North American Sweeper - August 2026

2005-2026

2

AUGUST 2026

THREE RIVERS POWER SWEEP, INC. Pittsburgh PA p8

INSIDE GEARING UP FOR AUTUMN: THE CONTRACTOR’S PLAYBOOK FOR PEAK FALL SWEEPING SEASONS p30

BUILT FOR THE REAL WORLD ODRA sweepers are built for real-world work, where uptime matters, maintenance

Powerful hydraulics = Consistent sweeping, even in heavy debris

can’t wait, and complexity costs you. Every model is designed to be easy to run, easy

Non-CDL = More available drivers, faster staffing

to maintain, and powerful enough for the toughest sweeping conditions.

Super-simple maintenance = Less downtime, faster repairs Low ownership costs = Lower lifetime

Ready to upgrade your fleet? Contact ODRA to experience dependable

cost per unit No CAN-bus electrical = No complex

mechanical sweeping made simple.

diagnostics or dealer delays

CONTACT US

Learn more or book a demo with us today!

SEE US AT BOOTH 1907

2 NO R TH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

+1 (844) 888-6372 info@odrasweeper.com www.odrasweeper.com ODRA®, MT4H®, ODRA MT4H®, MS5H® and ODRA MS5H® are registered trademarks of ODRA LLC in the United States. © 2026 ODRA LLC. All rights reserved.

Vi si t Us

­

­

­ ­ ­ ­

­

­

Quality Starts with the Bristle The difference isn’t the broom, it’s the bristle. At Keystone, we don’t buy it, we make it. Our bristle is engineered for maximum flick, longer life, and better performance on the street. That’s why more OEMs and contractors trust Keystone. Made in the USA for over 80 years.

Learn more at kpbrush.com/bristle

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C AN SWEEPER 3

AUGUST 2026 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 8

CONTENTS

FEATURES 8

Three Rivers Power Sweep, Inc, Pittsburgh PA

26 In The News 30 Gearing Up for Autumn: The Contractor’s Playbook for Peak Fall Sweeping Season 34 Index of Advertisers

CEO & PUBLISHER Gideon W. Smith SENIOR EDITOR Katherine Nolan ADVERTISING Tracy Rodean Phoenix Global Media Inc. P.O. Box 235, Stockton New Jersey 08559 866-418-4400 phone 973-532-0319 fax sales@nasweeper.com North American Sweeper Magazine is published by Phoenix Global Media Inc. Copyright 2026 by Phoenix Global Media Inc. All rights reserved.

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Melissa Kennelly EDITORIAL MANAGER Heidi Karpinich CIRCULATION Noah Aiden SUBSCRIPTIONS $15.00 per year, or by eligible request.

POSTMASTER: Please send changes to North American Sweeper Magazine P.O. Box 235, Stockton New Jersey 08559

Opinions expressed in editorial submissions contributed to North American Sweeper Magazine are those of the individual authors exclusively and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of North American Sweeper Magazine, its staff, its advertisers, or its readership. North American Sweeper Magazine assumes no liability or responsibility toward independently contributed editorial submissions or any typographical errors, mistakes, misprints, or missing information within advertising copy.

4 NO R TH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

SEE US AT BOOTH 2631

SEE US AT BOOTH 455

6 NO R TH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

Broom Bear

®

T H E L E G E N DA R Y P O W E R BEHIND SWEEPING

SEE US AT BOOTH 1701

• Non-CDL version available • Mechanical sweeping to handle heavy applications like millings • Independent broom control for in-the-cut precision • Single engine for fuel economy and less maintenance

Multiple Fuel Configurations

Diesel, CNG, Hybrid & 100% Electric

• Simple start-up procedure with easy-to-operate controls

Questions?

B U I L T F O R C L E A N . B A C K E D F O R LIFE.

Ask an Expert! ©2023 Elgin Sweeper Company

SPOTLIGHT

THREE RIVERS POWER SWEEP, INC. Pittsburgh PA

A business acquaintance of NAS recently introduced

Rivers Power Sweep, Inc., Pittsburgh, PA and Stotler, an

us to Leroy Stotler’s Three Rivers Power Sweep, Inc.,

industry expert.

enthusiastically saying, “It’s a great company!” He went

He possesses a vast wealth of knowledge, and we’re

on to add, “It’s a very respectable company, and I believe

fortunate to have him share some of it here with NAS

Leroy could relay information to help other Sweeping

readers through his own story of building his highly

Companies.” That was both great praise and an

successful business. His sweeping company has

understatement. We’ve since learned a lot about Three

grown to become a very popular service in the fiercely

8 NO R TH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

His sweeping company has grown to become a very popular service in the fiercely competitive Pittsburgh street sweeping market.

competitive Pittsburgh street sweeping market.

services throughout Pittsburgh metro and greater

THREE RIVERS POWER SWEEP, INC.

central Pennsylvania for the past 45 years. Leroy

The business started operating in 1981, and in 1988 it

reflects here on his entrepreneurial journey:

was incorporated as Three Rivers Power Sweep, Inc.

I went to Penn State for engineering. I had a fairly

by Kathy Stotler, Leroy’s mother, and Linda Smith, his

long career in engineering software, analysis, and

aunt. It has remained a family-owned B2B provider in

computational fluids. But growing up I had always

power sweeping, property maintenance, and related

worked with my mom and aunt, doing various chores,

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C AN SWEEPER 9

SPOTLIGHT being the second person in the truck, etc. Eventually, they were looking to retire. The opportunity came up for me to purchase the company. I knew it was a good steady business, so I decided to take it on and try something different.

I bought them out 18 years ago. How do I like it?

[Leroy amused.] It depends on what day it is. It’s a type of business with very high highs and very low lows.

It’s 7 days a week, 365. Growing up learning about it in the household lessened the shell-shock of running it myself, for sure. There were no huge surprises about what it was going to take to manage it successfully.

SERVICES OFFERED BY THREE RIVERS Three Rivers offers a full range of sweeping service types, plus a wide array of additional services for our customers, including: 4 Municipal Sweeping 4 Parking Lot Sweeping 4 Large Event Sweeping 4 Construction Site Sweeping 4 Milling Sweeping 4 Industrial Sweeping 4 Retail Sweeping 4 HOA/Street Sweeping 4 Parking Garage Sweeping 4 Pressure Washing 4 Pavement Scrubbing 4 Debris Removal 4 Portering Services (Day and Night) 4 Snow plowing (24/7)* 4 Building Maintenance Solutions 4 Emergency Call-Out Services *As a convenience to our customers, we accept requests for snow plowing and subcontract that service to our trusted local providers.

continued on page 12

1 0 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

EVERYONE YOU WANT TO KNOW WILL BE THERE. WILL YOU? THIS YEAR WE’RE BRINGING INDUSTRIES TOGETHER TO HELP PROTECT WATER, CREATES NEW BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES, EXPAND MARKETS, AND POSITION SWEEPING AS A PROVEN ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTION.

REGISTER @ SWEEPERSUMMIT.COM w w w. na sweeper.co m

NOVEMBER 3-4, 2026 SAN ANTONIO, TX 15TH ANNUAL JOIN THOSE IN THE KNOW IN THE POWER SWEEPING AND CLEAN STREETS INDUSTRIES GAIN VALUABLE AND ACTIONABLE INSIGHTS THROUGH CURATED PANEL SESSIONS, NETWORKING, AND GROUP EVENTS..

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 11

SPOTLIGHT

THREE RIVERS CUSTOMER SERVICE PRIORITIES Leroy shared his practices and service model logic with

We try to figure it out, if it’s a

us. We try to help our customers with whatever they need when they ask, within the boundaries of what is

value to the customer, before we

practical for us to do in-house. For example, it wouldn’t

get involved. We can reasonably

make sense for our guys to be up on ladders replacing

help with some kinds of exterior

ceiling tiles. Without frequent experience doing work like that, there’s the safety risk and quality concern.

maintenance. But as a convenience

We try to figure it out, if it’s a value to the customer,

for customers, we sub out the kinds of

before we get involved. We can reasonably help

jobs we don’t do...

with some kinds of exterior maintenance. But as a convenience for customers, we sub out the kinds of jobs we don’t do, like interior maintenance, and we

continued on page 14

1 2 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

TARGET CLASSES • Power Sweeping • Porter Service • Catch Basin Service

AVAILABLE COVERAGE 4 Auto Liability Physical Damage 4 General Liability 4 Umbrella 4 Workers Compensation

4 Property/Equipment 4 Employee Benefits 4 Payroll/HR Services 4 Surety Bonds

WORLD INSURANCE IS PROUD TO PRESENT

Our Exclusive National Power Sweeping Insurance Program Your Agent Can Now Access This Program For You!

Contact Scott Cerosky at 800-660-6934 ext 355 scottcerosky@worldinsurance.com w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 13

SPOTLIGHT

may manage the project, handling contacts with owner

For parking lots, we use mostly Schwarze, and we

and tenant, etc. It’s not a big money-maker for us, but it

have a Tymco. For larger construction site cleanup

adds value for our customers, and it’s pure profit for us.

and industrial site sweeping, we have Stewart Amos

We try to be careful about offering everything or over-

R6’s. And we have a couple of ODRA MTH4’s; those

promising. If it’s too far out of scope, we will just send

are pure broom trucks. Last year, we also acquired a

a name referring the customer to a trusted contractor

Tymco 600 and have had great success with it on road

we know.

construction work.

THREE RIVERS EQUIPMENT

A lot of our equipment investment over the past few

We have about 20+ trucks, including 18 to 19 sweeper

years has been more into roadwork and site clearing

trucks and 3 support trucks. Those are pickups for

where we have large data centers coming in, and

portering or hauling trailers. We also have 4 ride-on

destruction and/or construction of plants in the area to

sweepers that are hauled on trailers to the work sites

make space for those.

for indoor garage sweeping.

We don’t have to do truck repairs out on the road

1 4 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

often, but we have onsite mechanics, and they do anything

For parking lots, we use mostly Schwarze, and we have

from light maintenance to full

a Tymco. Last year, we also acquired a Tymco 600 and have

rebuilds. For example, we’ve pulled

had great success with it on road construction work.

a Schwarze sweeper system off, refurbished it, and mounted it on a brand-new Isuzu chassis. We can literally build two trucks like that for the price of one new truck.

We purchase new trucks, and slightly used ones when there is an opportunity to buy a good brand. We use this combination to mitigate our capital equipment debt while maintaining a fresh, effective fleet. We do try to stick with a brand, to make training, repairs, and switching out parts most efficient. For parking lots,

TRUE REGENERATIVE AIR SWEEPING !

SEE US AT BOOTH 1331

Model 600® COMDEX ® Street Sweeper

Model 500x® High Side Dump

Model 435® COMDEX ® Mid-Sized Street Sweeper

Model 210® COMDEX ® Parking Lot Sweeper

it’s Schwarze for us. We’ve always used those since the early days of the business startup and still do.

THE THREE RIVERS TEAM We have about 16 drivers and mechanics combined, an office manager, and a part-time accounts payable person. The office staff does a wide variety of tasks. The office manager helps with route management. The accounts payable person also does all the payroll on the electronic time cards, tracking different HR items, like anniversaries, the referral program, etc. They both help track the GPS that we use to review

Because swept is not always clean, call TYMCO. Our Regenerative Air Sweepers blast into pavement cracks with up to a 250 mph controlled jet of air, forcing up even the finest sand and particulates into a totally enclosed system — never exhausting dirty air as do vacuum sweepers. All with only a few moving parts, reducing maintenance cost and downtime.

Schedule a Demonstration Today !

1-800-258-9626 www.tymco.com

Model 600 Illustration

FROM THE PEOPLE WHO INVENTED REGENERATIVE AIR SWEEPING! w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 15

SPOTLIGHT

operations information and confirm service delivery, etc.

cameras, etc. If someone calls with an issue, we’re

The sales and HR are pretty much on me, including

super responsive. We call back quickly, and we use our

hiring and firing. And I handle any customer issues, etc.

GPS data and camera system to provide meaningful

We’re running Quickbooks, and I do some of that and

information and resolve problems.

other work on the computer.

Performance Quality Ratings

UNIQUE EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM

We have a system of sending someone out on a

Our training is mostly done by our 2 lead operators,

quality route. He will go to a cross section of work, and

and for our quality control, we do a little of all the

he uses a rating system to evaluate conditions after

standard methods, including quality spot checking,

service. For example, the parking lot cleaning quality,

customer outreach, and an advanced performance

the corners, curbs, etc. The quality checker puts the

rating program:

ratings into a spreadsheet, which is set up to calculate

GPS Tracking

a “Quality Number.”

We use GPS tracking, photo documentation, video

At times when you’re low on people, there are not

continued on page 18

1 6 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 17

SPOTLIGHT

enough cycles to send a person out doing only that. It’s been very challenging to do that, but very worthwhile.

The three drivers with the top overall performance get gift cards. The evaluation data comes

Each individual gets a number, and the company as a whole gets a number. The company’s number is an average of all the ratings of individuals.

People do crave the feedback. We’re trying to get better at that; I’m trying to get better at it. We don’t post

from our Samsara GPS. I was shocked at how many people came up and looked at their own scores.

the individual quality results publicly. We’re not looking to shame somebody, but we want to make sure they are understanding the expectation and where they can improve their performance.

Safety Ratings Safety practices are also evaluated. The three drivers

continued on page 20

1 8 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

SEE US AT BOOTH 455

Street Sweeper Flaps, Curtains, and Hoses Since 1994

General Purpose Bulk Rubber

“Klear Flex” Sweeper Hoses

“Rhinoback” Sweeper Hose

Flap Kits Made for Sweeper Parts

customercare@rubbercal.com • 1-844-782-2374 www.rubbercal.com • 1-714-772-3000 w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 19

SPOTLIGHT

with the top overall performance get gift cards. The

NAPSA Certification

evaluation data comes from our Samsara GPS. I was

We support sweeper driver certification through

shocked at how many people came up and looked at

NAPSA. If they then train other employees, they

their own scores.

get bonus hourly differentials. A couple of the

The system has helped reduce distracted driving,

lead operators and I have also gone through the

which is usually to do with phone use. That’s gone

organization’s sweeper management training program.

down quite a bit. Drivers have been developing good

We invest in that training and have made it a requisite

habits, like putting the phone on audio. We enhanced

for advancement. We pay for the training and the

our safety monitoring system on our trucks used on

employees get a bonus when they complete it.

construction sites with cameras inside, outside, and on

Employee Benefits

the back. It has an AI system. If someone walks behind

For us, it’s been a process. From the time I bought the

the truck, it will beep and notify the driver of a possible

company until now, we have worked to maintain a

safety issue.

great team of people who want to work and grow, or

continued on page 22

2 0 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

WE CAN CREATE A RENTAL PROGRAM TO ALIGN WITH SWEEPING CONTRACTS YOU HAVE WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 21

SPOTLIGHT

at least to have a good job with competitive pay and

that affiliation for quite a few years and we get leads

good benefits. We have had a competitive health care

from that. A lot of the marketing we do is what they

program paid 100% by the company, and we recently

do. People also find us on the web. Google search is

added a 401K with employer match. And we provide

where we get the largest percent of leads. About 60%

holiday double pay, etc.

of our total leads come from that, about 30% come

THREE RIVERS MARKETING & BRANDING

through 1-800-SWEEPER, and the other 10% or so are

Recently, we did some rebranding with our logo

from word of mouth. Our trucks have logos all over

and website. The logo is a new sleek graphic design

them. People see the phone number on them and call.

that symbolizes the meeting of the three rivers in

I think we’re drawing from all the pertinent resources

downtown Pittsburgh. [For anyone unfamiliar with

we need for leads.

that beautiful view of the city at the three intersecting

We don’t want to grow just to grow. I think we’ve

waterways, it’s a truly inspiring sight to see.]

always tried to grow profitably and tried to take on

We belong to 1-800-SWEEPER. We have been in

work that makes sense — work that takes us where

continued on page 24

2 2 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 23

SPOTLIGHT The pressures put on us by the external economic conditions are not something I can necessarily alter.

Year over year, the company has

For example, we have some of the highest fuel prices

grown, continued to produce a healthy

in the northeast, much higher than the national

profit, and has become a well-trusted part of the local business community.

average. We can only keep adjusting as necessary to stay profitable and offer employees a good place to work. We have to deal with it; we can’t change it.

ADVICE FOR NEW ENTREPRENEURS ENTERING THE INDUSTRY FROM LEROY STATLER, THREE RIVERS POWER SWEEP, INC, PITTSBURGH PA It’s more about the people and not as much about the equipment. What sweeper you’re going to buy, what brand will look bigger and better, etc., is not as important as the workers. We keep older sweepers when it makes more sense sometimes to not have to buy new. Focus on the people. If you’re getting a partner, get yourself a good partner so you can grow the business.

we want to go. We have diversified our services in the

For information about Three Rivers Power Sweep, Inc. in Pittsburgh, PA, you can call (412) 889-0021 or visit 3rpsinc.com.

most practical way we can to serve customers’ needs and profit by trying to grow each one of those business lines individually.

INDUSTRY FUTURE PERSPECTIVE – LEROY STATLER Year over year, the company has grown, continued to produce a healthy profit, and has become a welltrusted part of the local business community. Do I feel optimistic about the future? Well, prices are currently through the roof for equipment, brooms, and labor.

We’ve had to do a lot of adapting to be competitive.

2 4 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 25

IN THE NEWS

INDUSTRIAL TRUCK BEDS REBRANDED AS HILLTIP PREMIUM TRUCK BEDS

FORT WAYNE, Ind. – Industrial Truck Beds the Indiana-based manufacturer of premium truck beds acquired by Hilltip in 2022, has officially rebranded as Hilltip Premium Truck Beds. The change reflects the company’s expanding truck bed offerings, as well as its alignment with the Hilltip portfolio of snowplows, spreaders, de-icing sprayers, sweepers and other road maintenance equipment manufactured in the same Fort Wayne facility.

Hilltip Premium Truck Beds designs and manufactures hook-lift and interchangeable beds, as well as dump beds, flat beds, and custom-built or private-label solutions. These products are engineered to outlast the commercial chassis, while providing optimal load capacity, stability and versatility.

“We’re proud to build on strong legacy of Industrial

that averages at least six months of snowfall every year,

Truck Beds and further strengthen our commitment to

Hilltip is known for its extreme durability and advanced

North American manufacturing,” said Craig Sandmann,

technologies. Following the acquisition of Industrial

Managing Director for Hilltip North America. “This new

Metal Products (Industrial Truck Beds) in 2022, Hilltip

chapter reflects who we’ve become — a team dedicated

has a manufacturing, sales and service location in Fort

to producing premium custom truck bed solutions that

Wayne, Ind., to better cater to the North American market.

help people work smarter and more efficiently. Despite the name change, customers can expect us to continue delivering the quality and reliability they’ve expected from this line of truck beds since 1986.”

For more information, contact Hilltip Corp. at 260-447-7900 or visit the website at www.hilltipna.com.

Headquartered in Pietarsaari, Finland, Hilltip is a leading manufacturer of road maintenance equipment in Europe. With equipment designed and built in an area

2 6 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

JOB OPPORTUNITY MECHANICAL ENGINEER Kent, WA.

Design mechanical and structural components for street sweepers. Design hydraulic and electrical systems that integrate with commercial, on-highway vehicles. Design non-metallic parts manufactured in fiberglass, PE, or ABS material. Investigate, refine, and test regenerative air systems for street sweepers. Create detailed component part and assembly drawings. Create Bills of Materials (BOM) for design layout and assembly drawings. Provide technical support to clients regarding products. Coordinate fabrication personnel to produce functional prototypes and fixtures for new designs. Analyze and test prototypes to ensure they meet quality, safety, and performance standards.

Create technical documentation for production and customer use. Create Engineering Change Orders (ECO) and perform any related changes to the designs and drawings. Define technical specifications that meet performance, cost, and quality requirements. Program and troubleshoot components using Controller Area Network (CAN) communication protocol. Manage Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) records including item attributes, Bill of Materials (BOM), and manufacturing routings. Direct fabrication and installation activities to ensure products conform to engineering design specifications. Participate with cross-functional teams, across Alamo Group companies, on large scale projects such as product transfers and electrification initiatives. Provide technical knowledge to purchasing teams to help identify strategic vendors and source materials. Collaborate with vendors to provide drawing clarification, part specifications, and resolve quality issues. Plan, prioritize, and organize work using task management software.. Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering required. Ability to communicate effectively with clients, work collaboratively with team members, and draft technical documentation required. Ability to wear protective equipment including steel-toed shoes required. Position requires 24 months’ work experience as a Mechanical Engineer, including minimum 12 months’ experience in each of the following: using SolidWorks software to produce detailed 3D and 2D design drawings; reading hydraulic & electrical schematics to troubleshoot hydraulic & electrical circuits; designing fiberglass, PE or ABS parts; maintaining, testing & analyzing regenerative air systems; using Standardized Manufacturing Process to push new & existing designs through cross-functional workflow that drives downstream customer processes; using Oracle JDE to manage ERP records; facilitating Requests for Quotes and supplier collaboration reviews with vendors; and using Asana task management software to schedule and track work. Occasional weekend or evening hours. Domestic travel to company and client sites throughout the United States required approximately once per six months for several days to provide technical services. Relocation will not be necessary for these trips. Salary $87,110/year. Send resume to tohlgren@nitehawksweepers.com w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 27

IN THE NEWS

ALIGNOPS SAFETYREPORTS ENHANCES TRAINING

(Indianapolis, IN) –AlignOps SafetyReports enhances training by ensuring that workers are trained, tracked, and audit-ready. Fully customizable, this robust risk management program allows users to easily create job-specific safety training requirements and then verify attendance by capturing signatures

AlignOps SafetyReports enhances training by ensuring that workers are trained, tracked, and audit-ready.

Fully customizable, this robust risk management program allows users to easily create job-specific safety training requirements...

on-screen or with photos. Employee training can

adjusted. All types of training events can be easily

be logged and managed by employee, date, role,

documented, including toolbox talks, classroom

and requirement, so that documentation is ready

sessions, practical exercises, computer-based training

for audits or inspections. The Corrective Actions

and more, then reminders can be set for refresher

Tracking feature identifies whether unsafe practices,

training. The SafetyReports Dashboard shows all

like not consistently using PPE, for example, are

pertinent data in one location, making it ideal for

escalating, and therefore would benefit from additional

contractors of all types, sizes, and specialties.

training. Identifying specific unsafe actions helps to

Eliminating paper-based training with digital systems

better target training topics so that they are specific

saves time, eliminates mistakes due to illegible

and pertinent. Tracking corrective actions trends

handwriting, and keeps all materials in a convenient

also helps users determine training effectiveness

central location. Required reports can be sent quickly

– if escalation continues, training may need to be

to all applicable parties. SafetyReports comes

2 8 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

pre-loaded with hundreds of essential toolbox talks from OSHA, CPWR, and more.

SafeyReports is available for download on the App Store or Google Play. For more information visit https://www.safety-reports.com/ .

AlignOps SafetyReports is an intuitive, easy to use Safety Software Program designed for use with smartphones and tablets, providing true workforce mobility. It goes beyond mere compliance to improve efficiency, increase employee engagement, and reduce overall costs. This fully customizable product allows users to use one or all solutions as best suits their organization.

It is scalable for organizations of all sizes and complexities. For additional information visit www. alignops.com/safety-reports, e-mail info@SafetyReports.com, or call (402) 403-6575.

For More Information Contact: Jim Wahl, Wahl Marketing Communications, (513) 259-3809, jim@wahlmarketing.com Sadaf Momin, AlignOps SafetyReports (402) 403-6575, marketing@alignops.com

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 29

BUSINESS CORNER

Gearing Up for Autumn: The Contractor’s Playbook for Peak Fall Sweeping Season

For power sweeping contractors,

Here is how contractors can gear up for an efficient

autumn isn’t just another change

and profitable fall sweeping season.

of season—it’s the ultimate

1. Upgrade and Deep-Clean Equipment Early

operational stress test. As leaves fall,

Leaf season puts unique demands on power sweepers.

Heavy, wet leaves require maximum suction, pristine

rain increases, and temperatures

head seals, and properly tuned broom pressure.

drop, demand for parking lot

Waiting until the leaves hit the asphalt to test your gear

and street sweeping surges.

is a recipe for costly downtime.

Commercial property managers

4 Check Seals and Gaskets: On regenerative air and vacuum sweepers, inspect the pickup head seals,

want their lots clear of slick debris,

flap rubber, and door gaskets. Air leaks drastically

and municipalities need storm

reduce suction efficiency, making it nearly

drains kept open before winter

impossible to pick up wet, matted leaves.

freezes set in.

4 Inspect Brooms and Brushes: Main brooms and gutter brooms wear down significantly faster under

While fall represents one of the

heavy leaf loads. Replace worn broom segments

most profitable times of the year,

now and keep a spare set in inventory for rapid

it also brings heavy equipment

swap-outs during peak weeks.

wear, demanding schedules,

4 Service the Auxiliary Engine & Hydraulics: Your auxiliary engine will be working overtime to

and unpredictable weather.

generate the CFM (cubic feet per minute) necessary

Preparing your team and your fleet

to lift heavy debris. Perform full fluid, filter, and belt

early is the key to converting the

changes. Check hydraulic lines for micro-cracks that

autumnal workload into maximized

could leak under heavy load.

4 Calibrate Hopper Controls: Ensure your hopper dumping

profits without burning out your

mechanisms and safety props are in top shape. You’ll be

equipment—or your operators.

dumping heavier loads far more frequently.

3 0 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

2. Optimize Dump Logistics and Waste Disposal One of the biggest bottlenecks for contractors during leaf season is debris disposal. Wet leaves are heavy, bulk up quickly, and take up significant hopper volume, requiring more frequent trips to dump sites.

4 Secure Disposal Sites Early: Don’t rely on a single green-waste facility or landfill. Identify backup dumping locations in case your primary site experiences long lines or reaches capacity.

4 Understand Weight Limits: Wet leaves mixed with dirt and moisture weigh significantly more than dry summer debris. Keep a close eye on your vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) to prevent axle damage, stay compliant with DOT standards, and avoid costly road fines.

4 Consider On-Site Transfer Options: If you manage

4 Fire Safety: Dry leaf buildup around hot exhaust pipes, catalytic converters, or auxiliary engine manifolds poses a serious fire hazard. Instruct operators to

large commercial complexes, negotiate dedicated,

conduct mid-shift inspections and remove leaf pack

temporary composting staging areas on-site

from engine compartments regularly.

with property managers when permissible. This

4. Align Communication with Property Managers

minimizes deadhead miles spent driving to transfer

Fall is an ideal time to upsell existing clients and set clear

stations during high-volume periods.

operational expectations. Proactive communication

3. Train Operators for Autumn-Specific Hazards

builds trust and protects your bottom line.

Fall conditions alter driving and sweeping dynamics.

4 Set Realistic Expectations: Educate property

Investing a few hours in refreshed operator training

managers on the reality of leaf drops. Clarify that

before the rush pays off in fewer accidents and better

during peak drop weeks, a lot cleared at 4:00 AM

customer satisfaction.

may have a fresh layer of leaves by 8:00 AM.

4 Navigating Wet Leaves: Wet leaves create slick

4 Offer Supplementary Services: Autumn is the

surfaces that mimic black ice. Remind drivers to

perfect time to bundle power sweeping with

increase braking distances and lower sweeping

complementary services like storm drain clearing,

speeds when handling thick foliage.

pressure washing walkways, or catching clogged

4 Hidden Obstacles: Leaves easily conceal high curbs, storm drain grates, concrete parking stops,

roof downspouts before winter storms arrive.

4 Establish Clear Routes: Map out optimized routes

and heavy trash. Teach operators to maintain a

that prioritize properties with dense tree canopies

safe distance from unknown piles and use gutter

right after windstorms or cold snaps, saving low-

brooms cautiously to avoid hooking hidden edges.

density lots for routine shifts.

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 31

BUSINESS CORNER

5. Build an Operations & Maintenance

FINAL THOUGHTS

Contingency Plan

The fall sweeping season brings a tremendous surge

Even with immaculate preparation, equipment

in demand, giving contractors a prime opportunity to

breaks down and weather changes rapidly. A resilient

end the year on a high financial note. By prioritizing

contractor always has a plan B.

preventative maintenance, setting realistic client

4 Establish Vendor Support: Talk to your parts

expectations, and emphasizing operator safety, you can

suppliers and local mechanics to verify lead times

turn autumn’s heaviest debris into your business’s most

on high-wear components like vacuum hoses,

profitable season. Start your preparation today so when

broom motors, and seals.

the leaves start dropping, your team is ready to roll!

4 Build a Rental/Subcontractor Network: Know where you can rent an extra sweeper truck on short notice, or establish a mutual-aid agreement with a non-competing local operator to cover routes in emergency situations.

3 2 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 33

INDEX Bensink...........................................................................................4 704-658-1333 / buchermunicipal.com

Safety Vision.................................................................................32 800-851-4764 / safetyvision.com

Eagle Eye Tracking.......................................................................23 855-338-7225

Schwarze Industries Inc.................................................................5 800-879-7933 / schwarze.com

Elgin Sweeper Company................................................................7 elginregenx.com

Sharpco Sweeper Shoes................................................................4 313-343-4328/800-372-5007/sharpcosweepershoes.com

FMI Truck Sales & Service...........................................................23 800-927-8750

Skavin’jer Street Sweepers..........................................................34 888-652-2137 / skavinjer.com

Gregory Highway..........................................................................17 866-994-4929 / gregoryhighway.com

Street Smart..................................................................................21 888-653-6800 / streetsmartrental.com

KeyStone Street Sweeping Brooms..............................................3 800-635-5238 / kpbrush.com

Sweeper Summit & Equipment Expo..........................................11 SweeperSummit.com

NAPSA..........................................................................................27 info@powersweeping.org

Trinity Highway.............................................................................25 888-323-6374 / trinityhighway.com

Nite-Hawk Sweepers..........................................................6, 19, 27 800-448-9364 / nitehawksweepers.com

Tymco............................................................................................15 800-258-9626 / tymco.com

Nomad.........................................................................................BC 450-530-9873 / balaisnomad.com

United Rotary Brush Corporation..................................................6 800-851-5108 / united-rotary.com

The ODB Co..................................................................................35 800-446-9823 / www.odbco.com

Vacuum Sales Inc...........................................................................3 800-547-7790 / vacuumsalesinc.com

ODRA Sweeper...............................................................................2 844-888-6372 / odrasweeper.com

Victory Sweeper...........................................................................25 844-479-3373 / victorysweepers.com

Pat’s Pump & Blower....................................................................29 800-359-7867 / patspump.com

World Insurance...........................................................................13 866-793-9999

Public Works Expo.......................................................................33 apwa.org/pwx Rubber-Cal....................................................................................29 844-782-2374 / rubbercal.com

Xpress Sweeping Inc....................................................................29 401-523-6116 / xpresssweeping.com

3 4 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us

w w w. na sweeper.co m

AU G U S T 2 0 2 6 N O R T H A M E R I C A N SWEEPER 35

3 6 NORTH AMERIC AN S WE E P E R AU GU S T 2026

Vi si t Us