electric, and the majority of operators prefer the oil hydraulics. They feel they get more control of the machine,” Gardner says.
The company offers compact track loaders (SVL Series) in three different models with horsepower ranging from 68.4 hp to 96.4 hp; rated operating capacities (50 per cent tipping load) from 3,000 lb. to 4,300 lb.; and a bucket breakout force ranging from 4,614 lb. to 7,961 lb.
Kubota also recently entered the skid steer market and offers two models under its SSV Series. The SSV65PHC has a tipping load of 3,900 lb. and bucket breakout force of 4,839 lb.; while the SSV75 offers a tipping load of 5,380 lb. and a bucket breakout force of 5,884 lb.
“We have seen some growth in agricultural market. People like the way our controls feel,” Gardner says. “Our market share is growing.”
GETTING ATTACHED
Another benefit of investing in Kubota’s compact equipment is the wide array of attachments available to tackle projects from general construction tasks to landscaping, site cleanup, snow removal and more. A versatile solution for any equipment rental house.
“In the last five years we went form nine attachments to more than 40. We have a wide range of attachments that meet landscaper needs and construction needs,” Gardner says. “We have augers, box blades and trenchers for landscapers. In construction we have a paving lineup that
includes breakers, cold planers, road saws, vibratory rollers. We really rounded out that attachment segment.”
Kubota also offers a wide variety of bucket attachments and pallet forks, as well as site cleanup sweepers and a box broom for collecting debris.
“The hopper broom on a skid steer is a very popular attachment because job sites have to keep the dust down,” Gardner says.
Some of Kubota’s specialty items are also increasing in popularity, like the company’s silage defacer attachment for farming and its primary seeder for roadside seeding for landscapers.
“What’s also getting more popular with site development is the box blade. We have a four-way box blade for fine grading. Instead of coming in with a dozer for pavement prep, a lot of home builders will get a box blade with four-way movement and put that on,” Gardner says.
STRENGTH IN NUMBERS
Kubota Canada’s vast dealer network has been one of the company’s strengths.
“A lot of the competitors have been consolidating, so they’ll have a big territory, but could be far from the outer reach of that territory. With 140 locations, we have great coverage for our customers,” Gardner says. “In general, within 100-kilometre radius
people can be at a Kubota dealership with some exceptions in the more remote areas. In southern Ontario, in some places, it can be 30 minutes between dealers.”
Kobuta tries to nurture strong relationships with its dealer network, which offers advantages to the equipment rental houses purchasing the company’s compact equipment for their fleets.
“Dealers can call anyone in Kubota and there’s no ‘Please hold and we’ll get back to you,’” Gardner says. “If they’ve got a hurdle, we will go out of our way to support our dealer, and the dealers will do the same for us. It’s definitely more of a partnership. We don’t tell our dealers what to do, we work together to find solutions. If we think something is going to work, we don’t just throw it out there without their buy-in.”
Gardner says another advantage of Kubota’s vast dealer network is that the majority are locally owned and operated.
“The owner is in the dealership every day. They’re involved in the community. People warm up to that. If they see someone in their town that is invested in their town, they want to support that business,” he says.
To learn more about Kobuta’s products, visit www.kubota.ca
Risk Assessment
by James Hong
This year, I’ve noticed a lack of analysis when it comes to risk assessment. My theory: the pandemic has taken up so much of our attention, concern and focus, the tendency is to under-process other matters that require our full concentration. No matter the business type, the importance, structure and process for effective risk assessment remain the same.
The first step is evaluation. Inspect the environment, identify the hazards, risks and control measures. Then implement, monitor and adjust as needed. Once a report is completed, assessment for accuracy and recommendations are next – all important steps required prior to beginning work. While most of us do an unconscious quick evaluation for small jobs, risk-assessing workplace environments and activities requires a methodical approach.
The process starts with a standard document listing numerical values ranging from critical to low for each category. The combination of scores provides an overall risk level. While the first step is to complete the report, it’s necessary to review changing circumstances while implementing and altering control methods as required.
One of my primary functions is to review risk appraisal reports. Frequently, I see entries that confuse risk level – that is, the level of danger – with probability of exposure (the likelihood that a worker will come into contact with the danger.) For instance, a specific operation can have a high or very high risk level. However, when controlled with best practices, the probability or likelihood of an accident can be greatly reduced, if not eliminated entirely. Errors that continue to come across my desk are reports that enter the risk level as low and the likelihood of severity low, when, in actuality, the risk level is very high, but when controlled properly, the likelihood of exposure is low. The importance of understanding the difference can’t be overstated.
The big problem with misidentifying risk level is the subsequent protective safety actions, or lack thereof, for the overall job. If the assessment mistakenly evaluates the risk level to be low, it’s almost always the case that the required controls will not be in place to prevent an incident. The
increased potential for accidents from hazards with an incorrect risk assessment drives the probability of an incident up exponentially. If the assessment doesn’t identify all persons affected and how, the proper controls for safety won’t be considered. Let’s take a look at a practical example.
Harry does an assessment for a job described as “excavate parking area blacktop.” His assessment is as follows.
For hazard level (what is the level of danger?) he answers, “Three” (probable). This is incorrect.
For likelihood of severity (would exposure cause severe incident?), he answers, “Not much.” Wrong again.
Under control measures (how to reduce exposure to the danger?’) he puts “basic PPE.” Oops.
What’s missing here? By assigning a mid-level hazard rating and low likelihood of severity score, the job site has no protection for the public, no fencing, no exterior warning signage or markers and no regulatory required postings. In short, no control measures are in place to protect workers or the public.
It takes on the job experience and a certain amount of common sense to make a proper risk assessment. The best way to gain experience performing risk assessments is to start small and work up as you go. Train yourself to look at the job you or your co-worker is doing by thinking about what could go wrong, what you’ve seen go wrong in the past, why it went wrong and what’s needed to prevent similar issues under similar circumstances. Another good way to gain experience at risk assessment is to incorporate a monthly near miss toolbox topic into your normally scheduled meetings. Discuss a scenario where an accident almost happened, why it did not, and what prevented it.
Of course, there’s much more to risk assessment than a few discussions. Begin to have an eye toward the cause of incidents and unintended consequences while keeping active prevention as the goal. CRS
James Hong is an OHS consultant for the construction industry.
Failing to prepare is preparing to fail
The chances are good that you regularly crunch the numbers and eliminate profit.
by Michelle Nicol,
CERP
For the past 16 months, all eternal optimists like myself have been saying that we can see the light at the end of the tunnel… but now we actually can! With vaccines ramping up in Canada, we are seeing an increase in sectors and regions opening up. The event industry is coming alive once again.
Are you prepared to shift back into the busy season we once knew? What can you do for your business today that will ensure a successful and smooth transition tomorrow? It all comes down to preparing in advance.
If you are like most event businesses in Canada, you were forced to lay off most, if not all, of your event staff when the pandemic hit in March 2020. You may have a core group of staff keeping the lights on, but you will need additional support once the industry starts back up again. Have you reached out to your past employees to see if they would be interested in coming back, or if they have moved on? Having these conversations now is necessary so that you are not left scrambling last minute to fill these roles. Do you have staff on standby? If you are hiring new staff, get your job postings out now so you can interview and short-list applicants that will be available when you need them.
While there is less going on in the warehouse, if you have not done so already, now is the perfect time to tackle the dreaded task of inventory. There never seems to be a good time to conduct a thorough and accurate inventory. With items coming in and out, numbers would easily get mixed up and something always seemed to be off. While your shelves are currently more full than normal this time of year, it’s a great time to count your inventory and input into your system. This is also a great opportunity to check items that have not gone out for a while and ensure they are ready to be picked and shipped to a customer without any issues. Check linen bags and wrapped
dishes for any unwelcome guests. Test cooking equipment. Open tables, chairs, tent tops and walls. When the calls start flooding in, you will be ready to grab the items off the shelf with the confidence that they are ready to rent.
Have you thought of what your clients will need going forward? It’s a great time to tweak your offering bundles to cater to a wedding trend that isn’t going anywhere: the micro wedding. We are still going to see many large 250 to 500up wedding celebrations, but the intimate micro weddings are here to stay for the foreseeable future. Perhaps you now offer a micro wedding bundle which is based on a customer picking up and returning, and items are packed in multiples of five or 10.
This is the perfect time to reach out to clients and see what their re-opening plans are. Wedding planners, caterers, venues, festival planners and corporate clients are all working on their return-to-events plan, and you want to be part of it. Let them know how you are ready to jump back in to help with their event and see what else you can offer to help get them back on their feet. Let them know that you are there for them and when they are ready, you will be as well.
Lastly, has this pandemic brought to light any grey areas in your terms and policies? Ensure they are ready to go for a new season and all your bases are covered. Hopefully, nothing like this ever happens again, but let’s take the lessons we learned surrounding contract wording and deposit policies and not make the same mistakes. Try to offer your clients a clear and concise payment schedule, cancellation and transfer policy and set your expectations going forward.
The future is bright for the event industry. We are going to come back stronger than ever and the best events are yet to come! CRS
Michelle is an award-winning account manager and festival specialist with Higgins Event Rentals in Toronto.
by TREENA HEIN
SAFETY CERTIFIED
There are many benefits for rental companies that are COR certified.
Each
year in Canada, the Certificate of Recognition safety program becomes more well-known and a little more widespread in
the construction industry because it’s becoming a standard expectation for private and government building projects.
It also provides many benefits, and because of that, rental companies may choose to become COR certified themselves.
First, an overview. COR is an accreditation program that verifies that companies are meeting national occupational health and safety standards. It began in Alberta more than 20 years ago. While the bulk of COR firms are in construction, the standard is also used by other business sectors in western Canada. It’s overseen by the Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations but implemented by provincial agencies such as the BC Construction Safety Alliance.
COR aims to provide employers with an effective safety and health management system to reduce safety incidents, accidents and
injuries as well as their associated human and financial costs. Its effectiveness at lowering injury rates has been proven though recent independent impact evaluations in B.C., Alberta and Saskatchewan, conducted by researchers at the University of British Columbia School of Population and Public Health in collaboration with BCCSA and WorkSafeBC.
To achieve COR certification, companies must demonstrate many aspects of workplace health and safety, culminating in an external audit, including policies and procedures, training, hazard assessment, emergency response and incident investigation. Companies must train their own internal auditors to ensure compliance between external audits.
RIGHT: Being COR certified means a safer workplace, better success at recruitment and annual insurance rebates. The benefits are many and the cost is recovered over time.
40’ & 60’ BOOMS
RE-VISUALIZED RE-POWERED RETURN
Skyjack’s new 40ft and 60ft booms offer high capacity platforms and reduced machine weight.
SMARTORQUETM technology provides an optimized balance of horse power, torque and hydraulic efficiency, maintains on-site performance, and keeps maintenance costs down.
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
WHY GO COR
For its part, the Canadian Rental Association supports COR certification. “The CRA envisions safety as a core value,” notes Isaac Rudik, safety manager at Herc Rentals and chair of the CRA’s Safety Shared Interest Group. “Achieving COR sets a high standard for safety. Members of the CRA may choose to actively pursue COR once they determine a business case. We encourage all members and non-members of the CRA to pursue COR in all provinces across Canada.”
In terms of cost, it’s lower for companies with fewer employees and less complex operations like rental stores – companies that don’t manufacture products or do installations. In addition, “in most cases the program pays for itself over time with the annual insurance rebates,” explains BCCSA director of COR and injury management, Vernita Hsu. In Alberta for example, COR or SECOR (Small Employer COR) qualifies companies for Workers Compensation Board premium refunds of up to 20 percent. In B.C., Hsu notes that there’s a 10 percent financial incentive from WorkSafeBC for
OHS COR certification, but adds that “over time with lower injury rates and lower claim costs, insurance premiums will reflect additional savings.”
In Ontario, COR is being migrated to COR 2020 to help workplaces qualify for financial rewards and recognition from the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development and the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. COR2020 has a new format and the audit tool has a reduced number of elements.
However, Hsu also explains, “our subjective sense is that once a company adopts COR, it helps to increase productivity and also improves other business processes, such as procurement and HR. Companies see the benefits of a formal documented system, continuous improvement through the plan-docheck-act cycle, and so on, and apply them to other areas of operation.”
The length of time required to achieve COR depends on the status of a company’s existing health and safety management system when it starts the certification process. Some may already have systems in place that meet all the require-
ments, but others will need to augment what they have or develop aspects of their system from scratch. The good news is that many resources are available to make the process as smooth as possible.
OTHER BENEFITS
If a rental firm is COR-certified, it may also have more success with worker recruitment. “In an increasingly competitive labour market, where workers have more options for employment, they will choose to work for companies who have their best interests at heart,” Hsu explains. “If you have the option of working for an employer that has a system in place that will ensure you have a close-to-20-percent better chance of avoiding injury and, more importantly, serious injury.”
Hsu adds that COR is also a practical way of demonstrating to the public that a company takes safety seriously. “COR certification makes a strong statement about a company’s commitment to protecting the well-being of workers and maintaining a culture of safety on jobsites,” she says. “Having a third-party
audited system shows the world that someone beyond the company thinks your safety system is good.”
As mentioned, COR certification is also becoming a requirement of doing business. COR is now frequently used as a pre-qualifying and/or condition of contract by both public and private project owners across Canada. Indeed, in part because more of these owners consider COR preferential for bidding purposes, or in some cases a pre-requisite, COR participation in B.C. has increased substantially in recent years, almost doubling since 2010.
Therefore, contractors who want to ensure successful bids only want to work with subcontractors – and perhaps someday even suppliers such as rental stores – that are also COR-certified. In any case, on the job site, it’s a definite advantage to have everyone on board with COR because all health and safety activities will be aligned.
“Our sense at the BCCSA,” says Hsu, “is that COR demand will continue to grow, because the program has been empirically proven to reduce injuries. There is no other system that can claim to do that.”
Provincial organizations that offer COR certification related to construction
COR certification is granted by various authorities in each province and territory. A straightforward process is available to companies that have achieved COR and would like to request equivalency in another jurisdiction. See program overview at: cfcsa.ca/cor.php
B.C. - BC Construction Safety Alliance (www.bccsa.ca/COR---Overview.html) Two COR programs offered depending on company size.
Alta. – Alberta Construction Safety Association (www.youracsa.ca/corsecor/) offers COR and SECOR (Small Employer COR).
Sask. – Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association (scsaonline. ca/programs/cor) and The Heavy Construction Safety Association of
Saskatchewan (hcsas.sk.ca/programscourses/)
Man. – Manitoba Heavy Construction Association (mhcaworksafely.ca/corprogram/) and Construction Safety Association of Manitoba (www. constructionsafety.ca/cor-program/)
Ont. – Infrastructure, Health and Safety Association (www.ihsa.ca/corhome)
Que. – ASP Construction (www.aspconstruction.org/foire-aux-questions/ faq?searchword=cor)
N.L. – Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association (www.nlcsa.com/cor/index.php)
N.B. – New Brunswick Construction Safety Association (nbcsa.ca/ programs/cor/)
N.S. – Construction Safety Nova Scotia (constructionsafetyns.ca/cor/)
LIFT SHOWCASE
COMING IN Q1 2022 8 genielift.com
Full-sized performance in a compact, lightweight footprint along with a low total cost
of ownership make the new Genie GS-1432m and 1932m micro scissor lifts versatile options for nearly any workat-height application up to 19 feet. Powering the new micro scissors is the same brushless, fully-sealed and maintenancefree AC electric drive motors as the Genie E-Drive slab scissor lifts introduced last November, which deliver industry-leading efficiency and a 35 percent reduction in lifetime maintenance
costs. Ideal for applications including industrial and manufacturing maintenance, commercial construction, warehousing and data centers, the new Genie micro scissors also offer real-world 25 percent gradeability and powerful traction for loading and unloading. The GS-1432m weighs less than 2,000 pounds, which is 30 percent lighter than comparable standard-sized scissor lifts and is rated for both indoor and outdoor use. Field test data shows that, 95 percent of the time, operators using a 19-foot scissor lift stay below 15 feet. With a maximum indoor and outdoor platform height of 14 feet, one inch, the GS-1432m is tall enough to meet the needs of the majority of applications currently using a 19-foot scissor lift and is also lightweight enough to operate in jobsites previously only accessible by vertical mast lifts, simplifying fleet management and improving rental utilization. The GS-1932m measures 32 inches wide by four feet, seven inches long and is only 79 inches tall when stowed. With an indoor platform height of 18 feett, two inches and an outdoor platform height of 17 feet, a full-width platform size and a weight of just 2,600 pounds, the GS-1932m is well suited for all 19-foot scissor tasks and is lightweight enough to access jobsites that are out of reach for traditional
19-foot scissors. With a 500pound capacity, the new micro scissors are rated for two workers and feature a 32-inch-wide platform and two-foot extension deck, ensuring good access to work locations. Additionally, with a stowed height of less than 6.5 feet, both new micro scissors are able to drive through a doorway with standard fixed guardrails, improving jobsite productivity.
DRIVE AT FULL HEIGHT 8 jlg.com
JLG now offers its new generation of rough-terrain (RT) and electric roughterrain (ERT) scissor lifts in 40-foot and 47-foot models. The new 4069 and 4769 RT/ERT scissor lifts feature expanded platform sizes and an 800-pound capacity to carry more to height, as well as full drive at height capability. The RT4769 and ERT4769 provide users with access to five-story heights. The platforms on the new JLG RT and ERT models are designed to get users closer to the work area while allowing them to bring more people, tools and material to
height. These models deliver 28 percent more working area and a zero-platform offset. This feature minimizes the distance users have to reach to access work on buildings or other structures. The new rough terrain units can be driven fully elevated, both indoors and out, for greater productivity and efficiency. This allows these lifts to operate along the length of a building at a fixed height, resulting in fewer trips up and down throughout the day. The RT models are available in both two-wheel and four-
wheel-drive configurations, while the ERT models are available in two-wheel-drive. The new platform control box with an LCD display on these lifts incorporates new technology that focuses on integrating data that allows operators to better understand the machine’s performance and capabilities. For example, it is able to provide users a multitude of productivity, terrain, machine health and safety notifications during use. It also includes JLG’s exclusive LiftSense technology, an
evolution of variable tilt, which shows the users the maximum height they can achieve, before they elevate, based on sideto-side and front-to-back tilt and weight in the platform. The new 4069 and 4769 RT/ ERT scissor lifts come in either diesel/dual fuel engine models with hydrostatic drive (RT) or battery-powered, AC electric drive models (ERT). The ERT models feature regenerative braking, which actively recharges the batteries during machine use. All JLG RT and ERT models come with rails that fold with ease. They can also be collapsed in three minutes or less, to allow operators to manoeuvre the machine in and through tight spaces. All of these new rough terrain scissor lifts are ANSI A92.20/CSA B354 compliant, featuring a load sensing system that can be calibrated without weight.
Designed to operate in silence, Pulseo cares for both the environment and people nearby. Its all-electric architecture makes it suitable for work in downtown areas and low-emission zones, as well as on green construction sites. Equipped with nonmarking tires, this new generation of electric mobile elevating platform is perfectly suited to indoor and outdoor applications. Designed to access all types of construction sites, Pulseo aerial work platforms offer excellent
crossing capabilities. The mechanical axle transmission and four-wheel drive ensure optimum traction and good grip on the roughest terrain. The manual differential wheel lock offers additional power to get out of tricky situations. Pulseo models come with a five-year warranty. They have been subjected to rigorous endurance testing. The selected materials and components are of high quality and the electrical and hydraulic elements are well protected. With a load capacity of 1,650 pounds, the HS4390 E and HS5390 E scissor lifts meet the most demanding applications. Pulseo scissors are equipped with a broad work platform. Equipped with two extensions, the work area can reach up to 24 feet, 4 inches long. The HS4390 E and HS5390 E offer the autonomy necessary for a working day. They adapt to all work sites and can be recharged on the main or from the removable range extender. A break is all it takes with the rapid charger. The proportional controls guarantee precise movements. The Haulotte ActivShield Bar system effectively protects the driver from being crushed. In poor visibility conditions, Haulotte ActivLighting System lights up the controls and the operating area around the machine. Haulotte ActivEnergy Management increases the performance and lifespan of the batteries. The centralized filling system, either manual or automatic, reduces maintenance time. The Haulotte ActivScreen interface helps the technicians to adjust the machine parameters and perform diagnosis. Direct access to components and maintenance-free AC motors reduce intervention and maintenance times.
SILENT OPERATION haulotte-usa.com
SAME PERFORMANCE, LESS ENGINE
8 skyjack.com
The new SJ9664 RT has a working height of 70 feet designed in response to the growing trend toward urban intensification with taller buildings, higher sidings and more work at increased heights. It includes key improvements like a reinforced scissor stack that promotes increased rigidity; a simplified e-lowering function; a newly designed impact-resistant control box with an integrated shroud; long-lasting rubber tires; an onboard diagnostic display; and a self-centering scissor design which supports optional dual extension decks. With work possible at seven stories, it prevents users from having to jump to a specialized class to reach higher heights. The SJ9664 RT boasts Skyjack’s hallmark features like an axle-based four-wheel drive system; SmartTorque technology; an expansive workspace; the SkyCoded onboard diagnostic system; and high capacities. Skyjack’s SmarTorque technology enables the SJ9664 RT to use a smaller Tier 4 Final Kubota engine while delivering the same on-site performance as higher-powered units. The product’s balance of optimized engine horsepower, torque and hydraulic performance has created a cost-effective solution for emission regulations and controls, increasing customers’ return on investment. Like all Skyjack Next Generation products, the SJ9664 RT is supported by the optional Elevate telematics solution. Using this solution, operators can see engine faults and other machine health metrics through the Elevate Live QR code system. The SJ9664 RT is also compatible with existing aftermarket Accessoryzers like board carriers, tool trays and light and heavy duty pipe racks.
FIVE NEW MODELS
8 snorkellifts.com
Now in production in Snorkel’s assembly facilities in the U.K. and New Zealand, the five new RTE electric rough terrain scissor lifts expand Snorkel’s lithiumpowered range of zeroemission rough terrain aerial lifts and telehandlers to a total of eight models. They join the Snorkel SL26RTE and SL30RTE electric Speed Level’s launched in 2019, and the Snorkel SR5719E/SR626E electric compact rough terrain telehandler launched in 2020. Available for delivery globally, the range includes lithium-ion battery versions of two narrow width
units, the S2255RTE and S2755RTE, as well as three standard width units, the S2770RTE, S3370RTE and S3970RTE. These scissor lifts are designed to offer a true zero emission rough terrain solution, without compromising on the reliability and four-wheel drive capabilities of the diesel equivalents. The five new scissor lifts are equipped with maintenance-free lithiumion battery packs with built-in battery management systems, which last up to 20 times longer than lead acid batteries. Suitable for most environments, the lithiumion battery packs have been tested in climatic chambers between minus-25 and plus60 C. These Snorkel models are offered as standard with two 5.75-kilowatt lithium battery packs and can be optioned with an additional 5.75 kilowatt battery pack for extended range for very heavy use applications or where long-distance driving is required.
The Snorkel S2255RTE and S2755RTE can reach maximum working heights of 27 feett, 10 inches and 33
feet. one inch and offer lifting capacities of 925 pounds and 660 pounds, respectively. Popular for their narrow width of just four-feet. nine inches, these lifts feature a spacious four-foot, seven inch by 12-foot, eight inch platform with the threefoot, 11-inch roll-out deck extension deployed. Weighing less than 6,062 pounds, these lifts can be towed by a car or light commercial vehicle on a trailer between jobs.
EASY USE
8 hybridlifts.com
The PS-1930 is the latest self-propelled electric scissor lift from Hy-Brid Lifts. With a platform height of 19 feet and a working height of 25 feet, the PS-1930 is
an effective lift for a wide variety of uses including construction, maintenance and other applications. The PS-1930 fits through standard doors without fold-down rails, allowing contractors to efficiently move to the next location without wasting time to perform the extra steps of folding down the rails and setting them back up once in place. The lift is also lightweight and compact enough to fit in standard elevators. The lift features Hy-Brid Lifts’ latest innovation: LeakGuard. This fluid containment system provides 110 percent hydraulic fluid containment and is a simpler alternative to inconvenient methods such as diapers or multitray systems. The PS-1930 is rated for indoor and outdoor use, with new upper controls that allow users to switch between modes. This program setting is predetermined with an indoor setting that allows for full elevation, and an outdoor setting that restricts the elevation height. With safety and user comfort in mind, the PS-1930 features a lower
step-in height, requiring only one step to enter the platform. The step-in height is up to 10 inches lower than comparable models in its class. The lift features a capacity of 650 pounds and is rated for one person plus materials. The PS-1930 is 69.5 inches long and 30 inches wide, with a stowed height of 74.3 inches tall, making it compact for storage and shipping. The platform is 60 inches long by 24 inches wide, with a 30-inch slide-out platform extension. The lift weighs less than 2,000 pounds. It features four-inch-by-12inch wheels, which provide more ground coverage while offering a low wheel load pressure.
COMFORT AND FLEXIBILITY
8 manitou.com
A notable product in Manitou’s collection of mobile elevating work platforms is its VJR 26. The Manitou VJR 26 has been designed to perform high precision work. This electric, compact MEWP can accommodate two operators at a time. Equipped with a perforated floor and a double rail, the work platform is ideally suited to industrial requirements. Users can also take advantage of its 350-degree rotation for more flexibility and make quicker job placement adjustments
when needed. The VJR 26 is designed to offer comfort and security regardless of business constraints. The simplified maintenance of the equipment ensures the desired performance throughout its life. The VJR 26 Manitou vertical mast elevating work platform consists of a vertical telescopic mast, electric travel motor, and a perforated steel basket. The turret rotates 350 degrees, and the MEWP can access work heights up to 32 feet with reach of 10 feet 4 inches. It’s platform capacity is 200 kilograms. The controls in the Manitou VJR 26 are equipped with safety features including load and tilt sensors as well as an anti-entrapment system for additional safety. The standard 24-volt battery can be easily accessed, as well as hydraulic components, by unlocking the latches of the turret cover. The machine is in compliance with ANSI A92.20-2018 CSA B354.6 ICES-002-Issue 6 Standard Canadian EMC. Manitou has developed a suite of digital tools for professionals and its network of technicians. Combining several functionalities, this solution allows its users to access and share all machine data in real time: status, equipment position (geolocation), maintenance monitoring, fuel level, number of hours of use, scheduling and alert management, access management. The Manitou group’s connected machine solutions are accessible via a suite of tools adapted to each individual’s needs: myManitou Mobile App, designed for the end user; and/or the EasyMANAGER fleet management platform
dedicated to managers of several pieces of equipment. Designed for collaborative use, whether in the field or in the office, these services are available on PCs, tablets or mobile applications.
ROUGH AND TOUGH
8 mecawp.com
MEC’s broad line of rough terrain lifts includes the 26 feet platform height, large deck, electric, rough terrain Speed Level sigma lift – the MEC 2684ES. This lift features MEC’s SpeedLevel design. The sigma lift design drives at full height while delivering 14 degree side to side and 10 degree fore and aft slope leveling without the need for outriggers. The lift’s oscillating front axle allows users to maintain stability while enhancing terrain performance on uneven surfaces. The lift’s large sheet loading entrances, non-skid metal deck and four feet extension deck deliver performance on the most demanding jobsites. Highlights of the MEC 2684ES include up to 770 kilograms (1,700 pounds) platform capacity; platform levelling on slopes, automatic or manual selection, with a 14-degree
side to side and 10-degree fore and aft slope levelling capability; four-wheel drive power package giving 45 percent gradeability; proportional drive and lift controls; non-skid metal deck construction; large sheet loading entrances (fore and aft); and no-maintenance bearings. The lift is powered with DC battery with battery charge indicator and industrial grade, solid state battery charger. The work area comes with a roll-out deck extension with incremental locking positions. The area has a standard swing gate, automatic platform levelling and lanyard attachments as well. Maintenance has been made easy for this lift with lubrication-free scissor bearings, easy maintenance access to mechanical and electrical components, logically grouped components and numbered wiring for easy reference. The lift has several safety features in it. These include lift control orientation to mitigate overhead entrapment; dedicated compartments to protect electrical and hydraulic components; emergency shut-off at platform and lower controls; all motion alarm; non-skid metal deck construction; drive speed interlock; multiaxis tilt sensor; multiple disc brakes and a manual brake release; four wheel automatic parking brake and a flashing beacon automotive horn. Standard on-board diagnostics is also available, as well as removable upper controls. The MEC 2684ES also features fold-down guardrails, an hour meter, machine tie downs and standard foam-filled RT tires.
RELIABLE AND VERSATILE
8 jcb.com
A notable item in JCB’s electric scissor access platform range is the S2632E. According to JCB, the lift has been designed for the desired productivity and performance. The S2632E, as with the other JCB electric scissor range lifts, comes with easily collapsible guard rails. This is to increase the machine’s versatility at job sites. The lift’s control cradle design allows for use on all sides of the basket and enables easy operation from both in the basket and on the ground. It features a waterproof cover on the power to platform outlet to protect the socket, ensuring that it is ready to use. Easy
to use spring clips allow the platform rails to fold down for manoeuvring in confined spaces.
Easy to view charge level indicator keeps the user informed of battery status. The lift has a platform capacity of 250 kilograms (550 pounds) and a platform height of 26 feet 6 inches (8.1 metres). Platform outlet in the basket makes connecting power tools easy. Ergonomically designed door handle makes for easier and safer entry, even with gloved hands. The lift comes with an ergonomic controller cradle for both left and right use and an automotive style foot pedal for deck extension. It has a large handle on the battery isolator enabling the user to operate it while wearing gloves. All of JCB’s electric scissors are fitted with Trojan deep cycle lead acid batteries and a GPD 750W/30A high frequency sealed charger. JCB designs its lifts keeping easy serviceability in mind. Therefore, this lift has ground level access to batteries and hydraulics. Additionally, it features high-quality JCB parts like filters and valve blocks to help keep costs down. As part of telemetry support, JCB offers LiveLink Lite as an option on all
electric scissors. This feature provides users and owners with real-time location information, machine battery voltage, and key on/ off state along with JCB’s suite of standard LiveLink features such as geofencing or operational hour curfews. LiveLink Lite lets users and owners monitor the equipment remotely and alerts them to discrepancies and issues. Industry standard components across the range allow seamless integration of the JCB S2632E into existing rental fleets. JCB also offer high levels of support through its dealer network with quick start guides, good parts availability, finance and technical advice.
PERFECT FOR ARBORISTS
8 upequip.ca
The 61-36A boom lift from UpEquip comes with an arborist package that features outstanding sideways capabilities in narrow mode. Built with no computers, live hydraulic
controls and hybrid, diesel and electric options, 61-36As are designed for excellent climbing ability. Working height is 61 feet with a 36-foot horizontal outreach. The unit includes self-leveling outriggers and swing-out outriggers with multiple position options. Design options include nonmarking soft rubber tires, a Teflon pads kit, winter start packages, a 12V emergency electric pump, an outriggers sinking alarm and a twoperson fibreglass basket. All units are equipped standard with a GFI double outlet with a cable running through the boom for AC power to the basket. An active stability management system features redundant switches on each outrigger to prevent dangerous movements. Black, deep-thread, extralong rubber tracks enhance climbing ability and provide maximum stability and weight distribution. 61-36A boom lifts have two standard harness anchor points and are wind-safe up to 45 kilometers per hour. The high-speed, independently operated boom can swivel 360 degrees (not continuous) with hydraulic basket rotation and live hydraulic proportional controls.
HOPE IS NOT A PLAN
Why?
by Adam Snook
If the last 18 months has given us anything it has been a reason to question why we do what we do
If like thousands of other businesses you really struggled or possibly shut down through Covid, your question might have been, “ Why did I get into business in the first place?” Or possibly, “Why did this happen to me?” It’s probably no solace to hear from me or others, but nobody was prepared for what was coming. No business plan includes a section on pandemic preparedness, and if anyone tells you they were ready, they’re lying. There’s almost nothing more difficult than losing what you’ve worked and sacrificed years of your life for. Our business becomes intertwined with our identity. Moving on maybe the hardest thing you do, but you need to push through. There will be other opportunities ahead. There always are for hard-working people who are willing to take a risk.
Your “Why?” now turns into a “What?” What are you passionate about and how can you turn that into another opportunity to do what you love? You only fail when you quit.
If, during COVID, you did all right, managed to stay afloat and didn’t really go backwards, count yourself fortunate. Your question might have been “Why did we do OK?” Or, “ Why am I still doing this?” While you should feel blessed to have survived, it’s also natural to wonder “Why me and not them?” If you can’t give yourself a concrete answer to that question, you need to look within.
Now is your opportunity to renew your why. If your passion for your business had been slowly disappearing, you’ve got a great reason to get to excited again. Between being deemed an essential service and your customer base proving how loyal they were during a very trying time, you’re in a great position to come out of COVID ready to run.
If battling through the last year and a half has made you realize you just don’t love being in business anymore, the fact your business survived should make it far more sellable.
There are a lot of people who are re-evaluating what they want to do with their lives now and
interest rates are at historical lows, so there may not be a better time to find a buyer.
If your business thrived through a historically challenging period you’ve got the best why to figure out. Asking yourself why you did so well and what you can do to to keep that momentum going post-pandemic seems a lot better than the previous options.
Sure there are bound to be challenges for those companies growing.
1) Equipment challenges. New is getting very expensive and lead times are extending out further by the week.
2) People challenges. Getting qualified staff has been an ongoing issue for every industry and rentals is no different. With many people re-thinking what they do you might be able to attract new people to what is a very dynamic industry.
3) Financial challenges. Regardless of how busy you’ve been during the last 18 months, there are some serious questions that should be kept in the back of our minds. The amount of money that governments of all levels have pumped into the economy has been staggering. That is all going to have to be paid back, which means taxes only going one way. Same with interest rates.
There will be tremendous opportunities for those companies ready and willing to take advantage of them. Infrastructure spending will be a huge economic driver for years, savings account balances are at an all time high, and people are looking for places to spend their money.
The last why is, “ Why did we get into the rental industry in the first place?” It’s an incredibly fulfilling business. Fast paced and always different. It has some of the most creative and adaptable entrepreneurs around. When the very nature of your business demands constant change we tend to excel in challenging times. If it was easy everyone would do it. CRS
Adam Snook owns JustBins, a Regina-based provider of waste disposal solutions. His background includes building First Choice Rentals, an Alberta based equipment rental and oilfield service provider.
your customers can inspect drain lines far from a power source. The Gen-Pack battery adapter allows up to 12 hours of remote operation with limited access to power. The GenPack is also sold separately.
But wait, there’s more. Your customers can track how far the camera has traveled down the line with the on-screen distance counter. And they can now record on a flash drive or send the recording to their smartphones with the built-in Wi-Fi transmitter.
For more information, visit www.drainbrain.com/XPodPlus, or call the Drain Brains ® at 800-245-6200
Gen-Pack ™ Battery Adapter. (Battery not included)
