Message from Dan Leaney, Sales and Operations Director
As we move into the busy autumn season, I want to reflect on what has been a transformative year for Xwatch. Reaching our 5000th system milestone is a significant achievement and it highlights the strength of the relationships we’ve built with our partners and customers. Since our acquisition by Hexagon, many new doors have opened for us, and we continue to grow globally taking our safety solutions to new markets and projects worldwide. Our R&D team has been hard at work, and we have some exciting new products in the pipeline, including one that promises to be a real game changer for the industry. We’re always looking for ways to push the boundaries of innovation, ensuring our systems meet and exceed the safety standards our clients rely on. It’s been a busy year on all fronts, with partnerships like those with Molson and Hitachi allowing us to integrate our technology into even more machines and job sites. Whether it’s major infrastructure projects like the Metrolinx GO expansion in Canada or upgrading systems on the M25, we’re making a real impact on how safety is managed in high-risk environments. The months ahead are set to be just as exciting. With new technology on the horizon and the continued support of our clients and partners, we’re in a great position to keep pushing forward and setting new standards in site safety.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we’ll continue to make worksites safer and smarter, one innovation at a time. We hope you enjoy our latest newsletter. Please get in touch if you would like to be featured in the next one. We are always looking to write ‘good news’ stories about our partners and customers.
Dealer partner focus – strengthening site safety with Molson and Xwatch
Molson Group, the dealer for Kobelco, Sennebogen, and other big brands, is also a valued Xwatch distributor and partner. They have collaborated with Xwatch since its inception, finding Xwatch systems reliable and userfriendly, offering compatibility with telematics, GPS, proximity warning systems and Leica Geosystems part of Hexagon Xwatch is Molson's machine fleet's preferred height, slew, and RCI system
Installing Xwatch on your Kobelco excavator or other construction equipment supplied by Molson creates a safer site. The only safety system of its type to have earned Network Rail Product Acceptance, Xwatch provides a range of safety features that enhance proactive risk management, improve decision-making, and make the site safer for machine operators and other site personnel.
James Dodkins, Group Marketing Manager at Molson Group, said, "Molson is committed to innovation, providing our customers with the latest machinery technology. This includes working with preferred partners like Xwatch. Our strong collaboration is strengthened by a dependable system and outstanding post-sale service, which is why we recommend Xwatch to our clients.“
Jemma Dycer-Hopkins, Xwatch Sales and Business Development Manager praised the partnership, saying, "Molson Group is an excellent partner to Xwatch. Their commitment to integrating cutting-edge safety solutions aligns perfectly with our vision. We have worked closely with Molson to ensure that our systems meet and exceed safety standards, providing seamless integration with their machinery. With Molson's extensive reach, state-of-the-art machines and our safety solutions, we are significantly improving site safety across the UK.“
Stuart Butler, Molson Sales Director for Construction, echoed this sentiment: "Xwatch is an integral part of the Molson offering for Kobelco excavators and other similar machines. Their innovation and engineering excellence mean Molson can offer our customers so much more regarding site and operator safety, increasing productivity while significantly reducing risk." He added, "We are delighted to see the Xwatch company go from strength to strength with their new partnership with Hexagon. We look forward to seeing how much further they can push the boundaries in the crucial field of site safety technology as part of this new business partnership.“
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On-site upgrade of Xwatch System by Xwatch Safety Solutions
Adam Guilfoyle from Xwatch Safety Solutions part of Hexagon was onsite on the M25 motorway, where L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage is hard at work on road upgrades for a leading tier-one contractor Adam successfully upgraded an existing Xwatch system on a Komatsu PC228us LC to the advanced Xwatch Leica Geosystems 3D collision avoidance system.
At Xwatch, we believe in providing top-notch service without disrupting your workflow. If you need to upgrade your Xwatch system, there's no need to pull it off the job. Our team will come to you, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum efficiency. Now, that's what we call service!
At Xwatch, safety is our top priority. We can report that this installation was carried out 100% safely. Lynch Plant has been a steadfast pioneer in site safety, with their traditional Thumbs Up for safety gesture pioneered by Rob Lynch, widely used across UK sites, which was then digitalised in collaboration with Safety Shield, further improving safety protocols.
Lynch Plant was among the first hire companies to adopt the Xwatch Leica Geosystems part of Hexagon 3D collision avoidance technology, showcasing their dedication to innovation and safety.
The system utilises Xwatch and Leica technology to create a three-dimensional "safety bubble" around machinery, effectively preventing it from entering or interacting with restricted areas. Its reception as a transformative technology in the field highlights its global impact Operators benefit from an advanced user interface that integrates visual cues into the Leica MC1 display, which simplifies navigation by clearly outlining accessible and restricted areas without the need for physical markers.
The system’s ability to prevent machinery from entering hazardous zones significantly reduces the risk of accidents, enhancing overall site safety. It helps avoid disturbances to protected underground services and ensures compliance with site-specific regulations, contributing to environmental conservation.
Stay tuned as Xwatch plans a major news article with Lynch – big news is coming soon! Watch this space for more updates.
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Hitachi and Xwatch - a winning formula for safety
Hitachi Construction Machinery UK (HCMUK) has established itself as a key specifier of Xwatch Safety Solutions, playing a significant role in the widespread adoption of advanced safety systems across the construction industry. This partnership highlights the growing emphasis on integrating innovative safety technologies in response to the increasing complexity of construction projects.
Stephen Creaser, Hitachi Director of Product Support, says, “Hitachi Construction Machinery UK (HCMUK) is proud to be leading the way with Xwatch by installing the market-leading XW4 and XW5 systems at our Hitachi Connected Technology (HCT) facility in Newcastle.
The market demand for Xwatch Safety Solutions is rapidly growing as key clients and blue chip construction organisations are starting to mandate Xwatch as their preferred Height, Slew and RCI control solution on hydraulic excavators working on their projects. HCT are committed to enhancing the safety of our equipment and we have seen this increase in demand first hand with over 80 systems installed and calibrated at Newcastle in the last three months.
HCMUK are also leading the way with real time telematics by providing remote real time monitoring of the Xwatch system, via our CTFleet Link® mixed fleet management solution. CTFleet Link® enables live direct access to key Xwatch safety metrics alongside the machine’s operation data while the machine is in operation”
Since partnering with Xwatch in 2021, HCMUK has installed more than 350 Xwatch Safety Systems, including the XW4 and XW5 units, designed to meet and exceed client expectations for hydraulic excavator safety.
Jemma Dycer Hopkins, Xwatch Sales and Operations Manager, highlighted the significance of this partnership in the company's growth: "We are approaching the milestone of 5,000 Xwatch systems installed since our start-up in 2019, a testament to the industry's trust in our solutions. The support of major OEMs like Hitachi has been crucial in helping us reach this point. Their confidence in Xwatch has enabled us to expand rapidly and set new standards for safety across construction sites. HCMUK's proactive approach in specifying and integrating our systems demonstrates a shared commitment to raising safety standards industry-wide."
Hitachi Construction Machinery UK (HCMUK) and Xwatch Safety Solutions are planning future collaborations focused on improving construction site safety. Both companies are committed to developing and implementing new safety technologies. This partnership aims to continue raising safety standards in the construction industry, ensuring that workers are better protected and operations run more efficiently.
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Menzi Muck's Xwatch-equipped excavators: walking the walk to safety
A Menzi Muck M220 machine has recently been equipped with the Xwatch XW5 system, complete with track lock and reeler booms. The XW5 safety solution ensures compliance with industry regulations, where track lock and full envelope control are requirements, such as in a rail environment.
The latest system was installed by Xwatch engineers, Adam Guilfoyle, with the assistance of Billy Hughes, demonstrating the highest standards of safety and compliance.
Explaining the concept of a reeler boom, Xwatch engineer and installer, Adam said, "This new Menzi Muck machine has a Baumer reeling drum. This drum, used in conjunction with the telescopic dipper, measures the accurate length of the dipper when it is extending and retracting, ensuring precise height and radius measurements of the bucket pin at all times."
Adam added, "Track lock is a feature within the Xwatch XW series so when height and slew limits are set or a 3D avoidance zone has been reached, it will stop the machine from tracking.“
Additionally, its compact size and manoeuvrability make it suitable for working in confined spaces along rail lines. Equipped with advanced features like the Xwatch track lock and reeler booms, it enhances safety and precision in operations near active rail tracks. With the Xwatch XW5 systems, significantly improving their operational capabilities. The XW5 system integrates advanced safety features, including height and slew limiting, which are essential for working in the rail environment.
This system ensures that the excavator operates within safe parameters, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing overall efficiency. With real-time monitoring and data logging, the XW5 provides operators with crucial information, enabling better decision-making and improved productivity on site. The inclusion of the Xwatch XW5 systems makes the Menzi Muck machine an even more robust choice for rail projects, ensuring higher safety standards and optimised performance in challenging conditions.
Adam concluded, "The latest installations were challenging due to the compact size of the machines, but the versatility and adaptability of the Xwatch system, including track lock and reeler boom, made it manageable. Billy and I are very pleased with the installs. The Menzi Muck is an exceptional machine, and with the XW5 system installed, it's even better suited for demanding rail projects.“
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Xwatch hits 5000th system milestone with Anglian Plant installation
Xwatch Safety Solutions has reached a landmark moment, installing its 5000th safety system. This milestone reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and the growing demand for cutting-edge safety solutions. The system, an SS1 (Simple Safe Solution) height restrictor, was installed on a Kobelco SK230 excavator for Anglian Plant, a company that has become a valued partner since switching to Xwatch in 2021.
The news came as a pleasant surprise to Joe Paterson, Managing Director at Anglian Plant, who wasn’t aware his company had received the milestone system. "That’s pretty cool!" was his immediate reaction—a fitting response for a company that has long prioritised safety and efficiency in its fleet.
“Whether it’s a planned installation or last minute, Jemma has always been very accommodating. Nothing is too much trouble The same can be said for the guys installing, always a swift and straightforward process,” Paterson added, speaking on the reliable support Anglian Plant has received from Xwatch.
This latest installation continues a growing relationship between Xwatch and Anglian Plant. Anglian Plant first turned to Xwatch in 2021 after deciding to move away from a competitor’s product. Since then, the company has fitted upward of 20 systems across its fleet, including the SS1 height restriction and XW4, height and slew restriction models. For Anglian Plant, adopting Xwatch technology has been instrumental in maintaining the high safety standards that have helped it grow into a leading supplier of rental equipment in the East of England.
“Safety is our primary focus; we wouldn’t be without Xwatch,” said Paterson. “Our clients have confidence in Anglian Plant knowing we are proactive in best safety practices. Coupled with a liking for the very best customer experience possible and a modern fleet of machinery, we have all bases covered.”
Looking ahead, Paterson shared that Anglian Plant is planning further expansion of its fleet. "Approaching 2025, we have ambitious growth plans. Our core equipment requirements have already been passed to our suppliers, in anticipation of early deliveries next year. The orders comprise of excavators, site dumpers, telehandlers, rollers, and welfare units. Of course, a percentage of our excavators will be equipped with Xwatch systems."
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Metrolinx
GO expansion:
Kenaidan -Murphy JV and Xwatch 3D Collision Avoidance lead the way in Rail Safety in Canadian mega project
Metrolinx is significantly expanding its GO Transit rail network, increasing its reach from 400 to 600 km. This project is part of the broader GO Expansion Program, which aims to improve the transportation network in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) The goal is to transform the current commuter rail service into a rapid transit system with frequent, all-day, two-way service across core network segments.
Xwatch Safety Solutions part of Hexagon and Leica Geosystems part of Hexagon are delighted that their 3D collision avoidance system provides safety on the machines for this project, leading the way in safety in construction
The joint venture between Kenaidan Contracting Ltd. and Murphy is a key partnership in this massive infrastructure project. Their involvement ensures that the construction and development processes are efficiently managed and safely executed, contributing to the timely progress of the GO Expansion Program.
Check out the video - it's pretty impressive - and explains how the 3D Collision Avoidance system is a GAME CHANGER for the JV.
https://vimeo.com/966704565?share=copy
Did You Know? Xwatch has been ‘Rail Approved’ since 2021
Xwatch Safety Solutions part of Hexagon achieved full product acceptance for its XW Series Safety Systems, officially approved by Network Rail. The Certificate of Acceptance, issued under reference PA05/07159, effective 1st October 2021, endorses the use of these systems on railborne and non-railborne equipment operating on or near Network Rail infrastructure.
The XW Series encompasses a range of safety systems, each designed to enhance operational safety across various rail and construction applications. These systems include: The XW Series encompasses a range of safety systems, each designed to enhance operational safety across various rail and construction applications. These systems include:
XW1: A dedicated height limiter to ensure compliance in environments with vertical space constraints.
XW2: Features a Rated Capacity Indicator (RCI) and a height limiter, optimising load handling, and safety.
XW3 and XW4: Both include slew limiters, and XW4 also integrates a virtual wall and height limiter to control movement and enhance safety further.
XW5: Combines RCI, slew limiter, virtual wall, and height limiter, providing comprehensive safety coverage.
XWTele and XWFork: Specialised height limiters designed for specific operational needs.
Optional enhancements for the XW Series include a remote dead-man input for controlled operations, a track lock that inhibits movement when set limits are reached, and a data logger for compliance recording and operational tracking.
Issue 2 of the Xwatch PA certificate allows any Xwatch slew limit, height limit, and virtual wall functions systems to be fitted to civil construction machines and rail-converted machines, confirming their Network Rail approval.
This certification marked another significant milestone for Xwatch Safety Solutions Ltd, positioning it as a key provider of trusted safety systems that enhance the safety and efficiency of operations near Network Rail infrastructure.
"Nearly three years since our rail certification, I am pleased with how consistently Xwatch has maintained high standards and the excellent feedback we receive from customers on rail projects," stated JemmaDycer Hopkins, Xwatch Sales and Operations Director. "Network Rail's approval is a significant acknowledgment of our technical engineers' dedication to creating dependable safety solutions. We look forward to expanding our product range by introducing new systems soon, enhancing our rail sector offerings.“
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XW MEWP: High Performance Movement Limiting Device (HP-MLD
