hri022-february-2021-issue_v11

FEB

2021

VOL22 NO.3

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HIRE AND RENTAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION LTD www.hireandrental.com.au

TAKE YOUR BUSINESS MOBILE

Baseplan’s Mobilty App Helping you put the pieces together

IN THIS ISSUE

Lessons from the pandemic – what HLB Mann Judd now knows – see p22

Access manufacturing and the impact of COVID-19 – p15 How to ensure cash flow remains constant and the legislation to help you – p20 NSW Dust Strategy highlights priority areas – p24

New hope for silicosis sufferers – p24 New premises a celebration for Manlift Hire – p26 Features – Mini Equipment & Landscaping + Earthmoving + Portables & Lighting

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INDUSTRY NEWS

HIRE AND RENTAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION LTD ABN 70 093 630 847 HRIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Mark Burton Tel: 0407 608 420 Vice President: Tony Symons Tel: 0421 051 367 Past President: Jeff Bernard Tel: 0439 885 188 Chief Executive Officer: James Oxenham Tel: 02 9998 2255 Operations Director: Nicolas Chiew Tel: 02 9998 2255 NSW President: Nathan Venables Tel: 02 4283 6733 VIC President: Ken Maher Tel: 03 9369 8800 QLD President: Christie McCormack Tel: 07 3326 6200 SA President: Ben Quirk Tel: 08 8370 2488 WA President: Craig Palmer 0457 308 066 EVENT DIVISION Erin Johnston Tel: 02 4256 2439 HRIA PO Box 1304, Mona Vale NSW 1660 Tel: 02 9998 2255 Fax: 02 9998 2299 Email: info@hireandrental.com.au Web: www.hireandrental.com.au PUBLISHER – HRIA Tel: 02 9998 2255 Web: www.hireandrental.com.au

Contents Regulars 4 President’s Message

18

Coates Hire wins long term partnership with Sydney Water

6 Industry News 14 Industry in Focus 27 Access in Action 43 Events in Focus 61 Equipment

Features

10

Coates Hire Reconciliation Action Plan targets set

EDITORIAL Editor: Allison Leo: Punctuated Media Tel: 02 6687 2607 Email: allieleo@bigpond.net.au

22

HLB Mann Judd gives us lessons from the pandemic

57

: FEATURE: Portables & Lighting

24

Dusts strategy targets hazardous dust

25

Turning disruption into postpandemic opportunity?

FEB

2021

VOL22 NO.3

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HIRE AND RENTAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION LTD www.hireandrental.com.au

TAKE YOUR BUSINESS MOBILE

Baseplan’s Mobilty App Helping you put the pieces together

46

Wearable contact tracing devices – what Harrys created during lockdown

ADVERTISING National Sales Manager: Martin Sinclair Tel: 0417 450 662 Email: martinsinclair@hireandrental.com.au

IN THIS ISSUE

CIRCULATION Circulation Enquiries/Customer Service: Tel: 02 9998 2255 Printer: Bright Print Group Tel: 02 9757 3000 Distribution: D&D Mailing Services Tel: 02 9725 2114 Opinions published in the Hire and Rental Industry Association magazine – Hire & Rental Magzine – do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the association or the Editor. The HRIA accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any information contained in this magazine and readers should rely upon their own enquiries in making decisions related to their own interest.

The contents of this publication are subject to copyright and cannot be reproduced in any way or form without written consent from the Editor.

All rights reserved.

ISSN 1838-1197

Lessons from the pandemic – what HLB Mann Judd now knows – see p22

11

Renewable microgrid is Aggreko hybrid COVID-19 impact on access industry – an international and domestic perspective

20

6,384 (Audit period March 2019) CAB Member since

March 2010

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

How to ensure cash flow remains constant and the legislation to help you – p20 NSW Dust Strategy highlights priority areas – p24

New hope for silicosis sufferers – p24 New premises a celebration for Manlift Hire – p26 Features – Mini Equipment & Landscaping + Earthmoving + Portables & Lighting

On the cover

15

Using the SOP Act to ensure cash flow – Bartier Perry tells us how

Access manufacturing and the impact of COVID-19 – p15

48

FEATURE: Mini Equipment & Landscaping

52

FEATURE: Earthmoving

60

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

President’s message

I hope all HRIA members managed to get some well-earned rest and quality time with family and friends over Christmas and the New Year.

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ike me, I’m sure you are all happy 2021 is finally here and 2020 is disappearing fast in the rear vision mirror.

With states and territories opening up and more than one vaccination now being rolled out around the world, there is a positive vibe back in the community.

Hopefully, we can pack our zoom cameras away and finally get back to face-toface meetings again.

The hire industry has shown its resilience and become innovative to survive and there are some positives to take from the past 12 months.

Personally speaking, we had a good look at our own business model last year after a third of our operations in the Barossa had to shut down for over six months. Although this was a stressful time, it gave us an opportunity to stand back and make some subtle changes to the way we work, which I am sure will help make us more viable going forward.

Last year, the HRIA rolled out the first of its funded face-to-face Chain of Responsibility awareness courses on 8 December, with two courses held in Sydney and two in Brisbane.

The courses were fully supported by the

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator. A big thank you also to Manitou and Vermeer for hosting and allowing us to use their excellent training facilities. We have received fantastic reviews from all attendees, and I encourage everyone including your transport sub-contractors to enrol in the 2021 courses when they come to your state.

The Government introduced a new Bill late last year regarding the definition of casual employment. For all our members who employ casual staff it is important you understand your obligations. Our business partners, MST Lawyers, who run HRNet are there to help us navigate through all the changes, so please give them a call if you have any concerns.

I regularly mention in my articles the importance of staying connected with staff family and friends, asking a simple question, ‘Are You OK?’ In early December, a friend of mine who was just 50, committed suicide. We would text each other a couple of times a month and see each other once a month when restrictions were not in place.

She owned a small one-person business

and was struggling with life and work more than all her friends knew, but we did not read the signs.

I ask all our members to at least once a day talk to someone and ask that simple question: ‘Are You OK?’ It may not seem like the most important handful of words, but it could mean the world to someone who is struggling to talk about their own issues. The HRIA has partnered with Beyond Blue, so please take the time to read the campaigns we are emailing members regarding mental health and feel free to call the Beyond Blue number any time on 1300 22 4636.

Our HRIA office is now back in full swing working tirelessly preparing for HIRE21 on the Gold Coast. This will be the perfect time for all of us to re-connect with each other faceto-face and support all our suppliers who were also doing it tough in 2020.

So, let’s make this a Convention to remember. Book now and come up on the 12 and 13 May to the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre for HIRE21. As an industry, we are built to survive the hardest tests and 2020 was one of them! Well done one and all for all your efforts navigating this past tough year. I’m sure 2021 will be a better one and I look forward to welcoming you to the Gold Coast in May. See you there. n

Mark Burton HRIA National President

Women in Hire & Access Update The Women in Hire & Access program finished the year with a virtual celebration. Although running the program online has its challenges, Mentors and Mentees remained engaged with feedback received throughout the program has been positive.

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hank you to everyone involved in the program, especially our facilitator, Aileen Hiskins of Strategic Alignment Training.

Launching in February, the Women in Hire and Access Traineeship Scheme (WHATS) is designed to encourage more women to gain employment in the industry.

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Based on the well-established qualification, Certificate III in Business, the course has been tailored for the hire industry with a focus on gender diversity. The program is open to female students, women recently made redundant or women wishing to return to the workforce. Subject to availability, employers may be eligible for financial

assistance from the government.

We are also working on a project called ‘Stories from the World’ which involves short videos from women all over the world providing their experience moving through the ranks in the hire and access industries.

Thank you Andrew Delahunt, Director of Resources at the National Office, for sharing his connections. The final videos will be used to promote the program and encourage more women to think of our industry when looking for employment. n Contact Dee DeLaurier at the National Office: dee@hireandrental.com.au or 02 9998 2255.

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

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INDUSTRY NEWS

HRIA Apprenticeship & Traineeship Scheme (HATS) relaunched The HRIA, National Training Organisation and VERTO is again offering its HRIA Apprenticeship & Traineeship Scheme (HATS) to all HRIA, EWPA and TSHA members.

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fter a successful pilot program run from late 2019 through to mid-2020, the HRIA is pleased to once again partner with National Training Organisation, Strategic Alignment Training and VERTO to officially launch HATS for 2021.

With the key learnings from the pilot applied for the 2021 cycle, HRIA CEO James Oxenham said, “We believe the HATS program provides a compelling learning and development proposition for our members. HATS Participants a will emerge from the course with a formal Cert III in Business qualification that has been tailored specifically to the hire industry. Also, through our partnership with VERTO, our members have a turnkey solution to unlock any state and/or federal funding that may be available.”

The HRIA identified early on in the development process the support of business managers and owners could quickly wane if productivity in their businesses were

compromised.

James said: “In developing this program with our training partner Strategic Alignment Training, it was key the course be relevant and affordable, and also accessible.

“The last thing we wanted was for HATS to intrude on the daily workflow of our participants.

“For this reason, each HATS learning module was designed to be delivered and assessed over the course of pre-scheduled single day sessions.

“This element of ‘minimal intrusion’ approach was key to success of the program.

“While the pilot program was not without its (COVID related) challenges, the outcome was overwhelmingly positive and the insights have served well to further strengthen the proposition of this initiative. As a result, the HRIA is optimistic HATS will be an attractive option for members to incorporate into their staff L&D plans for 2021.”

“I enjoyed my opportunity to join the HATS program through Preston Hire. It has allowed me to upskill in my current position as well as lead to furthering my education and knowledge within the hire industry. It has assisted me to continue my training and education with my current enrolment into the Cert IV in business.

It’s great to be supported by Preston Hire and the HRIA HATS program to allow me to work towards my goals and personal development within the hire industry.”

Madeleine Honyi, Preston Hire HRIA, EWPA and TSHA Members can access further details on the HRIA Apprenticeship & Traineeship Scheme including cost and funding, eligibility, course duration and content are via the HRIA national office on 02 9998 2255. n

Building a better National Safety Management System The revised National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) Business Rules and Standards will be in place from February 2021 and will better align with modern safety systems, National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) CEO Sal Petroccitto said.

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he reforms for more than 7,600 NHVAS customers were finalised last year following a review of the scheme and widespread industry consultation, Sal said.

“Through the NHVAS review and our engagement with industry, we identified several areas where we were able to improve the structure of the system to make it more logical and easier to understand and to remove gaps within the framework,” Sal said.

“In particular, key changes have been made to more closely align NHVAS with safety management systems to better assist customers meet their requirements under the Chain of Responsibility laws.

“Operators enrolled in NHVAS will P6

continue to benefit from productivity improvements linked to increased mass, maintenance and more flexible fatigue modules.

“It is pleasing to see operators enrolled in NHVAS are regularly shown to be safer and have fewer compliance breaches than non-participating operators. This was also highlighted in the most recent industry safety survey undertaken earlier this year.

“The changes will be effective for new participants from 22 February 2021 and we will work with existing participants to transition to the revised Rules and Standards over one accreditation cycle, which can be up to two years.”

Some of the other key reforms being

introduced include: • requirements for crash and incident reporting of major and significant events; • a register of infringements and defects notices received; • fit and proper person requirements as part of the assessment criteria; • maintenance strengthened to now include daily inspection of tow couplings and drawbars.

The NHVAS was first offered to industry in 1999 as an alternative compliance scheme. It has evolved as a formal process for recognising operators that have robust safety and other management systems in place. The NHVR has been the single administrator of the scheme since 10 February 2014.

The NHVR administers the Heavy Vehicle National Law, which regulates the transport activities of more than 165,000 businesses to achieve a safe, efficient and productive heavy vehicle industry within Australia’s supply chain. n Visit: www.nhvr.gov.au/nhvas-review

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INDUSTRY NEWS

New facility enhances Hitachi support capabilities Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia (HCA) has opened a state-of-the-art facility in Wacol in Queensland, to house the Brisbane branch and a newly located parts distribution warehouse after five years of planning and a $37.5 million development and infrastructure investment.

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he new facility is one of HCA’s most significant investments in key infrastructure to-date and follows another recent site opening in Toowoomba.

The two sites have taken the branch total to five across Queensland along with Emerald, Mackay and Townsville.

Managing Director of HCA, David Harvey, said this is the second property enhancement since 2012 when HCA officially opened the Brisbane facility which is its’ mining operation hub in Eastern Australia.

“With business growth in the mining and construction industries over the past eight years, this facility will further enhance our customer support. The total facility site is

Hitachi’s new Brisbane facility is 80,000m2

Hitachi Toowoomba site services western business region

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some 80,000m2 in dimension and is located within an expanding commercial area with ample access for heavy wide loads.

“The new site is a strategic investment in our company’s future and aims to strengthen our ability to deliver the highest level of support to our customers in Queensland as well as further afield,” David said.

Strategically located next to the Centenary Highway, the site is connected to the main arterial freeway to access Brisbane city and surrounding suburbs. It’s also accessible to major industrial areas, construction sites, mining operations and Brisbane Airport.

The site features a series of specialised buildings incorporating innovative and environmentally-conscious technologies.

The specialised facility features include: • Mining assembly facility for mining trucks and mining excavators; • Remanufacturing workshop with a specialised paint booth, wash bay area, caustic wash and soda blast station; • Parts distribution centre; • Branch building including a comprehensive machine workshop, with wash bay and paint booth.

The site also recently hosted its first assembly for the new EX3600-7 among the dash-7 models. n

fter six years operating out of the Dalby branch which primarily provided service and parts, Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia (HCA) relocated to a larger and more centralised location at Toowoomba after signing a long term lease.

HCA’s Brisbane and Toowoomba Branch Manager Chris Porter said: “The new location is positioned in the heart of Toowoomba’s industrial area on Carrington Road and the branch has been expanded to be providing new and used machine sales, as well as providing parts and service sales to their western region customers.”

The new branch is on a 6,400m2 block, with 50m2 frontage for display of Hitachi machines and a combined workshop/ warehouse size of 820m2 to accommodate servicing machines and machine parts storage.

The building underwent fascia remodeling to align with HCA’s corporate branding and reflect the national company branding identity.

The recent relocation and new site activation forms part of the company’s growth strategy to consistently realign with the developing needs of customers.

“HCA currently provides machine sales and support to Queensland customers out of the Brisbane, Emerald, Mackay and Townsville branches. The addition of the new site in Toowoomba will enable HCA to better support and further reach Queensland customers across the construction, mining, quarry, waste and recycling industries, through a wholly-owned branch network and a dedicated 24/7 national customer service centre,” Chris said. n

Visit: www.hcma.com.au

Visit: www.hcma.com.au

Time to connect at HIRE21 – 12-13 May 2021, Gold Coast With great keynote speakers, offering strategic content, leadership and advice for managing your business, HIRE21 will be back for two exhibition, workshop and networking event filled days at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

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long with the latest and greatest in equipment and technology innovation on the exhibition floor, HIRE21 promises a wealth of opportunity for networking – even if it will look a little different this year.

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HIREZone The HRIA will once again host HIREZone on the exhibition floor. Visit HIREZone to meet staff from the HRIA National Office as well as all the HRIA business partners to find out more about

the benefits you have access to as a HRIA member.

HRIA business partners who will be at the HIREZone during HIRE21 include: HRNet (MST Lawyers) for all your human resources needs and queries; HLB Mann Judd – the HRIA business advisory partner; HRIA Insurance with a brand new insurance offering; and Strategic Alignment Training who can expertly manage all your training needs.

Up to 50% of attendance costs reimbursable In recent exciting news, the HRIA is proud to announce HIRE21 has been listed HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS

Looking to the future with MCS Rental Software To drive help drive future growth, event hire company South Coast Party Hire (SCPH) invested in a rental software solution from MCS.

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anaging Director for MCS Rental Software Australia, Clint Hook said after five years of searching for the perfect fit, SCPH decided MCS-rm was its perfect fit and would continue to support its business long into the future.

“The event hirer was looking for a professional software provider that could accurately track its stock and allow it to use new technologies to increase its efficiency,” Clint said.

According to SCPH Director, Erin Johnston, SCPH’s complex business requirements were met by the flexibility of MCS-rm and the software also gave SCPH the ability to reduce admin time, increase

the visibility of assets, and take advantage of digital signatures across the business.

“MCS has an adaptable rental software solution and was willing to work with us to make sure MCS-rm was the perfect solution for our business,” Erin said.

“The MCS team treated us with the utmost respect and professionalism, so we didn’t feel like we were just a cog in the process. The other winning factor for MCS was its local support, so time zone differences are not an issue when we want to talk to someone.”

The party hirer very quickly adopted the MCS E-Sign solution, a digital signature capture that has seen an increased demand in

South Coast Party Hire invested in a rental software solution from MCS to drive help drive future growth

on the Schedule of Approved Business Events for the Federal Government’s Business Events Grant.

This means all eligible HIRE21 exhibitors and attendees can apply for a grant to cover up to 50% of the costs of exhibiting and attending HIRE21.

The Business Events Grant Program provides attendees – including sponsors, exhibitors and delegates with financial support to attend and participate at exhibitions, conferences and conventions – with grants of between $10,000 and $250,000.

Eligible expenditure includes: • Travel, accommodation and registration; • Promotional material directly related to the event; HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

• Digital Promotion directly related to the event; • Event and display set up costs; • Contractor costs directly related to exhibiting at the event; • Hire of exhibition space and costs of associated delegates; • Up to $10,000 towards sponsorship of the event can be matched dollar for dollar.

The Grant application and approval process is managed by the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.

More information The complete Business Events Grant Program guidelines are now available at Department of Industry, Science, Energy, and Resource’s website. Applications for grant

the current climate, Clint said.

The initial benefits of digital signatures were clear, but MCS E-Sign benefitted SCPH even more than anticipated, Erin said.

“MCS E-Sign has made our signature capture process completely effortless. It’s great. From a compliance perspective, we are receiving more signed contracts than ever before. In the past, this was a difficult document for clients to return because they had to print, sign and scan it back to us, which often led to unnecessary delays.

“Secondly, we have seen a massive reduction in admin time chasing signatures because the system tracks who has not returned signed documents and sends out reminders for us. Overall we think it’s an excellent product for our internal efficiencies and compliance as well as improving our customer service.”

SCPH has been using MCS Rental Software for over a year and is continuing to look for new ways to innovate and take advantage of its latest digital solutions.

“MCS has made us feel very comfortable during the transition process away from our previous software solution and the project team went above and beyond to make sure we were happy.

“We have a huge level of trust in MCS and we know we can go to them if we have any queries and they are always on hand should we need any support. We are excited to develop our use of the software further and have already started to implement other modules to make our hire processes even more efficient.”

“Working together with South Coast Party Hire and developing a brilliant relationship with the team has been invaluable in helping SCPH get the most out of MCS-rm. Providing second-to-none hire solutions and fantastic customer service are both defining characteristics of the MCS brand. We’re delighted our customers not only trust us, but also know we will be there for them well into the future,” Clint said. n Contact MCS on 02 9477 1355 or visit: www.mcsrentalsoftware.com

funding opened 4 January, 2021 and close end of March 2021.

HRIA CEO James Oxenham encouraged all those planning on attending HIRE21 to review the Grant Program and their eligibility as soon as possible.

“There is limited funding and this will be allocated to eligible businesses on a first-come first-served basis with applications closing 31 March 2021,” James said.

For further information and queries on the Business Events Grant, email: business. events@industry.com.au or call 13 28 46.

For enquiries on HIRE21 contact: hire21@ hireandrental.com.au or phone the HRIA national office on: 02 9998 2255.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

restrictions and who had to spend Christmas in hospital.

Tony first heard about the plight of the children through his wife, a nurse at the hospital.

Tony started the toy drive at his branch in Auburn with nothing more than a personal and workplace Facebook post, and began collecting toy after toy after toy.

Word spread throughout the organisation about his toy drive and soon he was travelling to Coates Hire branches across Sydney, collecting hundreds of donated gifts for kids.

In all, Tony went to 17 branches from Caringbah in the south to Penrith out west of Sydney and everywhere between, collecting over 300 gifts for Westmead’s kids which he donated in person to the team at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead on Thursday, 17 December. n

more meaningfully in society.

The three-year investment will be matched

by Federal and State governments and will support 119 Clontarf Academies located in communities across the country where both Clontarf and Coates Hire co-exist.

The Reconciliation Action plan includes targets for Coates Hire, including providing cultural awareness training to all employees

by June 2021; increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprenticeship participation rates to 10% by 2025; and increasing its overall employee participation rate to 2.5% by 2025.

The development of the ‘Reflect’ Reconciliation Action Plan commenced in October 2019 when a group of employees from across all parts of Coates Hire conducted a review of Coates Hire’s cultural learning needs and diversity groups. Working closely with Reconciliation Australia, the group developed a plan that reflected a new vision for Coates Hire in its employment and community endeavours for Indigenous Australians, Murray Vitlich, CEO, Coates Hire said.

“The plan ensures Coates Hire will drive a number of initiatives to foster respectful relationships and create meaningful opportunities with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, while also building cultural awareness and embedding a culture of inclusion and diverse thinking at Coates Hire,” Murray said.

The company also pledges to increase its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander business procurement to 5% of suppliers engaged in a tender and 1% of total supplier-spend contracted to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-owned businesses by 2022.

The total investment into Clontarf will cover the associated costs for 120 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young men to participate in the Clontarf program for the next three years.

Coates Hire owns and operates more than 150 branches around Australia, including in regional centres where opportunities for Indigenous communities are limited, Murray said.

“We have an incredibly diverse range of jobs, from customer service and sales to mechanics and engineering, Murray said.

“We know we can make a difference through changes in the lives of individuals and families and real improvements in workplaces and communities.

“That is why we see this plan not as an end in itself, but as the next important step in our commitment to improving the opportunities available to Indigenous communities across the country.

“As an Australian-owned organisation, we must ensure our business reflects our diverse society, honours the place of our first peoples and, most importantly, contributes in a practical way to reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians,” Murray said. n

Visit: www.coates.com.au

Visit: www.coateshire.com.au

Pictured at the event held at Moorebank in November, (L to R): Sheridan Jones, Group Manager, Corporate Communications & Sustainability, Coates Hire; Ryan Stokes, Chairman of Coates Hire, and CEO and Managing Director of Seven Group Holdings; Jeff Hardy, Director, Endeavour Clontarf Academy; Gail Symons, Executive General Manager, People & Safety, Coates Hire; and Murray Vitlich, Chief Executive Officer, Coates Hire

Coates Hire commits to Reconciliation Action Plan targets

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oates Hire’s ‘Reflect’ Reconciliation Action Plan sets clear targets to increase the inclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander employees and apprentices within its ranks by 2025.

The plan was launched in November last year in conjunction with the announcement

by Ryan Stokes, Chairman of Coates Hire and CEO and MD of Seven Group

Holdings, of a three-year investment with national not-for-profit organisation The Clontarf Foundation.

The Clontarf Foundation is a national not-for-profit organisation that exists to improve the education, discipline, selfesteem, life skills and employment prospects of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and equips them to participate

Toy drive helps the kids in hospital

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ranch Manager at Coates Hire Auburn, Antoin ‘Tony’ Farag last year started a toy drive to help the approximately 340 sick children at The Children’s Hospital at Westmead who had a challenging year due to COVID-19

(L to R): Jeena Joyan, Seanna Robson and Olivia Grey, Westmead Children’s Hospital, with Antoin ‘Tony’ Farag, Coates Hire donating the toys

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HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS

One of the world’s largest renewable microgrids installed in WA Aggreko installed one of the world’s largest renewable energy microgrids for the Granny Smith gold mine in Western Australia late last year with partner global gold miner Gold Fields.

The new hybrid power system is powered by more than 20,000 solar panels and supported by a 2MW/1MWh battery system

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he new hybrid power system, which has been integrated with Aggreko’s existing gas fired power station, is powered by more than 20,000 solar panels and supported by a 2MW/1MWh battery system.

When fully operational, it will reduce the mine’s fuel consumption by 10-13% – or what Aggreko said is the equivalent of removing 2,000 cars

from the road.

In total, the solar, thermal and battery storage assets will produce around 18GWh of energy every year, with carbon emissions at the mine expected to be reduced by approximately 9,500tCO2e.

Gold Fields Executive Vice President Australasia, Stuart Mathews, said: “Here

in Australia and globally our company is committed to addressing climate change impacts by transitioning towards an energy mix that increasingly embraces renewables and lower carbon fuel sources.

“The Granny Smith microgrid is a clear demonstration of the innovative steps we are taking to ensure the ongoing sustainability of our operations,” Stuart said.

The solar PV will reduce the need to run thermal generators at the mine, while the battery plant will provide essential services such as PV ramp rate control and transient voltage/frequency support. The assets are being managed by Aggreko’s control software platform which rapidly deploys automated responses to avoid issues and predicts future problems.

The solar and battery power facility is fully integrated with Aggreko’s existing 27MW natural gas generation and complements Gold Fields’ suite of on-site energy solutions across other operations.

Aggreko’s AusPac Managing Director, George Whyte, said: “Demand for decentralised energy solutions has skyrocketed over the past few years as companies look past the grid for power solutions to help them meet their unique needs. The hybrid assets we’ve delivered for the Granny Smith mine will help Gold Fields reduce operating costs and carbon emissions with the flexibility and capital expenditure savings that comes with rental solutions.

“We’re pleased to have completed the installation of one of the world’s largest microgrids and look forward to continuing to partner with Gold Fields to deliver greener, cheaper and more efficient power for the Granny Smith mine in the years to come,” George said. n Visit: www.aggreko.com

Aggreko and its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan

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uring NAIDOC Week last year, Aggreko joined over 1000 corporate, government and not-for-profit organisations when it launched its company-first Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The RAP will help to help deepen engagement, promote understanding and build long-term and sustainable relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians and the broader community, the company said.

Launched during National Reconciliation Week 2020, Aggreko’s Innovate RAP provides the organisation with a blueprint to ensure the organisation’s commitment to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ cultures, acknowledge our history, build closer relationships, provide employment opportunities and focus on supplier diversity.

George Whyte, Managing Director Aggreko AusPac, said: “Our business is committed to making a positive difference to HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

the lives and communities of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Importantly, this RAP further extends our efforts in the remote communities where Aggreko operates.”

The development of the Innovate RAP was overseen by Aggreko’s RAP Working Group (RWG) and the organisation’s internal Diversity and Inclusion Resource Group (DIRG).

Karen Mundine, Chief Executive Officer Reconciliation Australia said in her foreword to the RAP: “Through the development of an Innovate RAP, Aggreko joins over 1,000 dedicated corporate, government and notfor-profit organisations that have formally committed to reconciliation through the RAP program.”

“Reconciliation is hard work – it’s a long, winding and corrugated road, not a broad, paved highway. Determination and effort at all levels of government and in all sections of the community will be essential to making reconciliation a reality.”

Behind the scenes, Aggreko’s DIRG and RWG have been actively working on providing an environment in which everyone feels safe, included and equal, while encouraging all employees and business partners to respect and embrace these principles, George said.

“Our new Reconciliation Action Plan contains detailed actions that are ambitious and achievable. We want to increase access to employment, our procurement with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islanderowned businesses and employee participation in training and days of cultural significance,” George said.

Aggreko provides of mobile modular power, temperature control and energy services and is focused on solving customers’ challenges to provide cost-effective, flexible and greener solutions across the globe. n Visit: www.aggreko.com

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Texada Pay, powered by Ezidebit, enables companies to streamline processes, reduce administration costs and improve cash flow by integrating payments

Streamlining payments for equipment and machinery hire Texada and payments solution provider Ezidebit have launched Texada Pay, designed to drive payment efficiencies for the equipment, machinery and scaffolding hire sectors in Australia and New Zealand.

Texada Pay, powered by Ezidebit, enables companies to streamline processes, reduce administration costs and improve cash flow by integrating payments via EFTPOS (card terminals), Real Time and Direct Debit recurring payments via the Texada software system, according to Texada General Manager Asia Pacific Glenn Schwede.

“By offering multiple ways for customers to pay, either in person or online, Texada Pay will greatly enhance the overall experience

by allowing customers to pay the way they want,” Glenn said.

The partnership and subsequent all-in-one payments solution, marks an advancement for the hire sector, which traditionally has had a low adoption of digital payments, Glenn said.

Mark Healy, Managing Director of Ezidebit Australia and New Zealand said the additional payment options and payment integration into the Texada software will

create efficiencies and improve cash flow for businesses.

“Businesses in the hire and rental sector can now receive automated payments from their customers, and spend less time in reconciling payments and chasing outstanding accounts,” Mark said.

Glenn said Texada was delighted to introduce Texada Pay to deliver added value via a seamless payments solution for their customers.

“Texada Pay allows for effortless payment transactions; payment processing will be faster, more accurate, and easier than ever,” Glenn said.

Texada SRM (Systematic Rental Management) is a complete rental management software platform helping hire businesses manage their operations since 1984.

Texada has previously partnered with Ezidebit’s parent company Global Payments through Global Payments Integrated to launch Texada Pay in the United States and Canada in 2019.

Texada Pay is available in the Texada SRM suite.

Visit: www.texadasoftware.com/texada-pay/

Shore Hire expands to South Australia And for anyone who missed it, shoring, propping and traffic equipment hire company, Shore Hire opened a new Adelaide branch in October last year.

“

We are thrilled to be servicing the booming South Australian construction industry with a record pipeline of civil construction and infrastructure projects scheduled in the coming years.

These important projects will support South Australia’s economy and deliver jobs at a time when the state needs it most. We are glad to be part of this,” Managing Director P12

Luke Geelan said.

“The move to South Australia is a natural progression for Shore Hire beyond the QLD, NSW, VIC and ACT branches.

Adelaide is a future growth area and current demographics suggest there is growth in the civil and construction field. At Shore Hire we pride ourselves on exceptional customer service and fast turnaround times, and we

know that is what our South Australian customers need,” Luke said.

“Shore Hire’s primary focus is to provide customers with the best equipment and the safest on-site solution for any project large or small.

“Since the majority of products are manufactured here in Australia, Shore Hire has full control of product quality, and the ability to listen to client feedback for equipment improvements, and rapidly implement changes as required.” n Contact: 1300 SHORE HIRE or visit: www.shorehire.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

Gorilla Uni-Props are traditional formwork prop supports with a hydraulic power option. This British innovation is the first upgrade to traditional styles of adjustable formwork props in over 80 years. Critically, health and safety issues are fully addressed as users can precisely control the safe delivery of power when this function is required.

Most importantly, this is achieved without having to force the top plate upwards by striking or levering the handle of the collar – a process that historically has resulted in many accidents and injuries to operators, as well as damage to property.

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

Kennards Hire WA celebrates 20 Years Kennards Hire has celebrated 20 years in the WA market, acknowledging its 21 WA branches from Kununurra in the far north to Mandurah in the south (with a side step to Kalgoorlie) and the team, some of whom have been with the group since its WA inception.

T

he following is a timeline of the Kennards Hire growth in WA market.

On 17 November 2000, Kennards Hire stepped into Western Australia with the acquisition of Multi Hire.

Matt Hardy was the first General Manager, having relocated from Sydney to Perth and managed the state until 2004.

The Kennards Hire footprint consisted of three branches, one at Cannington, one at Malaga, which later relocated, and one at Greenwood that was subsequently closed and moved to Balcatta.

Since then, the WA business has expanded from its Perth base with acquisitions and new builds.

In 2001, Kennards Hire acquired Crommelins Hire in Balcatta, followed by Crommelins Hire in Myaree in 2002. The acquisition of Spot On Hire also happened in 2002. Over the next few years, Kennards Hire acquired Hire All & Sales at Balcatta and Willetton, and closed those sites to combine them with the Cannington and Balcatta branches; opened a greenfield branch in North Perth; acquired Mt Hawthorn Handy Hire, and merged it in to North Perth; acquired Handy Hire at Malaga; opened Greenfield Branches at Midland and Rockingham. With the acquisition of Workforce Equipment Hire (Midland, Fremantle and Mandurah) it added Fremantle and Mandurah.

Kennards Hire WA – Broome Branch

Throughout this growth phase, Tony Symons who had joined the business in April 2001 as Business Development Manager, took over as General Manager, WA taking the reins from Matt Hardy in 2004.

In 2007, Belmont Concrete Care, following the acquisition of Concrete Equipment Hire, opened followed by Lift & Shift in 2008.

2009 saw Pump & Power commence its first branch which was in Rockingham to hire out the first generators on trailers, with the initial range from 20KVA to 100KVA on trailers. Traffic soon followed with a branch opening up in 2010.

Wangara opened in the same year.

Kennards Hire then acquired Harris Hire in 2014 and opened up a Test & Measure branch. Cannington got a major makeover in 2015, followed a year later with two more acquisitions – Rocko Hire and Lion Hire, which saw the organisation open up in Karratha. The Hire Guys at Joondalup was acquired in early 2014, becoming the 13th Branch in WA, followed by Harris Hire later that year that became the Canning Vale Branch. Kennards Hire also acquired the Hire Guys Bibra Lake in late 2014.

In 2017, it acquired CAPS Hire, which saw the network in northwest Australia grow with Broome and Kununurra joining the team.

2017 was a big year with Myaree getting a make-over, the acquisition of Alpha Hire

Kennards Hire Malaga – 2000

and Belmont Hire and a new Greenfield branch in Port Hedland.

Kennards Hire’s most recent branch in Kalgoorlie opened in November 2019. It also welcomed new GM, David Schurman, who relocated from Victoria. Tony relocated to Sydney to head up Product & Procurement.

“There have been a lot of fun and challenging times along the way, and I’m incredibly proud of all that has been achieved. The business is in great shape and the results of all the hard work are there for all to see. Well done and I look forward to an exciting future 20 years,”.

Tony Symons, GM Commercial said. n Visit: www.kennards.com.au

New HRIA Insurance provider offers tailored insurance

T

o better serve the industry and protect member businesses, the HRIA has selected Hire Insurance Brokers as its new HRIA Insurance provider.

HRIA CEO James Oxenham said: “A great deal of work has gone into a tailored insurance product offering designed specifically for those in the hire industry, from general plant and equipment, access equipment, traffic equipment, cool rooms, industry air conditioners, to party and event hire.”

The launch of this product also sees the return of industry insurance representative, Kylie Quinn, Director at Hire Insurance Brokers.

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“Hire Insurance Brokers understands hire companies and our industry, having worked alongside the industry since 2002,” Kylie said.

“Our product offering is diverse and focuses on the key exposure areas to businesses within our industry. We do not believe in a one size fits all approach and will tailor policies to fit your business and its requirements,” Kylie said.

“A key reason Hire Insurance Brokers was selected is our focus on educating clients with regards to their current policies and terms of trade and the implications of these agreements with insurers in the event of a claim.

“In addition to your hire insurance needs, we can offer assistance over a broad range of business and personal insurance products,” Kylie said.

“I have been working with Hire and Rental Industry Association members since 2002. To me HRIA members are a large family that we are very excited to be a part of.

“We realise insurance is not a fun topic for everyone, but knowledge is power and we want to assist HRIA members to make informed decisions when it comes to insurance.” n Visit: www.hireandrental.com.au for more on HRIA Insurance or call 1300 474 242.

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

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If you are a hire company in a larger rural town or city looking to add trench shoring to your hire fleet with the backup of APlant Hire to assist on larger projects in your area, then you need “LITE Guard trench shoring” The Australian developed and built aluminium trench shoring system.

Invest in a small amount of the LITE guard product and if a larger project comes to your area you can cross hire additional equipment from Aplant Hire. Or work in conjunction with Aplant to service the project.

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Any Excavation over 1500mm deep by law (See Safe Work Australia) has to have ground support for anyone either in the excavation or just working in the area of the excavation. Lots of sewer and stormwater connections are deeper than this. If working within the road reserve at most depths ground support will be required.

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

The impact of COVID-19 on the access industry – a corporate recount Stéphane Hubert – CSO – Haulotte Global, took the time to respond to a series of questions late last year from Hire&Rental Magazine about how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the access industry for Haulotte and the access industry overall.

His responses (given 10/11/2020) give us a brief glimpse into our industry’s response to the worldwide crisis.

Q: How did COVID-19 impact Haulotte in 2020?

On the first lockdown (end of March till mid-May, in France): Facing this crisis of an unprecedented nature and exceptional scale, we made it a priority to take care of the health of our employees, whatever the type of position they held.

We adapted our organisations in strict compliance with health recommendations to limit the spread of COVID-19. This led us to temporarily suspend all production activities at our factories in France, and give priority to remote working for the employees whose activity allowed it, and to implement partial unemployment measures, while also leveraging paid holidays to allow employees to have their full salary and limit the impact of partial unemployment on the public debt.

Our second concern was to ensure as much as possible the continuity of our activity, in absolute respect of the sanitary rules, to best serve the demands of our customers.

We very quickly became aware France would not come out of containment in a short time. We have therefore taken all the necessary cost-saving measures, by adapting our production plans, and by keeping constant contact with our sales teams in France and abroad to understand business trends.

By the end of April, we had gradually restarted our French production lines, which were temporarily closed.

We reinforced all hygiene and safety measures to integrate the essential barrier gestures, distancing and hygiene and completely reviewed our organisation to ensure the health and safety of our employees: work organisation, cleaning of work stations, distancing of these stations, etc.

For administrative jobs, remote working was the rule and our employees very gradually returned to face-to-face work, with the implementation of the same strict and P16

indispensable measures.

All this was done in close cooperation with the social partners, in a spirit of social dialogue and only when the safety of employees is guaranteed.

At the end of June the situation went back to ‘normal’. However In France the second lockdown just started few days ago (mid-November 2020), it’s too early to comment on the impact it will have.

Q: How did the market respond initially and how is it responding now and moving forward?

The situation varies according to different countries. Group half-year sales in Europe were down -39% year-on-year, with almost all markets posting a very sharp decline in the second quarter.

In Asia-Pacific, half-year sales declined by -23%, despite a sharp rebound in sales in the Chinese market during the second quarter, China being the only significant market in the world to grow over the semester.

Despite a sharp decline in the North American market, Group half-year sales held up well, particularly in the aerial work platforms business, and declined by -28% over the period.

As for Latin America, already strongly affected by a difficult economic and political context, the arrival of COVID-19 aggravated the situation in all markets, resulting in a -47% drop in activity over the semester.

Q: Has this impacted the business?

According to the Haulotte half year results media release: The COVID-19 health crisis has impacted the vast majority of the Group’s activities in all regions of the world since the beginning of 2020.

The first effects were felt in China in January, forcing the Group to close its commercial and industrial activities in this country, then from March in Europe and April in North and Latin America. Against this unprecedented backdrop, Haulotte

posted half-year sales of € 222.7 million, down -35% compared to the first half of 2019 (a record half-year in the Group’s history), representing a -50% drop in business over the second quarter compared to 2019.

Equipment sales were down -36% over the period, the services business held up well and posted a -21% decline, while the rental business ended the period at -39%, strongly impacted by the health situation in Latin America.

To sum up, in its 2020 Third Quarter Sales media release, Haulotte summised: In a still uncertain environment, where the lack of visibility remains a reality, Haulotte maintains a sales forecast of -25% to -30% in 2020 and a positive current operating income (excluding exchange gain and loss) at year-end.

Q: What are your thoughts for moving into 2021 and beyond?

With our ‘Blue Strategy’, we are focusing our innovation efforts on zero-emission equipment, a strong market trend Haulotte was able to anticipate as early as 2018 when we launched our first electric all-terrain aerial platform, the HA20 LE, an articulated aerial platform in the Pulseo Generation range.

The next phase, the development of new service offerings with ‘fleet management’ solutions will take the front of the stage over the next few years.

By the end of the year and beginning of next year, we will launch new products and services that will perfectly illustrate our ambition towards a digital company.

We will watch closely the post-crisis period and see what other movements/trends emerge and we will adapt through our agility and local presence.

Q: What do you think could have been managed differently or better during the pandemic? in terms of the access industry and how the access industry has fared in 2020?

The answer is not easy, the situation is not managed the same way on the world scale. But what we know is customers and manufacturers are trying to do their best to continue their business in strict compliance with health recommendations.

Q: What would you like to see moving into the New Year and beyond?

All of us (whoever we are: manufacturers, customers, partners, etc) expect the end of the pandemic, but nobody can predict when it will end.

Our DNA remains oriented towards innovation and safety. We will therefore offer differentiating, high added value and forward-looking solutions.

To sum up, yes, this crisis will not be without consequences, but we are doing everything we can to prepare for tomorrow and to better understand and respond to our eco-system. n HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

The impact of COVID-19 on the access industry – an Australian perspective Haulotte Australia’s General Manager, Keith Clarke answered a series of questions late last year to give us a candid review of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the access industry for Haulotte; how the organisation responded and what Haulotte and the industry can expect into the future.

Q: How did COVID-19 impact Haulotte in 2020?

During the first lockdown we reduced operation in line with the Australia wide restrictions. However, given the construction industry was still operating, we continued to deliver some machines and provide service and technical support. When Victoria entered its second wave, we were again forced to operate at reduced capacity with, all administrative staff working remotely to ensure we complied with the tight restrictions.

Q: What changes were implemented to get operations up and running again?

Globally the factories were able to HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

Q: What about moving forward?

All measures implemented will continue until we are advised it is safe for them to be lessened or removed. What it has brought us is an understanding of the importance of every person’s role in a team and the value of face-to-face interactions. On the flip side, it was a chance for our staff to spend time with their families and find innovative ways to help our customers solve their challenges.

Q: What about the machinery? Have there been any changes to how equipment is operated or maintained? what, if any, measures were put in place to make equipment operation/transport/ handling and maintenance safer for staff and operators?

The high level of safety for workers and quality assurance continued throughout the COVID challenges. In terms of operations, Haulotte machines are ideally suited to meeting the social distancing requirements, with extended platforms available on most booms and scissor lift models. Operator safety is further assured by a majority of controls available from the ground control box, further ensuring distancing measures can be followed.

Q: What are your thoughts for moving into 2021 and beyond?

We are looking forward to a return to somewhat normal for 2021. It will be an exciting year for Haulotte, with several new models being launched into Australia. As a global company we continue to focus on digital technology and the shift to electric powered machines.

For Australia, the main industries are returning to normal, so we should continue to see the demand for hire equipment as the infrastructure improvements around the country continue. As always, we are here to support our customers and the wider industry to provide safe working at heights conditions for all.

Q: How did this impact the business operations?

In Victoria, we emerged from a very long lockdown, where the majority of our staff were working from home, or at reduced hours. It was very tough, but our first priority was the health and safety of our team. We were also conscious of the fact we had the rest of Australia to support and a construction industry that may have slowed down, but still continued to operate at reduced capacity.

Our technicians and emergency support remained available for our customers and EWP operators.

Q: How did the market respond initially and how is it responding now and moving forward?

Initially, it was an adjustment to see how the restrictions played out in our factories across Europe and China. Once the shutdown hit Australian shores, there were a lot less new machines being ordered and we did see a shift towards scheduled maintenance as machines were stood down.

Now as the international market recovers we are starting to see more of a return to the regular spare parts orders.

the office social distancing and face masks are now part of everyday life since teams can now have conversations in person.

reopen once the health and safety of workers was addressed. As with most workplaces, sanitisation and face masks have become standard practice.

Q: What COVID-safe measures have you put in place to keep staff and customers safe?

Several changes have been applied to create the new COVIDSafe environment, including sign-in registers, more thorough cleaning and regular disinfecting hands and surfaces. Thankfully modern technology enabled some face-to-screen contact during lockdown, with teams able to catch up via video conferencing tools. Upon returning to

Q: What would you like to see moving into the New Year and beyond?

In the new year we are looking forward to getting back out on the road, seeing our customers and showcasing our new machines. We are excitedly beginning preparations for HIRE21 in the Gold Coast in May, which will be the first chance for the market to see this new technology and the innovations in digital tools that will be available.

Q: Final thoughts?

This industry has truly banded together to support each other through this crisis and it is because of this closeness, we will emerge on the other side stronger and ready to take on the next phase. n P17

INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

Coates Hire wins long-term partnership with Sydney Water Coates Hire won a three-year Shared Purchasing dry hire contract (with two one-year extension options) in January 2020 with Sydney Water, which will see the utility gain access to Coates Hire’s full range of plant and general hire equipment as part of the agreement.

T

he Shared Purchasing (SP) contract is the first signed through Sydney Water’s new Partnering for Success (P4S) Procurement strategy and ensures Coates Hire will supply pumps and fluid management, traffic management and power generation solutions to Sydney Water.

Delivery has commenced for the supply of plant equipment and general hire to Sydney Water’s Networks Services and its three Regional Delivery Consortia (RDC).

“The three year contract represents a significant milestone as the first SP contract, as well as the beginning of a long-term relationship between Sydney Water and Coates Hire,” Xavier Decomps, Sydney Water’s Head of Procurement said.

“This shared purchasing approach will develop deeper relationships between Sydney Water and its RDC partners and facilitate a consistent, transparent and controlled way of sharing information about goods and services.”

“We are proud to be part of this new support process for Sydney Water and its supply chain,” Stephen Hoare, Coates Hire Sales Manager – Sydney said.

“Through our network of over 50 branches in NSW Coates Hire guarantees

P18

a high standard of customer service, and a competitive level of technical support and expert advice to support Sydney Water operations,” Stephen said.

Coates Hire’s Engineering Solutions “Sydney Water is the first major infrastructure company in Australia to use an NEC4 contract to deliver new works; an approach designed to incentivise efficiency, consistency, collaboration and innovation,” Rafi Tchopourian, Coates Hire General Manager – Engineering Solutions said.

The contract will predominantly provide pumps, fluid management and power generation equipment across the greater Sydney metropolitan region, servicing all of Sydney Water’s operations, infrastructure and facilities.

Rafi expects the contract to open the doors for Sydney Water to the complete range of Coates Hire equipment.

“As a preferred contractor to Sydney Water and as part of this tender we will also have the opportunity to be in touch with other preferred Sydney Water contractors who will then have the opportunity to access the full Coates Hire equipment range too.”

“We definitely see this as a long-term partnership and we hope it will open the opportunity to win other regional water authority tenders.

“We have the capabilities and equipment range to handle most jobs. Plus the Coates Hire Engineering Solution division can also provide engineering solutions to facilitate project management.

“Through our Engineering Solutions brand, a division we have been developing for the past five to six years at Coates Hire, we offer engineering design, installation, certification and project management services. It enables us to provide a design and construction approach and a solution based approach to resolving customer problems,” Rafi said.

“We can provide all the equipment and the engineering solutions in an end-to-end solution.

“Sydney Water is clearly at the forefront of utility provision in Australia. All eyes will be on our client and their success as work gets underway.

“We worked hard to put together a compelling value-added proposition for Sydney Water and we will now ensure we deliver on our promises,” Rafi said.

The Coates Hire Engineering Solutions division partners with top and mid-tier customers to provide complete job solutions in shoring, water retention and water extraction projects, all with the one purchase order, Rafi said.

Rafi said he has 37 engineers in the team across Australia including: mechanical, structural, civil, chemical, geotechnical, and electrical engineers.

“We do below ground excavation supports and above ground structural engineering; deep watering systems, and water treatment and water transfer.”

In FY20, Coates Hire celebrated 135 years of commitment to supporting customers who helped build Australia. n Visit: www.coateshire.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

Using the SOP Act to ensure your cash flow remains constant: Making a Claim Authors: Mark Glynn, Partner, David Creais, Partner and Jack Williams, Lawyer — Bartier Perry

A

pre-COVID-19 survey by McGrathNicol Advisory published in the Australian Financial Review on 4 November 2019, revealed on average, engineering and construction companies were taking three months to pay their suppliers.

The survey went on to highlight compared to previous results, engineering and construction companies were taking 12.4 days longer to pay (up to 87.6 days).

While the Government has supported the industry remaining open here in NSW during the COVID pandemic and flagged further support in the future, there is no certainty in unprecedented times.

Construction contractors and project managers in NSW have been developing and implementing COVID-19 Safety Plans and practising social distancing where reasonably practicable ensuring construction workers and suppliers to site maintain physical distancing at all times, ensuring the wellbeing of all those coming on to site and adopting good hand hygiene practices.

NSW has avoided restrictions similar to the Stage 4 restrictions that were introduced in Victoria in August 2020 which saw major construction sites restricted to operating with only 25% of the normal workforce allowed on site at any given time, while small-scale sites such as residential construction sites were limited to a maximum of five workers on site at any one time.

However, ongoing or future disruption to the delivery of building and infrastructure projects in NSW, COVID-19 related or otherwise, will inevitably lead to an influx of delay claims and project cost blowouts which will adversely affect the cash flow of a project.

It goes without saying the flow of cash and prompt payment to contractors and suppliers is vital to the stability and survival of the construction industry, especially considering the impact the construction industry has on the strength of the Australian economy.

The Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act 1999 (NSW) (SOP Act) can help.

P20

Those supplying plant or equipment on hire or rental that understand and correctly use the SOP Act significantly improve their chances of getting paid.

However our experience is while most involved in the construction industry are aware of the SOP Act few use it properly, or at all.

In this article, we will discuss making a payment claim for the hire of plant and equipment which is valid under the SOP Act. Payment Claims A person who is entitled to make a progress payment can serve a payment claim on the person who is liable to make payment.

To be valid, a payment claim: • Must identify the plant or equipment supplied by the hire/rental company to which the payment claim relates; • If the hire or rental agreement was entered into after 21 October 2019, the payment claim must state it is made under the SOP Act by the inclusion of the following notation: “This is a Payment Claim made under the Building & Construction Industry Security of Payment Act.” For hire or rental agreements entered into

after 21 October 2019, a claimant can serve a payment claim ‘on and from’ the last day of the named month in which the related goods such as plant or equipment were first supplied. However, if the hire or rental agreement provides for an earlier date of the serving of a payment claim, then payment claims may be served ‘on and from’ that date.

Unless the hire or rental agreement provides otherwise, a claimant may only serve one payment claim in any one month.

Further, in cases where the hire or rental agreement has been terminated, a payment claim can be served ‘on and from’ the date of termination.

For hire or rental agreements entered into before 21 October 2019, a claimant can serve a payment claim “on and from each reference date”, with the ‘reference date’ being either: • The date stated in the hire agreement as being the date on which a claim for a progress payment may be made by a claimant in relation to plant or equipment supplied under the hire agreement; or • If the hire agreement provides no express date, the last day of the month in which the plant or equipment was first supplied under the hire agreement and the last day of each subsequent named month.

Nothing in the SOP Act prevents a claimant from including in a payment claim, any amount that has been the subject of a previous claim and which remains unpaid.

However, a payment claim cannot be served more than 12 months after the plant or equipment to which the claim relates was last supplied.

Service of Payment Claims The payment claim will only be valid if it has been served correctly on the person who is liable to make payment.

The SOP Act expressly provides payment claims may be served on the person: • By delivering it to the recipient personally; • By lodging it during normal office hours at the recipient’s ordinary place of business; • By sending it via post, addressed to the person’s ordinary place of business; • By email to an email address specified by the recipient for the service of documents of that kind.

A payment claim can also be validly served by any other means expressly provided for in the hire or rental agreement.

How Bartier Perry can help a hire or rental business recover an outstanding debt from a building contractor Hypothetically, let’s assume you have supplied temporary fencing to a residential home builder. Each month you issue an invoice for the hire charges.

In order to have the option to recover the debt under the SOP regime, your invoice must be a valid payment claim. All rights to recover the debt under the SOP Act flow from a payment claim that meets all the HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

requirements of the SOP Act. Your invoice will be a valid payment claim if it: 1. Identifies the project to which the hire relates and specifies the provision of the temporary fencing; and 2. Indicates the amount claimed.

Assuming your rental agreement with the builder was entered after 21 October 2019, your invoice must include the notation: “This is a Payment Claim made under the Building & Construction Industry Security of Payment Act.” Let’s assume the residential home builder does not serve a payment schedule providing reasons why your invoice will not be paid and does not pay you the progress payment by the due date.

The SOP Act provides the home builder is liable to pay the whole of the amount of the invoice and you may recover the debt through the Court system.

The advantage of recovering your outstanding invoice under the SOP Act rather than just relying on the hire agreement is the SOP Act provides the home builder, because he didn’t issue a payment schedule providing reasons why he disputes your invoice, is not entitled to raise a defence or bring a cross-claim against you. This puts you in a significantly stronger position.

If engaged by you to assist recovery of your debt, Bartier Perry’s approach would be to issue a letter of demand to the home builder. This includes attaching a draft statement of claim to the letter of demand clearly pointing out to the home builder that because he had not issued a payment schedule, the SOP Act prevents the home builder from raising any defence or crossclaim against you in relation to matters under the hire agreement.

Often pointing out to the builder that a claim is going to proceed under the SOP Act and that he will not be able to raise a defence or bring a cross claim, results in the invoice being paid without the cost and worry to you of actually commencing formal legal proceedings.

If the builder ignores the letter of demand and you are forced to file the draft statement of claim, commencing formal litigation, then you have the statement of claim ready to file with the Court.

How Bartier Perry can help you Bartier Perry’s building and construction team are experienced in assisting contractors and suppliers to use the SOP Act to make claims for payment and recoup unpaid invoices, by: • Reviewing the relevant hire agreements and payment claims to ensure compliance with the SOP Act; • Drafting letters of demand for payment; • Enforcing any rights under the SOP Act. n Contact Mark Glynn, David Creais or Jack Williams at: www.bartier.com.au/our-team/

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

UK hire sector looks to boost employment despite COVID-19 crisis As the nation looks to the year ahead with some trepidation as to the long-term effects of the COVID-19 crisis on employment and the economy, Hire Association Europe and Event Hire Association (HAE EHA) is embarking on a vigorous series of initiatives, Paul Gaze, CEO Designate HAE EHA said.

S

omeone said the initiatives are aimed at attracting people from all age groups, skill sets and backgrounds, to boost the workforce in the tool, plant and equipment hire sector.

“HAE EHA has been awarded official status as a provider of the DWP’s Kickstart Scheme, a multi-million-pound government initiative designed to create thousands of high-quality work placements for young people aged 16-24 who are at risk of longterm unemployment,” Paul said.

“In addition, the Association has linked up with business partner MyKindaFuture, an award-winning HR tech company specialising in helping under-represented talent get into work. It works with employers to attract, place and retain overlooked and diverse talent, including young people, both male and female, and those returning to the workplace.

“Due to the pandemic schools are under pressure to get their students back up to speed with their education after the enforced absence, meaning work experience placements and careers events could be put on the back burner well into 2021,” Paul said.

“Under Kickstart, more than 40 sixmonth placements have been provided by HAE EHA members across England and Wales and participants will be able to gain paid work experience in a variety of areas within hire operations.

“There will also be additional funding available to support young people to build their experience and to help them move into sustained employment after completing the Kickstart Scheme. As well as this, HAE EHA’s partnership with MyKindaFuture can supply vital opportunities for year 10, 11 and 12 students to consider a career in Hire.

“HAE EHA has also signed up to the Gatsby Benchmark, a framework of eight guidelines that define the best careers provision in secondary schools. With funding from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) to support job seekers, the Hire Industry is striving to offer an alternative career to those worst hit by

The HAE EHA initiatives are aimed at attracting people to boost the workforce in the tool, plant and equipment hire sector

the downturn and lost jobs in sectors like hospitality, airlines and banks.

“HAE EHA has hundreds of members in the industry across the world, including the six biggest hire companies in the UK and by registering on the association’s website, jobseekers can receive alerts for vacancies across the hire spectrum.

“The hire sector is a vital component in enabling the delivery of economic activity, commercial and public, in the UK and globally. HAE EHA members provide the resources and capability behind much public and commercial investment: in land and buildings, vital infrastructure projects such as HS2 and Crossrail and for national and international events.

“In addition to the tragic loss of life, Coronavirus has cost many people their jobs and potentially reduced the level of guidance and support for youngsters just starting their working lives. However with the help of these new initiatives, this negative can be turned into a positive and hire companies now have the opportunity to engage with workers and make them aware of the industry and the different career paths on offer,” Paul said. n Visit: www.hae.org.uk

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

Lessons from the global pandemic Author Nicholas Guest, Partner, Advisory, HLB Mann Judd

I

f 2020 and the global pandemic taught us anything, it’s you need to surround yourself with the right people and this resonates in the business world just as much as your personal world.

As advisory and accounting partners to the hire and rental industry, we understand 2020 was tough, very tough for some of you and we’re here to help you make the best of the opportunities in 2021 and beyond.

While most would not have predicted the global pandemic or what it meant for business, 2020 was a year of being reactionary; to what the medical experts, the government, banks and business was saying.

To prepare for a year of stability, take some time to review your business plan.

Brainstorm new ideas and develop strategies that can be seamlessly deployed, if necessary.

Things to focus on in 2021 Be realistic With JobKeeper scheduled to end for all businesses on 28 March 2021, will this affect your business? Do you have deferred debt?

Now is the time to engage an external advisor to review your forecasting and projections for next 12 months.

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Stay focused What is the focus for your business this year? Do you need to reduce debt, or are you thinking of taking advantage of low interest rates? Are you looking to grow your business, remain stable, or have the events from 2020 made you reconsider your future, and you are looking to sell and exit in the next few years?

Be optimistic Australia has bounced back better than many other countries. Focus on what you’ve learnt from 2020 and the positives that came out of the year, that enable you to have a better and more resilient business.

Look for opportunities Is there an opportunity to diversify or expand? Talk to others in the industry. Is this the time for an acquisition, merger or joint venture?

Develop or review your risk management plan Risk mitigation is an important feature of contingency planning. As part of your strategy, identify the events that pose a threat to your business’s ability to operate and see to it robust processes are implemented to minimise the risk of those scenarios materialising.

Talk to the experts HRIA Partner, HLB Mann Judd are more than just accountants and financial advisors.

The team of experts can help you with: • Business and strategic plans; • Budgeting and forecasting; • Restructuring and risk management; • Debt and equity structuring; • Buying or selling businesses; • Personal wealth management; • Insurances; • Will and estate planning; • Business health assessments.

Talking family business Podcast We recently launched our ‘Talking Family Business’ podcast. In this series we explored different aspects and dynamics of running a family business with HLB Mann Judd Partners and special guests.

The first series looked at the 50year working relationship between HLB Mann Judd and Western Earthmoving; a third generation family business which has significantly grown into one of Australia’s largest civil contracting firms.

To listen, subscribe to the series through your favourite podcast app, simply search Talking Family Business, or view them on: www.hlb.com.au/talking-family-business HIRE21 – Gold Coast We look forward to seeing you at the HIRE21 Convention on the Gold Coast in May. HLB Mann Judd is a business partner of the HRIA and its services are free-of-charge to all HRIA members. n Contact Kim Kelloway, Head of Clients and Markets at HLB Mann Judd on the exclusive HRIA hotline 02 9020 4211 or email kkelloway@hlbnsw.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

Dust strategy targets hazardous dust

Aussie researchers develop worldfirst treatment for silicosis

The new NSW Dust Strategy 2020-2022 from SafeWork NSW specifically targets asbestos, crystalline silica, wood and other dusts as the top priority areas to prevent occupational diseases.

A world-first treatment has been developed by clinicians at Brisbane’s Prince Charles Hospital and researchers at the University of Queensland to help those suffering with artificial stone silicosis.

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he new NSW Dust Strategy 2020-2022 from SafeWork NSW specifically targets asbestos, crystalline silica, wood and other dusts as the top priority areas to prevent occupational diseases.

The new strategy provides NSW workers and businesses with a coordinated approach for the safe handling of hazardous dust.

According to SafeWork NSW, injuries and fatalities due to exposure to asbestos, silica, wood and other dusts are preventable.

SafeWork NSW said this is actionable by applying control measures such as: always engaging a licensed asbestos professional for asbestos removal work; using simple controls such as water and dust capture tools when working with silica; and always wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, including a correctly fitted respiratory face mask when working with asbestos, silica, wood and other dusts.

Objectives of the NSW Dust Strategy 2020-2022 The NSW Dust Strategy 2020-2022 strategy aims to ensure SafeWork NSW and industry can: • respond to current and emerging dustrelated harms by following three key principles that apply to all dust: o identify the hazard; o handle it safely; o dispose of it responsibly; • prevent dust exposure with reduction activities that carry the key elements of compliance, regulation, awareness and education in all programs; • educate workers about dust exposure with consistent communication of bestpractice safety controls appropriate to different dust types and work activities.

The NSW Dust Strategy (PDF 234kb) is aligned to SafeWork’s hazardous chemicals exposure reduction programs under the NSW WHS Roadmap 2022.

Asbestos Around 4000 Australians die every year from asbestos related diseases. In the past year, at least 344 people were reported to have been diagnosed with an asbestos related disease due to exposure in a NSW based workplace.

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Asbestos-related harm is focused in line with the National Strategic Plan for Asbestos Awareness and Management (2019-2023).

SafeWork NSW is a member of the NSW Asbestos Coordination Committee to help improve asbestos management and awareness across NSW. Crystalline Silica Silica is called out specifically because it is being targeted through SafeWork NSW’s five-year NSW Chemicals Strategy (20172022) as a top priority chemical.

In the past 12 months there has been 107 silicosis cases diagnosed, 40 in 2018/19 and 9 in 2017/18.

Research into real-time silica detection devices Phase one of the research project being conducted by the Centre for Work Health and Safety has been completed with the final report and the feasibility study delivered in October 2020.

This world first detector has been proven successful in accurately identifying the presence of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) in laboratory testing and in site testing across a variety of industries, SafeWork NSW said.

This validates the fundamental hypothesis birefringence is a good marker for the presence of RCS. A commercial device was estimated to be available by December 2021.

Wood and other dust Wood and other dust is featured due to the chemical component in many woods such as MDF board and treated timber; and general exposure over time to organic wood dust that is known to cause occupational asthma if working without protection.

While not as hazardous as asbestos and silica it still causes harm and is why it is called out in this strategy.

ALL dust control in ALL workplaces is critical. If you have the right controls in place for one dust, you will have effective controls in place for others. n Visit: www.safework.nsw.gov.au/advice-andresources/campaigns/dust-strategy

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world-first treatment has been developed by clinicians at Brisbane’s Prince Charles Hospital and researchers at the University of Queensland to help those suffering with artificial stone silicosis.

The condition affects tradespeople who inhale toxic silica dust while cutting stone products like kitchen benchtops. The dust settles in the lungs and leads to internal scarring that eventually stops the lungs working and people cannot breathe.

The newly developed lung lavage works by washing out the silica crystals and damaged cells from the lungs.

A patient’s affected lungs are opened up to calculate their ‘crystal load’ to determine if the treatment is suitable.

The team of clinicians can then begin the lung lavage, which effectively ‘rinses out’ the lungs with warm saline for up to four or five hours.

The six people who had undergone the treatment until November last year are all progressing well.

TPCH’s Head of Lung Fibrosis Research Professor Dan Chambers said there is now hope for hundreds of workers who have contracted silicosis.

“We’ve seen silicosis mostly in young people, some as young as 25 years old, so it’s critical to help them and help them fast.

“This has been a race against the clock, since once scarring occurs it may be too late to remove the silica,” Professor Chambers said.

“Early detection and treatment is key, so the disease does not progress into the more advanced form; progressive massive fibrosis. We encourage any tradespeople to get screened so treatment can begin as early as possible.”

The Cancer Council said 587,000 Australian workers were exposed to silica dust in the workplace in 2011.

It’s estimated 5758 of these people will develop a lung cancer over the course of their life as a result of that exposure. n Visit: https://metronorth.health.qld.gov.au/

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

• Understand your variable and fixed costs.

• Understand what your post-pandemic business will look like.

4. Financial forecasting • Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet and Cashflow.

• With and without JobKeeper, rent deferrals, etc.

• Based on the post-pandemic outcomes of scenarios #1, #2, and #3.

5. Communication (staff and customers) • A plan will be of little affect if it is not shared. Staff Townhall and one-on-one meetings with all staff.

• Customers – all socials, calls, videos, etc.

But what is the message?

6. We are an online retailer • Click and deliver a must.

• ‘Hold Item Now’ digital reach.

7. Safety first • People are more health conscious so take the necessary precautions to show staff and customers their health and safety is a priority.

10 ways to turn disruption into opportunity post-pandemic

By Richard van der Merwe, Partner and David Hinchey, Senior Manager, Fordham Business Advisors.

W

hile the gravity of the COVID-19 pandemic and the wind back of JobKeeper still looms over us, businesses need to plan for the next 12 months as we return to ‘normality’, or at least a ‘COVID-normal’.

If you want to stay ahead of your competitors, you should ideally be planning your strategy to restart in the post-pandemic world now.

But how do you maximise your bounce back without an effective strategy?

You might not know how to move ahead and particularly, which levers in your business to pull to maximise your chances of success. Not knowing means you run the risk of your management team and employees not supporting (or being able to support) you in the post-pandemic period.

Disruption displaces an existing market and often results in something new and more efficient. This is especially true for events of significant and global disruption HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

like a pandemic. Therefore, your view of ‘normality’ may look a little (or a lot) different in a post-pandemic environment.

Here are 10 things to be thinking about when looking to the future.

1. Management team plan • Business don’t plan to fail, they fail to plan.

• Once you have articulated your plan, buy-in of the management team is critical to maximise and execute on it.

2 Organisational structure review • Right people in the right roles at the right time.

• Start with a list of the jobs your business needs now and into the future, not the people or roles you have.

3. Cost structure review • Ensure you are getting the required return on investment.

8. Convenience • All components taken care of by the business, no need to have to deal with multiple businesses.

9. Trusted brand • Products and services remain consistent post-pandemic.

• Look after all of our customers.

10. Lifestyle focus • The way customers work, shop, communicate and holiday have changed indefinitely. Your products and services will need to cater to their changed needs.

This presents a massive opportunity for those who prepare for this.

The truly post-pandemic era is hopefully nearing an end, however you still need to focus on understanding how to best position your business for the future to maximise your results in a potentially ongoing phase of disruption.

Being ‘ahead of the game and your competitors’ will ensure you maximise your financial performance in an unprecedented environment.

This information, including any assumptions and conclusions, is not intended to be a comprehensive statement of relevant practise or law that is often complex and can change. It is general information only and is not intended to provide you with advice or take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. n Contact Richard van der Merwe or David Hinchey of Fordham on 03 9611 6066 or email rvandermerwe@fordhamgroup.com. au; dhinchey@fordhamgroup.com.au, or visit fordhamgroup.com.au

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

Manlift Hire turns 36 and celebrates with new premises After nearly 20 years in the same Dandenong premises, Manlift Hire has moved into brand-new, purpose-built premises just up the street from its former premises, and is now located at 36 Williams Road Dandenong.

Manlift Hire has moved into brand-new purpose-built premises just up the street from its former premises

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he move comes hot on the heels of celebrating 36 years in business – a major milestone Manlift Hire founder Ken Matthews said he is happy to celebrate.

“The move to the brand new premises expands the business and allows room for growth,” Ken said.

“Our warehouse in the new premises is larger and we now have a big under cover wash bay.

“Ground floor offices house the hire staff, Operations Manager Tony Matthews and General Manager Jeff Matthews. At the rear is a large kitchen looking over the factory area and next door the mechanics’ office.

“On the first floor are two executive offices and a magnificent Boardroom used for training operators to Yellow Card status.

Also, we built in a lounge and kitchenette for clients to relax during breaks,” Ken said.

Ken said the Manlift Hire fleet will be increased and will tie in well with the company’s client service policy and professionalism.

“We now have more space for completing 10 year Major Inspections and a little more room for toys.

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“Since I retired six years ago, Manlift Hire management has been taken over by the three Matthews siblings; Jeff as General Manager; Kate as Office Manager; and Tony as Operations Manager. Management is ably supported by the assistance of four staff, plus I (Ken) come in to train when required.

“We are definitely growing with the Victorian economy, although this year has been very tough for us all,” Ken said.

“Our latest move does me make me feel so proud.

After being in the industry for 40 years and serving on the EWPA board for some years, celebrating milestone success in the hire industry is a dream come true.”

Where it all began Manlift Hire started in 1984 after Ken and his business partner, Peter Armstrong decided to branch

out on their own after time at Linmac (who coincidentally, Ken said, brought the first JLG machines to Australia back in the late 1970s).

Ken said his business began with the help of Ross Hogan who offered the business partners the availability of the hire fleet at Crown Scissor Lifts in Melbourne.

“We cross hired equipment from Crown for a few months until our business took off.

Initially we bought equipment from Crown who eventually sold out to Snorkel and for some years we dealt with Snorkel as a result.

Since then we’ve expanded our EWP range to also include Skyjack, JLG, Genie and Nifty equipment,” Ken said.

“Our focus in the beginning was on the Portland Alcoa Smelter and supplying equipment when that was being built.

However we soon branched out to supply to shopping centre developments and that was what grew our business.”

Ken said he and Peter, though now both retired, are still great mates and retirement has been a good move because “it was time to step out and give the kids a go.”

“Being a part of the EWPA and representing the industry as an EWPA Board member was a great experience and such a worthwhile contribution,” Ken said.

“I enjoyed being able to assist in making decisions for our industry and that included establishing the EWPA training programs over the years (now known as the EWPA Yellow Card).

“As a result of my time on the Board I recognised the value of training and now I and my sons and other members of the Manlift Hire team are now all registered trainers and assessors.

“Plus I gained some great friendships and thoroughly enjoyed being part of the industry. The industry and the EWPA was always more like a family. That’s what made it so great.” n Contact Visit: www.manlifthire.com.au

The Manlift Hire fleet will be increased and will tie in well with the company’s client service policy

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

FEB

2021

VOL22 NO.3 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ELEVATING WORK PLATFORM ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA INC www.ewpa.com.au

Driving industry progress – EWPA update – p32 IN THIS ISSUE

New crawler booms from JLG – compact offering – p34

Duty cycles and trailer transportability – what Nifty offers – p38

Haulotte’s expanded RTJ telescopic range – p35

New spiderbooms tech innovations – p42

Sinoboom opens in Australia – p36

ACCESS IN ACTION

President’s message

The art of virtual and realistic goal kicking

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n November 2020, we held our first ‘virtual’ Annual General Meeting due to the travel restrictions that were in place across several states.

I was pleased to welcome our EWPA Board of Directors who have been voted in for another year. We have a very experienced team who contribute their time to ensuring a strong future for the EWPA. I’d also like to welcome Luke Schubert from JLG who has replaced the position vacated by Dean Halliwell from Melrose Access.

I look forward to working with Luke, who is already a great contributor to the Association through the technical committee and working groups.

I also want to thank Dean for his contribution as a Board member over the past five years. Dean has stepped down from the Board to spend more time in his growing business.

2021 presents itself with the hope of free movement between states, easing of restrictions and the progression towards finding and rolling out a vaccine for the Coronavirus.

With the country getting back to some form of normality, this has allowed workplaces to set realistic goals and our Association is no different.

Andrew Delahunt, EWPA Director of

Resources – Safety, Technical and Training, has been busy with our technical committee developing guidance, training and safety initiatives for the industry.

Items on the agenda include Verification of Competency (VoC) which is being requested more frequently in recent months.

How VoCs are conducted can vary according to the state, different industry sectors, and different worksites. As the peak industry body, the EWPA is working with MEWP owners, manufacturers, trainers and end users, to review what a VoC should look like, so a consistent criteria and delivery format can be applied.

Other initiatives in progress include refreshed Yellow Card training content, to keep our operators up-to-date with the everevolving MEWPs and their safety systems that are being released.

Work is also being done on the Registered Inspectors program, an Operator App and Safety Information that always assists our members as well as the public using EWPA resources.

Our Marketing Officer, Sally Cannon has increased the visibility of the Association and gives the EWPA more exposure to companies who hire and operate mobile elevating work platforms.

Due to the market awareness companies

now have of the EWPA, we recently had several Tier 1 construction companies attend our safety, industry and information webinars. This interaction can only be positive, as we all work for safer and more efficient outcomes.

By the time of publication, some construction contractors will have asked for a form of secondary guarding to be fitted on scissor lifts on their sites.

A few manufacturers have released their own type of operator and /or occupant ‘secondary safety systems’ and some manufacturers have allowed third party systems to be fitted.

For guidance on this please go to our website and read the Information Sheet called Secondary Guarding on MEWPs. There is an excellent section on evaluating the need and selection of Secondary Guarding and a reminder the system alone must not be solely relied upon to protect platform occupants from harm.

Thank you for staying connected with the EWPA through Access in Action.

If you require assistance in any aspect of our industry, visit the website (www.ewpa.com.au) or call our national office (02 9998 2222), who will be happy to assist you.

Doug Rawlings National President, EWPA

2020 proved fruitful for TSHA

I

am not going to mention the new ‘C’ word, other than to say that in so many ways it made us appreciate what we have in Australia; country that takes safety seriously and the will of its people to make a difference.

When it comes to the TSHA our work can draw some parallels and be proud of the member’s efforts to ensure we have a safe industry. In 2020, we saw continued growth and acceptance of the TSHA Gold Card program and 2021 is looking positive for the future with an opportunity with the Victorian Farmer Federation to roll out courses in Victoria in 2021 and beyond.

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

In 2020 the Association worked closely with the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) in lobbying the Victorian Government regarding the license requirements for Telehandlers.

Before the C word we had a very positive indication we are heading for a consistent licence/training regime across Australia, where a CN licence (non-slewing crane highrisk work licence) will not be required for all attachments on Telehandlers in Victoria.

The licensing requirements in Victoria are different than other states and territories.

The TSHA has a reference guide on

website (https://tsha.com.au/wp-content/ uploads/2020/08/TSH-Licensing-TrainingRequirements-Issue-15-Sept-2020.pdf).

Throughout 2020 there was some great work done by the Association and the fruits of this labour bode well for our continued development in 2021.

I would like to thank all the Executive Committee and the TSHA team for their efforts in 2020 and I look forward to our mutual success in 2021.

Stuart Walker National President – TSHA P28

ACCESS IN ACTION

ACCESS IN ACTION

ELEVATING WORK PLATFORM ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA INC ABN 32 545 830 419 EWPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Doug Rawlings Tel: 08 9350 5700 Vice President: Tim Nuttall Tel: 03 9547 7700 Past President: Rick Mustillo Tel: 02 9817 7610 Chief Executive Officer: James Oxenham Tel: 02 9998 2222 Operations Director: Nicolas Chiew Tel: 02 9998 2222 Director of Resources: Andrew Delahunt Tel: 02 9998 2222 NSW President: John Glover Tel: 0419 663 863 VIC President: Keith Clarke Tel: 0400 369 900 QLD President: Richard Gannon Tel: 0437 477 279 SA President: Jason Gaskin Tel: 08 8449 0500 WA President: Will Reilly Tel: 0408 474 261 TECHNICAL DIRECTOR – OPERATIONS Peter Davis, Tel: 02 8796 50551

Contents Hot topics 36

28

EWPA President Message – The art of virtual and realistic goal kicking

28

Skyjack next gen ‘simply reliable’ commitment

36

30

IN THIS ISSUE

Coates Hire expands its Haulotte fleet

Driving industry progress – EWPA update – p32

38 42 32

EWPA Update with Andrew Delahunt – Promoting safety & Best Practice Guidance

34

New crawler booms from JLG – compact offering – p34

Duty cycles and trailer transportability – what Nifty offers – p38

Haulotte’s expanded RTJ telescopic range – p35

New spiderbooms tech innovations – p42

Sinoboom opens in Australia – p36

On the cover Nifty’s Height Rider offers best cycle and trailer transportability

TELESCOPIC HANDLER ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA (TSHA)

Opinions published in Hire & Rental Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the association or the Editor. The HRIA accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any information contained in this magazine and readers should rely upon their own enquiries in making decisions related to their own interest. All rights reserved. ISSN 1838-1197

www.ewpa.com.au

TSHA President Message

COMMITTEE Luke Schubert, Tel: 0458 770 002 Bob Mules, Tel: 0402 982 999 James Nightingale, Tel: 1800 457 145

EWPA & TSHA PO Box 1304, Mona Vale NSW 1660 Tel: 02 9998 2222 Email: info@ewpa.com.au Web: www.ewpa.com.au

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ELEVATING WORK PLATFORM ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA INC

Sinoboom opens HQ in Australia

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR – ENGINEERING Peter Wenn, Tel: 03 9568 7211

PRESIDENT: Stuart Walker Tel: 0418 849 107

FEB

2021

VOL22 NO.3

Tech innovations on Almac Pacific’s new spiderbooms

EWPA Photo of the Year One of this year’s EWPA Photo of the Year submissions, an Omme 2750RX Spider Lift from Monitor Lifts, assisting an artist paint a mural on the Sandringham Hotel in Victoria, looking out over the foreshore of Port Phillip Bay. Visit: www.monitor.net.au

Compact crawler booms from JLG

Snorkel telehandlers now available with open cabs Snorkel’s range of rough terrain telehandlers are now available with open cabs.

Customers can now choose from either an open cab, or a fully enclosed cab with heat and air conditioning on all Snorkel rough terrain telehandler models, which includes the SR5719, SR9244, SR1054 and SR1331.

In Australia these models are named: SR626, SR626E, SR1442, SR1745, SR1065).

On the full electric, lithium-ion battery powered compact rough terrain telehandler, the Snorkel SR5719E (or in Australia, the HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

SR626E), the open cab is also now available, in addition to a fully enclosed cab with heat.

The company said the open cab version features the same spacious design and layout as the enclosed version and includes an adjustable suspension seat and adjustable steering column as standard, delivering unrivalled operator comfort. A mesh grid protects the operator while maintaining excellent visibility of the work area.

The open cab versions are available to order now, with select models in stock for immediate delivery. n

Visit: www.snorkellifts.com

Snorkel SR5719 (or model SR626 in Australia) with Open Cab

P29

ACCESS IN ACTION

Coates Hire expands Haulotte fleet Haulotte is celebrating its growing relationship with Coates Hire following confirmation of additional significant orders that will see Coates Hire expand its fleet of Haulotte machines suited to operate in a COVID safe environment.

K

eith Clarke, Haulotte Australia General Manager said Haulotte’s relationship with Coates Hire began to expand in 2018 with an order for 400 machines across Coates Hire national locations.

“Haulotte’s relationship with Coates Hire is now a major relationship that continues to grow,” Keith said.

“Seeing this relationship develop over the past few years has been very rewarding. What started as an initial order has now grown to include a majority of our machines for Coates Hire to distribute among its different locations.

“The machine mix for these orders is varied and includes the highly popular Optimum 8 scissor lifts, rough terrain scissors, as well as both telescopic and articulating booms from

16m to 43m.

“Coates Hire has witnessed firsthand the innovations and safety benefits Haulotte machines have to offer and have now grown its fleet to include over 1000 Haulotte machines.

Together we work on service and support for the hire industry across Australia,” Keith said.

Keith commented on the difficult year gone.

“Like every company, 2020 has been drastically impacted by the COVID pandemic, and Coates Hire is no exception. They have taken great effort to support the construction industry throughout this time and believe adding the latest machines to its fleet is critical to continued support and recovery of the industry,” Keith said.

Dan Goodfellow, Group Manager for

Haulotte is celebrating its growing relationship with Coates Hire following confirmation of additional significant orders

products at Coates Hire said: “At Coates Hire, the safety of our customers is critical in the decision-making process of our equipment.

When we look at purchasing equipment, it always comes back to the Coates Hire vision statement, to ensure we consider Safe, Smart, and Sustainable Equipment Solutions, and Haulotte equipment ticks these boxes for us on some products.”

Haulotte’s Australian and New Zealand machines are brought in with the large baskets as standard, meaning two operators can be in the platform at once while still maintaining social distancing. n

PRESS

Manitou Group formalizes its partnership with N Visit: www.haulotte.com.au reduce its carbon footprint

Manitou formalises partnership to reduce carbon footprint Manitou Group has formalised its partnership with maritime transport via ro-ro cargo ships specialist and eco-responsible company Neoline. The collaboration between Manitou Group and Neoline began in 2017.

M

anitou has accelerates its ecological transition by signing this contract, by choosing a solution that drastically reduces the environmental impact of its exports to the United States.

This partnership involves the transport of all aerial work platforms and telehandlers manufactured by Manitou Group in France via a primarily wind powered cargo ship heading for the North American market. These products will be loaded at the SaintNazaire Port (Loire-Atlantique) for shipping to the East coast of the United States via the Port of Baltimore (Maryland).

Augustin Merle, Director of Logistics and Projects at Manitou Group, said: “This is an important step in moving this project forward.

By engaging with a local partner, we are not P30

Manitou has developed a solution that drastically reduces Copyright: Mauric

the environmental impact of its exports to the United States. only strengthening our regional position, but we are also going to reduce our transport Ancenis, October 12, 2020 ― Manitou Group, a worldwide reference in han carbon footprint, while guaranteeing reliability St-Pierre & Miquelon. A second ship with and earthmoving, has formalized its partnership withtothe innovative an equivalent specifications will follow achieve a of serviceplatforms, for our customers in the United States rate ofindeparture of every two weeks. and Canada.” company NEOLINE, which specializes maritime transport via ro-ro cargo ship Jean Zanuttini, President of Neolinea solution that Withcontract, more thanthe 1,000 machines exported its ecological group accelerates transition by choosing Development, said: “By signing this contract, to the United States per year, Manitou Group environmental of its exports to Group the United States. its resolute Manitou is demonstrating will havethe a load capacity of up toimpact 40 machines commitment to the energy transition of its per trip on board this sail cargo ship. This supply chain and thereby gains access to a new navigation solution will also make it possible generation of maritime designed which began to reduceThis up tovirtuous 90% of CO2 emissions when collaboration between Manitou Grouptransport and NEOLINE, compared with a traditional cargo ship making to reduce environmental impact as much as formalized by a contract signed by possible both partners. partnership while fullyThis meeting its logisticsinvolves needs. the tra an equivalent trip.

We are technically and commercially According to the development plan of work platforms and telehandlers manufactured by Manitou Group ready in France via to quickly and drastically reduce transatlantic Neoline’s pilot line, construction of the first powered cargo ship heading for the North American market.

These products will be lo supply chain emissions.” n ship, which will be 136m long and have a sail (Loire-Atlantique) surface ofNazaire 4,200m²,Port will begin soon. It will be for shipping to the East coast of the United Stat Visit:Director www.manitou-group.com commissioned on a new transatlantic route Baltimore (Maryland). Augustin Merle, of Logistics and Projects at Manitou between St-Nazaire, Baltimore, Halifax, and

are proud to sign this contract with NEOLINE today. It is an important step in m HIRE & RENTAL FEBRUARY 2021 forward. By engaging with a local partner, we are notMAGAZINE only strengthening our region

0402 982 999

Call for a no-obligation discussion.

ACCESS IN ACTION

Driving industry improvement and progress

By Andrew Delahunt – Director of Resources, EWPA

A

key function of the EWPA is to promote safety and produce best practice guidance and we are always working with industry to maintain our industry’s strict adherence to this important area.

In 2021 the EWPA will be publishing guides to address major industry safety concerns.

To ensure the entire industry has access to this vital information which keeps our industry up-to-date with relevant legislation and industry safety initiatives, the EWPA has made all EWPA guidance and information sheets available on its website, free to members and non-members alike.

Secondary Guarding Guidance The Secondary Guarding Guidance was published in November 2020 and is an update on the 2015 guidance, now covering devices used on scissors.

For supervisors it lists the risks to be considered and existing safety protections, while for the operator it describes different systems and how secondary guarding systems function.

The guide helps to know when to use a secondary guarding, what is available and how to choose a device.

“The EWPA is committed to promoting the safe use of MEWPs. We want everyone to understand what a Secondary Guarding system is, when it is required and how it functions.

This guidance has been updated to cover newly developed systems now available and is relevant to supervisors and MEWP operators.”

Coming up in 2021 Telehandler Good Practice Guide The Telehandler Good Practice Guide is underway and is expected to be released Q1.

It covers safe work practices on how to use Telehandlers safely and will help operators and supervisors meet legal obligations.

Directed at managers and those planning the work activity, plus Telehandler operators, the Telehandler Good Practice Guide will cover: • operation of telehandlers including the lifting of freely suspended loads; • the choice and use of different attachments; • risk assessment and safe management; P32

A key function of the EWPA is to promote safety and produce best practice guidance • plus the inspection and maintenance practices to ensure the machine is in a safe working condition.

The Guide is planned as easy to use with sample checklists to enable operators, supervisors etc to plan work safely. A specific agriculture CoP is also planned.

The new Telehandler Good Practice Guide follows the introduction of the MEWP good practice guide which is available: www. hireandrentalnews.com.au/ewpa-launchesgood-practice-guide/ Guidance on MEWPs in Tunnelling underground and Shotcreting Tunnelling, shotcreting and demolition are typically very harsh machine operating conditions and MEWPs used in these applications are often worked very hard, coming out covered in concrete spray, abrasive/ corrosive materials or contaminants.

This type of damage and contamination introduces new risks to the users of the machine. For eg: controls can be obscured or impaired; important safety instructions and decals can be covered or become illegible; safety devices may be impaired; the work platform can be overloaded from debris; or the work platform may become a slip /trip hazard; and often we see the guardrails can be bent or damaged after working in similar conditions.

Any equipment which has been damaged or contaminated with concrete or coorosvie materials or contaminants is not in a ‘safe working condition’.

The new Guidance on MEWPs in Tunnelling underground and Shotcreting is directed at users of MEWPs, in particular those working in harsh environments and is expected to be published Q1.

Guidance on MEWPs and Asbestos MEWPs and other hire equipment are often used on asbestos contaminated sites, such as demolition sites and hire companies must have a procedure and clear instructions for the hire and return of equipment onto asbestos contaminated sites.

To assist, the EWPA is working on producing a guide on MEWPs and asbestos which is expected to be published Q1.

The Guidance will state, any equipment used on a contaminated site must follow a specific cleaning ‘de-contamination’ process. Failure to correctly clean the equipment places the hire company staff and delivery drivers at risk.

Silica The EWPA is also working on producing a further guidance on Silica dust to ensure members remain abreast of recent updates and legislative changes. Silica dust is frequently created in demolition and construction and is a known carcinogen. On the good news front, workplace exposure standards for silica and coal dust halved in 2021.

Members can expect the silica dust update to be published Q4.

Truck Mounted EWP Code of Practice A specific CoP for Truck & Van Mounted Elevating Work Platforms is currently in the pipeline, which will cover the typical applications for vehicle mounts such as power and transmission services, signage, tree care, as well as specific safety practices such as using spreader pads and stabilising mats; high risk activities like working near powerlines, working on roads; and inspection and maintenance requirements. This CoP will be directed at owners, principal contractors, operators, service technicians and supervisors.

The Truck Mounted EWP Code of Practice will be published Q2.

Safety campaign for 2021: Powerlines Plus, the EWPA also plans to launch a new safety campaign for 2021 focusing on Powerlines. The campaign will look at what is required to work safely near powerlines; what to do if contacting a powerline; plus things like minimum approach distance and more.

Working near powerlines is a high risk when using MEWPs and Telehandlers and can have fatal results. Globally working near powerlines is a main cause of MEWP and working at height accidents.

The Global Access Meeting (in conjunction with HIRE21) will showcase protective devices and safety innovations to reduce electrocutions when working near powerlines.

Regulations The Australian Standard AS1418.10 is under revision for 2021. This revision incorporates the ergonomic and safety requirements from ISO 21455 Controls as well as revision of the major inspection ‘10 year’ requirements. n Visit: www.ewpa.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

TOTALLY NEW, TOTALLY STACKED RT & ERT ROUGH TERRAIN SCISSOR LIFTS

RT ENGINE POWERED

ERT ELECTRIC POWERED

Diesel engine

Battery powered with electric drive and AC motor

Hydrostatic drive

Regenerative braking actively recharges battery

Self-levelling Outriggers 4WD

CleanGuard™ leak containment option protects sensitive flooring 2WD

COMMON FEATURES Drive at full height capabilities

Hydraulic lift system

LiftSense

Best-in-class platform capacity

Industry’s first control box with LCD display

Easy-fold rails

Zero platform offset

Parts commonality

USB charger and phone holster

Whether you’re working on-slab or off, our rough terrain scissor lifts are available in both engine and electric power, and both versions come equipped with smart technology that increases operator confidence. With productivity and safety benefits, like drive at full height capability, class-leading platform capacity and the industry’s first control box with an LCD display, these rough terrain models bring more value to the job site.

Australia - 131 JLG (554) New Zealand - 0800 4 JLG NZ (55469) www.jlg.com.au

ACCESS IN ACTION

Compact crawler booms that are going places

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wo new compact crawler booms from JLG, the X17J Plus and the X20J Plus are tough, yet compact and manoeuvrable and are significantly lighter than their traditional counterparts.

With smaller dimensions opening new opportunities for arborists and maintenance contractors, the new units feature nonmarking rubber tracks that displace the machines’ weight over a broad footprint, minimising chance of damage to sensitive surfaces, Arron Cooper, Product and Marketing Manager (Australia & New Zealand), JLG Industries said.

“The tracked wheels also provide much better manoeuvrability than competitor models over a range of surfaces including muddy ground and uneven terrain, and with their auto-levelling outriggers, these machines are easy and fast to position for maximum stability,” Arron said.

“Although they offer reduced weight and improved versatility, the JLG combat boom crawlers lose nothing in terms of working capacity. In fact, both the X17J Plus and the X20J Plus offer an unrestricted 230kg platform capacity through the whole working envelope.

“This generous platform capacity is a key difference between these units and earlier

models. High platform capacity provides the option for a team of two (weight dependent) and their equipment, thereby delivering greater productivity,” Arron said.

The X17J Plus has a platform height of 14.96m and a working outreach of 7.65m, while

the X20J Plus features a platform height of 18.05m and a working outreach of 9.85m.

Both feature a track widening function to optimise stability and, where necessary, improve accessibility to narrow spaces. Other benefits include a unique box for emergency operation, a protected remote-control system with fully display for simple operation, a platform rotation actuator, lifting eyes on the outrigger and a ‘Skyguard’ for improved safety.

“Depending on operator requirements, buyers can select from petrol, diesel or lithium battery power options. As an environmentallyfriendly choice without emissions or noise, the lithium battery model delivers similar performance to the gasoline version.

“And because this Lithium technology allows 2,000 recharges before it will reduce capacity to less than 80%, it has proven itself superior to older lead batteries, which only allow a maximum of 500 recharges,” Arron said.

“The Plus Compact Crawler Booms are backed by comprehensive service, parts and technical support offerings.

“As an added bonus, all JLG owners can take advantage of the company’s Managed Asset Program (MAP), a service that takes the guesswork out of servicing their access equipment fleet, to help delivers all the right options to maximise customers’ ROI. “MAP options include meeting compliance, regular engine service and filter change, full lifecycle management at a fixed monthly cost, telematics service of remote tracking and monitoring.” n Visit: www.jlg.com.au

Haulotte expands its RTJ telescopic range

H

aulotte has expanded its RTJ range with the release of the HT16 RTJ telescopic boom which has a dual platform capacity along with 4-wheel steering and is ideal for work up to 16m (46 feet) high.

Designed for work in challenging environments and for demanding projects, the HT16 RTJ incorporates Haulotte safety standards and its latest innovations.

Haulotte General Manager Keith Clarke said the new RTJ machine has the best outreach on the market and offers dual load basket with a weight capacity up to 350kg (standard in AUS).

“Haulotte’s new telescopic boom Elevates the operator to the work area quickly (less than one minute to full height) thanks to quick and simultaneous movements associated with a 360° turret rotation. The mechanical axle drive allows for the use of a smaller, simpler engine (24hp/18.5 kW) while maintaining the same performances as other RTJ booms. Thanks to the smaller engine, the telescopic boom eliminates the need for a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC),” Keith said.

“The HT16 RTJ PRO easily climbs over obstacles and slopes up to 45%. Operators P34

can Elevate on uneven surfaces, even with a significant tilt angle of 5°, whatever the boom angle. The operator controlled locking rear differential allows maximum traction in the most difficult rough terrain situations.

Proportional controls guarantee smooth operation and precise movements on the way up to the work area. The new telescopic boom operates anywhere, even on the roughest terrain.

“It is the only machine of its category featuring 4-wheel steering. In 4-wheel steering mode, the turning radius is shortened, enabling the driver to manoeuvre in tight areas. Crab mode facilitates motion in all directions, making it easier to access the work area,” Keith said.

Haulotte has paid attention to the strength and reliability of the materials used in its new machine. All of the high-quality components come from market leading suppliers; the controls cover and tray are made of ultra-solid composite material and pins are protected against corrosion. Its ergonomic control box with joysticks enabling proportional commands offers improved driving comfort: up to four movements can be cumulated.

“In line with other RTJ equipment, the new telescopic boom embeds a high performance lighting system. Haulotte Activ’Lighting System

Haulotte said the new RTJ machine has the best outreach on the market and offers dual load basket

guarantees impressive visibility for safe loading operations in low light conditions: the lights integrated in the machine design illuminate the driving zone and both control panels.

“The Haulotte Activ’Shield Bar system, integrated into the control panel, reduces the risk of overhead crushing injuries. In an entrapment situation, the operator is pushed towards the bar and the machine stops automatically. The safety gap provides a clearance for the operator,” Keith said. n Visit: www.haulotte.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

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ACCESS IN ACTION

Skyjack’s commitment to simply reliable enters the next generation According to Kristopher Schmidt, Product Manager at Skyjack, Skyjack has built its reputation on providing simple and reliable products for the aerial access industry for over 30 years.

“

Through international expansions, global legislations, and new technology what’s simple has changed, and Skyjack is keeping its commitment,” Kristopher said.

“Simple still means equipment that’s easy to operate with a low maintenance design, but it also means incorporating technology that simplifies business processes. Most Skyjack products have been enhanced over the past year to help us keep the promise of ‘simply reliable’ with our next generation of machines.

“Skyjack announced a new range of fullsize rough terrain scissor lifts this past year.

This new range is now available in Australia and the redesigns resulted in Skyjack’s largest scissor lift to date, the SJ9253 RT. “While Skyjack’s existing full-size range was simple to use and updated to keep up with required standards, it didn’t see many major adjustments. This rough terrain redesign gave Skyjack the opportunity to see if there was a way to increase utilisation for customers and increase demand for this product range.

“Boasting increased height, capacities, and faster function speeds across the board, Skyjack’s new range consists of the SJ9233, SJ9243, and the SJ9253. There are also plans for an even large rough terrain scissor lift that would make work at six storeys possible, further increasing the number of applications these machines could be used for.

“Production lines at Skyjack’s Guelph, ON Canada facilities are also in full swing with the next generation of Skyjack DC scissor lifts. The changes made to the next generation machines help create a more globally aligned range. All DC electric scissor lifts will now boast a new control box, single location emergency lowering switch, adjusted pothole protection, new SkyCoded diagnostic display, and a more rigid scissor stack.

“There’s an easy way to spot the difference between Skyjack’s Series Three machines and our Next Generation – just look at the name. We’ve even simplified the nomenclature and our SJIII 3219 now becomes SJ3219,” Kristopher said.

“Overall, the 6m platform height is in the highest demand for DC electric scissor lifts year over year and the number of Skyjack P36

Skyjack’s Elevate telematics solution added new enhancements to its digital products

SJIII 3219s seen on job sites is proof of that.

Rough terrain scissor lifts have a bit more diversity in the field with the 10m platform height holding the highest demand, but with a relatively even spread across the other classes worldwide.

“The growth in demand over the past few years for machines over 15m was part of the reason Skyjack decided to increase the platform height on its full-size rough terrain range.

“On the technology front, Skyjack’s Elevate telematics solution added new enhancements to our suite of digital products. Functions like a Ready to Operate protocol has been introduced, which helps give rental companies true visibility to a machine. It allows service technician to see, while still on the phone with the operator, whether or not the controls are in the correct position to operate the machine. Skyjack’s solution for off-highway telematics has been well received since its 2018 introduction and has won six awards throughout three different continents in 2019 alone,” Kristopher said.

“Elevate Live is a new feature available on all Next Generation machines in Australia and directly links equipment operators to the machines they’re working on. Elevate Live provides access to critical machine information to operators including the machine’s current state of health, pre-use inspection guides, and familiarisation materials through a simple QR code.

“The mechanical and technological enhancements to Skyjack’s equipment are all part of creating a machine that’s simple to use for operators and providing maximum uptime for rental companies.” n Visit: www.skyjack.com

Sinoboom Australia head office opens Following the launch of the Sinoboom Australia subsidiary in October 2020, the head office in Melbourne in Hallam is now officially opened, acting as the hub for national operations.

T

he new facility has a range of electricdrive scissor lifts with platform heights from 13’ to 40’ (4m to 12m), a selection of boom lifts and parts for all machines.

Sinoboom Australia serves customers nationwide with full after-sales service provided in collaboration with dedicated service agent, Access Service Australia.

Sales Director for Sinoboom Australia, Jason Rigby, said: “We are delighted to open our new facility, which will provide on-site support for customers and is an ideal base for us to grow our supply of access equipment across Australia.

Sinoboom Australia’s head office in Hallam in Melbourne is now officially opened

“The design quality of Sinoboom scissors and boom lifts featuring worldclass components will meet the Australian market’s needs and exceed many expectations,” Jason said.

For parent company Sinoboom Intelligent Equipment, the opening of the Australian head office is another part of the strategy to fully support regional customers around the world. About 12 months ago, only the European subsidiary existed, with Tim Whiteman named as Sinoboom BV CEO in December 2019. Now, there are five global subsidiaries providing regional support and service, in Europe, North America, Australia, Korea and Singapore.

Sinoboom was founded in February 2008 and is located in Changsha – China’s capital for construction and heavy machinery manufacturing. n Visit: www.sinoboom.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

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ACCESS IN ACTION

Nifty HR12L offers best duty cycle and trailer transport The first shipment of Nifty’s HeightRider 12 Low-Weight (HR12L) self-propelled cherry pickers came into Australia early in 2020 after GTH Equipment’s Chris Crane visited the Niftylift factory in the UK and ordered 10 machines.

A

t the end of 2020, to back up the success of that first shipment, Chris ordered a second shipment of machines which has tied up all Nifty Australia’s available machines for NSW for 2021.

“GTH Equipment’s machines were the first Nifty HR12Ls in Australia and they went very well here,” Nifty Australia’s John King said.

Weighing just 2,540kg, the HR12L can be transported on a trailer (rather than a truck), offering significant savings for site-to-site transportation, John said.

“This smaller transportation option also reduces potential emissions during delivery allowing the machine to be moved easily in low-emission zones.

“The whole package with the trailer comes in under 3.5tonnes, which means the trailer and HR12L can be hooked up to a tow vehicle with 3.5tonnes towing capacity with no need for electric brakes.

“It has changed the way we deliver low weight booms,” John said.

“Instead of needing a tilt tray truck, you can tow this machine which reduces transport emissions.”

The HR12Ls also come with a 2,470kg Lithium battery option which further reduces the equipment’s carbon footprint.

“The HR12L utilises a super-efficient battery power system with all-electric drive that allows the batteries to work for twice as long, so more work can be completed on a charge and running costs reduced,” John said.

“At Nifty we believe the future is green with electric and or hybrid equipment the way forward.

“Nifty knows how difficult it can be to explain new technology and how it can benefit the user. We realised we were having difficulty explaining to customers and end users what a ‘Hird cycle’ was. The Hird Cycle is how long a machines battery will last. To help clarify the extended life of Nifty batteries we launched the Niftylift Standard Duty cycle which has the same actions as the Hird cycle,” John said.

“All previous data is relevant but now we can now choose how the cycle is communicated to our customers and end users. The Standard Duty Cycle (SDC) allows each machine to be P38

assigned a ‘SDC rating’ which will be directly related to the number of Standard Duty cycles the machine can perform on one full battery charge. This will make it easy to compare each of our products to one another.”

According to John, a standard day’s work on a Nifty HR12L is about 16 SDCs of operation.

With the new HR12L, the battery will run for up to 60 SDCs once fully charged.

The Nifty difference Chris Crane of GTH Equipment said Nifty has always had an innovative way of thinking.

“Their products are different; they offer light-weight machinery with energy-saving

alternatives. The Nifty HR12L has the best duty cycle on the market which will appeal to our industry here in Australia,” Chris said.

“Nifty has always complied with the safety standards in Australia and their products are well recognised by all major builders in Australia. The HR12L is one product that no other competitor has been able to design or engineer as yet and it really puts Nifty ahead in terms of light-weight engineering.

“This machine has a 6.4m horizontal outreach and only weighs 2560kgs. With non-marking tyres and a zero tail-swing, it is ideal for construction sites where multistory buildings are being built and suspended flooring comes into play,” Chris said.

“Building engineers are reluctant to approve heavy machinery on these suspended floors for the obvious reasons but the Nifty HR12L has been embraced by many trades such as glaziers, structural steel riggers, HVAC fitters and more.

“This machine enables trades to work from within the building out. Due to their lightweight they have been approved to work on high-rise buildings on each floor.

“This machine will only become more and more popular over time. We have found as they get put onto a project, more trades start calling us for the same machine from the same project.

Where sensitive ground/slabs are a factor, the Nifty HR12L is the machine of choice,” Chris said.

“Nifty machines are very user-friendly with simple controls that every operator can use with ease. Also having the SiOPS (Secondary Guarding) basket technology makes all Nifty equipment compliant with all Tier 1 builders in Australia.

GTH Equipment specialises in material handling equipment (telescopic handlers, 4x4 diesel and LPG forklifts) and Elevated work platforms (boom lift EWPs, scissor lift EWPs and vertical mast lifts).

“Our telescopic handlers range from 2.5 tonne to 13 tonne, EWP scissor lifts range from 19ft to 60ft, EWP boom lifts range from 30ft to 135ft and our vertical mast lifts range from 12ft to 26ftm,” Chris said.

Nifty features Features of the HR12L include: working height of 12.1m (39ft 6in); working outreach of 6.4m (21ft); safe working load of up to 200kg (440lbs); versatile and low-cost transportation; proportional multi-functional control offers fast and precise operation; efficient maintenancefree battery power system which maximises battery output to do more with each charge and reducing downtime; plus ToughCage with SiOPS – the multi-award winning operator protection from Nifty. SiOPS provides additional operator protection, eliminating sustained involuntary operation by instantly stopping machine movement if the operator is pushed onto the control console. The impactresistant composite / aluminium base and larger cross-section steel rails of the ToughCage give additional strength and durability. n Visit: www.niftylift.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

ACCESS IN ACTION

Intelligent Controls for easy and safe lift operation Hy-Brid Lifts has introduced Intelligent Controls, offering intuitive and safe operation of lifts with features including a diagnostics display, indoor/outdoor selection and movement controls.

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he new Controller Area Network (CAN) bus controls come standard on all Pro Series Hy-Brid Lift models and replace the previous hard-wired controls.

“Many lift manufacturers are making the switch from hard-wired controls, but ours takes it to the next level,” Terry Dolan, Hy-Brid Lifts President and CEO said.

“We listened to customers and learned what controls and options would make their jobs easier. Then we implemented those elements to make the most intuitive controls possible.”

The Intelligent Controls includes selection buttons for driving and lifting control. The driving control engages steering and forward and backward motion controls. The lifting control engages the up and down movement of the platform. Both driving and lifting movement feature Hy-Brid Lifts’ proportional control. This provides feather-like control for optimal lift positioning and precise jobsite mobility. Additionally, if the controls have not been used after a short amount of time, they will automatically disengage for safety reasons, Terry said.

“The panel also includes a diagnostic display that indicates battery charge level, percentage of load in the platform and hours on the machine. It will also show warnings such as platform overload and tilt angle. Operators can cycle through the diagnostic display with the easy-to-identify information button.

“Customers told us they want to see the percentage of weight capacity in the platform,” Terry said. “Competitive units will give a fault

code, but don’t indicate how much weight has caused the issue. It could be a matter of raising the lift up, transferring something off a shelf into the lift, and then receiving a fault code. It could be five pounds or 50 pounds. Our system makes it easy to identify so they can efficiently accomplish their jobs.”

New US ANSI standards indicate once a machine is overloaded, it must stop all functions. This includes lowering the unit until the weight on the platform has been brought back to the manufacturer’s specified capacity. Hy-Brid Lifts feature higher platform capacities, minimising the chance of overloading, Terry said.

“Additionally, active load sensing helps the operator avoid an overload situation by knowing how close they are to max capacity.

This allows them to bring the lift down to unload weight before adding more materials on the platform.

“An operator who has overloaded the machine might think it is not functioning properly,” Terry said.

“If they are not familiar with the new technology, they might call the rental company and request a service call. By educating customers and rental centres, they can avoid these situations and costly service calls.

“The control panel includes an indoor/ outdoor selection button. The indoor option allows for full height operation if no wind is present. The outdoor selection button limits the height to allow for a 28mph wind speed, which complies with ANSI A92.20. This indoor/ outdoor option increases safety for the operator and provides contractors access to more jobs.

Since any possibility of wind classifies the working area as outdoor, the outdoor option is especially useful for operators who might work in a building where the walls aren’t up yet, Terry said.

The Intelligent Controls also include a horn, which adds a safety element by alerting other workers about the lift when entering a hallway or room.

Hy-Brid Lifts is a brand of Custom Equipment. n

Hy-Brid Lifts Intelligent Controls make operation easier for users

Visit: www.hybridlifts.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

Work related fatalities in 2019 The Work-related Traumatic Injury Fatalities Australia 2019 report which provides the latest detailed national statistics on all workers and bystanders fatally injured at work was released

by Safe Work Australia late last year.

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hile falls from height still register as one of the most common causes of worker fatalities, the 2019 report shows, over the last decade, the number and rate of work-related fatalities have been gradually decreasing.

In 2007, the fatality rate was 3.0 fatalities per 100,000 workers. In 2019, this rate has decreased by 53% to 1.4 fatalities per 100,000 workers.

The number of work-related fatalities recorded in 2018 represented an unusual decrease compared to the longer-term trends in fatality numbers.

While the number of work-related fatalities has been steadily decreasing over the past decade, any workplace death is tragic and unacceptable. Understanding the causes of injury and the industries most affected can help reduce work-related fatalities.

The report details in 2019 62% of worker fatalities occurred in the following industries: • Transport, postal and warehousing (58 fatalities); • Agriculture, forestry and fishing (30 fatalities); • Construction (26 fatalities).

The most common causes of worker fatalities in 2019 were: • Vehicle collisions (43%); • Falls from a height (11%); • Hit by falling objects (11%).

The report and data is drawn from a range of sources, including reporting of fatalities in the media, notifications from jurisdictional authorities, and the National Coronial Information System.

This report provides complements and provides additional detail to the Key Work Health and Safety Statistics published on 12 October 2020. n Visit: www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au

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ACCESS IN ACTION

Improving scissor lift safety through technology

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few years ago the Australian construction industry began to push heavily for better scissor lift safety, following a series of tragic construction site fatalities involving this equipment, Rob Branch, National Product Manager – Specialist Mobile Products at Coates Hire said.

Having already led the market with the operator protection fit out of its entire boom lift fleet, in 2019 Coates Hire became the first Australian equipment hire specialist to also commit to upgrading operator safety across its entire scissor lift flee, Rob said.

“With such a diverse fleet we needed technology that could be retrofitted to all scissor lift makes and models,” Rob said.

“It also needed to be cost effective to implement on a large scale, and straightforward to install and maintain. The ideal solution was found in EQSS OverWatch.

“This technology offers compatibility with Coates Hire’s existing fleet and longevity of

use with our suppliers, so it’s a really good fit,” Rob said.

“Once the roll out is complete we will have a single secondary operator protection system across our entire scissor lift fleet, so all of our branches, mechanics and customer support teams will have one consistent system to work with.

“The scissor lift safety agenda is moving forward in other parts of the industry too.

All of the OEMs that supply scissor lifts to Coates Hire have approved the use of EQSS OverWatch on their machines, and all new scissor lifts from these manufacturers will come with it fitted as standard.”

According to Rob, EQSS OverWatch’s unique philosophy will help Coates Hire and its customers to approach scissor lift safety a little differently.

“Where other systems are designed to detect the proximity of other objects, this unit intuitively detects the movements and behaviours of the operator.

“For example, if the operator leans their

head over the rail, presses up against the controls or moves too far away from the controls, EQSS OverWatch will automatically shut the equipment down.

“Anecdotally we know many accidents happen when operators fail to use equipment safely,” Rob said.

“By monitoring operator behaviour, EQSS OverWatch forces users to stand in the correct position, and to operate scissor lifts safely.”

Other benefits of this system include: • Ease of installation; • Convenience and durability; • Back-up safety features; • Safe movement through doorways.

“The need to improve scissor lift safety has long been embraced by customers and backed by industry. Recently CPB Contractors, Lendlease and other major contractors began insisting scissor lifts fitted with secondary protection be prioritised for use on their sites.

In December 2020 many Australian contractors made this a mandatory requirement.

“While this change is not yet an Australian Standard or a statutory requirement, I find it encouraging this is being driven by industry for industry,” Rob said.

With close to 500 scissor lifts already fitted with EQSS OverWatch, Coates Hire is currently working towards installing this technology across its entire 3000 strong scissor lift fleet within two years. n Visit: www.coateshire.com.au

Hy-Brid Lifts adds Skyreach Equipment to network Low-level access equipment provider, Hy-Brid Lifts has added US based Skyreach Equipment to its Mid-Atlantic network to represent Hy-Brid Lifts’ full line of lifts in a rental and sales capacity.

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kyreach added PS-1930 and PS-1430 units to their fleet in May and said it has since seen 100% rental utilisation and customer satisfaction.

Contractors in the glass and drywall industries find the machines’ electric drive, light weight, and LeakGuard fluid containment system beneficial, Kevin Gray, Vice President of Skyreach Equipment said.

“Hy-Brid Lifts was one of the first manufacturers of lightweight, compact scissor lifts,” Kevin said.

“A lot of our customers work in unique applications that require low point loads, and that’s when we knew Hy-Brid Lifts would be the perfect addition. In fact, some of our contractors were asking for them by name.”

The glass industry is a key focus for Skyreach, who rent out glass manipulators and handlers on a regular basis. Glass contracting applications present strict floor load restrictions, which Hy-Brid Lifts meet. The PS-1930 weighs P40

benefit from the system. We have customers working on historical buildings in downtown Washington, DC and Baltimore. They require a lightweight lift and a leak containment system, both of which Hy-Brid Lifts provide.”

Skyreach currently offers lifts from Hy-Brid Lifts’ Pro Series, which include innovative features, such as a compact and lightweight footprint and a high lift capacity. Skyreach is also looking to add the new Zero-Turn Series and Push-Around Series lifts to its lineup. n

1,985 pounds and has a minimum wheel load of 107psi. The PS-1430 weighs 1,780 pounds and has a minimum wheel load of 97.5psi.

Visit: www.hybridlifts.com Additionally, Hy-Brid Lifts’ Pro Series features the LeakGuard fluid containment system, which protects delicate floors from potential leaks. The system provides an alternative to inconvenient and messy methods, including commonly used diapers.

“All of our customers have been impressed with LeakGuard,” Kevin said.

“Contractors working with glass, unfinished floors Hy-Brid Lifts added US based Skyreach Equipment to its Mid-Atlantic network and data centers all

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

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ACCESS IN ACTION – TRAILER & TRUCK MOUNTS

4 tech innovations on new spiderbooms Launching a brand-new category of access equipment, Almac Pacific is releasing three new spiderboom models in its Billennium range early this year featuring self-propelled capabilities and fully automatic stabilisation.

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lmac-Pacific’s General Manager, Bob Mules said the Billennium series is an innovative, game-changing product, best explained by its name – spiderboom – no hyphen, no space; a melting pot of the product-specific characteristics of the classic spider and boom lift.

“It boasts increased basket capacity, unique outreach and stabilisation space requirements. It is a new category of equipment aimed at providing a solution for a AlmaCrawler’s new Spiderboom is a melting pot of the characteristics of the classic wider range of user needs, spider and boom lift specifically addressing the issue of cutting time in order • SPS (Self-Propelled Skill System) – the to contain cost,” Bob said. machine has self-propelled capabilities to All three new models – B1570, B1890, greatly improve productivity; B1890 Q-Pro – of the innovative, high-cycle • QPro – or Quick Pro (variable fully and beginner-proof spiderbooms come with automatic stabilisation eliminates the need diesel engine or Lithium battery option. for operator proficiency and makes the Bob said the new spiderbooms feature four series perfectly suited for rental companies new tech innovations including:

– it also does not have mechanical micro switches but rather magnetic ones that mean lower TCO). The operator simply chooses between four different stabilisation configurations by selecting it directly from the main console; • the XXL undercarriage (provides a safer, more stable machine which creates a better, more positive user-experience); • the Tasket basket (the extra that allows the equipment to be extra – the only two operator basket that does not need to be dismounted when going through a door).

The Tasket is a standard removable, and resizable basket.

“90% of our machinery is employed in rental fleets globally and as a result, all AlmaCrawler products are designed with the user experience in mind and rental fleet requirements at its core. We design machinery that can endure high cycle usage in stark difference to traditional, conservative tracked access equipment which is primarily designed for end users.

“With the addition of the Billennium series we can offer a solution for any type of maintenance job on the market. AlmaCrawler products are designed to allow the operator to seamlessly go from an Almac scissor lift to an Almac boom lift to an Almac spiderboom with ease,” Bob said.

Bob said while many in the market consider spiderlifts low-weight, end-user machinery with a poorly designed user experience meant to satisfy the owner and nobody else.

“We’re here to change that concept.

“At AlmaCrawler, we make real equipment.

All AlmaCrawler products are sturdy, serious equipment designed for rental fleets and multiple operators. Our Spiders are robust and user-friendly and game changing,” Bob said. n Visit: www.almac-pacific.com.au

Skyjack access equipment for Hainan Airlines

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Skyjack division delivered a series electric scissor and articulating boom orders to China’s Hainan Airlines

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ith its reputation for maneuverability and precise positioning capabilities, Skyjack division delivered a series electric scissor and articulating boom orders to Hainan Airlines, China late last year.

The order means there are more than 30 Skyjack machines in use by Hainan Airlines in different locations across China.

“We have rich sales experience in the aviation industry as the distributor of Skyjack in Southern China. The equipment is used in many airports and by many airline companies for aircraft maintenance,” Mr Fu, from Skyjack’s dealer Guangzhou FTZ E Strong Co said.

“The multiple deliveries proves the trust of the end users and the strong recognition of Skyjack’s brand within our area.”

The orders included a combination of: • SJ4740 DC electric scissor lifts; • SJ46 and 63 AJ articulating booms; • and two full-size rough terrain models.

Skyjack’s Business Director for Asia, Simon

Cracknell said the COVID-19 outbreak had a significant impact on the airline industry worldwide, and in order to get back to recovery, more efficient equipment was requested within this region.

“The SJ4740’s SkyCoded control system and rigid scissor stack make it ideal for airport ramp applications where precise positioning and impressive platform height are required. The SJ63 AJ’s industry-leading horizontal reach and up-and-over clearance allows access to areas on a job site that may not be accessible otherwise,” Simon said.

“We’re very pleased to see our customer choose Skyjack again for their aviation needs.

For indoor and outdoor applications, Skyjack is famous for its simple reliability,” Simon said.

“At the same time I’d like to thank our dealer E Strong which just celebrated its 20 year anniversary.” n Visit: www.skyjack.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

FEB

2020 2021

VOL22 N OO0 .0 3 5 N

OFFICIAL BULLETIN OF THE EVENTS DIVISION OF THE HIRE AND RENTAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION LTD

HIRE21

We’re back!

Gold Coast 12-13 May 2021 Register now HIRE21.com.au

IN THIS ISSUE

New Year, new challenges – President Message – p44

Patti’s Hire acquires Pages Event Hire – p45

Wearable contact tracing devices – what Harrys created during lockdown – p46

EVENTS IN FOCUS

President’s message

New year, new challenges

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elcome to 2021, a brand new year for all of us, our Association and also brand new opportunities and yes, challenges.

At the end of last year the HRIA held its AGMs and I was re-elected as National President for the Events Division.

I’m very happy to step back into these shoes and look forward to working with all our members and our Association. I have to say, the role is a much bigger one than I expected when I first took on the job but while it has been a big learning curve, I feel I have benefitted in many myriad ways, not least of all of being at the forefront of understanding more about our very challenging industry.

We have also taken big steps towards raising awareness of our industry and the challenges we face and spent a considerable amount of time last year talking with government representatives about the very real challenges we faced as an industry during the COVID pandemic shutdowns.

The announcement on 2 December last year about the rolling back of COVID

restrictions was great news for the events sector and was the start of getting us all back on track and working back in our businesses.

This was the first step towards increasing consumer confidence in our abilities to provide first class events with all the safety measures patrons now expect in our postpandemic world.

Work is now happening with the Victorian Government to discuss the return of large scale events.

The HRIA has engaged with the Victorian COVID Strategy and Industry Recovery team at the Department of Jobs Precincts and Regions. From these initial meetings we prepared a submission that has gone to the Minister for Industry Support and Recovery, Trade, Business Precincts, Tourism, Sport, Major Events and Racing.

The HRIA submission outlines the need for government support if the events industry is going to survive this prolonged period of cancelled and postponed events. The HRIA also highlight the need for a clear roadmap with timelines, so event organisers, suppliers and customers can safely and confidently

plan for events.

Planning for the HRIA Convention on 12-13 May 2021 at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre is well underway with networking and workshops set for the events sector.

To kick start the Convention, a networking afternoon tea has been planned for the Tuesday 11 May and an events workshop will also be held during the two day event.

Finally, but not least, we are all facing a tough road ahead to re-establish and restart our businesses with a major hurdle we all face in recruitment. How do we bring back our dedicated and focused events knowledgeable staff? Or do we just look for new staff and train them up?

Recruitment and talent and strategies on how to manage this will be a focus area for the Events Division into 2021.

We welcome your input and look forward to working with you all throughout the year ahead.

Welcome to a brand new year.

Erin Johnston National Events President

VIC Member Update – Event hire company restrictions The HRIA National Office has been monitoring the evolving impact of COVID-19 for the entire industry but also specifically for Events members to obtain clarification around the definition of ‘Outdoor Spaces’.

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he HRIA advises Victorian members the definition of ‘Outdoor Spaces’ in relation to the hospitality industry is: • Outdoor space: ‘Outdoors’ means a space with no roof; or an open-air space designated for the consumption of food and/or beverages, which may have

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a temporary or fixed cover (eg: awning or roof) so long as such cover has at least two open sides for airflow.

• Roof: any structure or device (whether fixed or movable) that prevents or significantly impedes upward airflow, including a ceiling.

• Wall: any structure or device (fixed or movable) that prevents or significantly impedes lateral airflow, including a closed window or door.

An outdoor space may include any of the following spaces: • A balcony or veranda; • A courtyard; • A rooftop; • A marquee; • A street or footpath;

• Any similar outdoor areas.

For the definition of what is an indoor vs outdoor space for hospitality venues, this can be found in the “Industry Restart Guidelines Document – Hospitality” on the Accommodation and food services sector guidance page of the Victorian Government site.

Under the current Third Step – the HRIA advises Victorian members all equipment hire is permitted.

However members are advised to check the Government website for specific details relating to the industry you are hiring to as well as other current restrictions. n Email: info@hireandrental.com.au or call the national office for more information.

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2020

EVENTS IN FOCUS

Patti’s Hire acquires Pages Event Hire Patti’s Hire has had a busy few months with the recent acquisitions of the events division of Exponet (formerly Butlers Hire), and in October, the acquisition of Pages Event Hire.

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atti’s inventory now includes over 80,000m2 of temporary structure from 2m to 50m in span including multi-level structures, 60,000m2 of temporary flooring, 8,000m2 of scaffold decking and a substantial quantity of event furniture, tableware, linen and furnishings.

Patti’s Hire CEO Darren Wheeler said despite a COVID-19 affected market, Patti’s Hire is ideally positioned financially and operationally to grow through the current conditions, integrating the vast equipment resource of Pages inventory and recognising and building on the goodwill developed over

Patti’s Hire is ideally positioned financially and operationally to grow through the current conditions, more than 60 years of Pages history.

“This additional acquisition signals a new era for Patti’s Hire, strengthening our strategic position with the ability to easily

service the temporary infrastructure needs of the East Coast of Australia with a vast resource pool,” Darren said.

“Patti’s Hire combined knowledge and experience of over 150 years in event hire across a range of major projects is supported by a multi-skilled staff and one of the largest vehicle fleets in the event industry.

To facilitate the smooth integration of the businesses into a single cohesive unit and ensure a seamless continuation of service to valued long-term clients, key personnel have been retained from Pages.

The addition of these experienced event professionals in both sales and operations roles stand us in good stead to further develop partnership strategies with our event industry clients to provide products, resources, and assistance in moving into the post pandemic marketplace.

“With this acquisition we have now got a highly experienced team with a huge knowledge and skill base to draw on, coupled with one of the largest combined structure and furniture inventories in the country, providing our clients with an increase in quality and variety of equipment available.”

Darren is looking to the future and said “the focus turns now to clear and strong communication with our people and our clients to move confidently into this exciting new era.” n Visit: www.pattishire.com.au

FORMIT ACCESSIBLE UNIT

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2020

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EVENTS IN FOCUS

Wearable contact tracing device offering possibilities for business Harry the hirer has taken the devastation and loss of business from COVID-19 and focused its attention instead on development of an innovative range of initiatives to help organisations get through the difficult times.

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arry’s initiatives include options like temperature scanning points, pop-up temporary structures for medical facilities, triage and ambulance bays through to drive-through testing stations, but its major focus was the Smart Badge which is now being utilised across diverse markets.

Smart Badge is a wearable device – a badge, lanyard or clip – with triple action technology providing automated and instant contact tracing, social distancing alerts for wearers and real-time capacity management to ensure businesses stay within set regulations.

Developed in Australia Smart Badge is a wearable device – a badge, lanyard or clip – with triple action

by Harry the hirer, the Smart technology Badge wearable technology protects business with instant contact times: customers can set preferred timing for tracing, Simon Finlayson – Harry the hirer social distancing alerts.

Smart Badge guru and leader of the project “With the ability to be tailored to a said. variety of different industries and existing “The Smart Badge will vibrate, beep or infrastructure, we believe Smart Badge is the light up to assist with social distancing if simple and cost-effective solution to stay safe within 1.5m of another wearer. The tech also during the global pandemic. easily manages capacity in set areas at work “Rick and the team at Harry’s were to stay in line with regulations and is backed compelled to help the events industry to up by real-time data updates and a userget back on its feet which led to the idea for friendly dashboard,” Simon said. the Smart Badge. They quickly recognised “Software controls Smart Badge the potential of this product to help wider functionality and provides contact tracing via industries; to keep more people working, an online portal. Smart Badge and Beacon protect businesses by helping them stay Software share information via Bluetooth compliant with government regulations, and Technology. ultimately boost Australia’s economy.

Data is secure, privacy protected and “Initially we saw Smart Badge as an event wiped after 56 days. focused product however it transitioned to be a technology suitable and adaptable for a Customisable tech wide variety of industries.

“Smart badge options are available to meet “The idea and investment was driven specific industry requirements: wristband,

by Harry’s who wanted to help businesses lanyard, helmet clip, pin, waterproof and get back on their feet, no matter how big customisable in terms of colours and logos of or small, supplier or competitor, or what bands and lanyards,” Simon said. industry they were from.

Plus other options include alert delay “Harry’s first saw events and conferences P46

cancelled back in March 2020, starting with the Grand Prix, and by April our traditional industry had been completely shut down,” Simon said.

“The idea was always there but from April onwards we moved into an advanced research and development phase to see what was both possible and viable with the tech, then with the results, committed to the investment and bringing it to life in the new financial year.

“We saw some serious potential with Smart Badge and financed it like new business. Naturally there was a sizeable investment over the eight months of development which is expected when playing in the new technology space.

“The beauty of Smart Badge is it can be used across a variety of industries. The physical badge comes in different styles (watch, lanyard and clip) to meet specific industries needs and importantly can integrate into existing technology such as security or payroll sign on/off systems.

Currently it’s being used by our clients in industries including retail, food processing, government, manufacturing, construction, professional sport, corporate services and events/hospitality.

“Hire is another important area for Smart Badge with the use of the device at conferences, exhibitions and major ‘physical events’ as a proactive measure. It will give organisers the ability to respond immediately in the event of an outbreak.

“We’ve had a very strong uptake and interest in Smart Badge, working with industries we never thought we would at Harry’s including major retail, food processing, manufacturing, construction, and professional services.

Safety & Security “We take the privacy of data seriously with scalable security controls and multiple layers of defence to protect information as per the Australian Privacy Principles.

“With confidentiality and integrity our focus, and security at the core of our software, the collected data is only matched to the Smart Badge ID should contact tracing be required.

“Exclusively distributed by Aspen Medical, the Smart Badge underpins Aspen Medical’s suite of COVID-19 solutions including infection prevention and control advisory services, temporary facilities and mobile clinics, medical teams, online training and the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE).

“By partnering with global healthcare provider, Aspen Medical, as the ‘exclusive distributor’ it also opened up new doors and provided another level of credibility given they are the only commercial organisation in the world certified by the World Health Organisation.

“As you can imagine, there is a lot of interest from major events and sporting codes from around the country. I can’t say much more than that right now, but we will see HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2020

EVENTS IN FOCUS

The Smart Badge technology is really simple to use

how it plays out in the coming months and into 2021,” Simon said.

“The reaction has been really positive; both our customers and supplier industries are impressed with the capabilities of the technology and also our commitment to do what we can to get the industry moving again.

Harrys as a technology business “The technology itself is really simple to use but the outputs are notable, and it’s highlighted Harry’s wider scope as a technology business. Many weren’t aware of our in-house capabilities to develop this sort of tech with IT, electronics, R&D and developers within our ranks. We didn’t need to hire out and were able to manage everything internally.

“We see this technology becoming a big part of the future particularly with long-term

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2020

health security; it’s not just for the hire and rental markets because everyone needs to be able to protect their business and people from any form of a health-related outbreak,” Simon said.

“Post COVID, we anticipate a shift in particularly production type industries where masses of people work closely together, with an upscaled focus on health security to protect businesses and their people. Much like after September 11, where security protocols changed around world, we believe health security will be a major focus moving forward. Already we are seeing major organisations appointing new roles such as Chief Health Officers and believe this will continue,” he said.

“Both Smart Badge and Harry’s are working very closely with the wider events industry to play our role with getting things back on track. We are anticipating and working towards operating with some restrictions through most of 2021 and by 2022, hope we will be closer to returning to normal behaviours.

“The impact of COVID has been devastating for Harry’s, along with the wider supplier industry. We’ve been shut down since March with no events, lost over 1000 staff and had no roadmap of what is ahead.

Our once thriving events world rapidly fell apart overnight with many businesses sadly now closed or struggling to survive.

“But we – being both Harry’s and Smart Badge – have an important role to play in

the re-build efforts as we bring major events back to life, safely. In Victoria particularly, it’s important we protect the events culture that makes our state famous; a tourism destination and helps drives the economy.

“We are confident major events, conferences, exhibitions or any form of mass gathering for that matter, can be held again safely but collectively need to pivot and introduce new processes and protocols. We are doing everything we can as a business to work with major events, government, suppliers and even competitors to get the industry we all love, back on track.

What next?

“In 2021, Harry’s will rebuild and focus on our core hire and rental side of the business. We’ll focus on re-engaging and understanding the market, our customer’s needs and work to support and grow their events again through innovation, new systems and processes.

“Like with every challenge, comes opportunity, and this has been Smart Badge for us in 2020; however we see it becoming an important part of our wider business and industry in 2021 and beyond. It has an important role to play in keeping events safe as they are reinstated, but also as a long-term health security solution. n Visit: www.harrythehirer.com.au and www.smartbadge.com.au

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MINI EQUIPMENT & LANDSCAPING

All new RT-50 Posi-Track Loader ASV Sales & Service’s all-new ASV RT-50 Posi-Track Loader is compact and lightweight, can be towed behind a ute, is reliable, efficient and packed with power and torque, Craig Doran, Managing Director of ASV Sales & Service said.

“

The new RT-50 is light, fast and strong, and sits in a size class of its own in the Australian market at 50 horsepower,” Craig said.

“What’s more, its notably compact size and high ground clearance allows operators to get into tight areas and do things they may never have thought possible with a compact track loader of this size.

“It’s also very lightweight at under 2.5 tonne, so can be towed by a ute or four wheel drive, and even comes with a bumper to bumper two year 2000 hour warranty as standard, including two years for tracks as well, which together is unmatched in the Australian market,” Craig said.

The RT-50 delivers impressive power in tight areas making this Posi-Track ideal for any mid-sized machine owner or operator searching for improved site accessibility, Craig said.

“Offering a greater performance-toweight ratio than any machine in its class, the RT-50 features a 900kg rated operating capacity while weighing just 2427kgs. High performance in a lightweight machine means easy transportability and less risk of turf damage. The outcome is more income and profit in a contractor’s pocket.

“The RT-50 works hard and fast all day long, thanks to exceptional digging and pushing power resulting from ASV’s PosiPower system, combined with a 50hp engine, high efficiency drive system and a light overall weight,” he said.

“This machine also handles demanding attachments with ease, running a highly efficient cooling system and a robust hydraulic setup that includes 3,000psi of auxiliary pressure and a 50 litres per minute of flow. The system features large line sizes, hydraulic coolers and direct-drive pumps, transferring more flow and pressure directly to the attachment with maximum efficiency.

“ASV has designed and manufactured the RT-50 with features to optimise productivity and quality of work. Operators can use the machine to load landscape trucks and small dump trucks thanks to the loader’s 2,784mm pin height. Getting around the jobsite quickly is just as easy, due to the loader’s 11.4km/h top speed,” Craig said.

Compact, Light and Easy to Transport Owners and operators can tow the RT-50 Posi-Track behind a standard ute or SUV, the result of the machine’s low trailer weight and narrow 1,486mm width. Plus, tight

The RT-50 features a 900kg rated operating capacity while weighing 2427kgs

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The new RT-50 is very lightweight at under 2.5 tonne can be towed by a ute or four wheel drive

area operations, such as working in narrow backyards is made easier by its slim design, Craig said.

“The lightweight RT-50 Posi-Track also excels in soft ground conditions, allowing operators to get back to work sooner after wet weather, or on sensitive turf. The machine minimises the risk of ground damage with its class-leading low ground pressure of 3.1psi.

ASV achieves this low ground pressure with 15inch-wide tracks and an even weight distribution brought on by the large number of contact points within the patented PosiTrack undercarriage.

“The innovative, patented undercarriage design also means ASV customers can use the machine as an all-terrain, all-season piece of equipment with maximum control, flotation, traction and pushing power in steep, wet, muddy and slippery conditions.

“Furthermore, the risk of track derailment is virtually eliminated thanks to numerous contact points and guide lugs.

Operators can drive over logs, stumps, rocks and other obstructions with less risk of getting hung up. This is from the RT-50’s 366mm of ground clearance; nearly double that of comparable models from other manufacturers,” Craig said.

The patented Posi-Track undercarriage improves operator comfort, offering a smoother ride over tough terrain by a unique torsion axle suspension setup, Craig said.

Operation is easy and intuitive with standard joystick controls. An optional all weather cab with heat and A/C allows year-round comfort, and ASV also offers an optional suspended seat.

The RT-50 Posi-Track Loader offers ease of serviceability, minimising machine downtime. Thanks to a large rear-tilting hood, all maintenance points are easily accessible: drain plugs, Zerk fittings for convenient greasing, and spin-on framemounted filters with single-wrench service.

Plus, a direct-drive pump eliminates labour-intensive belt servicing. The RT-50 is backed by ASV’s two-year/2,000hour bumper-to-bumper warranty, which covers tracks for the entire period and includes the industry’s first and only no-derailment guarantee. n Visit: www.asvaus.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

MINI EQUIPMENT & LANDSCAPING

Huski mini excavator adds spark to business The addition of a new M-16U Huski Construction Equipment mini excavator to electrical contracting business, MD Industries’ fleet was based on the performance of its longstanding Toyota 5SDK5 Huski skid steer loader.

Point of Rental employees took to the gardening tools to help make a young widow’s tough 2020 a little brighter

Yard makeover part of software supplier’s charity focus

P MD Industries’ Matt De Bono said the 1.6 tonne Huski mini excavator’s excellent break-out force for its size was key to its utility and transportability

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D Industries Director and Project Manager, Matt De Bono said: “We are mainly electrical contractors but we cover a lot of fields and also do project work, providing entire customer solutions such as demolition, fit-outs, a whole range of works.

“Because we cover so many areas, we can wrap it up as a package: do all the excavations, trenching, footings, the civil works, concreting, and of course the electrical side of things. We also provide 24-hour everyday quick response.

“At the moment we’re focused on building a network of electric car-charging stations throughout New South Wales. When it’s complete, and it’s due for completion by June 2021, you’ll be able to find one every 150 kilometres, all the way to the state borders.”

Given the regional nature of the network, MD Industries faced logistical challenges in terms of transporting a 2.5 tonne excavator to job sites.

“We go to some pretty far-flung places and it was just too big, heavy and expensive for towing. We were hiring excavators in rural areas but the further we went; it was getting harder and harder to find machines. We were travelling an hour just to get a machine and then an hour back.”

The business needed something lighter and smaller, yet still powerful.

As a long-time satisfied Toyota Huski skid steer loader user, Matt said his experiences with HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

the 5SDK5 influenced his decision to buy the M-16U Huski mini excavator.

“When we started out, we didn’t have a skid steer loader. But as the business grew, we realised we needed those wide-ranging capabilities the Huski 5SDK5 provides.

“It has helped us perform duties more efficiently. The Huski skid steer loader definitely makes life a lot easier for us and it’s fair to say it has helped our business grow.

“Likewise, our business growth and the size of our recent electric car-charging station commitments really spurred the decision to get our new Huski mini excavator, making it quicker and easier to finish our projects.”

Matt said he considered buying the smallest mini excavator in the Huski range but liaison with Huski Construction Equipment Area Sales Manager – Construction, Peter Bower, revealed the business could choose a higher-tonnage machine without compromising its transport requirements.

“We needed a smaller machine but one that could also meet our needs in terms of power.”

Matt optioned the M-16U Huski mini excavator with a quick hitch for attachments, which he said, “Is handy”, adding, “the zero tail-swing is also a nice feature. n Contact: 1800 425 438 or visit: www.huskiconstructionequipment.com.au

oint of Rental employees took to the gardening tools to help make a young widow’s tough 2020 a little brighter in early November last year, as part of the company’s Point the Way charity with partner Fox Rental.

Mandy, who lives near Point of Rental’s US headquarters, was struggling to make her house feel like a home after her mother passed away due to COVID-19 complications in September and her youngest child left for college shortly after. She and her dog, Lily, were having trouble keeping up with their yard as they dealt with work and working through their loss.

Groups of Point of Rental employees arrived at the house armed with rakes, shovels, and various gardening equipment to remove leaves, boards, and edging materials from the yard before laying fresh sod and planting new flowers in the garden beds.

“Although I have been able to maintain the weekly mowing, it has been really hard to keep up with the overgrowth and flowerbeds,” Mandy said.

“My backyard was pretty much a mud pit. The Point the Way crew showed up and completely transformed my yard. I cannot even explain what a difference they made – my heart is overwhelmed.”

Point of Rental Director of Philanthropy Terry Harris said: “We really wanted to focus on serving as part of our International Conference this year.

“When we connected with Mandy, I knew this was a great opportunity to make a big impact in someone’s quality of life, quickly. We really couldn’t have done all of this without our caring employees at Point of Rental or without Fox Rental and their support.”

Fox Rental donated the use of a rototiller, weed eater, pressure washer, leaf blowers, and a gift card which was used to purchase plants for the flowerbeds.n Visit: www.point-of-rental.com

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MINI EQUIPMENT & LANDSCAPING

Honda Battery Range now available Honda has introduced a professional battery handheld range, consisting of a Leaf Blower, Brushcutter and Hedgecutter, with Honda power and performance but with the convenience, ease of use and comfort of battery.

chipper so it makes sense to use the same machine to feed the material into the infeed chute and operating the chipper using the Tree Commander remote control.”

“The EcoIdle system automatically lowers engine revs if no material has been chipped for a period of time, optioned for one or five minutes,” Greg said.

“This is both a safety and cost saving feature. If an operator steps away from the machine and nothing feeds during the pre-set time, the machine will automatically power down to a safe mode, reducing the risk of it being a hazard to those near it” Greg said.

“Both the Tree Commander and EcoIdle are minor features when looking at the power and performance of the whole machine, but their impact on operator and community safety is one that can’t be overlooked. As always, Vermeer is putting customer and operator safety first with these machines,” he said.

The Tree Commander and EcoIdle features can be found on Vermeer’s BC1800XL Wood Chipper. n

The new handheld range is powered by a choice of three high-performance batteries, a 4.0Ah, 6.0Ah or 9.0Ah unit from Honda’s new universal battery system.

Each model in the 36 volt range features a brushless EC motor giving direct drive to the head, for superb performance even in the most demanding conditions and over long periods of use, as well as being weatherproof to the IPX4 standard (fully waterproof to the IPX4 standard when paired with 9.0Ah battery), Christine Pilbeam, General Manager of Honda Power Equipment Australia said.

Honda’s new battery Leaf Blower offers powerful and robust performance with the versatility of an interchangeable flat and round nozzle as standard. Optimum balance to keep the nose towards the ground assures ease of use, while variable speed control allows the operator to work at their own pace. The new unit also features a waist beltmounted battery to reduce weight, padded with a single-hand release and a universal fit for right or left-hand operation.

Weighing 2.7kg without the battery, and with a noise level of 99dB(A), the new Blower puts out up to 860m³ per hour of air volume, with an air speed of up to 68m per second.

The new Brushcutter utilises the familiar ‘bike’ handle system and harness and offers the safety and convenience of stall-free operation, with the head automatically releasing if jammed. A three-tooth blade and nylon line head are provided as standard. Weighing 6.5kg without the battery, and with a noise level of 93dB(A), it offers top-class performance with superior comfort, Christine said.

Honda’s new battery Hedgecutter provides a fast, precise and clean cut thanks to its 60cm Swiss-made hardened steel double-sided blades. It also offers the safety and convenience of stall-free operation, with the blade automatically releasing if jammed.

Ultimate comfort and ease-of-use is assured with a three-way adjustable rear handle, which can move 90 degrees right or left.

Visit: www.vermeeraustralia.com.au/ equipment-range/tree-care/wood-chippers/

Visit: www.powerequipment.honda.com.au/ battery-powered

The Tree Commander remote control is unique to Vermeer’s range of wood chippers

Safety and productivity first with Vermeer machines Vermeer Australia’s Area Manager – Environment, Greg Parkinson said Vermeer machines come with all the ‘bells and whistles’ when it comes to operator safety.

“

Our products come with features and the latest technology that puts operator safety front of mind, without impacting productivity or ease of use,” Greg said.

“For operators and arborists in tree and forestry industries, the risks when operating specialist heavy machinery are higher and there are many more factors to consider to ensure the safety of yourself, your team and bystanders.”

Greg said the Tree Commander remote control is unique to Vermeer’s range of wood chippers and enables operators to control the chipper from the safety of their loader, instead of by the machine’s control panel. It allows operators to forward, stop and reverse the feed rollers and emergency stop if needed.

“The operator remains safely inside their cab, avoiding outside hazards like wood waste or other debris. It also means it can become a one-man job, freeing your crew to work on other jobs, saving on labour and time,” Greg said.

“Feeding chippers using a machine (such as a mini skid steer loader) rather than manually, is growing in popularity in the industry as a more efficient and less labourintensive process than having crew members do that work. You already need a loader to haul tree limbs and trunks to the wood P50

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

MINI EQUIPMENT & LANDSCAPING

Semco launches the Messersi TC50-e electric mini dumper The Messersi TC50-e electric powered track mini-dumper from Semco has been designed to operate in any environment.

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owered by a LiFePO4 (Lithium-Iron-Phosphate) battery pack that delivers nominal power of 6.9kW, a single full charge of the TC50-e electric mini dumper will operate up to five to six hours with up to 2.5 hours of continuous travel when the dumper is fully loaded.

The unit can be kept charged between tasks or on breaks by plugging into a 240V power source on site, or between jobs, by connection to an inverter on a truck or tow vehicle.

This electric dumper delivers a 500kg payload, with a skip

capacity of 0.304m3, while moving at a maximum speed 1.5km/h with a full load on a maximum gradient of 30degrees.

The machine’s 180 mmm patented layout of tracks and tilting rollers ensure a wide footprint for high stability and excellent driving comfort in all conditions.

With no need to refuel, no engine emissions and the environmental noise interference virtually zero, Semco said the Messersi TC50-e is ideal for residential or commercial internal renovation. Powerful,

Hire Industry Mag Bimonthly

Messersi TC50-e Electric Mini Dumper is designed to operate in any environment

86.5 w x 130 h quiet and stable, Semco said the unit is perfect for internal jobs and basement excavations that often involve removal of broken concrete, tiles, masonry, general rubble, glass or landscape excavation spoil.

The operator station is a handy drop-down foot stand

and the simple controls mean the dumper can be propelled, manoeuvred and the bucket quickly, safely and easily loaded and unloaded. n Contact: 1800 685 525 or visit: www.semcogroup.com.au

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EARTHMOVING

Mayday Services offers down to earth service Perth based dry and wet machinery hire company, Mayday Services has taken delivery of his 24th piece of Komatsu equipment as part of a strategy to build inventory.

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un by Bryce Abbott, Mayday Services’ experience of working with a key supplier to strategy is to build inventory by better optimise machine use. than 10% each year, turning over “Maintaining our machinery in top order its fleet on a four-year cycle to keep is important not only to keep faith with our machinery fresh for clients. clients, but also to ensure change over price is Mayday has more than 20 Western maximised.

Australian Shire Councils on its regular “We monitor Komtrax, on all our roster, which maximise their own tight machinery and rely on Komatsu’s own budgets by tapping into a reliable pool of service operators to work with us to deliver equipment to supplement their own fleets. maintenance solutions that fit in with our According to Bryce, clients can costbusiness requirements.” efficiently access more than 200 pieces Flexible service schedules are an of diverse machinery, usually for planned important part of the strategy. activities but also for immediate assistance in “We can’t afford to have machinery times of dire need. problems especially while they’re in the hands “Mayday provides a one-stop-shop for of our customers,” Bryce said. all machinery and operator requirements, For the most part, the company works taking responsibility for machinery purchase, with its clients to plan major works, packaging maintenance and operator training and a variety of machines to meet specific welfare. requirements sometimes over a long-term.

“It requires precision and planning, as In the past two months it has taken well as a great deal of self-belief to deliver delivery of four new Komatsu machines on a promise which is dependent almost of different size and configurations – entirely on external factors that can arise WA250PZ-6 and WA320-PZ-6 loaders and instantly and change daily. Partnership with PC130-8 and PC200LC-8MO excavators. leading suppliers as well as with clients, is “Each day, we know we’re going to get a imperative,” Bryce said.

Mayday call,” Bryce said.

Mayday Services is evolving into a “We need to have the capability to meet complex logistics organization, dependent on a spread of opportunity, and to act quickly to machinery partners for equipment reliability, provide a solution.” n while it manages their deployment across Visit: www.komatsu.com.au Western Australia.

Every day more than 85% of the company’s inventory is in use, demanding a complex matrix of supply from Mayday’s head office in Wangara, north of Perth, and its two satellite operations.

According to Bryce, Komatsu’s Komtrax system of on-board remote jobsite management and specific machinery data collection, has provided Mayday with an important tool to monitor and control machine use.

“We bought our first Komatsu, a GD 655-5 Grader in 2008 when our entire fleet was less than 10 machines,” Bryce Bryce Abbott runs the business with his father, and they know “Each day, we know we’re going to get a Mayday call,” hence having more than 200 pieces of diverse machinery – said. here, a Komatsu PC200LC-8MO excavator “It provided our first P52

The two ECR305C crawler excavators are also used on backyard shed demolition projects and backyard excavations

Crawler excavators boost productivity for earthmoving business

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wo ECR305C crawler excavators from Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) are playing a key role in major excavation projects including the M2 and Mona Vale road upgrade projects.

Owned by Sydney based earthmoving business family business, Matthews Contracting, the two ECR305C crawler excavators are also used on backyard shed demolition projects and backyard excavations.

The ECR305C features the performance of a 30 ton excavator with the versatility of a short swing radius. This means the machine can navigate and operate in confined job sites such as in single lanes of traffic, next to buildings and on busy streets, Kane Matthews, Manager at Matthews Contracting said.

“This capability allows the excavator to deal with a wide range of lifting tasks in different environments without hiccups.

“The Volvo ECR305C has a great lifting load and has helped us to deliver solutions that meet all of our clients’ needs,” Kane said.

Powered by a Tier 3/Stage IIIA Volvo D7E EAE3 engine, the Volvo ECR305C has a rated output of 1,800rpm and a rated power of 143kW. The machine can move up to 1.45m3 of material with each movement at a depth of 6,960mm and a reach of 10,445mm at ground level. The ECR305C is also built for durability and reliability, featuring a reinforced superstructure, forged steel top roller and a strengthened track guard, Volvo CE said.

Matthews Contracting purchased its excavators from CJD Equipment, the Australian distributing partner for Volvo CE. “This relationship and the obvious strengths of the Volvo product, price, fuel efficiencies and driver comfort, have combined over the years to see us grow together with CJD Equipment,” Kane said. n Visit: www.volvoce.com/australia

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

EARTHMOVING

Welcome to the future of the 5 tonne excavator The new EZ50 Zero Tail Excavator from Wacker Neuson available early in 2021 encompasses high lifting and digging power for quick work cycles and the three-point bucket crowd kinematics for more break out force, insertion depth, and dumping height.

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in the most demanding environments while comfortably completing all tasks,” Greg said.

“The EZ50 loves the heat and in Australia we know heat can affect an excavator’s performance. Like most of the excavators in the Wacker Neuson range the EZ50 can be operated at ambient temperatures of up to 45 degrees without compromising performance. “This is possible by having the latest engine and hydraulic technologies.

Efficient and Safe Work, the innovative hydraulic system ‘Load Sensing Flow Sharing’ ensures precise control and high-performance efficiency: the machine adjusts automatically to the load while the The EZ50 can be operated at ambient temperatures of up to 45 degrees without joystick movement compromising performance

his allows up to 200 degrees of movement and control of the bucket or attachment, Greg Monk, Product Manager, Wacker Neuson ANZ said.

“The EZ50 zero-tail excavator offers the ideal combination of performance, comfort and reliability. The powerful drive allows customers to operate the machines

remains constant for the operator at all times making working with the excavator particularly comfortable.

“The new Active Working Signal (AWS) guarantees a higher level of safety for persons in the work area of the excavator: when the excavator is ready for use, a red LED strip, integrated into the engine hood, lights up. This way, all on the construction site know the excavator is engaged, a simple but effective feature that supports the flashing beacon for greater construction site safety,” Greg said.

“The advanced overload system is more than just anti-burst protection, the operator is warned when they are lifting close to the maximum weight adding to the safety features found on the EZ50.

“The air conditioned cabin spaciously designed allows the operator perfect views of all sides of the excavator. The jog dial system allows the operator to pre-set the hydraulic oil requirements for a number of attachments removing guess work for the operator.

“The Future calls for low exhaust emissions (LEE) and powerful engines. This is exactly what has been delivered with the EZ50.

“The EZ50 is equipped with a powerful diesel engine with integrated DPF (diesel particulate filter). Regeneration happens during normal operation and is automatic, without loss of performance. Due to the thermal management developed by Wacker Neuson the service life of the diesel engine is increased as engine heat is lowered. Reduced exhaust emissions due to cleaner combustion is kinder to the environment and reduces the cost of ownership, helping to increase profit for the owner,” Greg said. n Visit: www.wackerneuson.com

Wacker Neuson Mini Loader born and bred in Australia The Wacker Neuson Mini Loader was born, bred and developed in Dalby, Queensland by Dingo Australia. In March 2020 Wacker Neuson became the exclusive distributor of the Dingo mini loaders.

Both companies have been supplying landscape contractors in Australia for a combined 100 plus years.

“Made in Australia means they are manufactured to suit our harsh conditions and environment,” Greg Monk, Product Manager, Wacker Neuson ANZ said.

“For over 30 years Dingo has been building mini loaders to suit the harsh Australian environment and conditions landscape contractors are well aware of and accustomed to. This is an important fact often forgotten when someone is considering HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

Wacker Neuson became the exclusive distributor of the Dingo mini loaders in March 2020

purchasing equipment,” Greg said.

“The range of mini loaders available from Wacker Neuson is four wheeled units along with four track units, these include diesel and petrol engine options.

“Landscape contractors expect their mini loaders to do more than just shift, lift and load

material on their job site. This expectation demands their mini loader has the hydraulic power to run a range of attachments such as post hole drives, trenchers, sweeper buckets to name a few.

“Superior hydraulics are the back bone of the Wacker Neuson mini loader. Their hydraulic horsepower (Hp) is class leading and designed to run the attachment and really power the attachment. This helps ensure the landscape contractor’s construction project is finished on time and profitable,” Greg said.

“Unique to the Wacker Neuson mini loader by Dingo is the flow divider hydraulic system. The flow divider allows the operator to select the perfect hydraulic power and performance for the attachment being used while keeping power at the wheels or tracks.”

Wacker Neuson has a new machine sales and servicing dealer network around Australia. n Visit: www.wackerneuson.com

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EARTHMOVING

Brokk demolition robots have a three-arm system that on some models can rotate 360 degrees to perform a range of tasks at nearly any angle

Demolition Robots vs Excavators

By Jeff Keeling, Sales and Marketing Manager, Brokk Inc

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ith cutting-edge technology enhancing efficiency and safety on a number of jobsite applications, hydraulic breakers might seem a bit dull in comparison.

Mounted on a carrier without the correct hydraulic oil flow and pressure, system back pressure and some consistent downward force, they just sit there, making noise and creating dust. Regardless of the carrier, excavator, backhoe or skid steer, they will not perform to their stated specifications without those four critical parameters in place. And there, in a nutshell, is one of the key differences between an excavator and a demolition robot.

In a sense, a demolition robot is designed from the attachment backwards. The oil flow and pressure, right where the hoses attach to the hammer, are calibrated to be exactly in line with the breaker manufacturer’s requirements. The system backpressure is kept as low as possible, and the downward force the arm can exert on the hammer, whether it’s on a slab, a wall or a ceiling, is consistent with the demands of the breaker.

In effect, the hammer and the carrier are perfectly matched so the hammer can operate at peak power and efficiency.

On the other hand, excavators are, as their name suggests, primarily designed to excavate. In fact, they do that quite well.

Better, frankly, than demolition robots can. But when it comes to demolition, just P54

hanging a hydraulic breaker off the end of the boom is not enough to achieve the kind of concrete-breaking results a robot can generate. An excavator’s hydraulic system simply doesn’t provide what the hammer needs to perform at its optimum level.

It should not be surprising, then, the single biggest difference between excavators and demolition robots is the power-toweight ratio. Simply put, a 5ton demolition robot easily handles a 1,600pound breaker designed to fit onto a 10-17ton excavator.

And spoiler alert: the demolition robot would still outperform the much larger excavator in breaking concrete walls and ceilings.

All that power in such a compact package opens up all kinds of possibilities to do work in limited access, confined spaces or where floor loads are an issue. Top-down demolition of high-rise structures is fast becoming the realm of the demolition robot.

Where before larger excavators were used, and extensive shoring was needed, today, light-on-their-feet but powerful robots can be deployed, with results that are quicker and safer than traditional methods.

A demolition robot is much more than an excavator without a cab. Look carefully at the arm system. There are three parts to it, compared to just two on a traditional excavator. Those three arms can be manipulated to achieve all kinds of geometric gymnastics, not only holding the hammer

against the work at any angle, but providing significant downward force, even directly overhead. Available models range from a tiny 1,100pounds to over 12tons; many offering zero-emission electric motors operating on 480volt, three-phase power. There are nostrings-attached diesel-powered versions for outside jobs, or for industrial applications where inside air quality can be properly managed.

The four outrigger legs on demolition robots provide a super-stable platform from which to operate. The entire machine is designed to withstand the rigors of the demolition process, the vibrations and reactive forces, as well as the heat generated by the large hydraulic system packed into the compact cabinet. The high-capacity hydraulics found on demo robots lend themselves to a wide range of attachments beyond hydraulic breakers, making them even more versatile: crushers, rock drills, grapples, scabblers, core drills and more can be mounted and applied across a number of challenging applications in tunnels, mines, metal processing plants and in nuclear facilities.

Demolition robots happily go where the operator sitting inside the cab of an excavator would rather not. And once they get there, their raw power and compact size make them an increasingly valuable addition to the construction equipment landscape.

About Brokk Brokk has been a leading manufacturer of remote-controlled demolition machines and attachments for over 40 years. Through continuous innovation in engineering and design, Brokk offers unique solutions to multiple industries worldwide, including construction, demolition, mining and tunneling, cement and metal processing, nuclear and other specialty applications. n Visit: www.brokk.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

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EARTHMOVING

Compact radius next gen excavator boosts productivity and efficiency With a new compact radius design, the Cat 335 Next Gen Hydraulic Excavator increases fuel efficiency, lowers maintenance costs up to 20% and improves performance up to 45%.

The Cat 335 Next Gen Hydraulic Excavator increases fuel efficiency, lowers maintenance costs up to 20% and improves performance up to 45%

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ringing the highest level of standard factory technology to the 35-ton excavator class, the new 335 delivers the tightest tail swing radius in the industry for enhanced maneuverability, making it ideal for working on space-restricted jobsites, Giacomo Bottone, Worldwide Product Manager for Medium Excavators at Caterpiller said.

“Field-proven worldwide for reliable operation, the Cat C7.1 engine powering the 335 meets the most stringent emissions standards with a no-maintenance after treatment system,” Giacomo said.

“Three selectable operating modes, Power, Smart and Eco, with one-touch low idle help to reduce fuel consumption by up to 10%. The standard engine configuration offers high ambient temperature operating capacity of 126 degrees Fahrenheit (52 degrees Celsius), cold start capability of 0 degrees F (-18 degrees C) and 15,090ft (4600m) altitude capability,.

“The new 335 features increased stick and bucket cylinder sizes to provide 15% greater digging forces to power through hard ground and asphalt. Hydraulic power is increased by 20% to boost productivity.

Yet fuel consumption remains similar to the previous model.

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“Selecting the engine Smart mode saves even more fuel by automatically matching the engine speed and hydraulic power demand, based on how hard the operator is digging. The use of Smart mode typically reduces fuel consumption by 10% with no impact on productivity,” Giacomo said.

“The 335 also features optimised weight and dimensions to meet the most common transportation limits. For example, the track gauge is wider to improve side stability yet total machine weight is under 80,000lb (36,200kg), with or without a blade.

“Auxiliary hydraulic options for a wide range of Cat attachments increase versatility.

“Material penetration and improved cycle times are achieved through Advansys bucket tips, which are quickly changed without a hammer or special tool to improve safety and uptime. A new, wider blade is available to cover the width of wide track shoes.

“Integrated, simple-to-use Cat technologies on the new 335 Next Gen excavator assist operator performance, no matter the experience level, to increase machine efficiency by up to 45% compared to manual operation. Cat Payload technology offers on-the-go weighing of material to help prevent overloading or under loading

to maximise efficiency. By calculating the load being lifted and comparing it to the rated load for the excavator, Lift Assist lets operators know when the machine is within a safe working range or action is necessary to avoid tipping.

“Operators cut and fill to exact specifications without overcutting when using the standard Cat Grade with 2D, allowing the machine to reach grade faster.

The system stores up to four most used target depth and slope offsets to save time at the jobsite. Automated boom, stick and bucket movements provided by Cat Grade with Assist deliver more accurate cuts with less operator effort.

“Available upgrades to Cat Grade with Advanced 2D or Cat Grade with 3D further increase productivity and expand grading capabilities.

“Cat Link telematics gathers data generated by the new 335 to assist fleet management. Product Link automatically collects machine operating data, regardless of type or brand, which can be accessed anytime, anywhere through VisionLink.

The information helps managers make factbased decisions to boost jobsite productivity, lower costs, simplify maintenance, and improve safety and security. Fleet location, hours, critical maintenance alerts and other machine operating information can also be accessed through the Cat App. “The use of Cat Remote Services allows companies to troubleshoot and update machine software to improve efficiency.

Remote Troubleshoot allows Cat dealers to perform diagnostic testing remotely and pinpoint potential issues, while the 335 keeps working. Reducing update time by as much as 50%, Remote Flash allows for on-board software to be updated at a time when it’s convenient to the work schedule and without a technician being present,” Giacomo said.

“Extended, more synchronised maintenance allows the new 335 to get more work done, while saving up to 20% on maintenance costs compared to the 335F. All fuel filters feature 1000 hour change intervals, as does the air intake filter with pre-cleaners. Improved hydraulic filter performance combined with anti-drain valves to keep the oil clean during filter replacement result in a 3,000 hour filter replacement interval, a 50% increase.

“The Cat 335 Next Gen excavator gives customers a choice between reengineered Deluxe and Premium cab designs featuring vibration-reducing viscous mounts, adjustable operator seats and automatic climate control to increase operator comfort.

“All daily service points are accessed from ground level to increase efficiency and improve safety. The new service platform toward the front of the machine features anti-skid punch plate to prevent slipping and provides easy and safe access to the upper service platform.” n Visit: www.cat.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

PORTABLES & LIGHTING

Making portable toilets a pleasant experience since 2005 Having hired 644,151 toilets to its close to 20,000 customers since its inception in 2005, Viking Rentals promises from the outset that using a portable toilet or any of its facilities should always be a pleasant experience.

J

ason McLennan, Viking Rentals National Business Development Manager said: “Our goal is to provide the highest level of customer service in the industry. Dependability, flexibility, quality, convenience and customer service are what we value most at Viking Rentals. It’s what makes us better than the rest.”

Viking Rentals is a national portable toilet hire company supplying top-quality facilities to building and construction sites, events and party venues.

“Viking Rentals has 109 different products available. Nationally we have over 3000 of our Flagship Toilets. We have offices in all state capitals, as well as several depots in regional locations, allowing us to operate broadly across Australia.

“Our business has grown rapidly since those early days to now be recognised as one of Australia’s leading suppliers of portable toilets,” Jason said.

“We are proud to have built a solid reputation for reliability, value, cleanliness

and customer service. With a large fleet of trucks, offices and inventory across 12 major locations, we have what you require for a safe, comfortable construction site, event or party venue.

“We know cleanliness is critical, that’s why Viking Rentals doesn’t simply deliver and collect. Instead, we offer responsive, fully equipped cleaning, servicing and pump-outs to ensure your portable toilets are always fresh, hygienic and well-stocked,” he said.

“Our reliable mobile maintenance and cleaning crew will visit your site and clean, service and restock the consumables.

“Our professional head office staff specialise in inbound customer service and order processing for the construction and event industry.

“We operate using state of the art software that automates the service process, from the initial order through to the scheduling process and through to the field staff delivering and servicing your equipment on time.

“Customers can order over the phone

Viking Rentals has hired 644,151 toilets to its close to 20,000 customers since its inception in 2005

using our 1300 TOILET number or email orders. Customers have access to our full range of products and services on our website, and can browse prior to placing an order.

“We use live telematics to ensure any issues are rectified as quickly as possible. We don’t want your experience with us to ever be a negative one. Throughout our 15 years in business we have made mutually beneficial long-lasting relationships with our customers and trust they would recommend our services any day of the week,” Jason said.

“All our trucks are fitted with the latest GPS equipment and our drivers operate live delivery software which allows us to cross reference and monitor your delivery in real time. We also carry out quality check inspections to ensure our quality remains at the top of the market.

“We have a lot of exciting ventures happening in 2021, so give us a call and join us for an exciting year ahead,” Jason said. n Contact: 1300 864 538 or visit: www.vikingrentals.com.au

Titan hoarding is fully Australian made

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ustralian-owned Titan Hoarding Systems has been licenced to use the Australian Made logo, representing the company’s commitment to offering the safest and best quality hoarding products in the world, Titan Hoarding Systems National Manager, Christie McCormack said.

“It has always been important to us to support other local businesses, which is why we are so pleased to have been licenced to use the Australian Made logo,” Christie said.

“The Australian Made logo was introduced in 1986 and is the true mark of Aussie authenticity. From inception, Titan sought local manufacturers for our products and we have been using these local companies ever since.

“Like many organisations, the COVID pandemic was a time to reflect and reset and here at Titan we took this opportunity to refine our message to our clients; the Australian Made logo helps us do just that.

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

The Australian Made logo represents commitment to offering the safest and best quality hoarding products

“Titan has always been about offering a premium product in a simple way. Titan Hoarding Systems have just two key components; our Upright Receiver and Counterweight which can be used to build an engineer certified temporary hoarding in

just three easy steps,” Christie said.

“Products manufactured in Australia have a level of prestige and inspire consumer confidence so being able to display the Australian Made logo demonstrates Titan is committed to offering the safest and best quality hoarding products in the world.

“Titan already exports to New Zealand and South East Asia with new market opportunities continually developing. While we are already the market leader in Australia, we envision becoming the number one temporary hoarding supplier in the world.”

“Our award winning zero-trip temporary fence base along with our five other supplementary temporary hoarding products have also been licenced to use the Australian Made logo meaning our entire product range can bear this iconic green and gold logo,” Christie said. n Contact: 1300 848 266 or visit: www.titanhoardings.com

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PORTABLES & LIGHTING

Urban forklift complies with Stage V emissions standard

JLG’s Port Macquarie manufacturing facility and technology hub manages R&D, in-house engineering, strength and reliability testing, assembly and manufacturing

JLG Industries to grow Aussie-made range JLG plans to add more Australian-made equipment to its product line-up in the months ahead according to JLG Industries Operations Manager, Jarrad Smith.

“

The market is already familiar with JLG Industries’ TSL-2000 scissor lift trailer, a product designed, engineered, tested and built at JLG’s Port Macquarie, NSW, manufacturing facility and technology hub,” Jarrad said.

“Offering robust construction and a fitfor-task design, the trailer has proven popular with a range of customers, particularly those who frequently move scissor lifts between job sites or for whom equipment hire is their core business.

“JLG also locally manufactures a range of lighting towers including a selection of LED towers for use on heavy construction sites and mines, as well as the ‘Metro’ series which is designed for use in built-up areas and comes with a choice of LED, metal halide or LED-POD lights,” Jarrad said.

Jarrad said its regular communication with clients provides JLG with strong industry insights, allowing JLG to identify new product opportunities.

“As a company we have both formal and informal regular communication with a cross section of customers, and this VOC (Voice of Customer) information, is really valuable in shaping the direction we take in terms of product development and more broadly across all our service offerings,” Jarrad said.

“Some recent conversations have seeded several new product ideas, the first of which is at an advanced development stage; we’re expecting to have a prototype ready by early 2021 with full production to follow in the months afterwards.

“We’re confident this new equipment will deliver significant efficiency benefits for customers, particularly in the hire and rental P58

industry and mining sectors,” Jarrad said.

Jarrad said with the Port Macquarie manufacturing facility and technology hub well credentialed to undertake a wide range of research and development, in-house engineering work, strength and reliability testing, assembly and manufacturing, JLG expects to increase its workforce at the site to produce the upcoming model releases.

“Over the 18 years we’ve been manufacturing in Port Macquarie, we’ve provided 10 apprenticeships and currently have a range of trades working at the site including boilermakers, fitters and electricians,” he said.

“We also offer work experience to local schools; there’s pretty much always a student with us and JLG is one of few in the local community who can offer younger people insight into the manufacturing sector, for which the schools and students are extremely appreciative.”

According to Jarrad, JLG customers are supportive of Australian-made products, recognising the benefits from both a product perspective, but also more broadly.

“Having a local manufacturing presence we can design and build equipment that meets the exacting requirements of Australian applications and working condition,” he said.

“Our customers also appreciate we consult with them and can respond quickly to their needs, and for most, the knowledge they are also supporting local manufacturing and Australian jobs is satisfying.” n Visit: www.jlg.com

The new C201H forklift with a 2000kg payload from AUSA is designed for urban use and is extremely compact in size while still complying with the Stage V emissions standard.

The C201H is 2.09m high and can enter car parks and enclosed spaces with limited access plus has exceptional manoeuvrability the company said.

The forklift has a range of available masts: from the standard duplex mast at 3.3m with full visibility, to the 3.7m, 4.3m and 5.4m triplex masts.

The new model is available with two types of hydrostatic drive: 4x4 and 4x2. In both cases, it is equipped with a limited-slip differential on the front axle as standard; this transmits the necessary amount of power to each individual wheel. The 4x4 version features the FullGrip system, which can be used to engage the four-wheel drive by pressing a button on the joystick, increasing safety during operations.

The C201H has a Kubota engine with 18.5kW of power and no DPF. A small engine with low emissions and performance, it has a gradeability of 40% at full load.

The new forklift’s design includes a tilting cab and engine top cover, ensuring accessibility to all mechanical components.

The C201H has also been equipped with a digital screen with a self-diagnostics function on the dashboard, giving the operator access to the machine’s error codes, permitting quick technical service contact to reduce downtime.

The new C201H forklift with a 2000kg payload from AUSA is designed for urban use

Established in 1956, AUSA specialises in the design, manufacture and sale of compact all-terrain industrial vehicles (dumpers, forklifts and telescopic handlers). n Visit: www.ausa.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

ACN: 093 630 847 ABN: 70 093 630 847 PO Box 1304 Mona Vale NSW 1660 P: 02 9998 2255 E: info@hireandrental.com.au W: www.hireandrental.com.au

Hire and Rental Industry Association Limited

10 reasons to hire over buy There are numerous economic, environmental and safety advantages of renting equipment instead of buying.

As the key representative body for the hire industry in Australia, the Hire & Rental Industry Association is increasing awareness of the compelling business case around the benefits of hiring what you need versus purchasing and owning it.

1. The latest equipment Hiring gives you access to a huge range of the latest equipment. Trial new equipment and ensure you are always using the right equipment for your job.

2. Ensure efficiency When you hire you are speaking to experts who can help you choose the right equipment for your job. Once the job is finished, the equipment can be returned, without the worry of depreciation, repairs and maintenance and storage costs, or whether that piece of equipment will ever be used again. By choosing to hire from a HRIA member you are ensuring equipment reliability and efficiency.

3. Control costs Don’t worry about machine maintenance, depreciation or tying up your capital. Hiring equipment is fully tax deductable which makes good business sense.

4 . Sa v e ti m e No wasting time updating and maintaining machinery. Hiring gives you instant access to the equipment you need when you need it – and will even look after any spare parts or extra attachments you may need.

5. Save money Owing equipment is expensive. By hiring you will always have access to the latest equipment without worrying about depreciation, maintenance and borrowing costs.

6 . Sa v e Sp a c e No need to worry about storage sheds or yards and equipment sitting idle. Hiring means you can return the equipment as soon as you are finished using it.

7. Save the environment Equipment that is purchased often sits idle for long period of time. People are increasing conscious of their carbon footprint therefore hiring makes sense for your business as well as the environment.

8. Ensure safety When you hire the maintenance of the equipment is looked after for you, ensuring that the equipment you are using is always up to standard and meets regulations. Selecting a HRIA member to hire from ensures the highest standard of safety and service.

9. Protect your staff All rental equipment is thoroughly checked and maintained prior to each hire and electrically tested and tagged as required. Rental equipment is hired out complete with written operating instructions, warning decals and labels and support manuals and end users, have the opportunity to be instructed in the safe use of the equipment being hired.

10. Service When you hire you don’t just want the right equipment at the right time. You want someone else to worry about delivery, maintenance, spare parts, accessories and more – you just want the equipment to work. Should something break down you want it fixed or replaced immediately – and when you hire you get this and more.

The HRIA represents the rental and hire industry in Australia through the promotion and support of the industry. This is done through the wide range of services and benefits made available to members of the HRIA. These services and benefits focus on the areas of Education & Training, Safety and Risk Management, Business Support, Networking and Industry Representation.

Should you wish to find out more about the HRIA please visit www.hireandrental.com.au or call 02 9998 2255

PORTABLES & LIGHTING

5 Tips to consider when choosing lighting

By John Mikic, Lighting Tower Product Manager, PowerLink Australia

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ighting technology has changed significantly over the past 10 years due to new technologies and the need to cut energy usage.

The first mobile lighting towers used Metal Halide light fixtures because they were more efficient than any other technology in white light. Slowly LED lamps caught up and as we know today, they are more efficient than Metal Halide lamps (as of about four years ago) for mobile lighting tower applications. Also, they are less prone to vibration and have a longer life expectancy.

Deciding on what type of lighting technology you need is dependent on a number of factors including application, colour temperature, colour rendering, glare, light spill, energy efficiency, IP rating and any regulations you may need to abide by.

At PowerLink Australia, we have been designing and manufacturing mobile lighting towers since 2008. During this time, we

have seen the technology change and have incorporated these changes as we improve our products.

Based on our experience, here are our five top things to consider when choosing the lighting product for your next project.

1. The type of application you need the lighting for.

It is important to consider what environment you will be using the lighting in. Is it an urban environment like inner city roadworks, or will you be working on a remote mine site?

Some features to consider when choosing a mobile lighting tower suitable for your application include size, noise levels and light spill. For eg: you would not use a large lighting tower when completing roadworks because the light spill and noise would annoy the neighbours and cause complaints.

2. Comparing performance of mobile lighting towers.

When comparing the performance of lighting mobile lighting tower models, make sure the wattage total of the complete unit is the same. Don’t just look at how many light heads there.

Models can differ widely from 50 Watt

heads to 500 Watts plus, making the number of heads on a unit irrelevant. Instead, look at a light plot sourced from IES files and the materials the fixture is made from.

3. Correctly measure the light output.

To correctly measure the light output of a mobile lighting tower, you need to refer to the photometric data using IES files. Do not rely on other types of data. If it is not from the IES file it is probably incorrect.

4. Ambient temperature.

The ambient temperature of your project will also be a determining factor on what type of lighting technology you will use. For example: for high temperature environments like ovens, you need to use halogen lamps that can withstand the hot environments instead of LED bulbs that would simply melt.

5. IP Rating.

The IP rating of the lighting tower you choose must be suitable for the environment it will be operating in. In general, high end outdoor light fixtures have an IP rating of IP65 or higher making them highly resistant to external elements, like dust and water.

In summary, choosing a lighting tower for your next project is a bit more complicated than just buying any unit.

However, if you take into consideration the points listed above, then you will purchase a lighting tower that will meet the needs of the job.

In the meantime, have you considered a PowerLink mobile lighting tower?

Our metro range of towers and heavy duty, off road MDG15/41 Minespec towers all use high quality, high output LED light fixtures coupled with the reliable two cylinder Kubota engine which only use 0.76 litres of fuel per hour.

Our LED light fixtures are 500 Watts per unit, IP65 rated, have separate control gear and a large heat sink which all help to keep the LED at optimum performance. n Visit: www.powerlinkworld.com.au

PowerLink Australia has been designing and manufacturing mobile lighting towers since 2008

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HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

EQUIPMENT

Simply efficient Yale UX delivers cost-saving quality Yale is expanding its range of UX series electric lift and tow trucks in Australasia to include 3-wheel forklifts in 16002000kg capacity, pallet lift trucks in 1500kg capacity and stand-up and sit-down tow trucks in 3000-6000kg capacity respectively.

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he new UX range is engineered to bring Yale’s value proposition, ‘Simply Efficient’, which has at its core the understanding, if a forklift usage is only around four hours a day, companies don’t need a more expensive forklift that has been designed to handle all-day, everyday applications.

“All are engineered to expand the longestablished strengths of the Yale brand into wider markets seeking a quality, cost-efficient solution backed globally by service and customised solutions to meet users’ needs for applications requiring less frequent usage,” Hyster-Yale Area Business Director, Pacific, Mark Chaffey said.

Yale’s line of products, equipment and services includes electric, gas, LP-gas and

diesel powered lift trucks, narrow aisle, very narrow aisle and motorised hand trucks.

“We’re ready to get back to work and here to help businesses make the right adjustments to keep people healthy and safe while getting industries and the world moving again. We have the solutions to take on the challenges we’ll face in this ‘new reality,’” Mark said.

Features of the new lift trucks include: • Three-wheel electric lift trucks incorporate a high-strength overhead guard for safety combined with a wide and low step for easy and safe access to the truck. A wide-view mast delivers excellent visibility of the load and enhances the operator’s forward field of view, optimising safety, comfort and productivity. The small adjustable

Yale 3-wheel electric lift trucks join 4-wheel models and complementary tow and pallet trucks

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

steering wheel promotes light and precise operation, with precise positioning and without wheel kickback. Europeandesigned AC controllers coupled with AC traction and hydraulic motors allow for precise controllability. Compact dualdrive motors; one for each front wheel; feature precision-cut gears for reduced wear and lower noise levels. Mark said when space is at a premium, the 3-wheel electric truck is ideal to manoeuvre and handle the stresses of congested loading and unloading bays. From hydraulic controls and improved visibility, to energy efficient performance with various platform and battery options, these trucks can deliver quality performance with less operator fatigue, he said.

• Yale Seated MT60UX and Standing MT30UX electric tow tractors combine ergonomic and safety features with reliable performance from energyefficient technology. Their low maintenance needs, easy access for routine servicing, as well as simple, readily available components provide increased productivity and reduced operational costs. Their safety and structural design also includes an ergonomic operator compartment, incorporating spacious non-slip floor plate and anti-vibration function on the MT30UX, which has a pulling performance up to 5 deg gradeability.

The MT60UX’s drive axle design and low centre of gravity provide excellent stability. The MT60UX also includes Operator Presence System (OPS) and Emergency Stop buttons, which are also featured on other members of the UX series family, Mark said.

• Yale MP15UX Electric Walkie Pallet Truck. The 24V sealed maintenance-free battery powered MP15UX also combines economic operation with energy-efficient, low maintenance technology delivering reliable performance and increased productivity with reduced operating costs. With a small turning radius of 1.454mm and long handle to reduce steering effort, the MP15UX increases productivity and safety by having casters to increase stability, entry rollers for easy operation, as well as strong performance on gradients, and when the tiller is upright, a reduction in turning space. The machine’s floating balance wheel automatically adjusts height and improves stability when unloading.

“The use of high quality and robust components, complemented by outstanding filtration and cooling, help provide reliability and low cost of ownership in a user-oriented truck,” Mark said.

“This, combined with fast availability of cost-effective replacement parts, helps to curtail maintenance requirements and costs,” he said.

Visit: www.hyster-yale.com

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EQUIPMENT

New mechanical anchoring range under unified brand applications across trades, including mechanical, electrical, HVAC, scaffolding, plumbing, interior finishing, civil construction and formwork.

Adrian Davis, Managing Director, Stanley Black&Decker said: “As part of our ongoing research and development, we continue to design products that meet today’s requirements.

“The Blue-Tip 2 Newly formed DeWalt Engineered By Powers has a new anchoring and installation anchor is being used in system for the construction industry a variety of applications DeWalt and Powers have united in one by end users where a seismic rated anchor brand, DeWalt Engineered By Powers, is required from a compliance stand point. to deliver an anchoring and installation Some of these projects include multisystem for the construction industry. residential units such as Quay Towers at The first product to be launched by Darling Harbour and St Lucia’s Student DeWalt Engineered By Powers is the BlueAccommodation in Queensland; government Tip 2 Screw-Bolt. The mechanical anchoring projects including the Gold Coast Airport, range are a state-of-the-art, one-piece design, Star Casino, Logan Motorway M1 Upgrade heavy-duty screw bolt anchors. as well as tunnelling projects, M5 Tunnels The anchors hold technical approvals and Metro Tunnel in Sydney,” Adrian said. which comply with building codes Along with compliance and European and regulations and it can be used in Technical Assessment (ETA) approved

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products, DeWalt Engineered By Powers is pushing the boundaries to create innovative tools for the construction professional with an emphasis on cordless tools for installation of anchoring systems, Adrian said.

“The one-piece design of Blue-Tip 2 makes it easy to install with a powered impact wrench and is the preferred choice for fast but reliable anchoring which is also fully removable. The Blue-Tip 2 anchors are also designed with a tough cutting thread that allows for low installation torque, ease of installation and increased productivity,” Adrian said.

“DeWalt is the trusted brand of choice for professional tradespeople and Powers is a leader in the concrete and masonry fastening industry, so it makes a lot of sense to combine the expertise of these organisations to drive future innovation,” Adrian said.

“The merger of the two brands positions us at the forefront of the construction and engineering industries in Australia and New Zealand. It also means we can continue to support our products with expert solution and technical advice for all anchoring requirements, through our dedicated Enterprise Solutions Team.

“With complete solutions offering compliance, performance and productivity, our cutting-edge technology and userdriven innovation, we are looking forward to continuing to leverage our global and local experience to support the construction industry.” n Visit: www.DEWALT.com.au

Integrated multi-camera solution for logistics industry

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eletrac Navman has launched a multicamera solution for transport and logistics operators in New Zealand, which integrates with its AI-powered software, TN360.

The high-definition multi-camera solution captures more than 10 days of rolling footage, available to view from the back-office without the need to physically get into the vehicle.

The camera solution also triggers realtime alerts for out of the ordinary road events, such as harsh braking or swerving via G-force sensors, making it a highly valuable tool for analysing road collisions and recording the behaviour of other road users for insurance and legal claims.

With the ability to have up to four cameras, in a combination of forward-facing, driver-facing, left and right-side cameras, it gives a comprehensive view of each vehicle.

Fleet operators have the option to choose how many and what cameras to use and how they are used.

The camera solution integrates into Teletrac Navman’s TN360 AI-based system, alongside GPS tracking data, speed, and other vehicle and driver information to give a deeper level of insight into what’s happening P62

The high-definition multi-camera solution captures more than 10 days of rolling footage

on the road.

The New Zealand Transport Agency said in recent years, deaths from crashes involving trucks made up around 17 to 23% of the total road toll, while truck movements represent only around 6% of the total distance travelled on New Zealand roads.

In crashes involving a truck and another road user, the truck driver has been found to hold the primary responsibility for only one-quarter (24%) of fatal crashes. However, owing to the vehicle’s large mass, in collisions that involve one car and one truck, 98% of the deaths, 89% of the serious injuries and

83% of the minor injuries are car occupants.

“Truck drivers are less likely to be of primary responsibility in fatal and serious collisions with other road users, but they do have to deal with the emotional trauma – the shock and guilt – as well as the legal and financial outcomes. This camera solution can assist drivers and operators to exonerate themselves in these collisions, by giving them an objective recording of the situation,” Andrew Rossington, Chief Product Officer, Teletrac Navman said.

“Other uses for cameras include protecting the business against fraudulent insurance claims, exonerating drivers in allegations of their truck causing damage, assisting drivers on the road, especially in monitoring blind spots, and ensuring safety compliance,” Andrew said.

“What’s special about our camera solution, is it is integrated with the whole tracking system, giving a more complete picture of driver behaviour; for example the speed of a truck going into the incident. This is particularly useful for high-level driver training.” n Visit: www.teletracnavman.co.nz/cameras

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

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EQUIPMENT

New electric, LPG and diesel 9 series forklifts Hyundai High Performance Forklifts released its new 9 series range of forklifts across electric (Lead Acid & Lithium), LPG and diesel models later last year.

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he 9 series trucks range covers all machines from a simple pallet jack to a 30 tonne diesel forklift featuring inbuilt safety features, superior energy efficiency and low carbon footprint, according to Jeff Akres, Hyundai High Performance Forklifts CEO. “The new -9U electric models boasts the new EHPS electric power steering system which only operates the steer motor when the steering wheel is turned, resulting in reduced energy consumption and noise elimination.

“Between this and the new applied ZF drive package Hyundai has achieved 40% reduction in energy consumption. Plus, the -9U diesel and gas machines are at the forefront of environmental protection and designed to meet Tier 4 emission standards.

“The other thing you will notice with our new -9U series machines is the missing park brake lever/switch,” Jeff said.

“Hyundai’s new automatic park brake system automatically applies the park brake when the machine comes to a standstill and releases when the accelerator is pushed making it perfect for operators that are off and on the machine all day. This system also brings an added layer of safety taking the need for the operator to apply the park brake out of their control eliminating the chance of the operator forgetting to apply the park brake causing an unplanned movement,” Jeff said.

“Finally, what truly sets the -9U models apart is the ability to interchange between Lithium Ion and lead acid battery in the same forklift, perfect for a company looking at changing over to Lithium Ion in the future but needing to replace their machines now.

“This option future proofs their business enabling them to purchase a new Hyundai forklift fleet now and change over to lithium anytime in the future without the cost of changing out the machines to dedicated lithium Ion trucks – just remove the lead acid battery, fit the new Lithium Ion battery and away you go. The benefits of using Hyundai forklifts are smart technology and safety that future proofs Australian business,” Jeff said.

“Hyundai’s current generation high performance forklifts include: in-dash customisable and adjustable performance parameters, large full-colour LCD screen, built-in maintenance management system and weight indicators, full on-board diagnostics and black box data recorder. In-built safety is at the core of all Hyundai forklifts including: P64

The ZTrak is ideal for large acreage or land running across mixed terrain

auto park brake, hill start assist, curve control, stability control, LCD cameras, seat belt interlock, inclination warning system and pedestrian alert systems and more.

“All Hyundai high performance forklifts have been designed to be intuitive, easy to use and packed with ‘driver-friendly’ features. Importantly they are also extremely quiet, smooth and comfortable for all-day operations. Ergonomics are at the forefront with enhanced leg-room with our ‘all day’ comfort grammar seat and enhanced driver visibility. And yes, they even come equipped with cup holders,” Jeff said.

“All Hyundai high performance forklifts are extremely durable, reliable and dependable. This is further enhanced with the on-board control system (such as rearview camera) that can be tailored to maximise driver safety as well as the life of your asset.

“When your forklift requires maintenance, Hyundai high performance forklifts are designed for serviceability and easy repair with on-board diagnostics built-in. Hyundai forklifts maximise your productivity by minimising downtime and making your drivers more productive.

“Hyundai forklifts are backed by service and support that only an independent dealer can provide. Whether it’s a question you need an answer to, a spare part or a back-up machine to get you out of a problem, you can depend on your local independent Hyundai Dealer to have your back. Every Hyundai Dealer knows your Hyundai forklift inside out, and top to bottom so their commitment to uphold and exceed normal service standards ensures maximum performance for the life of your forklift,” Jeff said.

“Since HFA Distributors took over the distributorship of Hyundai Forklifts in Australia in late 2015, we quickly set upon building an independent dealer network.

Today we have 15 dealers across 18 locations covering all major cities,” Jeff said.

Making it easy to book a demonstration or view the latest equipment, Hyundai High Performance Forklifts relaunched its easy to navigate website last year – www.hyundaiforklifts.com.au The new site outlines the key features of its range of forklifts and warehouse equipment.

Visit: www.hyundai-forklifts.com.au

John Deere supports lawn lovers

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he John Deere Ride-On and Zero-Turn Mowers including the 100 Series and Residential ZTrak Zero-Turn Mower ranges are designed to ensure less time is needed to maintain the lawn, John Deere Tactical Segment Marketing Manager, Fraser Scott, said.

“John Deere lawn mowers not only make your lawn look better but are also machines that perform reliably and efficiently to save both time and operating expenses,” Fraser said.

“For example, our Edge Mower Decks have a rounded design to ensure there is no corner or edge for grass to get stuck in. This helps the cut grass to travel easily through the deck and supports an even dispersal for a high-quality result.”

Basic mechanical tasks for the 100 series are simple given the John Deere Easy Change 30-Second Oil Change System, which allows the oil and filter to be taken out and replaced in one go, with a simple twist and click.

“For more than 180 years John Deere has been innovating and investing in the development of industry-leading equipment and technology like this that is simple to use and efficient,” Fraser said.

“Importantly, we’re able to deliver the world’s premium quality lawn and turf equipment at a price that is attainable to all gardeners and enthusiasts, no matter what type of lawn they have or their level of expertise.

This is backed by the support of an extensive dealer network with a deep understanding of the needs of Australian lawns and accessibility for customers to ongoing advice and guidance.”

The ZTrak Zero-Turn mower range is ideal for large acreage, or land running across mixed terrain, given the deck is stamped out of nine-gauge steel for superior durability.

The full line up in the 100 Series (including the E100, E110, E120, E130 and E140) all come with power steering to enhance overall manoeuvrability, Fraser said. n Visit: www.deere.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

EQUIPMENT

New wheel tractor-scraper delivers low cost earthmoving

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eaturing twin-power design to boost cycle times, the new Cat 657 Wheel Tractor-Scraper (WTS) with the largest open bowl scraper in the Caterpillar line, and a rated load of 46.4 tonnes (52 tons), elevates productivity and operating efficiency.

The new Cat 657 Wheel Tractor-Scraper offers 7% increase in fuel efficiency over the 657G WTS and improved onboard payload estimating accuracy to help optimise productivity.

“This new 657 delivers improved productivity, safety and technology, which our customers can use to strengthen their business today, and it is equipped to grow with them to meet tomorrow’s requirements,” John Gerhold, Wheel TractorScraper Application Specialist for

Caterpillar said.

“The 657 features on-thego weighing through Payload Estimator which allows the new WTS to achieve 95% load accuracy, so operators more easily reach target load goals. When working in colder climates, the unique Auto-Stall feature quickly brings the transmission to operating temperature at startup, so the 657 gets to work faster.

Ground Speed Control lowers fuel consumption by allowing the operator to set the desired top speed, allowing the machine to find the gear that works best for the engine and transmission,” John said.

“The two-engine design includes the Cat C18 powering the tractor and Cat C15 in the scraper, both meeting US EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V emissions standards.

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

The new Cat 657 Wheel Tractor-Scraper has the largest open bowl scraper in the Caterpillar line

Its Advanced Productivity Electronic Control System (APECS) allows the machine to better utilise engine power and torque, resulting in more material moved throughout the shift. The transmission features Electronic Clutch Pressure Control, which improves shift quality and fuel efficiency,” John said.

“A 21% larger cab interior than the preceding model, the 657G, improves operator comfort and provides excellent visibility to the bail, cutting edge and bowl of the new 657.

“The 657 tractor includes a new hydraulic on-demand fan that increases engine fuel efficiency.

“Integrated Payload Estimator and Cat Product Link technologies provide real-time payload, machine location, fuel usage and idle time information as well as diagnostic fault codes, all to significantly increase fleet management efficiency.

A collective view of critical machine operating data is accessed via VisionLink from anywhere there is an internet connection. My.cat.com links managers directly to their VisionLink account and offers access to maintenance schedules, parts and service records, and warranty information.”

Visit: www.cat.com

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EQUIPMENT

Technology and Innovation – sponsored by Point of Rental

Kargo King Roll Off, a truck-mounted roll-off loading and transport system, is now available in Australia

Kargo King takes off in Australia Kargo King Roll Off, a truck-mounted roll-off loading and transport system from Drive Products, is now available in Australia via a distributor and has been approved for use in Australia by Coates Hire after an extensive trial.

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argo King Roll Off claims a dominant position in Canadian and North American markets because of its advantages in loading safety and efficiency.

Manufactured in Canada, Kargo King’s signature 2-Point Latching System is now also available in Australia from authorised distributor Truck Hydraulic Solutions (THS) with fitting and service capability around Australia.

Robert Edmonds, Drive Products

President and CEO said: “The Kargo King system has benefitted from decades of sales and development in North America, culminating in 75% market uptake in Canada and continual growth in the United States market due to its unmatched safety advantages and quick loading efficiencies.

We are delighted to have THS as our partner in the Australian market and look forward to working with the great team at THS.” The key benefit of Kargo King is safety; it is designed and engineered to meet the unique demands of present-day rental equipment fleets and operational health and safety requirements, Robert said.

“The dramatic increase in the number of rental equipment pieces, both in volume and complexity, presents numerous challenges related to the safe loading and transport of the equipment. Each piece of equipment, whether it is small compaction equipment, scissor lifts, generators The key benefit of Kargo King is safety and quick loading efficiencies or aerial devices, present P66

their own potential safety concerns. Kargo King addresses these concerns with its unique roll off system allowing safe loading at ground level,” Robert said.

“The design principles of Kargo King serve to lower the centre of gravity when transporting the load, enabling superior load stability during transport. Further advantages are gained through a faster loading cycle of the PTO/Hydraulic driven system and the ability to utilise multiple trays to deliver and load plant across multiple sites with one truck.

“These benefits are unmatched by any other loading options currently available in the equipment hire market in Australia, a point not missed by another market leader, Coates Hire,” Robert said.

Coates Hire has been participating in a market trial of Kargo King in Australia since 2019 and recently entered into a development agreement with THS in Australia with plans to add Kargo King to its national fleet over the coming years.

“We were immediately interested in the concept when we first saw it at the HIRE18 exhibition in 2018, and we entered into a trial program with Kargo King Rental System (12 – 5 tonne) mounted to a Fuso 1224,” Sven Gade, Executive General Manager, South for Coates Hire said.

“Having a system proven to significantly improve operational safety and increasing loading efficiency while also reducing the risk of injury makes Kargo King an excellent addition to our national fleet. The Kargo King safety and efficiency benefits were immediately recognised by our customers as well.”

Kargo King will be supported by local distributor Truck Hydraulic Solutions (THS) who has workshops in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane and service agents in Adelaide and Perth. THS also has local connections with all truck importers and a dedicated focus within the Transport Market.

“Kargo King is seen as a key product for THS nationally,” Mathew Hayter, THS Managing Director said.

“The transport market does not often see a truly innovative product that delivers real added value,” Matthew said.

“The focus we have seen broadly in health and safety within the transport market over the past decade has now become an operational necessity for all fleets and owner drivers.

“We are excited for the future of Kargo King in Australia and proud to be a part of its growth.”

Kargo King Rental System 12 (5 tonne payload) is now available in Australia.

Contact: 1300 803 070 or visit: www.truckhydraulicsolutions.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE FEBRUARY 2021

HIRE21

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