Rental January/February 2024 by ForConstructionPros.com

January/February 2024

EYE ON RENTAL PREPARE NOW FOR THE UPCOMING BUSIER SEASONS

THE ARA SHOW 2024 PREVIEW The ARA Show Returns to New Orleans. Let’s take a look.

RENTAL SNAPSHOT

TIM GERBUS OF TAYLOR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT Find the latest news at ForConstructionPros.com/RENTAL

Honda GX Series Engines, Over 40 Years Strong. Past. Present. Future.

Honda GX Series engines have spent over 40 years earning a reputation for quality, performance, and legendary reliability. Honda GX engines have taken on the toughest jobs, delivering easy starting, impressive fuel efficiency, quiet operation, and rugged durability. Today, Honda’s complete GX engine line-up is ready to carry that tradition forward. After all, four decades is a great start.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

VOLUME 46 ISSUE 1

IN EVERY ISSUE 4 Everybody’s Business

THE ARA SHOW 2024

6 Digital Hits 8 Market Watch 36 New Products 38 Rental Snapshot 42 Eye On Rental

PREVIEW

THE ARA SHOW RETURNS TO NEW ORLEANS. LET’S TAKE A LOOK.

Keys To Implementing Software

Age-Old Wisdom The Toyota Way

SOFTWARE

Insight into how rental companies can gain buy-in from employees, the right time to implement a new software, and key data points rental companies should be measuring with their software.

SECTOR REPORT: COMPACT EQUIPMENT Select The Right Attachment Mix

Help landscape contractor customers maximize efficiency by using the right attachment mix when completing hardscaping projects.

SECTOR REPORT: CONCRETE EQUIPMENT

Making the Case for Battery-Powered Equipment Not only are there added safety benefits to making the switch to battery-powered equipment, but there are also productivity enhancements to consider.

SECTOR REPORT: ENGINES Tips For Storing Engine Oil

Avoid costly errors regarding your engine oils and be sure to properly store and label oils clearly to help prevent misapplication.

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BUSINESS MANAGEMENT

Insight on fostering a culture of success in your rental business through continuous improvement using the principles of “the Toyota Way.”

CONSTRUCTION

Climate Control & Heating The Construction Site Onsite climate control shouldn’t be neglected, here are some solutions for project success.

GENERAL TOOL

The Sharpest Tools In The Toolbox Preventive maintenance tracking for everything from cranes to circular saws is the best way to not only make jobsites safer, but also to cut down on unexpected delays for emergency repairs.

Rental (ISSN 2375-9925, Print | ISSN 2471-7657, online | USPS 686-370) is published eight times per year: January/February, March, April, May, June/July, August/ September, October/November and December by IRONMARKETS, 201 N. Main Street, Ste 350., Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, WI and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Please send change of address to Rental, PO Box 3605, Northbrook, IL 60065-3605. Printed in the USA. SUBSCRIPTION POLICY: Individual subscriptions are available without charge in the U.S. to rental centers, equipment distributors, and other businesses with rental departments. To subscribe please visit www. ForConstructionPros.com. Publisher reserves the right to reject nonqualified subscribers. One year subscriptions for nonqualified individuals: U.S. $ 35.00; Canada and Mexico $60.00; and $85.00 all other countries (payable in U.S. funds, drawn on U.S. bank). Single issues available (prepaid only) $10.00 each. Published and copyrighted 2024 by IRONMARKETS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 3

EVERYBODY’S BUSINESS // BY JONATHAN KOZLOWSKI jkozlowski@Iron.Markets

Into The Breach of The Rental Industry Joining the Rental magazine team has been the biggest change for my professional career in recent years. With this new year, what “new” do you have in store?

i everyone, This will be my first column as editor of Rental. Allow me to provide a bit of backstory and risk writing a bit of a ramble. Be assured this isn’t a “New Year’s” resolution letter. As Sarah mentioned in the last issue, I’ve been in the publishing industry for some time. As much as things have changed, so much has also remained true to their core. It’s still publishing. It’s still talking to people. It’s still learning something new every day. It’s still discovering a problem and writing about a solution. At least, that’s the goal. What’s changed? Great question, me. I’d like to be able to write a clear and concise answer—some sort of insight list of three items. But I’m not so sure it’s that simple. Like how social media was once used by college students as a way to seemingly uselessly connect and chat. (Yes, I’m that old. I also used the card catalog at the local library.) But now it’s a platform where anyone can network within online communities, find anecdotal advice for the troubles that ail them, share a silly joke, and/or meaningful thought.

EDITORIAL Editor..................................................... Jonathan Kozlowski jkozlowski@Iron.Markets Managing Editor ................................................ Gigi Wood gwood@Iron.Markets Senior Editor, Construction Technology, IRONPROS.................................................Charles Rathmann crathmann@Iron.Markets Junior Editor ..................................................Merina Shriver mshriver@Iron.Markets

AUDIENCE Audience Development Manager................. Angela Franks

PRODUCTION Senior Production Manger............................... Cindy Rusch crusch@Iron.Markets Art Director.................................................... Marcy Murphy

Yet, if you think about it, we’ve been able to do that forever: the local newspaper, talking to people, and especially conventions and conferences. The upcoming ARA show provides a great opportunity to reconnect with your fellow rental business community as well as the exhibitors in the tradeshow floor hall. For me, the biggest change has been this new magazine. New industry. New year. New questions. (Odd how things work out like that.) What’s new for you? What plans do you have for 2024? What’s changed since you’ve started? What are the big issues that keep you up at night? Feel free to email, jkozlowski@iron.markets. Any thoughts or questions will be greatly appreciated as they’ll help me plan out the year’s stories. To Sarah, thank you for the introduction last issue. Your guidance and direction toward this strange new world have been and will continue to be immensely valuable. Your voice and point of view will surely be missed. Expect about 900 dumb questions. Ok. That’s enough from me. Let’s get back to work.

ADVERTISING/SALES Brand Director................................................. Sean Dunphy sdunphy@Iron.Markets Associate Brand Director.................................Nikki Lawson nlawson@Iron.Markets Sales Representative........................................... Mike Stack mstack@Iron.Markets Sales Representative................................... Hutson Lambert hlambert@Iron.Markets Sales Representative..........................................Kris Flitcroft kflitcroft@Iron.Markets Sales Representative...................................... Patty Maroder pmaroder@Iron.Markets

IRONMARKETS Chief Executive Officer........................................ Ron Spink Chief Financial Officer................................. JoAnn Breuchel Chief Revenue Officer...................................Amy Schwandt Corporate Director of Sales............................Jason DeSarle Brand Director, Construction, OEM & IRONPROS..................................................... Sean Dunphy VP, Audience Development.......................... Ronda Hughes VP, Operations & IT.......................................... Nick Raether Content Director............................................ Marina Mayer Director, Online & Marketing Services...Bethany Chambers Director, Demand Generation & Education........ Jim Bagan Content Director, Marketing Services.......... Jess Lombardo

CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS PO Box 3605, | Northbrook, IL 60065-3605, Phone: (877) 201-3915 | Fax: (847) 291-4816 circ.rpn@omeda.com

LIST RENTAL Sr. Account Manager............................. Bart Piccirillo | Data Axle (518) 339 4511 | bart.piccirillo@infogroup.com

REPRINTS Associate Brand Director.................................Nikki Lawson nlawson@Iron.Markets @RENTALMAGAZINE

@RENTAL-MAGAZINE

@RENTALPNI

@RENTALPNI Published by IRONMARKETS 201 N. Main Street, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (800) 538-5544 • WWW.IRON.MARKETS

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4 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

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DIGITAL HITS // ™

PRODUCT NEWS INSIGHT ■

■

THE LATEST ONLINE Rental magazine wants to highlight your rental company! Lets dig into your successes, the challenges you’ve faced along the way and how you’ve overcome them. What advice would you give to other rental company owners or those just starting out in the industry? We want to hear it all and feature you in an upcoming Rental Snapshot. Share your story with the readers of Rental and your professional peers and reach out to editor Jonathan Kozlowski at jkozlowski@iron.markets.

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Would you like to gain access to exclusive content to help better your business? Be sure to check out our premium content by following the QR code below. There, you will find more insight on the state of the construction and rental industries, telehandler maintenance tips and much more. And, if you have any idea on a web exclusive story that could help out your fellow readers, be sure to email Rental editor Jonathan Kozlowski at jkozlowski@iron.markets. https://rnt.news/fbtd9c

STAY SOCIAL To stay up to date on the latest happenings around the rental industry, be sure to follow Rental’s social media channels: @Syifa5610.adobe.stock.com

6 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

@RentalMagazine

@RentalPNI

@rentalpni

Rental Magazine

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MARKET WATCH // TOP 10 SAFETY VIOLATIONS

BOBCAT SKID-STEER INVENTORS INDUCTED INTO HALL OF FAME

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration named 2023 top 10 safety

Cyril and Louis Keller, the brothers who invented the world’s first compact loader (later named the Bobcat skid-steer loader), have formally been inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame (NIHF). The Keller brothers were posthumously recognized during the NIHF Illumination and Induction Ceremonies held Oct. 25-26 in Washington, D.C. Members of the Keller family represented Cyril and Louis in this symbolic ceremony. In celebration of this recognition, Bobcat has its history on display through April 2024 in an exhibit within the NIHF Museum featuring one of the Keller brothers’ original three-wheel loaders, a timeline of Bobcat’s history, and a video display highlighting various aspects of Bobcat’s products, people, and initiatives.

violations: ■ Fall Protection: 7,271 violations ■ Hazard Communication: 3,213 ■ Ladders: 2,978 ■ Scaffolding: 2,859 ■ Powered Industrial Trucks: 2,561 ■ Lockout/Tagout: 2,554 ■ Respiratory Protection: 2,481 ■ Fall Protection – Training Requirements: 2,112 ■ PPE – Eye and Face Protection: 2,074 ■ Machine Guarding: 1,644

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ARA AWARDING INDUSTRY LEADERS

π THE RIGHT TAPE FOR THE JOB

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Leadership Impact Awards ■ Dan Morris, Kennebec Equipment Rental Co. ■ Tina Behnke Spencer, AirPac Rents ■ Brandon Ahlgren, CERP, Elite Events & Rentals ■ Jennifer Rodriguez, CERP, Marianne’s Rentals ■ Sean Williams, ECP-SM, First Place Rental ■ John Schupp, Rental Supply ■ Herb White, Continental Divide Marketing ■ Tim Allen, Allen Rentalt ■ Michelle Nelson, ECP-ST, MK Equipment Corp. ■ Jim Boddez, Five Bo

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The American Rental Association announced the recipients of its service awards for “outstanding service to the association and the equipment and event rental industry.” They will officially receive their awards at the ARA Show 2024 in New Orleans. ■ Industry Ambassador Award: Byron Alleman, retired owner of Lafayette Rental Service ■ Exemplary Service Award: Scott Pevey, senior manager, Ditch Witch ■ Industry Impact Award: Scott Woodruff, CEO, Tent Ox ■ Rising Star Award: Stefani Donabedian, vice president of Decanted Wine Truck

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Scan the QR code to see the latest inventory updates

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COVER STORY //

BY MERINA SHRIVER

THE ARA SHOW RETURNS TO NEW ORLEANS The American Rental Association Show makes its way to the ERNEST N. MORIAL CONVENTION CENTER in New Orleans, La., Feb. 18-21, 2024.

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PREMIUM RENTAL. RENTAL PREMIUM. MANITOU AD.

Equipment that your customers will never treat like a rental. World-class products for world-class customers, with best-in-class TCO. Manitou is Rental. Manitou is Success.

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SEE US AT: BOOTH #5625

COVER STORY // EventsU Returns The excitement begins on Saturday, Feb. 17, with the return of EventsU. Designed specifically for event rental professionals, the one-day program gives attendees an opportunity to hear from industry leaders on topics including event rental safety, tenting and the latest trends, plus exclusive networking with their event rental industry peers.

Education

The last time the show was hosted by New Orleans was 2018. As the industry settles in further and the supply chains are getting back to normal, shows like this tend to follow suit. As the show runners tell us, “normal is good.” American Rental Association

he American Rental Association (ARA) Show will make its way to the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, La., Feb. 18-21, 2024. The ARA Show features nearly 40 hours of education and more than 19 hours of trade show excitement over a three day period with more than 630 exhibitors. “We are thrilled to bring The ARA Show 2024 back to New Orleans for an engaging, insightful and fun week for our members,” says Tony Conant, ARA CEO. “Last year’s show set the bar high and we’re excited to carry that momentum forward with a mix of educational programs, professional networking and our popular social gatherings throughout the week.” “There is a lot of excitement about The ARA Show 2024 being back in New Orleans and that is evident with more than 630 exhibitors confirmed and limited booth space remaining,” says Christine Hammes, ARA vice president association services/events. “That presents a great opportunity for our members and prospective members to prepare for a successful year ahead by bringing together the education, products and services tailored to their business needs.” Jenny Products’ line of GT-series gas-powered, two-stage wheeledportable compressors is designed for professional contractors, the GT-series consists of four reliable compressor models that can be moved easily maneuvered. Find Jenny Products at booth 1414.

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The ARA Show 2024 officially kicks off with a full day of education sessions on Sunday, Feb. 18. An array of sessions will feature professional speakers, industry experts and rental peers. Content on a variety of relevant and timely topics will be offered that appeals to rental professionals at every level.

Keynote By Jon Taffer The keynote address, sponsored by ARA Insurance, will be delivered by Jon Taffer on Monday, Feb. 19. Host and executive producer Loftness has introduced the Kwik Cut brush cutter attachment for skid steers of Paramount and compact track loaders. The Kwik Network’s Cut’s heavy-duty, 72-in. diameter disc is “Bar Rescue,” equipped with four dual-edge beveled Taffer relies on blades, which are designed to retract on severe impact to protect them and other four decades components from damage. of hospitality, Find Loftness at booth 6449. entertainment and nightlife industry experience to advise companies on resetting their business models to ensure future success.

Walk The Floor Following Taffer’s keynote session, the trade show floor will open for two and a half days of product introductions, the latest innovations and Show-Only Specials that allow attendees to fit more equipment and services into their budgets with exclusive deals.

And More Other featured networking events during The ARA Show 2024 include the ARA Young Professionals Network Reception, ARA’s Industry Awards Lunch, Regional Receptions, Women in Rental Breakfast, ARA’s Tuesday Night Event at House of Blues New Orleans featuring Mitchell Tenpenny and more. Advanced registration and ticket requirements may apply.

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POWER More

CONVENIENCE

The Honda EU3200i • 3,200 WATTS • COMPACT & • EASY STARTS • CONVENIENT • UP TO 8.6 OF PORTABLE LIGHTWEIGHT & SIMPLE SMARTPHONE HOURS OF POWER DESIGN OPERATION CONTROL* RUN TIME† More power, more convenience, and the same legendary reliability you expect from Honda. The Honda EU3200i is the perfect power partner. Find out more at gen.honda.com. The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by American Honda Motor Co., Inc. is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners. *Requires a smartphone download of the Honda My Generator application to begin use. †Depending on load. Please read the owner’s manual before operating your Honda Power Equipment and never use in a closed or partly enclosed area where you could be exposed to odorless, poisonous carbon monoxide. Connection of a generator to house power requires a transfer device to avoid possible injury to power company personnel. Consult a qualified electrician. © 2023 American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

SOFTWARE //

BY SARAH WEBB

Keys To Implementing Software

Insight into how rental companies can gain buy-in from employees, the right time to implement a new software, and key data points rental companies should be measuring with their software.

PART 2 OF THE “RENTAL SOFTWARE EXPLAINED” SERIES.

s many rental companies know, rental software provides several benefits to their operations. Andy Clark, sales director, Americas, at Point of Rental Software; Joe Lewis, president of Fame Intel, parent company of Fame Rental; and Mary Crosslin, co-president and COO of Alert Rental; lay out how rental companies can go about implementing this type of software. While Part 1 discussed the benefits of rental software and how it can make rental houses more efficient, part 2 covers how rental companies can gain buy-in from employees, the right time to implement a new software and key

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data point rental companies should be measuring with their software. RENTAL: HOW CAN RENTAL COMPANIES GAIN BUY-IN FROM EMPLOYEES WHEN IT COMES TO USING THE SOFTWARE?

Clark: Rental companies should look for a software partner that provides extensive knowledge bases, ongoing supplemental training and consultative services to help their employees best leverage the software. Crosslin: Share with each person or team how will they benefit (from the software) in their role. As the owner or manager, you understand the reasons you need to switch rental software, but

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your entire company is impacted by the decision. Have key staff in every training session and don’t mistake ‘“no objections or no questions” as a positive. Often, the people in a training class that are the most vocal are the most engaged. When looking for new software, ask your staff to tell you how they use it in their day-to-day role and what they wish it could do better. Ask them to share with the project manager or instructor the things that they like about their current software, so those individuals can show them how to do those same things in the new ERP. Lewis: Strong management leadership is No. 1. The second trick is to involve the skeptics at the beginning.

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POWER TO MAXIMIZE PRODUCTIVITY More power with less complexity and less weight. The Cummins B6.7 engine delivers the productivity you need to keep your equipment running. The power increases up to 326 hp / 243 kW and peak torque up to 1014 lb-ft / 1375 Nm, enabling replacement of engines with higher displacement with no impact on productivity. cummins.com/engines/construction

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SOFTWARE //

You’re always going to have skeptics, but if they have a voice at the very beginning, allow them to be part of the assessment of the product and have them lead their teams from start to finish, everybody else comes along.

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RENTAL: HOW CAN A RENTAL COMPANY KNOW THE RIGHT TIME TO ONBOARD A NEW SOFTWARE OR EVEN UPGRADE THE ONE THEY HAVE?

Clark: Rental companies choose to move or upgrade their rental management systems based on their current system’s (or lack thereof) ability to help solve their most immediate problems or business objectives. This could include growth plans and scalability, staying cutting edge to meet evolving technological needs and industry trends and even pressure from competitors who are out-pacing their ability to offer easier ways for their customers to do business, oftentimes resulting in a great amount of lost business or increased overhead before making the switch. Understanding the real costs of inaction is key to making the decision to move forward with a new partner. The most successful software transitions are when the decision makers are able to anticipate how their current processes and software will cost them in the future and make changes prior to major impacts on their business. Crosslin: First, stay up to date on your software. Your software company probably puts out a new revision periodically, and it will not only contain new features but also critical bug fixes. If you want new functionality, don’t

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assume that your software doesn’t offer it. Ask what’s new and ideally, attend their users’ group conference. If you decide to switch to a new rental software, do it midmonth. Doing it midmonth won’t pile onto the accounting staff ’s tasks. Let them close the month, send one extra set of statements, and then go live midmonth. They will have a role in the go-live, and this makes things easier for everyone. Also, if you want your entire fiscal year on the new software, go live slightly ahead of the start of your fiscal year. Lewis: Do an inventory of a number of critical systems that are being used. Find out how much operation or decision-making data your managers have on spreadsheets. Also, figure out how your metrics are holding up? If companies know they’re going to exit or want to position themselves for that in the future, putting in a new modern software and streamlining their operations will give them that investment will pay them rich dividends. RENTAL: WHAT ARE A FEW OF THE KEY DATA POINTS RENTAL COMPANIES SHOULD BE MONITORING WITH THEIR SOFTWARE?

Clark: There are many data points a rental company should be keeping an eye on, including item utilization, item availability and turnaround times (including missed rentals due to lack of availability), maintenance tracking and history, asset depreciation, billing, financial performance, seasonal trends and return on investment. Having visibility into these key metrics gives rental companies the ability to make pivotal, real-time decisions based on data analytics, positioning their business to maximize revenue and employee/customer satisfaction. Crosslin: Here are a few: utilization; ROI on assets; calculating profitability on jobs; margins on sales items; true cost versus rate for delivery; trends by category of equipment, type of customer and value of tickets by zip code; how new

www.ForConstructionPros.com/RENTAL

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 17

SECTOR REPORT: CONCRETE EQUIPMENT //

SELECT THE RIGHT ATTACHMENT MIX Help landscape contractor customers maximize efficiency by using the right attachment mix when completing hardscaping projects.

The SVL97-2 compact track loader features a 96-hp engine, a rated operating capacity of 3,200 lbs. (at 35% tipping load), 7,961 lbs. of breakout force and a 3.4-ft. reach at max height.

ncluding site prep, irrigation and electrical system installation, hardscaping projects are often integrated into both the landscaping and on-site infrastructure. Whether it’s a large commercial project or a residential backyard, there is a vast supply of equipment and attachments on the market to help get the job done. Helping landscape contractors select correctly sized and most efficient attachments for their hardscape job is key to optimizing investment. Before choosing attachments, contractors need to assess the jobsite and identify what limitations it may impose on the power units they choose. For example, how will they load in your equipment? Do they need to account for narrow gates, or

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will you be working against a wall or foundation? Also, what tasks in the project will be conducted one time and which ones will be done repeatedly? A mix of compact excavators, compact track loaders and stand-on track loaders should be considered. Compact equipment is often the best choice for landscaping and hardscaping projects because it is powerful enough to get the job done, yet small enough to easily maneuver in tight working spaces. Plus, there are a host of attachments that make compact excavators and loaders multifunctional workhorses on any jobsite. Speaking from an attachment investment standpoint, a combo bucket and a set of pallet forks will get contractors www.ForConstructionPros.com/RENTAL

SECTOR REPORT: CONCRETE EQUIPMENT //

further than they think, and that’s a good place to start. A compact track loader with a combo bucket might just be the most capable and versatile option, meeting several needs on a hardscape job. This combination will deliver a solution for a host of applications; it is the holy grail of versatility from both a power unit and attachment standpoint. A combination bucket does everything a standard bucket can do; plus, it can grade, doze, rake, carry, dig and dump. The combination bucket allows the operator to perform multiple functions with the same attachment. In addition, a set of pallet forks can make all the difference in jobsite efficiency; they are irreplaceable for quickly handling and moving landscaping and hardscaping materials. Pallet forks can be attached to a compact track loader or a stand-on tracker loader. Most people immediately picture them transporting landscaping materials such as pallets of stone, pavers and sod, but they also manage long loads such as rebar, irrigation pipe and other long or awkwardly shaped material. Having a set of pallet forks can make all the difference.

Of course, every project has its specific needs. While the possibilities are endless, here is a mix-and-match approach to selecting the right machine and the right attachments to help your landscape contractor customers tackle their next hardscaping job: ■ Standard bucket: a bucket is the single-most important attachment. Applications include digging, grading and lifting materials. ■ Combination bucket: the combination bucket allows the operator to perform multiple functions with the same attachment. It serves as a standard bucket and also adds the functionality to clamp, grade, rake, dig, carry and dump. ■ Utility bucket: construction-grade utility buckets act as a shovel-like attachment for stump and small tree removal. They are perfect for relocating landscaping boulders and light trenching. ■ Pallet forks: pallet forks are used to maneuver and locate palletized material such as bags, bricks, pavers and the like.

THIS IS MORE THAN JUST A BOOM LIFT IT’S ALL OF THE PARTS THAT MAKE IT A BOOM LIFT. With more than 47 million part numbers, TVH is the One-Stop-Shop for our customers.

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■ Auger/post hole digger: an auger or post hole digger is are essential for many hardscape jobs. used to drill a hole to install fencing or pour foundation ■ Breaker: breakers are used for breaking up concrete footings. and rock for handling or outright removal. ■ Claw grapple: grapples allow users to relocate material ■ Power rake: power rakes are used to smooth the from one location to another like a bucket, but they ground by pulverizing dirt, removing debris and include a claw to grab and clamp the load in place. leveling. They can handle boulders, concrete blocks, paver No two hardscaping jobs are alike, but using these tips sections, fence posts and other similar materials. and this guide can help take the guesswork out of your ■ Rock grapple: see grapple applications above-this one contractor customer’s next job, big or small. is made specifically for moving rocks. ■ Rock bucket: rock buckets allow the operator to sift and separate material. ■ Skid grader: the skid grader is a dedicated grader that allows for fine grading of various aggregate, leveling sites and driveways. ■ Trencher: trenchers quickly MICHAEL BUTLER JERRY CORDER dig clean trenches with flat Product Manager Product Manager, bottoms and smooth walls to Construction Equipment Land Pride install pipes and cables. They Kubota

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SECTOR REPORT: CONCRETE EQUIPMENT //

Making The Case For Battery-Powered Equipment

Not only are there added safety benefits to making the switch, but there are also productivity enhancements to consider.

he list of hazards and hassles on the jobsite is, arguably, endless. Exposure to emissions, excessive noise, and slips, trips and falls continues to create potential health concerns for professionals in the construction trades. Pair the risks with the inconveniences and unreliability of the gas-powered equipment they use, their work becomes inefficient and cumbersome to do. According to the 2021 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a worker died every 101 minutes from a work-related injury. In 2021, there were 5,190 fatal work injuries recorded, an 8% increase from 2020. Battery-powered equipment can help to increase safety on the jobsite and reduce these statistics. Not only are there added safety benefits to making the switch to battery-powered equipment, but there are also productivity enhancements to consider. Gas and cords can decrease efficiency on the jobsite. With no need to mix gas and oil and no regular maintenance needed, battery-powered equipment is more reliable, ultimately keeping crews productive.

For example, trowels are used when finishing concrete for a smooth, flat surface. Commercial jobs in occupied buildings, such as hospitals, schools, and factories, often have strict no emissions rules that contractors need to follow. Residential basements and garages typically lack the ventilation needed to keep both the worker and client safe. If using a gas-powered trowel, a robust ventilation system would need to be set up, causing delays in the project and additional labor needs. Even a corded trowel may still require a gas-powered generator on site, and more labor is necessary to manage the cord while finishing the concrete. A battery-powered trowel produces zero emissions, reducing the risk of CO exposure and keeps the project progressing without the need to set up a ventilation system.

ZERO EMISSIONS FOR A SAFER WORKPLACE Enclosed work areas or confined spaces such as tunnels, basements, occupied spaces, or areas shelled off with plastic sheeting become hazardous when operating gas-powered equipment. Gas-powered tools produce high concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO), a poisonous, colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. CO displaces oxygen in the blood and deprives the heart, brain, and other vital organs of oxygen when breathed in. Exposure to CO can overcome even the healthiest worker in a matter of minutes, causing illness, permanent neurological damage, and even death. More and more frequently, concrete pours are needing to be done indoors or in areas not easily ventilated. Battery-powered equipment removes gas from the equation, keeping crews working safely and efficiently in enclosed spaces.

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Combined with the push-button start on the saw, the batteries eliminate the repetitive motions of a pull start and reduce downtime, allowing users to get jobs done faster.

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SECTOR REPORT: CONCRETE EQUIPMENT // A battery-powered trowel produces zero emissions, reducing the risk of CO exposure and keeps the project progressing without the need to set up a ventilation system.

HOW LOUD IS TOO LOUD? Workplace noise is sometimes referred to as a “stealth, longterm hazard,” because hearing loss occurs slowly, in a painless, gradual process. High decibel levels may damage the cells and membranes in the inner ear. Repeated exposure will overwork those cells, which can cause them to die and result in hearing loss that surgery cannot fix. While hearing aids may help, they do not restore hearing back to normal. When decibel levels are at or above 85 decibels (dB) over an average of eight working hours, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Noise Standard requires employers to make hearing protection available to all employees

24 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

and to implement a hearing conservation program. However, the equipment construction workers use daily is often above 85 dB. For example, a concrete saw can produce 100 dB and a hammer drill 120 dB. The risk for noise-induced hearing loss is reduced with a decrease of even a few decibels. One method OSHA recommends to control decibel levels is to adjust engineering controls, such as modifying or replacing equipment, or making a physical change at either the source of the noise or along the path of noise transmission. This could be as simple as lubricating a squeaking bearing, or replacing a loud, gas-powered engine with a battery-powered solution. Communication at the jobsite can also be imporved. For example, a vibratory screed requires the operator and sometimes multiple scrapers to work within a few feet of the screed’s motor. The noise caused by the gas engine can be damaging to the worker’s hearing, and make communication while navigating the pad difficult. A battery-powered screed produces less noise, making it quieter than a gas engine. This helps reduce the noise exposure to the operator, scrapers, and the jobsite as

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a whole. It also helps improve communication among the crew, allowing them to talk over the noise better.

ELIMINATE CORDS, REDUCE TRIPPING HAZARDS Cords are tripping hazards when run throughout the jobsite and can restrict the mobility of the operator. According to CPWR, the Center for Construction Research and Training, slips, trips, and falls are one of the leading causes of construction injuries, accounting for over 20,000 nonfatal and 300 fatal injuries annually since 2013. In 2020 alone, the construction industry accounted for just over 46% of all fatal slips, trips, and falls, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. It’s not uncommon for the contractor to walk along the rebar or scaffolding with an electric concrete vibrator to consolidate the concrete in a column or wall. A corded concrete vibrator restricts the mobility of the operator, increasing the risk they lose their balance and footing. The extension cords running across the jobsite can create fall hazards for the other workers as well if not managed properly. Corded equipment increases the risk of tripping a breaker, delaying the crew to

reset. A battery-powered concrete vibrator eliminates the need for extension cords entirely, reducing the chances for slips, trips, and falls, and preventing tripped breakers, ultimately reducing downtime on the jobsite.

THE FUTURE OF THE JOBSITE With new technological developments, there is a growing number of concrete equipment solutions that are battery-powered, and only more will continue to be seen across jobsites. Designed to take on the very same gas and corded equipment that the concrete industry has depended on, battery-powered equipment addresses the common hazards and frustrations. Today’s crews realize that the once-normalized risks can be addressed on the job site, decreasing safety concerns and keeping the equipment operators working efficiently.

Kevin Gee

Director of Product Management Milwaukee Tool

With heavy-duty attachments for everything from tree care to hardscapes, one Ditch Witch® Skid Steer is like having many different machines—giving you more ways to rent, and more ways to profit. Ditch Witch. We’re In This Together. ditchwitch.com/sk-attachments

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 25

SECTOR REPORT: ENGINES //

TIPS FOR STORING ENGINE OIL Avoid costly errors regarding your engine oils and be sure to properly store and label oils clearly to help prevent misapplication.

@Brett - adobe.stock.com

odern engine design and the need to reduce CO2 emissions have led to the development of additional engine oil categories and a growing number of engine oil viscosity grades for diesel engines. In 2016, the launch of two new diesel engine oil categories (API CK-4 and API FA-4) required shops to properly accommodate numerous oils. From this, specific planning and training have been necessary to avoid mixing oils and pouring incorrect oil into engines. Training technicians and service people in specific applications is essential to avoid misapplications that could potentially result in expensive engine damage or voiding of manufacturer warranties. The American Petroleum Institute (API) has several proper storage and handling tips to prevent misapplication. When it comes to the storage and handling of engine oils in a shop, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure safety and maintain the quality of the oils. The designated storage area for engine oils should be cool, dry, well-ventilated and away from electrical equipment. Also, avoid storing engine oils near chemicals or substances that may cause contamination. When receiving new shipments of engine oil in drums, bottles, or pails, ensure that all containers are tightly sealed

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 Training technicians and service people in specific applications is essential to avoid misapplications that could potentially result in expensive engine damage or voiding of manufacturer warranties.

and undamaged before storing them. Damaged containers may lead to oil leakage or contamination.

Storing Oils in a Stock Room/Shop Requires Planning ■ Maintain a well-organized storage system to prevent confusion and ensure proper inventory management. ■ Arrange the containers in a way that allows for easy access and clear labeling. ■ Consider using shelves, racks, or storage bins to organize the oils. ■ Avoid cross-contamination by assigning specific storage areas for different grades or types of engine oil to keep them separate. While engine oils have a fairly long shelf life, it’s important to rotate your stock to ensure that older oils are used before newer ones. Follow the First-in-First-Out (FIFO) principle by using the oldest stock first to avoid potential degradation of oil due to extended storage periods.

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SECTOR REPORT: ENGINES //

@John.stock.adobe.com

In addition, proper storage applies to diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) which has a shelf life of about 18 months if stored in room temperature conditions. Following FIFO is highly recommended for this fluid, as well.

Handling Engine Oils in the Shop The following tips can help streamline operations and help minimize issues relating to productivity, mixing of different products, and misapplication. ■ For all oil offerings, dedicate and clearly mark tanks/ storage, dispensers, tools, etc., to avoid comingling of different products and misapplication. At a minimum,

28 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

@xubayr.stock.adobe.com

For all oil offerings, dedicate and clearly mark tanks/storage, dispensers, tools, etc., to avoid comingling of different products and misapplication.

identify the product name, viscosity grade, and performance level. In this manner, you will also meet weights and measures regulations that have been adopted in over half of the states in the U.S. ■ Reassess your shop’s need for all the oil you stock and eliminate older category oils such as API CJ-4. Thanks to the backward compatibility of current CK-4 oils, older specification oils are unnecessary. Also, evaluate specific viscosity grades and adjust inventory to ensure you stock the proper supply of the most commonly recommended oils for your customer base. ■ If you plan to change oil product offerings, set a specific date, and communicate this information to staff so everyone understands what is changing and when. ■ When replacing one type of oil with another in bulk tanks, clean all tanks being switched to a new oil. ■ All dispensing equipment should be properly labeled to prevent misapplication.

Jeffrey Harmening Senior Program Manager American Petroleum Institute

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BUSINESS MANAGEMENT //

Age-Old Wisdom THE TOYOTA WAY Insight on fostering a culture of success in your rental business through continuous improvement using the principles of “the Toyota Way.”

he notion of standing still while the world evolves around us, is an all too familiar fear that no company can afford. Those of us who carry the weight and responsibility of staving off the threat of stagnation are prone to fighting our own internal battles with the daunting challenge of keeping pace with relentless change. The fact of the matter is, the responsibility doesn’t lie on your shoulders alone. Progress is everyone’s charge. It’s something all should share in, because when we do, there is a sharing of values, of goals, and of cause. A better term for that shared experience is “culture,” which our founder, Sakichi Toyoda, understood was the key to unlocking the full potential of any organization’s greatest asset—its people. Tapping into this resource can have transformative powers over time through small incremental changes. In essence, the Toyota Way is a set of practices that can be incorporated by companies in any business sector that is based on the pillars of kaizen (continuous improvement) and respect for people. By focusing on these two principles, you can improve work processes, boost employee morale, and build a culture established on mutual trust and respect— ultimately leading to long-term business success. To better explain what this means and how to incorporate it, I want to focus on what I call the three “E”s of the Toyota Way, explore the different practices that can be used within, and dive into the ways they can influence your business culture.

the opportunity to identify inevitable problems and improve processes. The Japanese phrase “monozukuri wa hitozukuri” means “making things is about making people.” In our businesses, whether that be Toyota Material Handling or your rental business, our focus should be on engaging the customers and employees that keep our operations running. Our products are what we make, but our people are why we make them. At Toyota we often say, “we win first with people, and then on products.” We want to engage our people in a way that encourages them to identify problems and participate in improvements—and to go all in on their education. EDUCATE

We look for people that want not just to work, but to think. Hopefully, you have a group of lifelong learners at your company that are always eager to learn new things. The next step is to align them with a good teacher, somebody who can help them grow and improve. In the process, your business will grow and your customers will be happier. This is something that should come naturally to all of us. When I wake up each day, I remember the When sharing this with your team, here are some phonetic pronunciations. Kaizen — ky-zen or kai-zn

ENGAGE

Jidoka — Jee-DOH-kuh

A key piece of the Toyota Way is the concept of jidoka, which translates to “automation with a human touch.” Automation may be part of manufacturing’s large success and there’s no denying the growth of automation in every part of our lives, but automation alone is imperfect. Without the human touch—without engaging our people—we lose

Monozukuri — moh-noh ZOO-koo-ree

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Wa — wah Hitozukuri — hit-oh-ZOO-koo-ree Muda — MOO-duh Genchi Gembutsu — gen-CHI gem-BOOT-soo

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challenges of the day before and try to make things easier, better, smarter and safer. That’s the whole idea of continuous improvement. Kaizen is not about major improvements and projects but many small improvements, made by everyone, every day. We like to say that small hinges can swing big doors. But without the right education—and a true desire to learn—your employees may lack the ability to identify those problems. Most importantly, though, when your team is constantly learning, they will often share that important knowledge with your customers. An important part of kaizen and something we ask of our employees is finding ways to reduce muda (waste)— the most common culprit for hidden costs within a business. There are eight types of muda that are creating inefficiencies in your business today and costing time and money: ■ Transportation ■ Overproduction ■ Unnecessary motion ■ Waiting ■ Overprocessing ■ Defective parts ■ Inventory ■ Underutilized people

WARRANT Y

4LE2 Engine2 2.2L | 40-66 HP (30–49 kW)

GENUINE PARTS

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It’s not enough to just engage and educate your people— it’s critical to empower them to use their knowledge and unique abilities to identify, analyze, and solve problems. Here we can implement Genchi Genbutsu, which means “go and see with your own eyes.” This applies to working with employees, meeting the needs of customers, identifying ways to eliminate waste, getting to the root cause of a problem, and so much more. At Toyota, we like to empower our employees and our dealers to go and see for themselves when looking for solutions to a problem. This is often the best opportunity to ask the 5 Whys. If you ask yourself “why” something happened five times—digging a little deeper each time—you’ll likely find the root cause of the problem. I am continuously impressed by the importance of culture and the significant impact it can have on the longterm success of a business. Brett Wood That’s what the Toyota Way is President & CEO Toyota Material Handling all about.

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5-year / 5,000-hour is the standard limited warranty. 3C models and power unit components offer a 2-year / 2,000-hour limited warranty. Warranty is based on years or hours of service, whichever comes first. See your authorized Isuzu Distributor or dealer for warranty and other details.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 31

CONSTRUCTION //

Climate Control & HEATING THE CONSTRUCTION SITE Onsite climate control shouldn’t be neglected, here are some solutions for project success.

roperly maintaining the climate on a jobsite can be a game-changer for construction site managers, ensuring the project remains on schedule, stays within budget, and meets the quality standards for building owners. One of the most significant consequences of failing to maintain the proper climate on a construction site is the risk of permanent finishes and materials swelling, shrinking, or cracking. When construction materials are exposed to unfavorable conditions, they can experience significant damage, requiring removal and reinstallation.

high-end millwork finishes. As construction progresses and the building nears completion, temporary climate control becomes even more vital. Interior and exterior materials need to be climatized well in advance of installation to prevent swelling, shrinking, or cracking, reducing both costs and environmental impact. TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION SITE SOLUTIONS

Several types of temporary heating systems are available for construction site use, each with advantages and drawbacks: ■ Indirect-fired heaters ■ Direct-fired make-up air heaters ■ Electric heaters ■ Direct-fired recirculating heaters ■ Radiant heaters (which are crucial for exterior work) ■ Steam heaters

CONSTRUCTION SITE CONSIDERATIONS

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An indirect-fired diesel heater like this IDFO-600 can provide heat and humidity control for a commercial new build.

Sunbelt Rentals

Different materials and phases of construction demand distinct climate control solutions. For instance, flooring materials, interior finish work, and millwork all require specific temperature and relative humidity levels for correct installation. Failure to follow these guidelines can result in issues such as drywall curing problems, tape not adhering properly or at all, cracking, or swelling, which would mean the materials should be removed and reinstalled, further delaying the project. Laying down glue for high-end flooring provides another example highlighting the importance of climate control. The glue will have a Material Safety Data Sheet that outlines installation instructions, ideal temperatures to store the product, and relative humidity levels for installation. Many different factors contribute to the successful installation of building materials. Environmental considerations are becoming increasingly relevant, especially as more environmentally friendly building products and practices are adopted. These products, often water-based rather than solvent-based, are more sensitive to temperature changes and drying rates can be affected. To further emphasize the relevance of climate control, consider materials such as gypcrete, drywall, stucco, or

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An indirect-fired heater is a desirable option for many contractors, especially in high-end or environmentally conscious projects such as a medical building or a green environmental/ESG building. These heaters offer clean, dry heat without volatile organic compounds, making them a safe, efficient, and clean temporary heating solution. However, they can be more costly and less fuel efficient. A direct-fired recirculating heater can be used early in a project for tasks such as curing an elevated deck pour, fireproofing, or freeze protection. In early phases of construction, buildings are typically not well sealed yet. This prevents the buildup of combustion

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byproducts from these styles of heaters. This is an economical option with a smaller footprint, taking up less space on the floor, and is extremely fuel efficient. Costs associated with temporary heating equipment typically break down into 20% for equipment rental and 80% for fuel costs. Fuel costs can vary based on regulations, regional considerations, and code requirements. Some downtown or metro areas restrict certain fuel sources, such as natural gas or propane, and often utilize diesel-fired or electric options. Regarding fire protection, the choice of fuel source is critical. The focus remains on the general contractor,

their budget, and the timeline at hand. Making informed decisions about fuel sources helps balance budget constraints with project safety and efficiency. Innovative climate control solutions are a linchpin in ensuring construction projects proceed smoothly and meet the expectations of all stakeholders. These solutions not only benefit the construction site but also the end user.

Joe Dion National Product Manager Sunbelt Rentals, Commerical Climate Control Services

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 33

GENERAL TOOL //

THE SHARPEST TOOLS IN THE TOOLBOX Preventive maintenance tracking for everything from cranes to circular saws is the best way to not only make jobsites safer, but also to cut down on unexpected delays for emergency repairs.

ools and equipment, materials and consumables, and labor are the top three expenditures for construction companies; digital organization helps save money by managing assets. Connected tools can serve to increase efficiencies and provide data that is instructive for workers in getting the job done correctly and on schedule. The value of hand tool digitization is becoming increasingly embraced in the construction sector against the backdrop of studies such as those conducted by the McKinsey Global Institute Industry Digitalization Index indicating that construction is among the least digitized sectors across the globe. That can affect job efficiencies, which in turn can cause projects to go over schedule and affect budgets.

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Hand tool digitization also can mitigate challenges related to skilled labor shortages, material costs and enabling a construction company to hold a stake in a competitive environment. One way is through battery technology. Smart batteries provide real-time key intelligence through built-in diagnostics that sync with connected tools to collect data and provide a holistic view of the tools, including location, usage insights, and battery performance levels. Assets such as heavy iron and vehicles are becoming more connected to the Internet of Things, which is making it easier to integrate them with broader equipment management systems, points out Russ Young, Tenna chief business development officer. “There are already smart tools available that allow for location

tracking, utilization data, and custom use profiles, all of which help improve safety by making sure that the right tools are on site, they are in good working condition, and they are preset for optimum use on different tasks and materials,” Young says. “As AI continues to evolve in safety systems such as camera technology, it’s not hard to imagine that smart tools will start to adapt to this technology, as well.” CONSTRUCTION TOOL MAINTENANCE

Tool maintenance best practices focus on “planning the work and working the plan,” says Tenna’s Young. “Having [preventive] maintenance tracking for everything from cranes to circular saws is the best way to not only make jobsites safer, but also to cut down on unexpected delays for

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emergency repairs,” he says. Young recommends these three best practices for construction tool maintenance: ■ Have a preventive maintenance plan for each asset and tool. ■ Set up digital inspections to have regular visual verification to determine that machines and tools are not showing unexpected wear and tear. ■ Use equipment management systems to track utilization data and base preventive maintenance schedules on actual use and not using arbitrary timeframes. Addressing how equipment is a large investment and routine maintenance is one of the most important ways to protect that investment, Kevin Gee, director of product management for Milwaukee Tool notes that air filters, carburetors, spark plugs and recoils are examples of a few wearable parts that need to be regularly maintained and managed. “Additionally, gas-powered products require proper storage and transportation in order to ensure they work properly,” he adds. “The equipment needs to sit upright, keeping the gas where it is supposed to be. For example, if tipped over in the back of the truck, the gas can go in the wrong direction and flood through the system, damaging the product.” This maintenance can increase the cost of ownership over the lifetime of the product, says Gee. There are several other factors to consider in construction tool maintenance: ■ Utilizing a proper tool storage system. Doing so also improves efficiencies by enabling workers to access tools easily and safely as needed. A clean workspace where tools are stored also serves to increase their longevity and functionality. ■ Conduct a quick inspection at the www.ForConstructionPros.com/RENTAL

beginning and end of each job for signs of malfunction, wear, or damage. An established maintenance schedule can provide for a more in-depth approach that includes sharpening, calibrating, oiling, and any other best management practices. Record data on use, repairs, and maintenance as to offer a predictive analysis for future needs. Quickly addressing issues prevents accidents and extends tool performance. ■ Upgrading or replacing tools that are damaged, have been utilized past their expected life cycle, or no longer meet efficiency or safety standards. Additional factors to consider in ensuring construction tool safety: ■ Training on the proper use. Such training should encompass education on procedures and guidelines for handling tools, including safety protocols. ■ Utilizing the correct PPE. This may include wearing glasses, gloves, ear protection and headgear. ■ Obtaining the necessary certification required to use certain specialized tools. ■ Establishing steps to follow in emergency procedures in the event someone is injured by a tool, including easy access to first aid and stop the bleed kits. Written guidelines and procedures that are easily accessed should be available for employees to reference. ■ Engage customers in the process of safe handling of tools and their maintenance. Encourage them to report any observations about tools that may lead to a more serious issue if not immediately and properly addressed.

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Progress Solar Solutions SLT Series The SLT Series from Progress Solar Solutions consists of updated mobile solar light towers that are 100% emissions free and use zero diesel fuel. They offer 42 hours of runtime on each charge and qualify for federal and state renewable energy incentives. The towers feature automatic timers and dawn-to-dusk operation for automated functionality. Solid-state LED technology enables durability in outdoor areas as well as a lifespan of 50,000+ hours. During use, the light towers offer 52,000 lumens of output. Elevated illumination helps position the lights above busy work areas. Transport around the jobsite is facilitated by a single-axle trailer. Configurations are available for various applications in all solar insolation zones. https://RNT.news/1b8ok40p

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Magni RTH 8.35 and 8.46 Rotating & Heavy Lift Telehandlers

MiniTrencher Attachments MiniTrencher has announced several new products and attachments, including a horizontal auger, a new electric battery-powered division, new GeoRipper T/A trenching attachments for the Milwaukee and Echo powerheads and a redesign of its flagship product, The GeoRipper. The SiBore Drill is a portable horizontal auger that digs underneath concrete, asphalt or any other hard material without breaking the surface. The SiBore Drill uses a waterless-boring method leaving no mud to deal with. Utilizing a Greenworks or Makita XGT electric battery motor, the GeoRipper e/B is a complete trenching unit that includes a battery-powered motor, battery and charger, as well as MiniTrencher digging chains, bars and accessories. https://RNT.news/un0xbqrq

Magni Telescopic Handlers extended its RTH range with the 8.35 and 8.46 (pictured) models allowing contractors to lift heavier, higher, and safer. The 8.35 resulted from the redesign of the 6.36 model, showcasing upgraded load charts and increased lifting capacity by 2 tonnes. Its extension modes M1 and M2 give access to two different load charts, to maximize performance in all operating conditions. The RTH 8.46’s boom was developed to provide lifting capacities up to 8 tonnes. • Improved visibility by moving the cab further forward, increasing the glazing in the top section and installing a more slender steering column • Magni’s “easy access” system makes getting into and out of the cab easier by permitting a slight misalignment between the turret and chassis, facilitating access to the machine • Restyled cab interiors • Renewed software with restyled interface graphics for easy, intuitive use with user-friendly icons to identify the various functions https://RNT.news/clfs6zvg

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 37

RENTAL SNAPSHOT // BY MERINA SHRIVER

Working Harder, Longer & Smarter Tim Gerbus, general manager at Taylor Construction Equipment, discusses how he entered the rental industry and the challenges that his company and other companies alike struggle with. RENTAL: HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO THE RENTAL INDUSTRY?

Tim Gerbus: I have been associated with the rental industry in one form or another most of my life. Currently, with Taylor Construction Equipment we have a large rental fleet with all different types and sizes of machines. We rent the complete line of Hyundai Construction Equipment products, Bell trucks, Sakai Rollers, SMI crushing and screening, Fecon mulching heads, and Loadscan volumetric scanners. I started in construction back in the 70s as my family had a construction company called Gerbus Brothers Construction. We were a heavy dirt contractor specializing in housing and site development. Later, we started working at coal burning power plants disposing of fly ash and bottom ash. This led to us discovering Moxy articulated dump trucks in Europe and eventually, we became the distributor of Moxy Trucks in North America until we sold it back to the factory

38 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

in 2001. At Moxy, we worked with all of our dealers to rent Moxy ADTs to their customers. Most ADTs started out in the rental market. I would estimate over 70% of all new ADTs are put into dealer rental fleets. RENTAL: CAN YOU GIVE US SOME INSIGHT INTO YOUR COMPANY?

Gerbus: Taylor Construction Equipment is a division of the Taylor Group of Companies. Taylor Construction Equipment is only two years old, but the Taylor Group of Companies has been in business in Louisville, Miss. for over 96 years. As a new division of Taylor, we share the philosophy of renting equipment to our new and future customers, giving them options to purchasing equipment, and allowing them to experience our world-class products and customer service which sets us apart from other construction equipment dealers.

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RENTAL SNAPSHOT // We are a 96-year-old company conIndiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennesee, and sisting of 11 different divisions. Taylor Mississippi. Our value proposition is Construction Equipment is one of the “servicing the customer” and keeping newest divisions but has grown rapidthem up and running. We develop relaBI_Rental_Mechanx150_2023.psd @ 66.7% (The BOSS MECHANX 150 is the ly. We started out two years ago with a tionships with our customers and become perfect match for that the Mr. do-i, RGB/8) * small territory in Mississippi and now partners with them in their business. Our have locations in 5 states including ability to sell or rent equipment gives our customers the flexibility they need to stay profitable and flexible in today’s ever-changing environment. RENTAL: WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF YOUR SUCCESSES AND CHALLENGES SINCE YOU’VE BEEN IN THE INDUSTRY?

Gerbus: Our customers have grown to love the vendor partners that we represent. We rent or sell them world-class products and back them up with aftermarket support that is second to none. The most important thing you can provide a customer is supporting their machines and keeping them up and running. That means they are making money. One of our challenges, like many manufacturers that are not the Big 4, is that we have great equipment that is just as good if not better than the big guys. Being a “challenger brand” we have to work harder, longer, and smarter. We don’t get the same breaks as the other guys. RENTAL: WHAT DO YOU THINK THE INDUSTRY COULD USE MORE OF?

Gerbus: The rental industry is going to continue to grow as equipment continues to increase in price and interest rates stay at a 20-year high. In my opinion, the rental industry is in a good place right now. It has the ability to service all different types of customers with a huge selection of equipment to rent. Satisfying the customer’s needs and keeping them up and running is the key to rental.

40 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

www.ForConstructionPros.com/RENTAL

RENTAL: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE INDUSTRY? OF YOUR COMPANY?

Gerbus: I have been in the construction equipment industry for the majority of my life. I grew up in my dad’s construction company and got to know what the contractor is looking for and what they need to be successful. I have been able to transfer that knowledge to my roles in the OEM sector and the dealer sector. The people in the equipment business and friendly and genuine. There is healthy competition with a high level of respect. The Taylor Group of Companies is an outstanding organization. Loaded with family values, we stand behind our mission of; Faith, Vision, Works. Taylor is currently in its third generation and the fourth generation is very active and ready to lead in the future. At Taylor, it is all about the employees.

Want to be featured in an upcoming Rental SNAPSHOT?

Share your story with the readers of Rental reach out to editor Jonathan Kozlowski at jkozlowski@iron.markets.

Equipment Rental Company In Search Of Potential Acquisition

RENTAL: WHAT TRENDS DO YOU FORESEE COMING DOWN THE PIPELINE IN THE RENTAL INDUSTRY?

Gerbus: The rental industry is going to continue to grow as prices for new machines continue to escalate and rising interest rates make it more difficult to finance equipment. We have seen the supply chain shift and manufacturers have pre-COVID inventory. RENTAL: WHAT IS YOUR TOP PRIORITY FOR 2024?

Gerbus: Have the right equipment for the right customer, not all equipment is for everyone! RENTAL: WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO OUTSIDE OF WORK?

Gerbus: I have a large family and we love to spend time together. We live on a farm and raise horses, so there is never a dull moment or a real opportunity to rest. Cutting fields, training horses, fixing fences, and bailing hay are just a few things that keep me busy.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/RENTAL

Are you thinking of retirement? Don’t have an established succession plan? Or, are you just looking to switch things up? Read on. A well established, privately owned Equipment Rental, Sales, & Service company is in search of another business acquisition. This buyer has experience with acquisitions and is able to offer some attractive options for potential sellers. The buyer wishes to remain anonymous until a signed NDA (non-disclosure agreement) is put in place. We respect the privacy of the seller and can assure complete discretion throughout the analysis process. The buyers ideal prospect would be another privately held company with a fleet size of 150 - 500 pieces of aerial & material handling rental equipment, with 1-2 locations. Buyers main focus is aerial & material equipment, sales, and service. They also welcome businesses with dirt equipment and/or industrial equipment in their portfolio. All geographic locations will be considered. Having an established work force, well maintained fleet, and ingrained customer list are compelling attributes. The buyer values your time and is ready to hear all about your business!

For more information or to submit your business for review please contact us via email @ RentalAnon@yahoo.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 41

EYE ON RENTAL // BY DICK DETMER

Prepare Now For The Busier Seasons

ere are just a few ideas about what can be done to prepare for the upcoming busier seasons: ■ Make more precise equipment inventory purchasing decisions. Now is a great time to make an objective, in-depth analysis of your entire fleet to determine your busy season needs. The costs associated with growing and maintaining a “fresh fleet” are already high and getting higher. It is more important than ever to make decisions that are based on an accurate, objective analysis. ■ Train employees to be better communicators. Employees need to know more than a few basics to effectively recommend the equipment and accessories needed by customers. Don’t hope that customers know what they need. You want your company to have the professional image of having very knowledgeable staff members; your company will tend to rent more and have fewer service road calls. ■ Make the “customer experience” even kinder and friendlier. Certainly, customers tend to return to rental businesses that have a kind, friendly, and helpful atmosphere. Use the upcoming months to make this part of the company’s culture. ■ Remember the importance of the initial, formative first week or two of the education process. It sets the stage for all the other equipment and technical training to come. The proper initial introduction to the culture and systems of the rental company is vital. Rental companies

42 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

that have solid systems and superior training tend to have the best results. ■ Focus attention on the visual image of your showroom. Modernizing the visual image of your showroom should be done every 2-3 years. Your showroom sets the stage for the customer experience in addition to telling your story of your broad assortment of equipment, accessories, and related retail merchandise. A professional design and implementation builds confidence and more business. Also, take a fresh look at your trucks and trailers to be sure they help you build or sustain a super-professional image. ■ Your slower season is the ideal time for training new people. Even in this very tight employment climate, most of my customers have discovered that some quality employees can still be found. Remember, some people in your community are looking for a more exciting position with a company that is not as monotonous as the jobs they currently hold. Stay positive and have many specific-to-your-company strategies to acquire, prepare, motivate, and retain the very best. ■ Prepare them for success and growth. If employees do not have a comprehensive orientation (including your processes and culture) and solid initial training, they won’t be very likely to grasp the joy of

working in a rental company. Having a more organized, systematic way of doing things in various day-to-day business activities takes away some of the out-of-control, stressful, and extremely dissatisfying aspects. ■ Be sure your supervisors are welltrained to excel in not only the technical portions of their positions but also the “people part.” Train them to become great leaders. In many cases, employees quit because of their supervisor, not the job itself. ■ Create new rewards and other perks that your employees are not likely to receive elsewhere. Have some well-crafted, specific performance-based incentives. I believe that performance incentives can be an important part of making work more interesting, can boost morale and retention—and boost the company’s bottom line. ■ Involve your current team in as many of these endeavors as possible. They are a valuable resource and offer another perspective for planning and implementing the changes. Their intellectual investment in new projects can have a huge impact on their commitment to those plans’ success. With as many opportunities as there are in the slower season, it’s important to have a prioritized plan. The busier seasons will be arriving soon!

Dick Detmer is a nationally recognized consultant, lecturer and writer with 40+ years of experience in the equipment rental industry. In 2018, he celebrated the 30th anniversary of his business, Detmer Consulting Inc., and his column in Rental. Dick can be contacted at dick@detmerconsulting.com, (309) 781-3451 or by visiting his website www.detmerconsulting.com.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/RENTAL

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