hri020-august-2020-issue_v11 by hireandrentalnews

AUG 2020

VOL22 NO.1

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

THE NEW STANDARD

All new Haulotte HT16RTJ Pro

IN THIS ISSUE

As the situation continues – 5 tips for going forward after COVID-19 – see p24

Member Q&As give an in-depth and personal look inside their COVID-19 journeys – p16

Harry the Hirer vs COVID-19 – how Harrys got to work cleaning – p44

Strategic considerations to move through COVID-19 – HLB Mann Judd – p 22

PROFILE: Major losses from COVID-19 – one company’s journey through COVID-19 – p46

Thinking outside the square – getting COVID-19 resilience – p26

Four equipment features to bring us all back up to speed – from p49

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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 Interim 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: Brad Booth 0419 909 284 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 EDITORIAL Editor: Allison Leo: Punctuated Media Tel: 02 6687 2607 Email: allieleo@bigpond.net.au ADVERTISING National Manager Sales, Partnerships & Membership: Martin Sinclair Tel: 0417 450 662 Email: martinsinclair@hireandrental.com.au 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

Contents Regulars 4 President’s Message

Thinking outside the square – a look at pandemic business resilience.

6 Industry News 14 Industry in Focus 27 Access in Action

Features

41 Events in Focus 64 Equipment

Commercial hand washing stations get a work-out.

Beautiful linings and structure dressings from Baytex

FEATURE: Washing, Cleaning & Sanding

FEATURE: Traffic Management & Site Equipment AUG 2020

VOL22 NO.1

HRIA COVID-19 Virtual Conference round-up and where to watch again.

Harry the hirer vs COVID-19 – how Harrys spent its time in lock down.

COVID-19 – the fall out for hire – four members give candid reviews of how the pandemic has affected their businesses.

Moving from hibernation to spring – HLB Mann Judd gives us some strategic considerations moving forward.

THE NEW STANDARD

All new Haulotte HT16RTJ Pro

IN THIS ISSUE

As the situation continues – 5 tips for going forward after COVID-19 – see p24

Shipping containers reinvention key to success

COVID-19 – As the dust settles – Bartier Perry gives us 5 tips for moving forward.

6,384 (Audit period March 2019) CAB Member since March 2010 HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

Member Q&As give an in-depth and personal look inside their COVID-19 journeys – p16

Harry the Hirer vs COVID-19 – how Harrys got to work cleaning – p44

Strategic considerations to move through COVID-19 – HLB Mann Judd – p 22

PROFILE: Major losses from COVID-19 – one company’s journey through COVID-19 – p46

Thinking outside the square – getting COVID-19 resilience – p26

Four equipment features to bring us all back up to speed – from p49

On the cover

Do you need to review your personal insurance during COVID-19? Input on managing personal insurance costs.

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

FEATURE: Earthmoving & Mini Equipment

The HT16 RTJ PRO: 60 The new standard

FEATURE: Forklifts

Featuring the best working envelope on the market, RTJ booms let you reach the most inaccessible areas. On articulating booms, the height of the up and over clearance makes it possible to clear even the highest obstacles. Ultra-fast elevation speed combined with simultaneous movement controls and 360° turret rotation let you reach the work area quickly for greater efficiency. RTJ models always feature 4-wheel drive to operate anywhere, even on the roughest terrain. Visit: www.haulotte.com.au

ASSOCIATION NEWS

President’s message

Getting through this together

hope everyone is keeping safe and well. We’ve all just been through something none of us ever imagined, let alone could plan for. I thought I would start this article by asking all our members two questions. How are you? And how is your family? I hope you all give the same answer; we are all OK. This is obviously a very testing time for us all, more so for those of us in the event/ party hire business. There has been pressure applied from every direction and it’s been a challenge to stay focused on every aspect of our business and lives. More than ever we need to stay connected and support each other. Our Association has, throughout this crisis, kept members aware at every point of what support is available to them and kept us all informed of the opportunities to get support and guidance. I would like to thank our great staff and our partners who have stepped up to help out our members and continue to innovate going forward. On a positive note there is light at the end of the tunnel with all states and territories now lifting restrictions on gatherings and traveling. In addition to our party and event

business, we operate a general hire and access business. As our events ground to a sudden halt, we looked at what positive action we could take to help navigate us through this period. We used the slow down as an opportunity to give staff annual leave to reduce their entitlements to a maximum of four weeks. It also gave us an opportunity to have a look at our business with fresh eyes and focus on what worked and what didn’t, and have a clean out. We all know how hard it is to find time to grow our skills, so we jumped at the chance to upgrade our knowledge online. I found time to sit down and do the HRIA Chain of Responsibility Awareness course, which I highly recommend you all do. We also made sure we sat down with all our staff each week to lay out where we were going and to seek their support and feedback. This has led to better conversations and communications across the business and is something we will build on going forward. As we start to recover and business comes back, we need to remember not to under value our services. It will be easy to reduce our hire rates to get business but once rates are deflated it can sometimes take years, if

ever, to get them back up. We need to maintain sustainable rates and charging fairly brings enormous benefits in terms of our ability to get through times like this. HIRE20 this year in Adelaide was shaping up to be as big as Brisbane a couple of years ago, but like most other events it was put on hold. A big thank you to all the HRIA staff who had put countless hours into the lead up to this Convention and a special thank you to the suppliers who were supporting this Convention. Now we can focus on HIRE21 on the Gold Coast. I am sure by May 2021 we will be well and truly overdue for a get together and ready to swap stories over a cool drink in the sun. Our industry is extremely resilient and I am confident we will learn from this experience in the same way our industry pioneers were challenged over the past five decades. There will be new ideas and opportunities that will also emerge we can also explore. Through this all, remember your Association will be here for you, keeping you connected and informed. So please pick up the phone and get in touch.Vaccine research is well underway and there will be an end to this. Take care; look after each other. I look forward to seeing everyone in person again soon.

Mark Burton HRIA National President

HRIA celebrates third year of Women in Hire mentoring

he HRIA welcomed the launch of the 2020 Women in Hire program in July, which continues to grow, now with well more than double the number of participants than in the program’s inaugural year. Owing to COVID-19 restrictions, the program will be delivered in the virtual space, meaning the mentoring sessions can continue to be delivered from all around the country, only this time without the burden of travel. P4

The industry owes a huge debt to everyone supporting the program, especially our volunteer mentors for sharing their valuable time and knowledge; and to our mentees for placing their trust in the program. Without the support and generosity of our members the program would not be the success it is today. n Contact: dee@hireandrental.com.au or 02 9998 2255

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

ASSOCIATION NEWS

HRIA COVIDSafe Guidance for hire companies In line with government regulations and as restrictions relax, the HRIA has created a COVIDSafe Guidance document to assist hire and rental operations and ensure the safety and vitality of the industry.

he objective of the guide is to provide practical guidance to HRIA members on how to minimise exposure to COVID-19 for staff, customers and other site visitors. The guide was designed to

assist those reopening their operation if it had been closed as well as bolster business approach if the business had remained open. James Oxenham, HRIA CEO said: “Following the recent relaxing of COVID-19

HRIA Young Professionals Network Leadership Development Program Launched By Katie DeLaurier, Program Manager Young Professionals and HRIA Member Engagement Manager.

he HRIA has just relaunched the Young Professionals Network (YPN) Leadership Development Program for 2020, building upon the success of the 2019 Pilot Program. The program is designed to develop and grow the future leaders of the industry through development modules, networking events and exposure to current leaders and the industry itself. Mentees are paired with industry professionals with the goal to create a lasting relationship and lean on the skills learned from their experiences. The mentors can provide priceless advice and guide mentees on their professional journey. Jason Leguier, Hotline IT, participated as a mentor in the pilot program and has signed on again to continue to shape the emerging talent of the industry. “The program is a terrific opportunity for young leaders in the industry to collaborate with their peers, share ideas and gain experience from others in the industry who have gone before them,” Jason said. During the 10 development modules, mentees are given the chance to work through real life examples in a forum that allows both mentors and other young professionals to discuss and problem solve the situation in a safe and confidential environment. Pilot program mentee and 2020 mentor applicant HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

Emmanuel Georgoudis, Coates Hire, highly recommends the program, “for any young professionals looking to grow, not only, within themselves but also within the industry.” Emmanuel said: “You learn insight into yourself, who you are, what stages you are at in life, personally and professionally, and given tools to grow accordingly.” The growth in Emmanuel throughout and after completion of the program was noticed by his manager Bryan Campbell, Coates Hire. “I have seen a number of key changes in Emmanuel. Emmanuel is more confident and has implemented a number of new initiatives throughout his branch,” Bryan said. “Emmanuel really treats his branch as if it was his own business and has become extremely driven to ensure its success and owns every action and decision within the branch.” The 2020 Young Professionals Network Leadership Development Program promises to be an invaluable experience for both mentees and mentors. The HRIA encourages members to sign up their young employees to the Young Professionals Wider Network to hear about future opportunities. n Contact: katie@hireandrental.com.au or call 02 9998 2222 for more information.

restrictions surrounding business operations, social distancing and public gatherings, there still remains a strong government mandate to ensure businesses take appropriate steps to minimise the risk of spread of COVID-19 and protect the wellbeing of their employees. “All Australian Governments have agreed to a set of National COVID-19 Safe Work Principles to guide us and ensure our workplaces are healthy and safe. “The HRIA COVIDSafe Guidance provides members with practical information on how to best approach and maintain a safe working environment.” n To access the guide members can visit the member section of the HRIA website: www. hireandrental.com.au (members will need to log in as a member to access the document).

Member discount on HRIA Chain of Responsibility online courses One of the great perks of being an HRIA member is the discounts on offer and now all HRIA, EWPA and TSHA members can access the HRIA Chain of Responsibility Online Awareness Courses at a reduced fee. Keeping staff employed and connected has been a challenge for many businesses, especially those that have been impacted greatly during the shutdown, HRIA CEO James Oxenham said. “The introduction of JobKeeper gave many businesses the opportunity to keep staff employed and stay connected. One way many businesses are doing this is through online training to upskill staff and provide practical skills. “The HRIA Chain of Responsibility Online Awareness course ensures operational and administrative staff are aware of Chain of Responsibility laws and their responsibilities around the transportation of hired plant and equipment,” James said “There are 13 role-specific modules in the Chain of Responsibility Online Awareness course. This includes the Introduction and Fundamentals courses, to specific courses designed for each of the different roles within the Chain of Responsibility. “We remain committed to supporting members during this period of uncertainty and as we move into economic recovery,” James said. n To enrol and access the HRIA Chain of Responsibility Online Awareness Course visit: https://hria.learnupon.com/store Or contact the national office on 02 9998 2255.

INDUSTRY NEWS

Businesses expect ongoing COVID-19 financial impacts

survey from the third Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) survey on Business Impacts of COVID-19 revealed almost three quarters of Australian businesses (72%) reported reduced cash flow was expected to have an adverse impact on business during June and July. ABS Head of Industry Statistics John Shepherd said reduced demand for goods and services was expected to impact about seven in 10 businesses (69%) over the two month period, while two in five businesses

(41%) expected a reduced ability to pay operating expenses. The survey also found three in five (61%) businesses had registered or intended to register for the JobKeeper Payment scheme. “Of those businesses registered or intending to register, 73% expected more than half of their employees to the eligible for the scheme,” John Shepherd said. “The survey also found that of the businesses that did not register for the

JobKeeper Payment scheme, 55% reported it was because the business was not eligible. Less than one in 10 (7%) reported not registering due to insufficient cash flow to continue paying staff before JobKeeper payments commence.” This survey was part of a series of additional products the ABS has released to measure the economic impact of COVID-19. Data was collected between the 22 April and 28 April 2020. Additional ABS products published to understand the economic impact of COVID-19 can be found at: www.abs.gov.au/covid19 n Further information is available in Business Indicators, Business Impacts of COVID-19 (cat. no. 5676.0.55.003).

Australian Standards under review – pending outcomes There have been a number of Australian Standards under review in recent months which the HRIA national office has identified to members, providing relevant information about the standards and when they closed. The review process for Standards provides the opportunity to influence the standard, and the HRIA encourages members to review relevant standards and comment if applicable to ensure requirements and concerns are not overlooked. Standards under recent review included: • AS/NZS 4994.1:2009 – Temporary edge protection Parts 1, 2 &3 The scope sets out requirements for the design, manufacture and testing of equipment intended to provide protection at the roof edge to workers installing, altering, repairing or removing cladding on housing and residential buildings having roof slopes of not more than 35° to the horizontal. Comments closed 5 June 2020. • ASNZS3001.1:2020 – Electrical Installations – Transportable structures and supply arrangement, Part 1: Site supplies for transportable structures and vehicles This Standard sets out the requirements for electrical installations associated with site supplies for transportable structures and vehicles intended for connection to low voltage (LV) AC supply systems (ie: exceeding 50V AC but not exceeding 1000V AC). The particular requirements of this Standard are additional to, replace, or modify the general requirements of AS.NZS 3000 for the electrical wiring of site supplies for transportable structures and vehicles. Comments closed 20 July 2020. • AS/NZS 3001.2:2020 Electrical installations – Transportable structures and supply arrangements. Part 2: Transportable structures and vehicles This Standard sets out the requirements for electrical installations associated with P6

transportable structures and vehicles used for the purpose of accommodation, habitation or other residential, commercial purposes or recreational uses intended for connection to external low voltage AC supply systems (ie: exceeding 50V AC but not exceeding 1000V AC) by either: a) a cord extension set, or b) a permanently attached lead and plug. This standard also sets requirements and provides guidance for the installation of ELV systems (ie: less than 50V AC or 120V DC ripple free) intended for electrical installations associated with transportable structures and vehicles. For the purpose of this Standard the term ‘transportable structure’ includes both vehicles and structures with or without wheels that can be moved from one site to another either under their own motive power or by some other means. The particular requirements of this Standard are additional to, replace, or modify the general requirements of AS.NZS 3000 for the electrical wiring of site supplies for transportable structures and vehicles. Comments closed 20 July 2020. • ASNZS3010:2017 – Electrical Installations – Generating Sets ASNZS 3010:2017 – Electrical installations – Generating set amendment no1 2019 has been released. This Standard sets out the minimum safety requirements related to the use of generating sets for the supply of electricity at low voltage. The Standard applies to electricity generating sets driven by internal combustion engines and forms any of the following: (a) Normal supply source for electrical installations. (b) Alternative supply source for electrical installations. (c) Electrical supply source for the connection of electrical appliances and portable tools.

(d) Supply sources that operate in parallel with the normal supply in the electrical installation. • ASNZS 3002:2020 Electrical Installations Shows and Carnivals Comments closed 19 June 2020. This Standard sets out requirements for the supply of electricity at low-voltage by wiring systems to power consuming devices used for accommodation, entertainment or display purposes within: (a) concessions;(b) tents;(c) living quarters; and(d) other structures associated with events with a maximum duration of four weeks. For the purposes of this Standard, events include exhibitions, shows, carnivals, scouting jamborees, army camps and the like. • AS/NZS 5601.2:2013 – Gas installations Part 2: LP Gas installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes Comments closed 16 June 2020. This Standard provides the mandatory requirements and means of compliance for the design, installation and commissioning of LP Gas installations in caravans and boats for non-propulsive purposes. • AS 5156:2010 – Electronic Speed Limit Signs Comments closed 5 June 2020. This Standard covers electronic speed limit signs composed of discrete light-emitting elements intended to be permanently mounted or portable, adjacent to or over roadways, for the primary purpose of communicating speed restrictions to approaching road users. It specifies requirements for the design, construction, performance and certain aspects of the installation of electronic speed limit signs, including their associated control systems. n To review any of these standards visit: www.sapc.standards.org.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Hire industry legend awarded AM in Queen’s Birthday Honours

ormer CEO of Kennards Hire, Peter Lancken has been awarded an Order of the Medal of Australia (Member of the Order – AM) for his significant service to the equipment hire and rental industry and the community. With a background as a civil engineer, Peter soon discovered his forte was in business and joined Kennards Hire in 1994 following the acquisition of GKN Rentals. During his 15 year tenure as both Managing Director and CEO of Australia’s largest family-owned equipment hire company, Peter oversaw its growth from a small branch network into an iconic Australian brand with an extensive national footprint. Under his leadership, Kennards Hire won Australian ‘Hire Company of the Year’ twice and the network grew by over 70 branches. “It’s not often you come across someone who has the passion Peter has and his contribution to both the Australian and international hire industry has been invaluable,” Brendan Fleiter, Chairman, Kennards Hire said. “The team, board and Kennard family are extremely proud of Peter’s achievement. Kennards Hire would not be the business it is today without his experience, fortitude and dedication.” Peter’s enthusiasm for hire and rental

extended to building the reputation and influence of the industry itself. He was President of the NSW Hire Association between 1996-2004 and Vice President and board member of the HRIA between 1996-2009. James Oxenham, CEO Hire and Rental Industry Association Australia said: “Peter played an instrumental role in shaping the hire industry, guiding the industry body through its transition from state-based to a national association. “Some 20 years later, the legacy created by Peter is a strong and efficient association, focused on people in the industry, high standards of safety and performance and promoting the many benefits of hiring equipment.” His commitment to the industry saw him inducted as a Life Member of the HRIA in 2006 and, in 2007 he was awarded the ‘Meritorious Service Award’ by the American Rental Association (ARA). In 2009, Peter was also recognised for his contribution to the development of the Global Rental Alliance by the ARA with an ARA awarded Distinguished Service Award. After stepping down as CEO of Kennards Hire in 2009, Peter joined the Kennards Hire board and held the role of Chairman from 2012 – 2017 and, to this day, remains a valuable and passionate non-executive director

Peter Lancken has received an AM for his services to the hire industry

of the Kennards Group. Peter said the award was an unexpected yet incredible honour. “I’ve been extremely fortunate to have found a passion for an industry that means a lot to me. It’s an ongoing privilege to work within a sector that continues to see the economic and employment opportunities the hire and rental industry provides both in Australia and internationally,” Peter said. Outside of Kennards Hire, Peter has also contributed significantly to the fabric of the broader Australian business and community sectors. He is Chairman of Acrow Formwork and Scaffolding, a non-executive director of Crime Stoppers NSW (having previously been Chairman 2016 – 2019) and sits on the boards of St Edmunds School, St Gabriel’s School, Total Construction and Scully RSV. n

Celebrating 25 years servicing the hire industry Long-time member of the HRIA, WA based supplier of diamond tools and associated machinery to the building, construction, stone and hire industry, Taman Diamond Tool Solutions is celebrating 25 years in business. Taman Diamond Tool Solutions is the Australian distributor for WEKA Diamond Core Drills and Machinery and importer and distributor of EHWA and ZENESIS Diamond Tools, SIMA Concrete Saws, TDE Dust Extraction Equipment, plus is the WA reseller for Makinex, Scanmaskin, Metabo and is Hiretech’s WA distributor.

The company has an interesting history, led by Managing Director, Mike Taman. Mike got his start in the diamond tools industry in 1985 when he was appointed WA Manager for South Australian Diamond Tool company Dembicon Australia. “In 1995 after 10 years of being in the industry and having spent the previous three years in Queensland with Dembicon, I returned to my home state of WA and started Taman Tools,” Mike said. “At that stage we were representing Castle Tools in WA. Around 2000 I was approached by Jerry Kruza from Hiretech to represent them in WA and we still do to this day. This was the start of approaches from other companies looking to get direct representation in the hire industry. “Right from the start of my employment with Dembicon in 1985 I started dealing with hire companies and built a relationship with the industry, resulting in being elected to the Committee of the WA branch of the HRIA when WA was largely Taman Diamond Tool Solutions is celebrating 25 years in business independent of the national

body. A position I held for five years. “I worked from home for the first 12 years and moved into my current premises in Carlisle, WA, around 2007. This was a natural progression for us since we had been getting numerous approaches from companies looking for representation in WA. “Once I moved to the warehouse my sales doubled within the first 12 months. I was a one-man band: salesman, storeman, everything. It was steep learning curve with long hours and weekend work just to keep on top of the growth, because we were adding new products to the range,” Mike said. “Our main product range is diamond tools and machinery which we now source directly from suppliers around the globe. We are the Australian distributor for WEKA Diamond Core Drills and Machinery from Germany and have been since 2008. We are also the Australian distributor for EHWA and ZENESIS Diamond Tools from Korea. “We service and repair all the products we sell and offer training and advice to our clients and consult on the best solutions for projects.” n Contact: 0419 555 020 or visit: www.taman.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

Federal Court of Australia rules casual workers entitled to paid leave

recent Federal Court ruling has ruled casual workers are eligible for paid leave, leaving employers open to the potential for thousands of dollars owed in back pay.

The landmark court ruling is applicable to casual staff who work regular rostered shifts and means those workers are entitled to paid leave like full-time employees. The Federal Court upheld a ruling dump

truck driver Paul Skene was not casual after working a regular roster of seven days on, seven days off, at a coal mine in Queensland for over four years. There are approximately 2.6 million casual workers in Australia and it is estimated around 1.6 million of them work regularly. The decision was welcomed by union leaders, with CFMEU National President Tony Maher saying this was a long-awaited determination on the definition of casual. “The truth is casual workers have been ripped off for about a decade. I think this decision really is the courts saying enough is enough,” Tony said. n

Rental Reduction Legal Service launched Legal advisors to the HRIA Bartier Perry, has launched a new online property leasing service in response to member needs in the COVID-19 environment. Rental Reduction Legal Service, Retail and Other Commercial Leases (COVID-19) Regulation 2020 is designed to assist landlords and tenants requiring assistance negotiating and documenting rent relief packages in response to changes in the law

as a result of COVID-19. The service is provided on a fixed fee basis to provide cost certainty. The service is simple to use and navigate. Using an online form, a selection is made from three available lease review packages.

Contact details are requested, relevant documents uploaded, and a deposit paid. Bartier Perry then gets in contact to discuss the options. The new service provides immediate access to Bartier Perry’s experienced leasing team and tailored clear and practical advice. n Visit: www.bartier.com.au/online-services/ rental-reduction-legal-service/ or call Craig Munter on 02 8281 7854.

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HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

Rob Young has joined Coastal Hire and Sales as Business Development Manager

New Business Development Manager for Coastal Hire In line with the increased growth in the regions where its branches are located, Coastal Hire and Sales has hired a Business Development Manager to focus on strengthening and building on its business relationships.

ecently celebrating 30 years in the hire industry, Coastal Hire and Sales has branches in Port Macquarie and Tamworth, which service the Hunter, New England, Mid and Far North Coast regions of NSW, and is keen to expand its profile in NSW. The new Business Development Manager,

Robert Young joined Coastal Hire and Sales and brings more than 20 years tenure in the construction and hire industries. Robert has worked for Isoloader Australia, Coates Hire, Westrac and Kennards. His resumé includes extensive experience in sales, business development and major project management.

Rob joined the Coastal Hire team in March 2020 and will be working closely with each branch to consolidate the customer and product portfolio, ultimately building on the success the past 30 years have brought to Coastal Hire, Rob said building strong business-tocustomer partnerships is everything when it comes to working in regional areas. He believes relationships in business are the same as personal relationships; they are built on mutual trust and respect. “If either or both components are lacking, the relationship will eventually fail and, as with most personal relationships, will rarely end well,” Rob said. Rob said he is a good fit for relationship management because he is patient, determined and works hard to achieve a solid outcome for both customer and the business. “I work on the preface a good deal is where both parties are happy with the outcome,” Rob said. And Rob likes doing business in regional Australia. “The directness and honesty regional customers display is admirable; you are rarely left wondering how your proposal was received. “I’m excited for the chance to build on the gains Coastal Hire has made over the past 30 years. I’m also looking forward to working with the team to expand the product range we carry at both branches to better reflect the changing needs of our customers. “The next 12 or 18 months will present the industry with challenges we have never faced before. The aftermath of COVID-19 will see many sectors struggle, and that will no doubt cause ripples through our own industry. “I am of the belief it is certainly not all doom and gloom. If history is anything to go by, we will hopefully see an increased infrastructure spend which in turn will stimulate our industry.” n Visit: www.coastalhire.com.au

Second coming for NHVR’s Gap Assessment Tool Heavy vehicle operators can now access an online safety assessment tool to examine their current systems against known risks and recognised best practice.

he Gap Assessment Tool, revamped by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), to assist heavy vehicle operators to identify gaps in their safety systems, has been simplified and upgraded. Queensland Transport and Main Road Minister Mark Bailey said: “Heavy vehicle operators tell us they want a quick and easy tool to assess their business’s safety compliance with their Chain of Responsibility obligations. “Now more than ever we want the entire

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supply chain working together to assist drivers to operate safely and efficiently,” Mark said. NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said the relaunched Gap Assessment Tool included a number of new features, including: • New bus-specific version to provided targeted guidance for the bus industry; • Simplified recommendations which link to NVHR resources, website information, and external material such as the Load Restraint Guide and the Master Industry Code of Practice; • Links to relevant National Heavy

Vehicle Accreditation Scheme material; • New easier-to-read format; • Links to quick briefs and relevant sections of Heavy Vehicle National Law. “The Tool includes a number of relevant questions which can be completed in less than 15 minutes and has been updated to link to the additional support information such as the NHVR’s Safety Management System material and the Master Industry Code of Practice,” Sal said. “The updated tool replaced the original version which was launched in 2017 and used more than 20,000 times to support major changes to Chain of Responsibility laws which were introduced in October 2018.” n To use the updated tool visit www.nhvr.gov.au/gap-assessment-tool

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

INDUSTRY NEWS

$1.8 billion local government stimulus package A local government stimulus package of $1.8bn for 537 local councils across Australia is helping accelerate local projects and stimulate employment to directly benefiting the struggling small businesses hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic in communities all around Australia.

he funding to be in effect from 1 July, was announced by Michael McCormack – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, and Mark Coulton – Minister for Local Government. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said local governments were playing a critical role in responding to the impacts of COVID-19. “Our funding boost will help councils accelerate priority projects that will employ locally and support local business and also stimulating our economy,” the Prime Minister said.

$1.3 billion of the total $1.8 billion will be used to bring forward federal assistance grants to local councils, with a further $500 million to be a stimulus package for local roads, local community infrastructure and a communityled recovery. Business NSW Infrastructure Policy Manager, Simon Moore said: “Funding for low-key activities like improving street lights or signs might not get the political attention of bigger, higher-profile projects, but they are vital for making our infrastructure work. “They’re the kinds of things you only notice when they’re missing. Every council will have plans for this type of work. This funding

New AUSA campaign highlights its dealers

AUSA’s ‘They will keep by your side, in every challenge’ dealer campaign

ompact all-terrain industrial vehicles manufacturer, AUSA, has launched a new global communication campaign to support its network of dealers in an economic and health wise context following COVID-19. The goal of this campaign is to support the businesses that make up the sector because, at difficult times like this, it is important to fight side by side, AUSA said. The one-minute video “They will keep by your side, in every challenge” campaign

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

reminds Ausa users of the invaluable services dealers provide every day. The campaign also encompasses a website with photos and quotes from employees from international dealers, with messages of optimism to overcome this pandemic. n Visit the Ausa campaign website: https:// www.ausa.com/share/page/MzA= And see the video at: https://youtu.be/ DQtQdxZlh9Y

injection should enable councils to keep moving works forward during the coming year while council budgets will be tightening.” More than 400 local Councils submitted their advice to the Federal Government earlier in 2020 with regards to the projects they felt they should be able to fund. With a focus on improving local road safety the construction and trade industry is poised to benefit most as projects could range from local street lighting and signage to constructing and improving local bridges and tunnels and refurbishing town halls. Councils will be able to invest their share of the $500 million funds to projects which could range from improving CCTV, parks and playgrounds, lighting and signage, to constructing and improving local bridges and tunnels. For businesses that don’t already engage with local council, you will need to follow the formal procurement procedures relevant to the Local Government Area to be considered for project work. Australian Business will be compiling details nationally and providing this to its members. Businesses not a member of Business Australia can join as a free member. n Visit: www.businessaustralia.com

NHVR freezes fee increases The NHVR announced a freeze on fee increases for all NHVR-provided services until January 2021 in recognition of the tough times many operators have undergone in recent months. The NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto said now more than ever the NHVR wants to encourage heavy vehicle businesses to focus on their safety and that of other road users. The freeze will apply to: • All National Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme (NHVAS) module and nominated vehicle fees; • All access permit applications; • Victorian escort services; • A new Written Work Diary. “The NHVR has undertaken a number of recent changes to assist operators during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, including protocols and maps for driver facilities, waiving amenity restriction on curfew permits, extending supplementary work diary time limits, extending the three-year limit for the transition to modern rear marker plates and temporary changes to the NHVAS audits, fatigue medicals and the delivery of training for fatigue courses,” Sol said.n The list of NHVR fees is available at www.nhvr.gov.au/law-policies/fee-schedule

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Jungheinrich employees donate to Coronavirus relief Donations from Jungheinrich employees this year has seen around €31,000 in donations go to help charity of choice, medeor eV, to aid Tanzania and the Congo in the struggle against the coronavirus pandemic.

very year Jungheinrich employees donate however much of their monthly salary comes after the decimal point to the German medical aid organisation action medeor eV. Since 2012, employees have voluntarily taken part in this Donate your Pennies campaign at Jungheinrich with employees from Germany, Austria, Spain, Portugal and Italy participating. In total, over €200,000 has been donated this way to action medeor. The money goes to specific projects that need extra support at the time. Jungheinrich has supported this organisation, also referred to as the ‘world’s emergency pharmacy’, for years on a wide range of aid projects with monetary and inkind donations, as well as technical expertise. In this way, it has been possible to equip one

pharmaceutical warehouse each in Tanzania and Malawi with vital materials and to expand storage facilities at the headquarters in Tönisvorst, Germany. With the donation from this year’s campaign, Jungheinrich supported the cooperation of action medeor with the partner Christian Social Service Commission (CSSC) in Tanzania, which is connected to 57 hospitals. Each one received oxygen concentrators for the treatment of moderately sick COVID-19 patients who needed additional oxygen. Protective equipment, such as disinfectant, masks, safety goggles and scrubs were also supplied. action medeor also works with the organisation Association des Femmes pour la Promotion et le Développement Endogène asbl (AFPDE) on improving the health, sanitation

This year’s Jungheinrich employee donation has helped aid Tanzania and the Congo in the struggle against the coronavirus pandemic

and drinking water supply for Burundian refugees and the local population in the east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. To this end, extensive activities have been established, including the provision of medications, consumables and medical supplies for health stations in the project area. The project was also expanded to include measures for the protection against the coronavirus. Founded in 1953, Jungheinrich is a solutions provider for the intralogistics sector and has a portfolio of material handling equipment, automatic systems and services. n Visit: www.jungheinrich.de

Kennards Hire expands in NZ and moves into The Mount

ennards Hire has opened a purposebuilt branch in significantly developing industrial area, Mount Maunganui in New Zealand, bringing its branch network in New Zealand to 26. Home to around 20,000 people, the Mount Maunganui area is set to expand residentially and commercially with the new branch well positioned to offer equipment

to support local trades, residential and commercial construction, as well as DIY enthusiasts. It also gives Kennards Hire the opportunity to engage with some innovative operators in Mount Manganui on a larger commercial scale. New Zealand General Manager, Tom Kimber, said: “Kennards Hire is committed to investing in the local area and supporting growth and infrastructure improvements with our extensive equipment offering and great service. “And, as a familyowned business, it’s important to us we support the communities our people live and work in,” Tom said. “We are looking forward to working with our charity partner, KidsCan, to team up with a local school through our School Buddy program. This program enables our people to get involved in their community through both volunteering and Kennards expands in NZ at The Mount – Branch Staff at Opening with Tom Kimber providing equipment to Kennards Hire newest branch in NZ at Mount Maunganui a participating school for P12

working bees and school beautification projects.” Branch Manager, Mike Perkin, is leading the Mount Maunganui Branch and is joined by experienced equipment hire professionals Craig Whitaker, Michelle Noble and Blake Scrivener plus three new staff from the local area to complement the team. The new branch extends an established local network with the Kennards Hire Tauranga branch, which has been successfully running for four years. The official opening took place on Thursday, 18 June, with the occasion marked by an innovative ‘travelling opening’ with Kennards Hire taking the branch opening to its customers. The Kennards Hire Business Development Crew have been visiting customers’ on their worksites and providing their entire crew with a free coffee and merchandise to welcome them into the Kennards Hire Mount Manganui family. The branch is open seven days a week and located at 48 Hewletts Road, Mount Maunganui. n Contact the Mount Maunganui team: NZ 07 987 0810 or visit: www.kennardshire.co.nz

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

HRIA Virtual Conference during COVID-19 HIRE20 became a virtual conference this year following the faceto-face annual convention’s cancellation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

he virtual conference took place over the three days that would have been HIRE20, showcasing a series of industry experts in online webinars from 26 – 28 May. The webinars covered a variety of topics, all aimed to provide tips and advice on navigating (and exiting when the time is right) the COVID-19 pandemic. The HIRE20 Virtual Conference was free to attend for all HRIA, EWPA, and TSHA members and brought a range of industry and COVID-19 relevant hot topics direct to member desktops. All sessions included Q&A and were recorded to permit members to access the recordings afterwards. The HRIA COVID-19 Virtual Conference included: • An overview of the current state of play for commercial and retail leasing in response to the COVID-19 Omnibus (Emergency Measures) Act 2020 in Australia. Presented by Evelyn Marcou – Senior Associate at MST Lawyers • Motivating your people during difficult times: Adapting business to new ways of working Presented by Nina Mapson Bone – Managing Director from Beaumont People • Panel Discussion – Events Industry & COVID-19 Panelists Erin Johnston – South Coast Party Hire and HRIA Events Division President Mark Burton – Barossa Function Hire and HRIA National President

Brett O’Hara – Operations Manager Harry the hirer. • Women in Hire – Networking Women in Hire Mentees – by invitation. • Leading your team through COVID-19 Presented by Aileen Hiskins from Strategic Alignment Training. • Fit for Disruption: How to transform your business and thrive in times of rapid change Presented by Matthew Webber – Author – Fit for Disruption and Founder of the Menark Group Young Professionals Network – Leadership Development Program launch The HRIA Young Professional Network (YPN) is a group of members aged 40 years and under, with a shared interest and passion for working within the industry. The professional and personal development of YPN members is a key focus of the HRIA. To support the YPN, HRIA offers an array of events, workshops and networking activities, addressing topics of special interest to this group. There was also an opportunity to nominate and be selected to participate in the HRIA Young Professional Network Leadership Development Program, gaining access to mentors with depth of experience across the industry. How to move your business from hibernation into Spring! HLB Mann Judd presented on how to prepare your business for when the economy comes out of hibernation, understanding and anticipating the challenges business

will face including being flexible to operate in a social distancing environment, operating under cash flow constraints and being informed to implement restructuring alternatives to protect you and your business. (The full presentation can be read in this issue of Hire+Rental Magazine on p22.) Sales roadmap back Sometimes knowing what we need to do differently isn’t enough. We need practical tips and tools we can start to use now. While we’d all love to think simply hiring the ‘right’ salesperson is the answer to growing revenue, it’s more complex than that. Our role as business owners, company directors and as salespeople is to operate in a different way than we did before COVID-19 and the tough economic times we’ll face as a result. Anyone can sell in good times, but when things get tough, our salespeople need a deeper skillset and must be supported to behave differently if we’re to make the most of the opportunity that will be there. Presented by Ingrid Maynard – The Sales Doctor Sponsors Despite HIRE20 being cancelled the HRIA National Office continued to receive amazing support from those companies who were sponsoring and exhibiting at HIRE20. HRIA partners MST Lawyers, HLB Mann Judd, and Strategic Alignment Training are available to assist members. Contact details can be found on the member section of the website, or contact the National Office. Women in Hire and YPN For more information on the HRIA Women in Hire Mentoring Program and Young Professionals Network Leadership Development Program contact Dee or Katie in the National Office. Both programs have been designed to be delivered safely online while social distancing and travel restrictions remain in place. How to access the webinars All members were sent an email at the conclusion of HIRE20 Virtual Conference featuring links to the webinar sessions. These links are still in effect and all sessions are available free of charge and exclusively to members. The sessions are all also hosted on the HRIA, EWPA, and TSHA member portals. Click into the member section to access the sessions. If you’re keen to see the webinars and aren’t a member, contact the National Office on 02 9998 2255 for more on the benefits of HRIA/ EWPA/TSHA membership.

HIRE21 – GOLD COAST

New member webiner series While state meetings and other face-toface engagements for members have been postponed during the COVID-19 lock down, the National Office has introduced a Member Webinar Series, exclusive and free for all members. Once a month new webinar sessions

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covering a variety of topics will be announced. Registration numbers for each online session are limited so the HRIA recommends interested members book in straight away. Don’t forget to pass the webinar options to others within your team who may find these sessions beneficial.

The HRIA is also happy to announce HIRE21 will next year be back on the Gold Coast. The ‘save the date’ video link is available via the HIRE21 portal. Check it out. August webinar Wednesday 19 August 2020 An update from HLB Mann Judd - HRIA business advisory and accounting partners Future sessions will be announced as details are confirmed. Stay tuned. n HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

COVID-19 – the fall out for hire We’ve all been affected by the global pandemic that is COVID-19 – personally, economically, and emotionally – but businesses have been hit hard with reduced hours of operation or a complete shut-down of all operations, social distancing rules, sanitation requirements, limited capabilities. So we take a look at how some hire industry businesses have progressed through the pandemic shutdown. What went wrong? What went right? The following Q&A are a personal and in-depth look at specific situations and provide a unique look into the past few months of this history making crisis and show us how the Australian hire industry strove to ride out one of the toughest business periods in living memory. Mark Burton Barossa Valley Hire

Q: Did you fear or suffer financial stress during this lockdown period when your business was operating under lockdown measures or stopped altogether? A: I stress most of the time – it’s part and parcel of being in business. Q: If you could remain open, what did you have to do to keep your business open and operational? A: We have a general hire and access hire business trading similar numbers to last year. We reduced our overheads slightly by closing Sundays for a couple of months and cutting admin staff hours slightly.

Q: What happened with your business when COVID-19 restrictions came into effect? A: Within a couple of days of the restrictions starting we had all our event bookings cancelled.This was about one third of our total business revenue.

Q: What have you done to maintain conversation with your customers during the lockdown? A: We have been updating our web site constantly updating all our notifications in all our yards of our procedures to ensure customer health and safety.

Q: When was this (date) for your business? A: Early March

Q: Was JobKeeper part of the plan you implemented? A: No not at first. There was a lot of confusion with the government. Because we employ all our staff under a service trust we did not qualify at first but the government in their wisdom changed the rules to include service trusts. We received our first payment 2 June.

Q: Did you have to put off any staff? A: No staff have been let go, because we have other hire businesses not related to the event business. We still had revenue coming in therefore we could move our full time staff. We did have to reduce hours for our casual staff.

Q: How did you find that? A: I did not want JobKeeper for all our staff, just a couple of casuals that have been with us for years. We believed we could afford to pay all our full time staff. But with a one-in-all-in ruling, I can see companies making money out of this.

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Q: Do you have any recovery planning in place? A: Recovery for the Event sector will be slow especially for those like us that do a lot of concert work. One large event company Managing Director told me he believes it will take five years to get his revenue back the same as December 2019. Q: How will your business be different as we move out of lockdown and re-open for business? A: I don’t think we will see any big concert jobs come in for a while I’d say. Our wedding and other work is starting to come back. We are already fully booked out in October 2020. Q: Where did you source assistance to help steer you and your business through the pandemic crisis? A: Our accountant set up the JobKeeper. I keep a close eye on all aspects of our business and made small adjustments on a daily basis. Q: What do you think might have provided more assistance as you struggled through the crisis? A: I think the government has done an incredible job under the circumstances. They had to act quickly and did so. It will be interesting to see now what happens as the government claws back all the incentives. They may have to look at different sectors of industry and offer some, like our event industry, longer support. Q: What will be the ongoing and lasting impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown on you and your business? A: For us, it is the realisation of how quick things can change. We learned don’t over capitalise and have back up plans. Q: What have you learned about your business and what changes will you be implementing moving forward? A: I have always been old school and put funds away for the rainy day. A lot of businesses did not do this and have struggled.

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

COVID-19 – the fall out for hire The following Q&A are a personal and in-depth look at specific situations and provide a unique look into the past few months of this history making crisis. Erin Johnston South Coast Party Hire

Q: When was this (date) for your business? A: We closed indefinitely on 27th March 2020. Q: Did you have to put off any staff? A: We stood down all our permanent staff (13) and terminated our casual workforce (22). Q: Did you fear or suffer financial stress during this lockdown period when your business was operating under lockdown measures or stopped altogether? A: Yes, being we are seasonal, and each year we experience a reduction in work during the winter months we, to a certain extent, had prepared for a period of time each year where we are quiet but not like this; not with no bookings or deposits coming through and not a scrap of revenue coming in at all.

Q: What happened with your business when COVID-19 restrictions came into effect? A: From around mid-March we started to experience a mass exodus of client bookings by way of either postponement or cancellation. All our larger corporate and public events cancelled and private events cancelled or pushed their dates forward. In the space of two weeks we lost six months’ worth of work which represented around one third of our annual income. We were forced to shut down at the end of March with no income or jobs for the next four months at a minimum (and no idea when it would change). We stood our permanent staff down and terminated our casuals.

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

Q: What have you done to maintain a conversation with your customers during the lockdown? A: Social media has been a big one for us to keep our customers informed and connected to us. Email follow ups and offers of help and check in with them was very important; we tried to be understanding and compassionate. Q: Did you put any contingency plans into place for the lockdown period? A: No, we were just planning on bunkering down and waiting it out. We created a forward plan for the months ahead when restrictions started to ease but we feared the situation would be changing daily so wondered if any planning would be futile. Q: Was JobKeeper part of the plan you implemented? A: Yes we claimed JobKeeper for our permanent staff.

Q: Was JobKeeper effective? A: It was effective in keeping our permanent staff on the books, but we found it hard to maintain for a business that is still experiencing no income. The on costs of JobKeeper (annual leave, superannuation etc) are very hard for us to maintain without any revenue at all. Q: Do have any recovery planning in place? A: At this stage we have strategised many different options for moving forward but we are only implementing as we get clearance from Government on reduced restrictions. We are focusing on booking jobs well into the future where clients are less sensitive about the current climate, which means late 2021 and 2022 weddings. Q: How will your business be different as we move out of lockdown and reopen for business? A: We are divided here on whether our business will be smaller for a period of time with people’s confidence hurt for the coming years or if there will be a boom and we will not be able to keep up. We are trying to have contingency plans to operate under either option. Q: Where did you source assistance to help steer you and your business through the pandemic crisis? A: We looked to other industry peers and our business advisory service (HRIA business partner and membership benefit) HLB Mann Judd. Industry peers have been our biggest saviour. Q: What will be the ongoing and lasting impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown on you and your business? A: Consumer confidence will be the biggest issue for us; people are scared they will not be able to have large events and a big part of our revenue is music festivals and large scale events and there is no indication when these will be going again. continued page 18

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

COVID-19 â€“ the fall out for hire From page 17: The following Q&A are a personal and in-depth look at specific situations and provide a unique look into the past few months of this history making crisis. James Nightingale Product & Training Specialist SKYREACH

stress during this lockdown period when your business was operating under lockdown measures or stopped altogether? A: Yes there certainly has been a measure of financial stress but we have kept the business going and completely intact. Q: What have you done to maintain conversation with your customers during the lockdown? A: We spent much more time talking to customers on the phone and updating them on what we were doing in the business and also worked with them to understand their own issues and tried to accommodate more flexible payment plans or offer slight discounts for on-time payments.

Q: What happened with your business when COVID-19 restrictions came into effect? A: We stopped all international, interstate and intrastate travel; we provided hand sanitiser and social distancing guidelines to all of our branches; we stopped our Sales Reps doing site calls (unless they were asked to perform site inspections); at our Head Office we put an alternating roster into place whereby half the office staff would work from home one day and then from the office the next (to comply with social distancing protocols); we minimised the use of sub-contract transport drivers â€“ instead relying more on our own delivery staff; we minimised outside people from coming into our branches by locking gates and supplying a contact phone number on the gates for entry; we stopped training customers in our branches but did train on site for groups of three or less but we kept every branch open around the country. Q: When was this (date) for your business? A: This occurred in early March. Q: Did you have to put off any staff? A: No staff have been put off, furloughed or made redundant. Q: Did you fear or suffer financial P18

Q: Did you put any contingency plans into place for the lockdown period? A: A lot more of our customers fell behind in their payments and we have had to have serious conversations with them about this as well as offering them different payment alternatives and in some cases even payment plans they were able to fit in with their own reduced cash flow positions. Q: Was JobKeeper part of the plan you implemented? A: No we have not implemented any of the JobKeeper provisions. Q: Do have any recovery planning in place? If so, what does that include? A: We have been successful in minimising our exposure to the worst-hit market segments. We have also been proactive in finding some new market segments and we have also sold some of our older fleet machines in preparation for a buying spree once the recovery kicks in. We have also hired new staff during the pandemic in preparation for the recovery. Q: How will your business be different as we move out of lockdown and reopen for business? A: We will continue to observe social distancing and have moved desks around in some offices to ensure adequate spacing. We did not accept cash prior and credit card payments are mostly done over the phone anyway so not much will change there (the majority of our

payments are all done through EFT). We will resume training and perform VOCs to smaller groups and provide sanitiser for site visits. We have implemented electronic signatures for deliveries and the drivers sanitise the tablet prior to handing to the customer. We have also instigated sanitisation of the contact surfaces on the machines prior to delivery (ie: Control Pads, Joysticks, E-Stops etc). Q: Where did you source assistance to help steer you and your business through the pandemic crisis? A: We sought assistance from our accounting company and guidance from our parent company regarding what actions they were taking. We also sought some information from relevant government departments and instrumentalities. Q: How effective was the advice and input you sought? A: It was fairly effective and assisted us in putting together an action plan for the pandemic. Q: What will be the ongoing and lasting impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown on you and your business? A: We have communicated regularly with our staff and by supporting all of their jobs during the crisis we have ensured their loyalty and commitment moving forward, especially since they have seen their peers in other companies lose their hours, have their pay cut or even lose their jobs. We will be stricter on our collections moving forward and we have also gained some customer loyalty by helping them through their own tough times by working with them through more flexible repayment plans. Q: What have you learned about your business and what changes will you be implementing moving forward? A: We have always been conservative with our cash and we have learned this is sound practice moving forward. We have found by standing by our staff we have engendered loyalty and we have good people who are willing to go to the next level for the company and our customers. We believe we will be a stronger company on the other side of this. Q: Anything else to add? Tips for other industry members? A: Stay positive â€“ all things will pass! continued page 20

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

COVID-19 – the fall out for hire From page 18: COVID-19 – the fall out for hire The following Q&A are a personal and in-depth look at specific situations and provide a unique look into the past few months of this history making crisis.

Q: If you could remain open, what did you have to do to keep your business open and operational? A: As COVID begin to gather momentum, we put a complete stop to all spending and we had no option but to stand down the majority of workforce on JobKeeper wage subsidy. Once we had restructured the business to survive the next six months, we quickly started focusing our management team on initiatives to assist health care and related industries. We utilised our design expertise and range of hire equipment to come up with temporary infrastructure builds to assist with COVID testing, prevention measures and hospital builds.

Gab Robinson CEO – Harry the hirer Q: What happened with your business when COVID-19 restrictions came into effect? A: Government restrictions on public gatherings, resulting from COVID-19, decimated the Australian event and exhibition industry. All of Australia’s events and exhibitions were immediately cancelled or postponed. Accordingly, Harry the hirer’s work came to a complete standstill by mid to late March. This required Harry the hirer to stand down 1000 people, maintaining 50 key staff on one day salary with the responsibility of maintaining client relationships and business operations as best as possible. We are proud to say our doors stayed open however, we very suddenly had to bring our business back to its bare minimum. Q: Did you fear or suffer financial stress during this lockdown period when your business was operating under lockdown measures or stopped altogether? A: Harry the hirer’s revenue was reduced by 98% overnight and this is likely to continue from April of this year to September 2020. We believe revenue will begin to trickle back into the industry from October 2020 onwards, primarily in the business events sector with major events beginning to occur with Crowns from mid-2021. This means the industry will have zero income for a minimum six months (April-Sept 2020) and 10-20% of normal revenues for the following 12 months. P20

Q: What measures did you need to implement? A: Our main priority was ensuring we looked after our people as best as possible. This required very clear and honest communication with our workforce ensuring all important decisions were communicated face-to-face or via phone call. We put a lot of time into finding employment opportunities for the hundreds of great people that were stood down. Our next priority was making sure all our hire equipment was safely warehoused and then began the process of cleaning and repairing all stock so it was in ‘asnew’ condition, ready for the industry’s rebound. Q: What have you done to maintain conversation with your customers during the lockdown? A: The major focus has been placed on communicating with all clients to ensure they understand how we are planning to operate the business for the next three-six months. We are open and we continue to offer our services to assist clients in their planning for all future work. We found there was a great opportunity to offer up initiatives to clients that would identify ways for them to plan for their events to be held in a Post-COVID environment. Client discussions were held over zoom or phone call. We hope to be having face-toface coffees soon!

Q: Was JobKeeper part of the plan you implemented? A: Our business was clearly eligible for JobKeeper as were all of our people who had either been stood down in full or partially stood down. JobKeeper provided immediate income relief for our people to assist them through this incredibly difficult period, hence we were incredibly relieved when this government initiative was confirmed. Standing down all of our people for an extended and indefinite period of time was a very sad situation because we have such a wonderful, hardworking and loyal workforce that were affected so significantly, through no fault of their own. Q: How did you find that? Was it effective? A: JobKeeper was effective in providing our people with a reduced form of income. However, from a business perspective, JobKeeper did result in additional costs our business was required to cover, even though we were generating zero income, including payroll tax, work cover, superannuation and also ongoing accrual of leave entitlements. Historically ‘Stand Downs’ are used by industry for a stoppage of work over a twothree week period and are not designed for 6-12 month stoppages. The costs which a business is exposed to over an extended stand down period, such as we are experiencing at the moment, make things difficult. Q: Do have any recovery planning in place? If so, what does that include? A: We are ready to respond to the market once it rebounds. Our business is functioning as it always has with all various sales, operating and transport departments running, though on a significantly reduced scale. Once government restrictions prohibiting public gatherings begin to ease, and events and exhibitions can once again be held, we will begin the exciting process of ‘scaling–up’ and incrementally bringing our people back to the business. Q: How will your business be different as we move out of lockdown and reopen for business? A: We will use this opportunity to consider what our business has done well and not so well over the past 45 years, seeking improvement so we come out of COVID a better business. New opportunities and new services will be borne from a change in client activity that has come from COVID. Clients and industry will look to do things differently and we will respond to this by meeting their requirements through new offerings that will ultimately expand our business. HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

Q: Where did you source assistance to help steer you and your business through the pandemic crisis? A: In the first month immediately following the federal and state restrictions on gatherings and the collapse of our industry, our response to COVID came through the intense teamwork of our senior management team including Finance, IT, Operations and senior leaders. We constantly reviewed government announcements, government fact sheets and evolving policy statements to best inform us on the rapidly changing situation. We didn’t leave the office for a month and took a day-by-day approach to decision making. We committed to making small and frequent decisions based on the prevailing information of the day. This was important because the environment was changing so quickly that planning needed to be continually revised, on a daily basis. Once we got through the first four to six weeks and we had stabilised the business, we sought advice from clients, industry associations and government lobby groups. Q: How effective was the advice and input you sought? A: All advice was helpful because it provided different perspectives we could consider and weigh up as part of our ever changing approach to dealing with the crisis. MCS HRIA Ad 130x185 HOR UK v1.pdf

Q: What do you think might have provided more assistance as you struggled through the crisis? Were you looking for more support than you received? A: The biggest difficulty we have faced was the lack of certainty around easing of restrictions. It is very hard to structure the business when there is a lack of clarity as to when trade will recommence. In addition, as government stimulus packages were introduced into the economy there was a lack of clarity around detail and consequences of the various schemes.

Q: What will be the ongoing and lasting impacts of the COVID-19 lockdown on you and your business? A: The events and exhibition industry will be one of Australia’s most heavily impacted industries. The industry is suffering a complete loss of income that will last a minimum of nine months and continue in reduced fashion for a three to five year period. Many businesses will not be able to survive this crisis. We do not expect the industry to be – be back on its feet back on its feet for a minimum of 18 months with issues including significant loss of jobs, heavily reduced revenue and wide spread uncertainty as to what the future of events and exhibitions looks like. We anticipate FY2021 to be down 91% on traditional revenue levels. 26/05/2020

14:50

Over this period there is significant risk skilled talent will leave our industry to join more buoyant industries, resulting in the irreplaceable loss of intellectual property (IP) and know-how. The loss of this IP will cause long-lasting damage to the success of Australia’s world renowned event and exhibition industry.

Q: What have you learned about your business and what changes will you be implementing moving forward? A: Navigating our way through this crisis has demonstrated the commitment, capability and strength of our senior leaders. In the most trying of circumstances, they have worked together to find a path towards survival. Further, the loyalty and understanding of our hundreds of people who have been stood down and placed in the most difficult of circumstance has been truly remarkable. What an amazing bunch! We will use this time to review all parts of our business seeking improvement that will benefit the business once industry rebounds. We look forward to industry rebounding and Harry the hirer working hand in hand with our clients to rebuild what we once had. Seeing our clients once again successfully holding their events and exhibitions and our business welcoming our hundreds of loyal people will continue to be our driving force. n

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

Moving from hibernation into spring By Nicholas John Guest – HLB Mann Judd – Business Advisory and Accounting

n 11 March 2020, the World Health Organisation (‘WHO’) declared the Coronavirus disease 2019 (‘COVID-19’) a pandemic. The Australian Government, businesses and the community acted swiftly to put in place strict quarantine and social distancing measures to minimise the health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the community. The pandemic and the responses to it have adversely affected many sectors of the economy, including an increase in unemployment, decrease in consumer demand, interruptions in supply chains, and tight liquidity and credit conditions. Consequently, Federal, State and local governments and related agencies enacted a number of monetary and fiscal stimulus packages to minimise the adverse economic impact. To date the health response in Australia has been relatively successful when compared to many international jurisdictions, resulting in the government announcing a ‘3 Step Framework for a COVIDsafe Australia’ in May 2020 signalling a relaxation of many of the strict social distancing measures from June 2020 which may allow sectors of the economy to emerge from hibernation. Despite the signalled re-starting of many elements of the economy and additional economic stimulus measures announced, the COVID-19 situation is still evolving, and its full economic impact remains uncertain. There is a consensus view we are likely to experience a continued and significant downturn in many sectors of the economy as we adjust to a new normal that may last well into 2021. This may be compounded by a number of the emergency government stimulus measures due to end from around September 2020. Business owners and managers need to adapt immediately and be prepared for the transitioning to a ‘new normal’ operating model which may present both evolving challenges but also opportunities for new ways of doing business. To be in the best position to continue to weather the storm and best respond to the emerging challenges we advise all business operators and owners to undertake a business review that will allow them to be best positioned to quickly react to a potentially volatile business environment over the next 12 months. Now may also be a good time to contemplate how your businesses will be able to thrive as the economy exits hibernation and transitions to the ‘new normal’. This could

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include the following options: Good financial hygiene = better decisions • Do you have visibility over where you’re at right now? • Do you have the ability to forecast and stress test your exposure? • Best practice = conservative 13 week rolling cash flow, forecasts through to the end of the year, crystal clear on monthly ‘burn rate’ – cash is king. • Remain up to date with financial records and cashflow forecasting to enable efficient and informed decision making. Strategic considerations • Is the core business proposition still sound? • Identify opportunities to refine what the business is great at and look to gain further efficiencies; • Consider competition and take steps to protect market share; • Are there opportunities to pivot the business or repurpose your assets? • Rewards on offer for those who adapt best/fastest. • Can you take steps to mitigate risk? The key steps to a business review are below. 1 Understand current financial position • Determine the base line current financial position of the business; in particular consider the working capital position with reference to debtors, creditors, employee obligations and financing commitments. • Undertake assessment of financial position including the liquidity position of the business. Consider operational issues including government requirements due to COVID-19. 2 Robust financial forecast Develop and maintain a robust cashflow forecast based on a realistic estimation of monthly revenues and costs to continue the business through to at least December 2020 and beyond. Forecasts don’t need to be complicated, but they do need to be specific to the businesses operational drivers and lead revenue streams. The Forecast will consider the following factors to accurately understand the position over the next six to 12 months: 1. Expected return to normalised trading conditions and ramp up of revenues;

2. Government stimulus and incentives (www.hlb.com.au/covid-19-advisory); 3. Bank and ATO forbearance arrangements; and 4. Commercial arrangements with landlords and other suppliers/stakeholders. 3 Consider funding options • Assess the outcome of the forecast and if additional funding is required by the business. • Be conservative with forecasting so funding requirements are not underestimated. • If additional funding is anticipated, consider the ability of Directors/ Shareholders providing additional funding, increasing existing bank facilities or accessing new finance facilities. 4 External business review (if required) Are there any concerns about the viability of the business? Can the business continue trading solvently and settle all debts and accrued liabilities as they fall due? If so, the Directors should seek input from external advisors immediately. Directors may be personally liable for the obligations of the business so being well prepared and seeking advice early is likely to yield an optimal outcome. 5 Be future ready Prepare a documented plan for the business to operate in the new normal COVIDSafe environment. The business plan will include the immediate, mid-term and longer-term objectives of the business owners/operators. Commit the plan to paper and consider a number of different scenarios. Consider if the COVID disruptions present an opportunity to evolve the business offering because the disruption may permanently change some aspects of the business landscape. Having a defined plan and effectively communicating is important for stakeholder and employee engagement and ultimately necessary for success. Consider the long-term aspirations of the individuals and business. Strategic and business planning can be a challenging process for business operators in the best of times. However, it is an essential element in enabling a business to achieve its full potential. Even in turbulent and uncertain times it is important to invest the time to work on your business and not just in it. Businesses that maintain a strong financial reporting framework, perform regular cashflow forecasts and have developed robust business plans will be best placed to mitigate risk and take advantage of opportunities in the market over the next 12 months.n Visit: www.hireandrental.com.au/ memberservices to access business advisory services from HLB Mann Judd as part of HRIA membership.

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

5 tips for going forward after COVID-19 by Jason Sprague, Partner at Bartier Perry

ooking at the rest of the world and the devastation COVID-19 has inflicted, we are fortunate to remain the lucky country. As we slowly get back on our feet we should remember we have endured crises in many shapes and forms before. Out of the crucible of these events our society inevitably adapts and reshapes itself and the aftermath of COVID-19 will be no different. While Australians appear to have survived the immediate health crisis, the economic, business and social impacts of COVID-19 are still unfolding. The question in the back of our minds is: “where to from here”? One outcome that seems certain is the recovery of our damaged economy will be slow. The International Monetary Fund estimates the Australian economy will shrink by 6.7% this year. While governments have bandaged the economy enough to stabilise it, we need to be prepared for the long period of recovery that lies ahead. The literature and commentary is constantly referring to adapting to the ‘new normal’; the problem is we don’t quite know what that is and there still seems to be more questions than answers. As few of us have lived through a pandemic like COVID-19 before, uncertainty about the inevitable impacts can be overwhelming. As fear and anxiety are natural biproducts of uncertainty, it is critical for our recovery we do not become paralysed by that uncertainty. Impacts Change brought by COVID-19 has been confronting and swift. As we enter a period of ‘stable uncertainty’, businesses need to take time to take a breath, reassess their situations and make plans. In particular, as support from governments wind down, hard decisions may need to be made. How those decisions are planned and implemented will play a major role in the survival of your business. The full impact of COVID-19 on businesses is yet to be seen and will definitely not be uniform. There will not be a miracle solution that applies to all situations. Some businesses have been flattened and are unlikely to recover, while others have benefitted as their business was either positioned to meet the crisis or has been able to pivot and adapt to the changing circumstances. Examples include car rental businesses which during lockdown effectively lost their entire revenue overnight, while logistics companies had an increase in P24

business with the surge in on-line shopping, home deliveries and maintaining supplies for supermarkets and manufacturing. Then you have those businesses which pivoted; breweries and distilleries such as Young Henry’s which shifted production to make hand sanitiser.

5 Tips going forward As we maximise opportunities for Australian businesses, we outline below our five tips for regeneration: 1. Take stock and breathe Assuming you have ‘stabilised the ship’ for the short term, take the time to assess where your business is currently, including looking at: • Cash flows and credit risk – consider if you need to restructure debt and finance facilities as well as looking at if there an insolvency risk. Ensure debtors are being managed appropriately. • Availability of incentives or benefits – JobKeeper, small business stimulus and relief packages, tax breaks and deferrals. • Product mix and changes in demand profiles – with people focusing on necessities rather than luxuries, do you need to change to meet changes in demand? Remember the 80/20 rule. • Core and non-core and performing and underperforming businesses and assets – again remember the 80/20 rule. • Distribution channels – consider cutting channels that do not perform. • Marketing and brand positioning – It’s easy to cut marketing spend but the ‘pie’ will be smaller. Competition for market share will be increased. Maintaining visibility and connection to markets and customers is essential. • Supply chains – who are your key suppliers? Do you need to change suppliers? Do you need to try and end contracts? • Workforce realignment: a. consider employee numbers; b. changes with increased numbers working from home (it is estimated the number of people working from home will increase from 30% to 48%) will require an assessment of issues such as WHS obligations and increased data collection to monitor a disparate workforce; and c. put in place COVID-safe workplace requirements for those who return to the workplace. You should note there is nothing remarkable in the list. Implementing basic techniques to review and analyse your

business will bring a sense of normality and assist in regaining control. 2. Make Plans and Plan for the Worst Make a plan to survive the next six months and another plan to rebuild the business to adapt to the ‘new normal’. Be ready to respond to change quickly, particularly if we have a second wave of COVID-19, as was experienced in Singapore, South Korea and Beijing. When creating future plans, understand what your worst-case scenario is. Unless you are a serial pessimist, people generally don’t like to look at the worst-case scenario. However, it is essential to do this to create a baseline from which you can start to develop ideas to try to avoid that outcome. 3. Engage, Access Information and be Flexible • Engage with stakeholders early. Stakeholders can include financiers, suppliers and employees. • Early engagement with financiers will typically see greater levels of flexibility when considering options and alternatives with financial restructuring. Trying to restructure when things are dire or too tight will limit options, as risk aversion from financiers will be at its highest. • Engage with employees. Research has shown involving high-performing employees to help develop a response to a crisis sees them become more invested in the business. They may offer creative solutions but most importantly they become engaged with the business and stick with you. • Access information and analysis on trends in consumer behaviour and markets. Sources such as the Boston Consulting Group Consumer Sentiment studies have interesting and useful information. Look broadly as there could be markets and opportunities out there which you may not have previously considered. Indicators will give insight into trends and provide signposts for you to navigate the ‘new normal’ and chart a course for your business. • Be receptive to ideas, engage with others in your sector, always adapt and be flexible. Where possible pivot early into new markets to meet changes in consumer behaviour. You will get ahead of your competitors and build engagement with your market. 4. Keep an eye on cash As noted above it is essential to consider the business’ cash position. With Australia already in recession according to the Treasurer, and 72% of businesses reporting reduced cashflow which is expected to have an adverse impact on their business, it is essential cashflows are monitored. It is important to remember if you are a director of a company, your duty shifts from shareholders to creditors if you are insolvent or nearing insolvency. This is particularly important once the insolvency safe harbour provisions introduced in the early stages of the COVID-19 crisis ends. HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

5. Innovate – fight for your slice of the pie Often with uncertainty comes conservatism. People will be spending less and focusing on essentials rather than luxuries. In its April 2020 Consumer Sentiment study, of those consumers surveyed by the Boston Consulting Group, 47% said they were abandoning luxury products and 64% said they would be focused on essentials and basic simple products. The mantra in the period before COVID-19 was to differentiate and find a niche which mainly occurred in ‘non-essential’ goods

and services. Post COVID -19 will limit the ability to differentiate and find those niches as discretionary spend dwindles in the short to medium term. This does not mean there won’t be opportunities, however, they will be harder to identify and the fight for the customer will be more intense. While the demand to ‘innovate’ has been around for some time, it is essential now to survive. As we enter a more stable phase, businesses should have developed (or be developing) a plan for what their normal will now be. Do this

sooner rather than later to ensure you stay ahead of the competition and increase the chances of not only surviving any economic downturn, but maximising any possible opportunities. The truth is, the fundamental issues which need to be dealt with to be successful in business really haven’t changed. What has changed is the landscape in which those decisions must be made. n

Do you need to review your personal

super fund (SMSF), wholesale or industry superfund may be beneficial. It could help minimise the impact on cashflow while allowing for the insurance to be funded in a more tax-effective way. Note: If insurance premiums are funded through superannuation, there can be significant tax consequences. For example, depending on how the policy is structured some tax may be payable by beneficiaries. We recommend speaking to a financial adviser and seeking professional advice before making any decisions. 4. Review waiting periods, especially for income protection: Waiting periods have a significant impact on insurance premiums. In fact, the average difference between a 30 day and 90 day waiting period on a typical income protection policy can be between 30-40%. As a result, extending the waiting period (on part or all of a benefit) can lead to a considerably lower insurance premium.

insurance during COVID-19? By: Richard van der Merwe & David Hinchey, Fordham Business Advisors

he coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has put a spotlight on insurance, as Australians consider the cost of cover as well as the extent to which they are covered if they need to make a claim. COVID-19 has many Australians questioning their level of personal insurance cover Australians that have been financially impacted by COVID-19 are seeking ways to make personal insurance premiums more affordable. Over the past few months, we’ve seen clients thinking a lot more about their personal insurance. They may be feeling vulnerable and more concerned about their health and spending. Given the media attention surrounding the crisis and its impact, we’re fielding questions around: • what am I insured for? • do I need all these different types of policies? • where is this premium coming from? • why is this premium so much? • are there any ways to reduce benefits and premiums?

Personal insurance premiums have been increasing rapidly each year Australians have seen a rapid rise in insurance premiums largely because Australian insurers are paying out an unprecedented number of claims. This benefits many Australians – including our clients – however it impacts financial reserves (the ability of the insurer to pay future claims). This is an important factor that drives up the cost of personal insurance, resulting in higher rates and premiums for all policyholders (not just for claimants) over time. Income protection is a particularly cumbersome area for many insurers and their pool of funds. Unfortunately, this means we will continue to expect large increases in premiums on this benefit in the years ahead. HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

In fact, increases beyond 20%pa across all personal insurance options (life insurance, total and permanent disability, trauma and income protection) are not uncommon for many Australian insurers. Strategies to help manage personal insurance costs over time For many years now we’ve been working with our clients to strategically assess their personal insurance needs. We ask key questions to better understand what cover they may need and importantly, what cover they may already have in place through their superannuation. In some instances, this discussion may result in cancelling some duplicate or overlapping cover components; reducing some benefits in order to increase others and/or optimising the insurance options to minimise financial risk over the long term. 4 things to consider when it comes to the cost of personal insurance 1. Understand what the insurance cover includes: investigate what each component of coverage is designed to do and whether there is any overlap in benefits. This can make a significant difference to the premium charged. 2. Compare the market: it is always worth sourcing some comparison quotes to ensure insurance providers deliver the best value. Unfortunately, many insurers do not reward loyalty; clients may find benefit in exploring more competitive market options. Note: Be mindful all financial and medical changes need to be disclosed when assessing new policies. 3. Consider funding some premiums through superannuation: Depending on individual circumstances, funding insurance benefits from a self-managed

For more information contact Bartier Perry on 02 8281 7940 or visit: www.bartier.com.au

It’s never too early or too late to start planning As insurers continue to pay out a large volume of claims, they’ll be under pressure to maintain their cash reserve or pool of funds. This coupled with the fact there’s been a dramatic decrease in new insurance business means the cost of insurance is set to rise further in the future.We expect premiums for personal insurance to increase at a rate of 20-30% annually over the medium-to-long term. Against this backdrop, it would be wise to review your personal insurance portfolio. Often, there is little or no benefit in remaining loyal and staying with the same insurer; therefore, a market review may create a number of premium savings. An advice professional will be able to guide you through all the considerations when it comes to selecting the most appropriate level of cover. This is general information only and is not intended to provide you with advice or take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider, with a financial adviser, whether the information is suitable for your circumstances. n Contact Richard van der Merwe or David Hinchey of Fordham on 03 9611 6066 or rvandermerwe@fordhamgroup.com.au or visit fordhamgroup.com.au

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INDUSTRY IN FOCUS

Thinking outside the square – events equipment crosses over to construction The advent of COVID-19 and the complete shut-down of business operations across many sectors created some ingenious business solutions such as gin makers reconfiguring their equipment to make hand sanitiser. Events companies were some of those businesses showing their resilience during the pandemic shut down with some hire companies using their events equipment to make the cross over to construction.

ec Williamson from No Fuss Event Hire in Victoria said the company has been busy getting No Fuss equipment out the door for use in the construction market while the events market shut down completely. “It sounds cliché, but we encourage all events companies to think outside the square. What other industries can your products be used for? Take a (calculated) risk; use your social media; lean on your contacts, and networks and don’t be afraid to say you really need the work when quoting,” Bec said. This was the attitude No Fuss Solutions took when it considered its options when COVID-19 first struck and struck the events industry hard. The company took a good long look at its inventory and saw some options. “Since we have always focused on the event industry, temporary roadways have predominantly been for use during event bump-in/out, ie: boom lifts for delay towers,” Bec said. “Any construction industry jobs we picked up pre-COVID were mostly by luck. As a result, we are relatively unknown in the construction industry which excites us given the traction we have created after such a short period. “We are really excited by the small success we have seen in a short time since we have changed our focus towards the construction industry. We intend to continue to develop this new division of our business post-COVID. “As a result, we are genuinely keen to increase awareness and develop new business relationships with companies both big and small. Our intention is to partner with companies in other states to help the product become more easily accessible nationwide. No Fuss took some extra steps to drive the push into construction. “We have created a dedicated landing page online aimed at construction, equipment users and hirers which has been pivotal in our success. Our online marketing focus is definitely paying dividends,” Bec said. No Fuss is the Australasian agent for P26

I-Trac, an extremely heavy-duty temporary flooring product, with panels weighing just 15.6kg each, but supporting weights of up to 200,000kg/m2, Bec said. “With a composite interlocking panel system that creates a contiguous surface, I-Trac can be used over almost any ground condition with the size, length and width of the application being unlimited, providing not only a slip resistant surface but a roadway capable of dealing with all road going vehicles and extreme static loadings. “This product allows vehicles to drive over the surface freely, without the product separating under the weight of the load. I-Trac is designed to protect the profile of the existing surface and can be considered in terms of a removable concrete pad. “I-Trac is the most flexible and highly capable temporary road system in the marketplace.Being the first non-metal system taking on the aluminium competitors, I-Trac offers a highly cost competitive alternative to current systems. I-Trac panels’ versatility is unmatched due to its light weight, strength and load dissipation abilities. When laid out, I-Trac panels form a contiguous mat with no linear failure lines which gives it the ability to support any road legal large moving vehicles at high speeds,” Bec said. “I-Trac has predominately been used on stadium surfaces in an event capacity, allowing for cranes, trucks etc to drive on the surface of these precious multipurpose fields and set up of stages and delay towers to occur with minimal damage to the playing surface. “Given this, it’s an easy sell and very transferrable to the construction industry and hire industry; if we can use it on the MCG, it’s a safe bet it will work for you. “This week we completed an I-Trac installation at a school. Heavy vehicle access was required across an existing basketball court. Our crew installed 800m2 of I-Trac in a matter of hours allowing work to commence immediately without the worry of cracking or denting the court where a crane was to be positioned for a number of days.

Top: I-Trac in use at the Cobham Aviation Trial. Below: After I-Trac - No Fuss is the Australasian agent for I-Trac, an extremely heavy-duty temporary flooring product

“A modular building was being installed on the other side of the basketball court; crane and trucks needed to access the area and i-Trac was the perfect solution. “We have also had some interest from clients asking about Trakmats. After we ask a few key questions about the job they require them for, we have suggested they consider I-Trac as an option instead, which upon installation, has created some very surprised and happy clients. “I-Trac panel versatility is unmatched due to its light weight, strength and load dissipation abilities. It could be considered as a removable concrete pad. The reusable aspect of the flooring makes it an extremely environmentally friendly, cost effective solution across nearly any surface with nearly every vehicle.” While No Fuss has turned inventive during the COVID-19 stretch, it’s still unclear when business will return to normal. “Unfortunately it does seem to be a waiting game. It’s definitely looking hopeful however we also think events will be different for the indefinite future. “For now, we just need to do what we do best; be nimble, flexible and think on our feet; after all, that’s why we’re good at events isn’t it?” Bec said. Bec said it’s everyone’s job to help out where they can. “Support local. Big business will get through this; it’s the little guys that need a hand right now. If you need to hire a toilet, think about which businesses might really need the money. If you can’t help a client, can you recommend someone who can?” n Visit: www.nofuseventhire.com.au

HIRE& RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

AUG 2020

VOL22 NO.1 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ELEVATING WORK PLATFORM ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA INC www.ewpa.com.au

GET MORE CAPACITY THE GENIE® Z®-45 XC™ AND S®-45 XC BOOM LIFTS

IN THIS ISSUE

New standards for MEWP operator controls – p30

Largest Spiderlift comes to Australia – P36

Updates to telehandler range goes ultra-compact – 39

How to COVID clean your MEWP – Genie tells us how – p32

Industrial telehandler designed for max ROI – p40

We look at telehandler specialists on and off rail – p39

Snorkels’ industry-first lithium battery telehandler – p40

ACCESS IN ACTION

President’s message

Staying COVID safe and business ready in challenging times

ince the last issue of Hire and Rental Magazine in May, both Federal and State Governments have had a strong focus on reducing COVID-19 numbers and where possible maintaining a strong economy. For the access industry, the majority of EWPA members have reported good year end results throughout the 2020 financial year and a steady start to the first quarter of FY2021. In these uncertain times, the ability of access companies to safely provide equipment and carry out servicing while keeping staff and customers COVID-safe is a testament to the emphasis we put on safety and the extra precautions that have been introduced. The COVID Safe hire guide (produced by the HRIA) is a great resource for members and the dedicated web page and social media group have helped connect members with vital real-time information from government and health authorities. It is difficult to predict what will happen with the economy and of particular relevance to many access rental companies, the construction sector, but with construction and infrastructure proceeding and a government focus on keeping the one million workers in this sector in employment, the outlook for the access industry for the medium term can at least provide a sense of stability in a potentially unstable and volatile bigger economic picture. The EWPA, having had to cut back on face-to-face meetings, has turned its focus

to online resources. Many of you will have visited the new EWPA website, but if you haven’t, I suggest you take a look next time you are online. It is a well-designed, modern site that provides a one-stop-shop for all your access needs, with links to stationery orders, searches for Yellow Card trainers, verification of Yellow Card operators online, the new Good Practice Guide and much more. Thanks go to Sally and the team at the National Office for improving our online experience both to EWPA members and the general public who have access to a wide variety of resources. Visit: www.ewpa.com.au In a world more accustomed to online activity, the EWPA Board of Directors also had to adapt and the last Board meeting took place via Zoom. Thanks to all our Directors and their companies who allow them to be part of an experienced, forward thinking Board. We have plenty of proactive actions for the EWPA to work on throughout 2020, 2021 and beyond, including Australian and International Standards, online resources, training, technical and safety updates. On the subject of EWPA members volunteering their time, a special thanks goes out to our Technical Director Peter Wenn, who heads up Standards committee ME-005 which is concerned with Elevating Work Platforms, and to all the members who have been part of this committee. The committee was recognised by Standards Australia for its outstanding work this year.

The EWPA welcomes a new member of staff, Andrew Delahunt who has taken on the role as Director of Resources – Safety, Technical and Training. Andrew brings a new level of expertise to the EWPA National office, as a Mechanical Engineer with 20 years expertise in safety management, accident investigation, technical regulations and machine manufacture. Many of you will know Andrew through his time at Haulotte and IPAF and I’m sure you’ll join me in welcoming Andrew to the role. To the EWPA volunteers, the Board, committees and all our members, thank you for your ongoing support. We appreciate the open communication and feedback that helps guide the Association and shape its activities for the future. All members will have now received membership invoices for the new financial year and we would we appreciate timely processing of these which enables the EWPA to continue focusing on the areas of Education and Training, Safety and Risk Management, Business Support, Networking and Industry Representation. On behalf of the EWPA I wish you all the best and I hope by the November issue of Hire and Rental Magazine we will be operating in a strong and safe economy, where we can once again bring members together at state meetings and industry events.

Doug Rawlings National President EWPA

Trucks, booms and scissor lifts – EWPA welcomes Andrew Andrew Delahunt has joined the EWPA as Director of Resources – Safety, Technical, Training and will be tackling some big challenges, including secondary guarding on scissor lifts and the Telehandler Good Practice Guide. Andrew’s background is as a mechanical engineer, spending 10 years as a design engineer at Kenworth Trucks and Volgren Buses before moving to Haulotte Australia as the regional Product Safety Manager. P28

In 2015 Andrew transferred to Lyon France to take on the role of Global Product Safety Manager, responsible for the safety and registration of all Haulotte products. He joined IPAF, the International Powered Access Federation, as the Director of Safety and Technology at the start of 2018 and was based in Basel Switzerland, working with rental companies to develop technical guidance, improve standards and analyse accident statistics when using MEWPs.

Andrew said he believes the local Australian industry leads the way with commitment to safety. “It’s such a demanding market in Australia. Access equipment is used in every workplace and in wildly different conditions, plus there is always high pressure for workers to complete jobs on time and at low cost,” Andrew said. “I am excited to join the team and to work with the wider industry. We are much safer than 20 years ago. Let’s keep improving.” n HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

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: 0410 704 979 Operations Director: Nicolas Chiew Tel: 0410 468 468 Director of Resources: Andrew Delahunt Tel: 0407 300 932 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 TECHNICAL DIRECTOR – ENGINEERING Peter Wenn, Tel: 03 9568 7211 COMMITTEE Dean Halliwell, Tel: 0408 403 783 James Nightingale, Tel: 1800 457 145 TELESCOPIC HANDLER ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA (TSHA)

Contents Hot topics 34striving for Skyreach

President Message – Staying COVID safe.

New international standards for MEWP operator controls.

Snorkel booms win highest retained

value.

Largest Spiderlift now in Australia.

GET MORE CAPACITY THE GENIE® Z®-45 XC™ AND S®-45 XC BOOM LIFTS

Ahern partners with Trackunit.

IN THIS ISSUE

Hi-Range Crane Forks get to work.

New standards for MEWP operator controls – p30

Largest Spiderlift comes to Australia – P36

Updates to telehandler range goes ultra-compact – 39

How to COVID clean your MEWP – Genie tells us how – p32

Industrial telehandler designed for max ROI – p40

We look at telehandler specialists on and off rail – p39

Snorkels’ industry-first lithium battery telehandler – p40

On the cover The New Genie Z-45 XC articulating boom

COVID cleaning MEWPs – Genie tells us how.

JCB telehandlers range is cost efficient.

Snorkel’s industryfirst telehandler

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

Matt Fearon leaves Genie.

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

2020

VOL22 NO.1 OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ELEVATING WORK PLATFORM ASSOCIATION OF AUSTRALIA INC

safety at height.

PRESIDENT: Stuart Walker Tel: 0418 849 107

AUG

The Genie Z-45 XC articulating boom is the redesigned Xtra Capacity version of the popular diesel-powered, rough-terrain Genie Z-45/25J RT, offering up to 454kg lift capacity. It can perform a wider range of heavier lift tasks on construction and industrial jobsites thanks to its dual lift capacity. The new design offers up to 15.86m working height with an outreach of 7.55m offering upand-over clearance of 7.3m. Visit: www.genielift.com

EWPA website Updated Design Registration Requirements relaunched Matrix for Telescopic Handlers in Australia Following its rebranding in 2019, the EWPA has now also launched a new website to help move the Association forward and better serve and represent its members. Featuring a simplified structure, global search functions and knowledge base plus a clean modern format, the new site’s UI/UX has been designed to allow members and the wider access industry more easily locate and utilise the considerable resources of the EWPA. n Visit: www.ewpa.com.au

The TSHA has updated the Design Registration Requirements Matrix for Telescopic Handlers in Australia with the release of Version 5 on the TSHA website. The new version of the matrix reflects the latest feedback from state safety regulators. EWPA CEO, James Oxenham said while all states work towards more harmonised Workplace Health & Safety (WHS) regulations, there are still variations, so the matrix offers handy guidelines regarding design registration of Telescopic Handlers. The TSHA advises members to note: • All States recognise each other’s Design Registration; and • In those States that have incorporated the

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

new WHS regulations it is necessary to apply for design registration in the State where the applicants registered office exists, although design registration may be accepted in exceptional circumstances. The following states are yet to adopt the harmonised regulations: VIC & WA. The updated design matrix information sheet is available to everyone on the TSHA site. n Visit: www.tsha.com.au

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ACCESS IN ACTION

New international standard for MEWP Operator Controls The EWPA was a pivotal player in the development of ISO 21455:2020 — Mobile elevating work platforms — Operator’s controls — Actuation, displacement, location and method of operation, which was published in early April.

ith the release of ISO 21455:2020, there is now standardisation of a range of specifics for MEWPS, including the location, marking and method or direction of operation related to all types of controls, including the use of finger, thumb, hand and foot operated controls. James Oxenham the CEO of the EWPA said the new standard was 10 years in the making and a result of work which began in 2010 when the UK HSE began looking into MEWP entrapment and control design. “This resulted in the reports RR960 and TT961 being published in 2013. Following the publication of these reports the Manufacturers of Elevating Work Platforms Council (MEWPC), later named the MEWP Industry Manufacturers Group (MIMG) was formed,” James said. “In 2015 it was proposed by the MIMG an international standard for MEWP

control performance, location, markings and methods of operation be created. And now five years later we have the release of this new ISO standard. “A key component of the development of ISO 21455:2020 was a research project led by the EWPA and IPAF (International Powered Access Federation). A simulated MEWP platform with a multi-position control panel was taken to construction sites and industry events. Operators with varying experience took part in research exercises using the control panel. The data obtained from this research proved invaluable to the members of the standard’s development committee. “The EWPA’s commitment to promoting the safe use of MEWPs has been demonstrated again with the launch of ISO 21455:2020. A new international standard for MEWP controls is great news for the industry and is a result of significant collaboration

between manufacturers, regulators, trade associations and their members around the world.” Peter Davis, EWPA Technical Director Operations and Executive General Manager of Fleet at Coates Hire said: “The dedication of the EWPA and its members over the past five years has played a significant role in helping to develop this global standard, which now provides designers and manufacturers with clear guidance on ensuring uniformity of MEWP controls. This is a great step forward in improving MEWP safety and one in which those involved should be proud.” The EWPA took a leading role in the development and implementation of the control direction simulation project, as well as having representation on the standards development committee – ISO TC 214 Working Group. Peter Wenn, EWPA Technical Director Engineering said: “The EWPA was instrumental in obtaining international cooperation through sponsoring a meeting of TC214 here in Australia and also establishing the global alliance meetings which are now held annually. It was critical controls were standardised through international consensus, therefore this cooperation was key. “As the Standards Australia nominated representative on the ISO TC 214 working group I can confidently say the participation of the EWPA helped lead to the successful launch of this new standard, particularly in relation to the consistency of the safety controls. It was also critical to have Australian representation on this working group to ensure we represented our stakeholders and members interests.” n Visit: www.ewpa.com.au

Snorkel booms win ‘Highest Retained Value’ Snorkel’s TB Series of 80ft (24.3m) and 86ft (26.2m) telescopic boom lifts has achieved the EquipmentWatch Highest Retained Value award for the third consecutive year. Industry-leading database, EquipmentWatch deemed the Snorkel TB80 and TB86J telescopic boom lifts to have the highest retained value within the telescopic boom category over a 12month period in 2018 and 2019. With an average age in the market of 13.47 years, these models are projected to retain the highest percentage of its original value after a five-year period. The Snorkel TB series is among 24 unique OEM winners within its category. The P30

annual awards are based on the comprehensive EquipmentWatch market activity database covering 50 categories of construction, access and agricultural equipment. A leader in heavy construction research, EquipmentWatch produces a range of database information products designed to be valuable tools in the decisionmaking process for the purchase, valuation, operation and disposal of equipment. Designed to be reliable and robust, the Snorkel TB80 and TB86J telescopic boom lifts are

built in the USA at Snorkel’s manufacturing facility in Elwood, Kansas. With a focus on simplicity, the diesel-powered rough terrain Snorkel TB80 and TB86J models are proven to deliver a long working life and a low total cost of ownership. Matthew Elvin, Snorkel CEO, said: “We are honoured to receive this highly regarded EquipmentWatch award for three consecutive years. “This supports our focus on designing simple, reliable and robust products that deliver low total ownership costs and ultimately are a great return on investment.”n Visit: www.equipmentwatch. com/2020-residual-valueawards/ or www.snorkellifts.com

The Snorkel TB80 is part of the TB Series of telescopic booms

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

WE RISE

BY LIFTING OTHERS Skyjack aims to support the rental industry during the good times and the bad. Through Skyjack’s WE RISE campaign, we want to encourage rental companies around the world to share their stories: • • • • •

Community donations and help Customer care and protection Staff care and protection Unique approaches and practices for the “new normal” And many more

A Skyjack WE RISE appreciation package to be provided for each rental company submission, and monthly prizes for featured stories!

GRAND PRIZE:

A NEW SKYJACK SJ3219

or cash equivalent to a nominated charity to be awarded at ARA 2021.

skyjack.com/we-rise

#werise

ACCESS IN ACTION

Matt Fearon leaves Terex/Genie Matt Fearon has resigned after 25 years with Terex, AWP and Genie, and John L Garrison, Jr, Chairman and CEO of Terex Corporation, will become President, Terex Aerial Work Platforms (AWP). “We thank Matt Fearon for his many contributions to Terex,” John Garrison said. “Matt has been a dynamic and muchadmired leader who helped Genie grow from a regional brand to a global powerhouse. He arrived as an engineer 25 years ago and went on to key roles including VP Operations, VP

and Managing Director of EMEAR, VP and General Manager, Americas, and ultimately President of AWP.” Simon Meester, Vice President, Global Sales and Marketing Administration for AWP, is now Chief Operating Officer, Terex Aerials. Simon and Clint Weber, General Manager of

Terex Utilities, the company’s other business in the AWP segment, will both report to John Garrison in his role as President, Terex AWP. Simon joined Terex in 2018 from Eaton Corporation, where he was VP and General Manager of the Industrial Control Division. Earlier, he spent 14 years in progressively senior roles at Caterpillar, Inc, before becoming President, Sandvik Mining and Construction in India. He has managed global teams and operations for 20 years, based in seven countries, including eight years in the United States. He holds an MBA from the University of Surrey, England and a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering, Apeldoorn, Netherlands. “I look forward to working closely with Simon and Clint, and their terrific teams at Genie and Utilities,” John Garrison said. “We congratulate Simon on his expanded responsibilities, and we send best wishes to Matt for continued great success in the years ahead.” n Visit: www.terex.com

Procedures for COVID-19 cleaning MEWPs from Genie Genie in the US has offered new procedures and protocols for cleaning and disinfecting aerial equipment on jobsites to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 while working at height. The specific precautions are based on guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the US. According to Scott Owyen, Genie Director of Training, Terex AWP said aerial equipment operators need to take the following actions when cleaning and disinfecting machines: Cleaning Machines 1) Wear reusable or disposable gloves for routine cleaning and disinfection. 2) Clean surfaces using soap and water, then use disinfectant. 3) Cleaning with soap and water reduces number of germs, dirt and impurities on the surface. Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces. 4) Practice routine cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. Disinfecting Machines • We recommend the use of EPA-registered household disinfectants. • Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product. Read the EPA’s infographic on how to use these disinfectant products safely and effectively. Many products recommend: o Keeping surface wet for a period of time (see product label); o Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good P32

ventilation during use of the product; • Diluted household bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface. o Check the label to see if your bleach is intended for disinfection, and ensure the product is not past its expiration date. o Unexpired household bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted. o Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. • Leave solution on the surface for at least one minute. o To make a bleach solution, mix: 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water; OR o 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water; • Bleach solutions will be effective for disinfection up to 24 hours. Please keep in mind bleach may negatively affect warning labels and other safety markings. • Alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol may also be used. “The best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to avoid being exposed to it,” said Scott. “These recommendations will help protect our equipment operators from contact with the virus while working at height, as well as

The best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to avoid being exposed to it. Photo by Josh Hild

assisting our customers, jobsite superintendents and fleet managers in their efforts to promote safety in the aerial access industry.” n Visit: www.terex.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

3 X WORKING ENVELOPES, 3 X PERSON PLATFORM, 1 X HIGH CAPACITY

BOOM LIFT.

= 340 kg*

= 300 kg*

Introducing the new 460SJ HC3 High Capacity Telescopic Boom lift by JLG. Featuring a platform working height of 16.05m, horizontal outreach of 12.23m and 360Ëšof continuous reach, the 460SJ HC3 provides versatile, efficient and safe access for a range of applications. With its generous 300kg unrestricted capacity zone (plus 340kg and 450kg restricted zones), operators can now enjoy more scope to have extra tools and equipment on hand with them in the basket as well as additional crew if required. And with its advanced Load Sensing System (LSS) that automatically calculates the load in the platform, this machine will always operate within a safe working envelope. *300kg max unrestricted capacity; 350kg and 450kg max restricted capacity.

Australia 131 JLG www.jlg.com.au

= 450 kg*

ACCESS IN ACTION

Striving for safety at height As one of the largest rental suppliers of EWPs and telehandlers on the East Coast, with nine branches from Melbourne to Cairns, Skyreach is continually striving for ever better elevating work platform safety.

Skyreach said safety while working at height is still the primary discussion within the construction industry

“

Safety while working at height is still the primary discussion within the construction industry today and we have placed ourselves at the forefront of this conversation. As injuries continue to occur within Australia, Skyreach is striving to become the market leader in EWP safety,” James Nightingale, Product & Training Specialist at Skyreach said. “The Skyreach mission is to set the industry standard in health and safety for both employees and customers, which we achieve through training, servicing and providing the best quality products available,” James said. “Working closely with Thiess Contractors in 2015, Skyreach was one of the first companies to trial and implement the Secondary Guarding System on their boom lifts on projects in Western and Northern Queensland. “This has resulted in almost all of Skyreach’s fleet of boom lifts being fitted with this new technology to improve customer safety. Moving forward, every boomlift that enters the Skyreach fleet will be fitted with this safety technology,” James said. James said Skyreach has continued this research by investigating crush protection systems for scissor lifts over the past few years and is currently trialling some OEM and third party systems to improve machine safety. “As part of this trial, Skyreach has been exploring a range of different safety system which includes safety bars, overhead guarding, radar detection systems, restricting height through use of software, overhead

P34

warning systems, and operator monitoring systems, James said. “Skyreach’s aim for these systems is to actively reduce risk, be cost effective to the hirer, maintain customer productivity and to be able to retro-fit these systems to our existing fleet. To date, the customer feedback has been very positive for this new safety technology, with many believing these systems are a must for improving overall operator safety now and in the future.” Over the past few years, Skyreach has been purchasing new equipment equipped with the latest technology. “Skyreach now has a fleet of Niftylift HR12, HR15, HR17, HR21 and HR28 Knuckle Booms which utilise diesel/electric motors allowing the operator to use either the diesel motor only, the electric motor only or use a combination hybrid powertrain. These machines are ideal for indoor use since they produce no harmful emissions, are extremely light weight and offer industry leading working envelopes,” James said. “Unlike any other Knuckle Boom, the ATN Zebra 16RT ‘Jack Boom’ has an automatic self-levelling stabiliser system that allows the operator to safely and securely work on slopes of up to 12 degrees. This off-road 4×4 articulating boom lift provides high ground clearance and greater movement on steep sites with a gradeability of up to 23 degrees,” he said. “Skyreach’s Jibbi 1250 Boom Lift has also been developed specifically for working on slopes and is designed to self-level at height while being driven. It is also fitted with an ultrasonic anti-collision system to protect the operator from crushing from

Most of Skyreach’s fleet of boom lifts is fitted with secondary guarding technology to improve customer safety

above and the basket from impacting obstacles below, thereby significantly increasing overall operator safety. “The CTE Traccess 170E and 230E Spider Boom Lifts produce zero emissions with a quiet operation that’s ideal for indoor use or sites with restrictions. These nimble machines provide safety features such as outrigger auto levelling, a unique system giving you the ability to position outriggers in ‘X’ or ‘K’ configurations to suit various applications and a basket safety features including crush protection and overload systems to ensure safe operation of the machine,” James said. Skyreach also offers MEC Speed level Scissor lifts giving the operator the ability to both elevate and drive on slopes of up to 14 degrees and offer a working height of 11m and our new Athena track-mounted Scissor lifts with the ability to operate on slopes up to 20 degrees, James said. “Skyreach’s brand new Scanclimber – Mast Climbing Work Platforms are a new category of machinery designed for heavy-duty facade work that provides an extra-large platform size for high capacity lifts (up to 6,000kgs) while working on new constructions or exterior restorations. The Scanclimber range incorporates several safety devices such as over-speed safety brakes, emergency stop and limit switches, phase sequence delay and a residual current device that quickly trips in emergency situations to increase the safety of the operator.” n Contact: 1800 457 145 or visit: www.skyreach.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

SNORKEL™ SR5626: ROUGH TERRAIN TELEHANDLER POWERFUL 4-WHEEL DRIVE | PROPORTIONAL CONTROLS | POWER-ASSISTED STEERING

QUALITY RUNS IN THE FAMILY The Snorkel SR626 telehandler looks different from our other lifts, but it definitely shares the same Snorkel quality. This rough terrain telehandler boasts a robust boom and chassis, giving it outstanding durability in any environment. Additionally, its 2,600kg (5,732 lbs.) lift capacity and 5.7m (19 ft.) lift height make it a versatile jobsite performer. With our standard two-year warranty, it’s easy to see that the S626 telehandler is truly a member of the Snorkel family.

For more information, call 1300 900 700 or visit ahernaustralia.com.au.

Sales Service Parts www.ahernaustralia.com.au

ACCESS IN ACTION

The first Platform Basket 43T Spider Lift in Australia gives a 43m (141ft) working height. Stowing to only 1.4m wide, under 2m tall

Introducing the largest Spider Lift in Australia Monitor Lifts has delivered the first Platform Basket 43T Spider Lift in Australia which gives a 43m (141ft) working height. The Platform Basket 43T Spider Lift is the newest in the range, adding higher working height to the spider lifts range which previously offered from 13m to 33m working height. With 43m of working height and up to 17m of horizontal outreach, the new 43T Spider Lift comes with a huge 330kg /three man basket capacity and is incredibly compact. Stowing to only 1.4m wide, under 2m tall, and having the ability to setup in around 3m of width thanks to the three position stabiliser legs system, you will certainly “Go

where others can’t”,” Ben Joyce, General Manager at Monitor Lifts said. “The remote control provides slow/ fast drive speed, precise and accurate auto levelling, and quick boom movements, guaranteeing highly productive outcomes on the job,” Ben said. “The enormous amount (1.3m) of stabiliser leg travel allows the 43T Spider Lift to set up and operate in the most challenging terrain. “The powerful 37hp Kubota Diesel engine and multi-torque track drive system will ensure it gets to the location with ease.

The tracks are independently raised/lowered from the radio control unit, allowing you to level the chassis on sloping terrain which provides excellent control of stability and centre of gravity. “With its main telescopic boom, coupled with the unique telescopic fly jib and platform rotation, the 43T Spider Lift will also allow operators to manoeuvre the basket into the work zone with fine precision. And once the job is complete, hold in the ‘Autostow’ button and the machine fully stows the booms for you,” Ben said. “Available with a powerful on-board lithium battery system, the 43T Spider Lift cam be fully operated on battery, greatly reducing noise and elimination any emissions. Brilliant for operation around residential areas, schools, universities, etc. And it’s very easy to charge the batteries – simply plug into a standard 10amp power supply. n Call: 1800 025 024 or visit: www.monitor.net.au

Terex implements cost saving measures following COVID-19

erex Corporation is implementing substantial cost saving and operational actions to enhance liquidity and maintain financial flexibility as it navigates its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board of Directors has suspended any quarterly dividend payments for the remainder of the year and previously announced the suspension of purchases under the share repurchase program. Terex has also implemented a comprehensive cost reduction program to help support its financial position during this time of uncertainty which includes: • Temporarily lowering the salaries of the CEO by 50%, the Executive Leadership Team by 20%, and other team members between 5% to 10%; • Temporarily furloughing and permanently reducing team population, where necessary, to maintain a right-sized skilled workforce for the commercial demand of its products; • Adjusting production in its businesses to P36

align with reduced levels of commercial demand; • Partnering with suppliers to limit incoming supply of materials, receiving only what is needed to support current production schedules. Also, the company is working with its suppliers to ensure continuity when the market improves; • Reducing plans for capital expenditures by 35% for the remainder of 2020; • Utilising tax and other government opportunities to preserve liquidity; and • Deferring or reducing other cash outlays. Terex Corporation Chairman, President and CEO, John L Garrison, Jr said: “We are focused on successfully navigating through this unprecedented period and are implementing substantial cost saving and operational actions to enhance liquidity and maintain financial flexibility. “We continue to monitor our end market demand and supply chains and have developed contingency plans should future developments warrant further action,” John said.

Safety is and will remain the top priority of the company, John said. Terex has taken significant measures to protect the health and safety of its team members. These include: • The company has preparedness and response plans that follow guidelines from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organisation (WHO) and governmental authorities; • Its systems that enable team members to work remotely are operating well; • The company enhanced protocols to further safeguard team members who perform jobs that must be done in its facilities or at customer sites. At Terex facilities, these include, among other things, additional cleaning measures, suspension of all non-essential visitors, and directions to achieve social distancing. n Visit: www.terex.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

ARRIVING OCTOBER 2020

Proactive & Dynamic

Levelling

Max Working Height 16m Max Outreach 8.5m Longitudinal Levelling +/- 15° Lateral Levelling +/- 15° Total Weight 3850kg Ultrasonic Anti-Collision System

0402 982 999

Call today for a no-obligation discussion.

ACCESS IN ACTION

Ahern Companies partners with Trackunit for telematics After a search of more than 14 telematics providers, the Ahern Family of Companies (Ahern Companies) has selected Trackunit as its telematics platform partner, signing the agreement in early May 2020 and commencing roll-out in the rental fleet immediately.

Trackunit will be deployed across the Ahern Rentals fleet within the next three years

Owned by Don F Ahern, the Ahern Family of Companies includes Ahern Rentals, the largest independently-owned rental company in North America, high reach OEM’s, Xtreme Manufacturing and Snorkel, and a global distribution network, including Diamond A Equipment in the USA, and Ahern International dealerships

in Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, Germany, Ireland, Japan, and Spain. Trackunit will be deployed across the Ahern Rentals fleet within the next three years, and new Xtreme and Snorkel lifts will be assembled with a Trackunit compatible connection for customers who wish to install the telematics. This will become available

in late 2020 and rolled out across the global manufacturing footprint by model type with OEM branded dashboards. The Trackunit telematics solution will also be available on products sold through the Ahern Companies distribution channels, including Diamond A Equipment and Ahern International. Mike Stilwagner, CIO, Ahern Companies said: “It was imperative our chosen telematics solution is a well-accepted and proven solution for our customer base and also satisfied the needs of our internal stakeholders. Trackunit is a global product, meaning our customers can have consistency of data, no matter where their equipment is manufactured or located. “A benefit of evaluating the available telematics solutions from a trilateral rental, manufacturing and distribution perspective is we are confident in Trackunit’s ability to meet the needs of our customers and all of our stakeholders.” Don Ahern, CEO, Ahern Companies said: “We conducted an expansive search of more than 14 telematics providers, including a multi-month pilot scheme. At the conclusion of the study, our telematics committee selected Trackunit as our telematics partner. “Our requirements are expansive since we encompass rental, manufacturing and distribution, and we resolved Trackunit was the best-suited to the needs of our customers. With the integration points to our existing ERP software suites, we expect to be able to recognise the full value of the Trackunit platform across the family of companies,” Don said. Jeff Cohen, President at Trackunit said: “We are extremely excited to begin this partnership with Ahern Companies at a time of transformation within our industry, as the focus shifts from gathering to utilising data. “Ahern Companies’ decision to roll-out the telematics solution across the business is testament to its commitment to using data for the long-term benefit of the businesses, customers, and industry.” n Visit: www.trackunit.com and www.aherncompanies.com

Manitou Group recognised at European Rental Awards In recognition of the quality of its work on the rental market, Manitou Group won the ‘Technical Committee Award’ at the European Rental Awards 2020. Alain Becque, Vice President Global Fleet Sales Manitou Group said this award confirms the group’s commitment to always meeting the ever increasing needs of this sector, while following the recommendations of the ERA (European Rental Association). Organised every year by the ERA and the KHL press group, the European Rental Awards are intended to honour the best equipment manufacturers for their products, services, and P38

global approach taken toward equipment renters. During a ‘connected’ ceremony held virtually due to COVID-19, the jury, represented by 19 major European rental companies, awarded prizes in six categories. Of the 20 manufacturers selected, Manitou Group won the ‘ERA Technical Committee Award’ for its global approach to meeting the expectations of the major rental companies. The jury acknowledged Manitou Group’s very strong partnership with the ERA since its creation and the attention paid to requests from rental companies, especially on safety and environmental issues.

Alain said: “We are very proud to receive this award. It represents great recognition from the major rental actors in Europe. We have always worked closely with our many rental customers to offer solutions fully in line with their expectations. Innovating while reducing their TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) is always our objective. This award is not the end goal, just a source of additional motivation to always meet the needs of a sector with very strong potential.” n Visit: www.manitou-australia.com

HIRE& RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

TELEHANDLERS

Hi Range Crane Forks rock bolting telehandlers hard at work. (Right) Hi Range Crane Forks the-ranga-hi-rail

Hi-Range Crane Forks: specialists on and off rail

ail infrastructure contactors for access equipment in NSW, Hi-Range Crane Forks is specialised in all aspects of rail construction, maintenance and repairs as well as operating a busy wet and dry telehandler business. The company which just celebrated its 30 year anniversary in 2019 said the demand for telehandlers is on a constant upward trend, and its machines are often in high demand. Hi-Range Crane Forks Managing Director, Rebecca Waters took on the role from her father in 2008, and has continued to build on the business and push it into

the future. Spending her days allocating telehandlers, operators and budgets may not be what she thought she’d be doing years ago, but she wouldn’t change a thing. “I love what I do, being a woman in a non-traditional female role is definitely empowering,” Rebecca said. “Hi-Range Crane Forks has worked on a range of projects over the past 30 years, with many of the highlights being major works on NSW rail lines. From the Central Station Main Works to the Newcastle Intercity Fleet Project and now the Sydney Metro Upgrades, it’s been humbling to know the

contribution our telehandlers have had on the NSW train system,” Rebecca said. “We love the challenge of rail; the culture and the close-knit industry make it easy to come to work every day,” Rebecca said. While 2020 has been a rocky year for everyone, Hi-Range Crane Forks has been focused on expanding its access equipment fleet with the addition of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms. Hi-Range is looking to service a wider range of industries across the Greater Sydney Region. “We need to evolve with the industry and the best way for us to do this at the moment is to expand into MEWPs,” Rebecca said. “Plus over the coming six months, the Hi-Range logo will be seen in multiple states as the business branches out.” n Contact: 02 4062 8733 or visit: www.hi-rangecraneforks.com.au/

New telehandler range is ultra compact The MT-X 420 H, the Manitou Group’s MT range’s most compact telescopic is the latest update to the company’s ultra-compact Telescopic handler range of MT-X telescopic truck models. With ultra-compact dimensions of 1.48m width by 1.90m height, the MT-X 420 H is adapted for construction customers and has a maximum lifting height of 4.30m and maximum capacity of 2tons. The MT-X 420 H has the same cab as the MT-X 625: and is equipped with an ergonomic driver’s seat which gives the operator quick and easy access to all information needed. Thanks to the JSM (Joystick Switch & Move) system, controls can be handled with one hand, meaning the operator remains in full control of his telehandler at all times. A number of interchangeable attachments are available to meet all on-site needs. The new machine can handle a 1200kg pallet at 4.30m lifting height and 2.10m outreach; load and unload a truck with forks; bulk material with bucket in the depot or HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

on worksite; big bag handling; and clean the ground with a sweeper in compact spaces. The Manitou Group has been using Internet of things, (Iot) to connect, as standard, every new machine ordered since the beginning of January 2019. The data collected enable users to be offered a new experience and new services. Olivier le Pesquer, head of TCO for Service Development, said: “Connected machines are an essential source of data in our goal of reducing TCO for users.” One of those services is Easy Manager, a fleet management and geolocation service for machines and itinerant vehicles. It permits collection of information in real time and makes the use and maintenance management of the fleet easier. The service is available both on the web and via an app on portable devices. “Ergonomic, secure and easy to use, with Easy Manager you have real-time access to all your machines’ technical information. At a glance, you can view their fuel consumption, movements, operating times, key indicators,

The Manitou MT-X 420 H is adapted for construction customers and has a maximum lifting height of 4.30m and maximum capacity of 2 tons

upcoming maintenance operations, etc,” Olivier said. n Visit: www.manitou-australia.com

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TELEHANDLER

Loadall telescopic handler range cost efficient Powered by Kohler by JCB and JCB’s own EcoMAX diesel engines, the JCB line-up of telehandlers spans the 6m lift height 525-60 to the range-topping 18m 540-180.

he extensive industrial machine range includes the 525-60, 531-70, 541-70, 535-95, 560-80, 540-140 HiViz and 540-180 HiViz models. The JCB line-up of telehandlers are easy to operate, reliable, durable and quick to turnaround for any operation. The 53170 and 541-70 models have recently been upgraded to include single-lever proportional boom and auxiliary operator controls for ease of use in the waste sector, JCB CEA National Product Manager, Greg Sealy said. “Each model incorporates the traditional JCB strengths of ruggedness, reliability, structural integrity, performance, visibility and safety. With the use of JCB’s purposedesigned attachment range further enhancing the tasks possible, this range of JCB Loadalls offers versatility for all materials handling applications,” Greg said. “A JCB industrial telehandler is not only highly efficient, it’s extremely cost effective to own and operate too. The JCB Loadall is designed for maximum possible return

on investment, with great fuel efficiency, unparalleled resale value and low running costs. It really is the ideal machine for a multitude of jobs,” Greg said. “Class-leading JCB hydraulics also produce the fastest cycle times, ensuring the most efficient lifting, extending and pushing.” JCB has designed the industrial Loadall range to be intuitive and comfortable to operate, with the most ergonomic operator environment on the market. Visibility is excellent, courtesy of direct glazing, a large roof screen and a low mounted boom, Greg said. “A focus on quality means the JCB manufactured Loadall engine, transmission, axles, hydraulic rams and cab are all designed to work perfectly together so there is no compromise in performance. Along with quality and durability, another key factor in maximising machine uptime is easy serviceability. With a JCB Loadall, all checks are quick, simple and safe to carry out from ground level and most service intervals,

JCB has designed the industrial Loadall range to be intuitive and comfortable to operate

including boom lubrication are at 500 hours. “On-site safety is of paramount importance, JCB industrial Loadalls have a wealth of features designed to protect themselves, their operators and any bystanders. They are also equipped with a comprehensive security package. “All models are fitted standard with telematics and five years access to JCB LiveLink. LiveLink Telematics give machine operators and rental fleet managers easy access to all data at the click of a button through an online portal. “JCB first pioneered the telehandler concept back in 1977 and has continued to develop the concept to meet the needs of a diverse range of applications. The latest JCB Loadalls represent the ultimate in innovation, low cost of ownership, power, productivity, safety, serviceability and environmental performance,” Greg said. n Visit: www.cea.net.au

Snorkel expands telehandler line with industry-first Snorkel has expanded its family of rough terrain telehandlers with two new models, including the first lithium electric telehandler, with the lithium-ion battery powered SR626E compact rough terrain telehandler officially unveiled at CONEXPO/CON-AGG 2020 in Las Vegas in March. What Ahern is calling the world’s first fully electric telehandler delivers a maximum lifting capacity of 2,600kg and a maximum lift height of up to 5.79m, plus zero emissions. Powered by 80V 300Ah lithiumion batteries, the SR626E can perform continuously between charges for up to six hours depending on jobsite conditions. The on-board charger provides a full charge overnight, while off-board chargers options are available for fast-charging capabilities, up to 2.5 hours for a complete charge. The SR626E delivers a reduction of up to 60% in operating costs over the diesel equivalent, while also reducing noise. Built to handle rough terrain, the SR626E shares fulltime four-wheel drive and an oscillating axle with its diesel equivalent, and three steering modes ensure the compact telehandler is easy P40

to maneuver, even in confined spaces. Equipped with an ergonomic fully enclosed cab, with adjustable steering column and suspension seat, the SR626E provides a comfortable working environment. An intuitive multifunction color LCD screen provides clear and immediate display of all key parameters and the integrated diagnostics. Snorkel supports its lithium-ion electric lifts with its two-year parts and labour, and five-year structural warranty, plus a 2000 charging cycles/two year (whichever comes first) lithium battery warranty. The new SR1065, at the larger end of the Snorkel telehandler line, has a maximum lift height of 9.5m, and can lift loads up to

6,500kg with a maximum forward reach of up to 5.4m. Weighing 11,090kg, and powered by a Deutz engine, the heavy-duty SR1065 has full-time four-wheel drive and fourwheel steer, with selectable front, crab and coordinated steering modes. A fully enclosed cab comes as standard, with proportional joystick controls, adjustable steering column, illuminated gauge and switch panels, and a color LCD display with machine and engine diagnostics. The cab can be customised with optional air conditioning and an adjustable suspension seat, and a wide range of attachments are available. The SR626E and SR1065 expand Snorkel’s rough terrain telehandler product line to five models, and both are now available to order from Ahern Australia. Ahern Australia is the official provider of Snorkel, Xtreme Manufacturing and Ruthmann Bluelift sales, service and spare parts in Australia. n Visit: www.ahernaustralia.com.au

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MAY FEB 2020 AUG FEB VOL22 VOL21 2020 N OO0 .0 4 5 N

VOL22 N OO0 .0 1 5 N OFFICIAL BULLETIN OF THE EVENTS DIVISION OF THE HIRE AND RENTAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION LTD OFFICIAL BULLETIN OF THE EVENTS DIVISION OF THE HIRE AND RENTAL INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION LTD

Join the HRIA as we welcome the industry back in 2021 at the Gold Coast Convention Centre

SAVE THE DATE 12-13 May 2021 HIRE21

GOLD COAST We’ll be back

(fingers crossed)

IN INTHIS THISISSUE ISSUE

Cover lines;Exponet sells temporary Commercial handwashing stations get a work-outbusiness – p42 to Pattis – p49 structures

Australian Standard–-how Structural Harry the hirer event tech Harrys vs COVID-19 Harrys Design Underwood PartyProductions Hire – one company’s comes up squeaky – p44 – p50 journey Wind Actions openclean for comment profilethrough – p52 COVID-19 – p46

EVENTS IN FOCUS

Maintaining connection vital as we move forward Our industry (along with so many others) has been hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

he restrictions have had a huge impact on our businesses with a great amount of uncertainty for the future. As I sit here and write this I can’t tell you everything will be ok or this will end soon because the reality is we just don’t know what the future holds. What I can tell you is that to get through this we will need to come together and lean on each other. We are all in the same boat and now is the time to put community over competition and support each other as we navigate our way through this. The HRIA is working hard behind the scenes to support our members and provide updates, information, government lobbying and support through our Facebook group and the partnerships with our external consultancy businesses in HLB Mann Judd and MST Lawyers. I urge you to reach out and make use of these resources to support your decision making moving through this time. The annual HRIA Conference had to be

postponed as we all know but the team at the HRIA National office worked hard to bring together some online resources for members to access in lieu of the conference. This was a series of webinars held online during the three days HIRE20 should have occurred. For the Events Division we hosted a panel discussion which featured Mark Burton, our National President and owner of Barossa Valley Hire (a general and events hire business); Brett O’Hara, Operations Manager of Harry the hirer and myself as owner of South Coast Party Hire. The panel connected a cross section of businesses that represented our sector of the industry to provide participants with a real insight into how COVID-19 has affected us. We shared our story, learnings and thoughts on the future. The response from the panel webinar was great and it is available for viewing via the HRIA website if anyone missed it. I would urge you to take the time to have a listen. You can access it at: https://youtu.be/LDG7wlYoK08 Most importantly, we know we don’t have all the answers but we wanted participants to walk away feeling they were not alone. For me, I know that has been one of the most important things to focus on during this period of uncertainty.

So please feel free to call me for a chat or catch up. For those of you that know me know I love a chat and making new connections so please just reach out. It is also pertinent to make note of the newly launched HRIA COVIDSafe Guidance document which provides practical guidance on how to minimise exposure to COVID-19 for staff, customers and other site visitors. This guide was designed to assist those reopening their operation if it has been closed as well as bolster hire company approaches if you have remained open. There are some really relevant sections for the Events Division so if you haven’t already accessed this document, get online via the HRIA members portal and check it out. It is nice to know we are on the right trajectory and in line with the most recent government and Association announcements and we are continuing our lobbying to ensure, as far as it is safe, for the restrictions on events and gatherings will continue to be lifted. And then we can all get back to work. Here’s hoping.

Erin Johnston Events Division President

Commercial hand washing stations

Left to right: Stainless steel Commercial Wash Stations; Hand Sanitising Stand; Five Star Hand Wash Stations; Alcohol based hand sanitiser

One product area that has seen a lot of activity in recent months is in the commercial hand washing segment and Instant Toilets & Showers Commercial Hand Washing Stations are designed for high volume, commercial use and are now available to hire or buy. The range includes the Hand Sanitising Stand, Five Star Hand Wash Stations, alcohol based hand sanitiser, and stainless steel Commercial Wash Stations. The Hand Sanitising Stand is a commercial P42

grade, sanitiser stand, designed to stand out in safety yellow, or can be customised with choice of colour options available. The commercial grade Five Star Hand Wash Stations are self-contained units designed to operate anywhere. The foot operated unit stores its own fresh water for handwashing and stores its own waste. The Stainless Commercial Wash Stations are self-contained units made from stainless steel to meet health department requirements.

The units come with their own electric hot water service and minimal set up time is required for operation. The units are available in a range of sizes. Instant Toilets also offers strong, commercial grade alcohol based hand sanitiser for immediate delivery. n Contact: 08 9406 6600 or visit: www.instanttoilets.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

EVENTS IN FOCUS

Beautiful linings and stunning structure dressing As the world looks forward to getting back to normal and the events industry ready to get back up for business, we asked Baytex Sales Consultant, Leanne Toft what’s new and what’s trending for the company. Q: What’s new, what’s trending? A: “At Baytex, the Hampton Pole Tent is particularly popular for weddings with its traditional, romantic style and timber look poles,” Leanne said.

Baytex structure in use at a ‘Get Set Event’

“Also, clear PVC roofs on structures are still on trend. It’s crazy but true. Plus helping to beat the heat are our Mesh Liners with Serge Ferrari’s high performing mesh fabric, which don’t obstruct the view, but cut out a lot of the heat.

Baytex offers a range of structure linings and options including the Shade Skins range

“Stretch Tents can be set up on slopes and uneven ground which makes them really versatile and because they are quick to erect, they are proving a popular purchase.

Baytex’s GeoFlex Stretch Tent

Q: What has the market been focusing on – pre-COVID-19? And what are future bookings looking like? In terms of style/colour etc? A: “I don’t think the markets’ focus has changed in terms of style pre and postCOVID-19. More hire companies are wanting to create the full experience for the event/ wedding and provide liners and flooring and stunning dressing of the structure. “Gathered linings finish off the structure beautifully, and complete the scene. “From small events to large, linings are perfect to complete the structure,” Leanne said. “These can be custom made to fit in gathered or flat styles”. n Contact NZ: +64 7 579 0190 or visit: www.baytex.co.nz

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Harry the hirer Cavalltec Skin Cleaner makes it easy to put panels away

Harry the hirer vs COVID-19 With months of fervent cleaning during Coronavirus lockdown behind the major events, conference and exhibitions supplier, Harry the hirer has been giving its three Cavalltec PRO washing machines a workout cleaning marquee roofs, gables and walls.

he impact to the business from COVID-19 has been significant, Harry the hirer’s Brett O’Hara said. “Since our staff can’t sell and build incredible events they have fervently been cleaning furniture and equipment; so when we have a green light on actuating events again, Harry the hirer will be ready to hit the ground running,” Brett said. “All of our equipment including marquees, furniture and production are stored in a number of large warehouses in Brooklyn. Extraordinarily the only equipment that hasn’t stopped in all of this chaos is our three Cavalltec PRO washing machines. “Harry the hirer is the only company in the world to own three machines and in the past couple of months all three machines have been going flat out,” Brett said. The first two Cavalltec PRO washing machines were installed in July 2014. Machine 1 has now completed 43,114 wash cycles and Machine 2 has completed 39,117 wash cycles.

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The third machine was installed in September 2019, with softer brushes which are suitable for washing clear PVC Fabric. It has completed 2,284 wash cycles. “More staggering statistics suggest 43,000 cycles equates to 7,100 cycles per year or 600 cycles per month, per machine,” Brett said. “At Harry the hirer we have over 8,000 different fabric items that are all washed through these machines. “Our observations of the machines’ performance shows the following key advantages over manual hand washing labor: • Space Saving – the machines requires a space of 25m2 ; • Time Saving – the machine can wash and dry large roof covers in 30 minutes compared to two hours of manual washing; • Drying Ability – the machines blow hot air on the fabric which dries up the moisture quickly, enabling staff to immediately fold and store the fabric on the shelves, and avoid the fabric going

mouldy. When the skins are manually washed staff have to wash the fabric, hang up it to dry overnight, and then fold and store them away the next day; • Labour Saving – the machines only require two staff to operate them. We have found the same two staff can operate all three machines on a rotating basis. Therefore the machines never stop running throughout the day; • Cost Saving – the machines save on electricity and increase the availability of clean stock; • Increased Life Span – the machines spray a wax coating on the fabric after it has been washed, which protects the PVC material, and increases the life span of the product. The wax coat gives the fabric a higher gloss and a polished finish with a protective filter that will improve its performance. “Since purchasing the machines we have noticed a significant change in both the quality and appearance of our marquee fabric. Our clients frequently comment how good the skins look,” Brett said. “The new technology of the Cavalltec PRO washing machines offers the most effective machine for washing and drying large fabrics. All machines are easy to use and are entirely automated for washing and drying tent fabrics. “Our marquees are a substantial investment so care and maintenance of the fabrics which are the most fragile element in a tent and are easily damaged when handled incorrectly is a priority. It is therefore of utmost importance to have the means of maintaining them in good condition. We have found the Cavalltec equipment is the best option for preserving the fabrics in good condition and has contributed to prolong their lifespan.” HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

EVENTS IN FOCUS

Top left: Harry the hirer Cavalltec Skin Cleaner; top right: Harry the hirer washing machine cleans clear panels; right: Harry the hirer cavalltec skin cleaner cleaning panels

Beyond COVID-19 “We look forward to seeing our shiny, clean marquees back out and about at major events in the not too distant future.” FYI here‘s an operational video: https:// youtu.be/OZLnPTvXq7w And so do we. Ed. n Visit: www.harrythehirer.com.au and https://cavalltec.com/

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Far North Qld events business loses ‘entire season’ under COVID-19 Over the two days from 11 March earlier this year, Cairns based family owned events business, Underwood Party Hire, lost $800,000 of business as a result of cancelled events; stood down all its staff; and reduced its business operations to a skeleton staff of just two people, Louis Underwood and his brother Glen.

he COVID-19 shutdown which (then) stopped events with more than 500 people, effectively saw the events hire business lose its entire events season and 88% of its entire annual business revenue. Louis said the shutdown has been devastating for the business, for its staff and for the industry in the region. This meant that as the pandemic deepened and shutdown became more restrictive, the business realised a loss of its entire season with a total of about $3million in cancelled events. “Being based in Cairns, the events business season runs from April to October. The November to May period equates to about 12% of Underwood Party Hire’s incomes stream and incorporates Christmas events, small family Christmas parties, Carols by Candlelight events, Australia Day events and the Chinese New Year festival. During January, February and March, we do no events because it is too hot, too wet and there is always the chance of a cyclone (although we haven’t had a cyclone in Cairns for 50 years). That is usually when we focus on maintenance and cleaning and business operations,” Louis said. “When we closed the business following COVID-19 restrictions, and Glen and I decided to carry on ourselves, we looked

at every cost we had and where we could cut costs, even down to cutting local paper subscriptions. We shut down all our electrical operations and requirements and only kept one small fridge running. “We deregistered all our trucks and cancelled all our insurance policies. If we re-register all our trucks within 12 months there will be no registration fees if we have a current roadworthy certificate. “We spoke to our banks about our leases and put them on hold. We have a warehouse we rent where we store our equipment and we were preparing to move all our stock and equipment back to our own site to further cut costs, but we spoke to our landlord who said, no leave it, you can stay for free and we will talk again when this is all over. “And that was before the government stepped in to regulate landlords and rent. “All up, we reduced our overheads by about 90% which is what has enabled us to stay afloat during this crisis period. “All our staff opted to take their holiday pay, but not their long service. We have stood them all down so they still accumulate their holidays,” Louise said. “We were in a lucky position actually because of our volatile weather. We hadn’t put on all of our contractors and casual on staff yet.

“But having to stand down our permanent staff, some of whom have been with us for 20+ years, was the hardest business decision I’ve ever had to make in my life,” Louis said. “When it happened, I became obsessed with following all the governmental information and there were many sleepless nights. But with JobKeeper in place all our staff are on JobKeeper and are doing maintenance and repairs and rearranging warehouses. We’ve got them working three days a week and it’s giving us all purpose again.” Louis said the forced shutdown has given him time to assess the business and put in place some new systems. “We’re also improving our hire program and setting up an online ordering system. Then our customers can build their own event through the website. There is a lot of work involved in getting that established and we are working closely with the programmer. “We have discussed training for staff but until we have specific government input and assistance specific to our industry, that will have to wait.” “Once JobKeeper ends in September (at time of interview) all our staff will all be stood down again and we can only bring them back again if we have any work. At this point we have no forward bookings. Then our staff will have to look at JobSeeker for assistance.” New way of doing business to be COVID-19 safe Following COVID-19 cleaning regulations has been a new addition to the workplace too. “We’ve implemented cleaning and masking and sanitising throughout our four warehouses, complete with reminder signage about the requirements for COVID-19 safety measures.” One thing they haven’t had is any customers. “We did $55 worth of hire in April and we were pretty proud. But otherwise that is it. “For all our event customers, we’ve maintained contact and supported each other morally through this crisis. We are all saying we’ll be here on the other side and we’ll get through this together.

Underwood Party Hire supplies about 14 major events a year – usually. From Field Days in Emerald to the Cairns Amateurs

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EVENTS IN FOCUS

‘There has been a bit of community support. We talked to our catering companies and the local Chamber of Commerce and stayed community aware up here. “Definitely around town there are businesses that have closed. They’ve shut their door and walked away. I think JobKeeper has kept some businesses going for the time being but when it ends we’ll see what happens next. I think JobKeeper has been a short fix for many local businesses. I anticipate up to 20% of local restaurants will be gone once JobKeeper ends. With the border closed it is very difficult for tourist reliant business to stay afloat.” Following every assistance Louis said they have followed the HRIA and Chamber of Commerce and monitored the internet with state and federal government notices. “We work with our accountant and have applied for every assistance we can access. JobKeeper has definitely been the biggest help. “With no work to focus on, we’ve had time to put effort into sourcing assistance and to see what’s out there. “Were monitoring what’s happening. A large part of our income is from large events of concerts and festivals for 20,000 people or more. We are waiting to see how the government will regulate that moving forward. “Will large events ever come back? It is very much a waiting game at the moment.” Cost of COVID-19 Louis said the cost of COVID-19 on the events industry and for Underwood Party Hire has been immeasurable. “It’s not just the $3million loss of cancelled events this year for us; it’s a potential loss of staff into the future; the loss of goodwill which every events business has had to face; the cost of re-establishing our business, and the cost of marketing to get our name out in the market again. There is also the cost of adjusting our business practices to the new way of operating in the future. “When I look back, I believed we had a strong business with a large client base and that whatever happened, we’d still be ok, even if we lost a major event. I’ve always felt confident after being in this industry for 40 years, that we had built a rock solid business. “But Coronavirus has taught me nothing is ever certain in this life. Nobody could have predicted what has happened. “I can’t see our event industry happening again until we are allowed to have over 500 people at an event again and social distancing rules are relaxed. Up to 70% of Cairns business is tourism based. “I can’t see us returning to business before April next year – at best. “If government regulations relax and social distancing measures relax, and we are allowed to have up to 100 people at an event, then weddings can start happening again. July, August and September is our peak wedding season up here. By the end HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

Underwood Party Hire supplies the Cairns show circuit which hosts 70,000-80,000 people in three days

of October it is too hot to have a wedding outside. “This year we had 40 weddings booked. We contacted every one of them and while five cancelled altogether, 35 have rolled their dates into next year. “Basically for 12-14 months or more, we have shut the business down. We will see what we can get through. For my brother and I we can go back to our trade and fix a few cars for people. Is there an upside? “I think there is always good that comes out of bad and within the hire industry, there has been a lot of comradeship and we’ve all really leant on each other. “We’ve had support within the industry from our suppliers and other event suppliers. I believe this has brought us all closer together. After more than two months living this situation, I know we’ll be there to see daylight on the other side of Coronavirus. “I feel sorry for the people who’ve only been in the hire industry for 10 years and have large overheads. For us, our longevity has been a godsend. “I can say for certain I believe the industry won’t be what it was. It will be a very different world for at least the next five years: how events are held; how we supply to events; the areas required to house attendees. “To put it into perspective, consider a wedding of 100 people. Pre-COVID-19 we could have put that 100 wedding people into a 150m2 venue. Post COVID-19, we need a 400m2 venue.” About Underwood Party Hire Family owned and operated events business Underwood Party Hire began in 1946 when Louis Underwood’s grandfather started in the construction industry, working often on government contracts. When his grandfather left Cairns after winning the contract to develop in Weipa in 1959, spending 11 years on the contract, there were two builders in Cairns. When he returned, there were 42. So in 1970, he decided to go into machinery hire using his construction equipment and supply to his construction industry competition. The business became Underwood Hire Service. His grandfather always said: hire is what we

do, but service is the most important part of what we give. Louis entered the family business in 1979 as a third generation member. Louis had to get a trade before he could join the business and he became a motor mechanic. His brother Glen entered the business in the late 1980s. It had been late 1978 the family had started its party hire business with 200 beer glasses, 50 tables and 500 chairs. In 2005, the family sold the machinery hire business to Kennards Hire. Louis and his brother looked at the party hire business and wondered how they could survive just on party hire. But in that first year, the brothers increased the business 100%. “It was mainly because we had the time to devote to it after we sold the machinery hire business,” Louis said. Nowadays Underwood Party Hire does everything from cutlery to two storey marquees and the business now has an exhibition side to it as well which began in 1996. The dominant work area is from Rockhampton to Cairns (in about a 1000km radius) but the company has done business in every state except Tasmania. It has done some unique events like gala dinners on Big Red (sand hill in the middle of the Simpson Desert) following a 4WD road race challenge and a cocktail party on the tip of Cape York. The business supplies about 14 major events a year – usually. From Field Days in Emerald to the Cairns Amateurs – a big local horse meeting hosting up to 20,000 people which it has supplied since 1979 with everything from marquees to cutlery, flooring, fencing and portable toilets. Underwood Party Hire supplies the Cairns show circuit which hosts 70,00080,000 people in three days; World Mountain Bike events in Cairns, concerts, and the Country Music Festival in Whitton. A lot of the events it supplies are 1000kms from home base and for six months of the year, it has crew living in hotels and fleets of semi-trailers to transport the gear to all the remote sites. n Visit: www.underwoodpartyhire.com.au

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Hot trending black and clear span marquee To wake us all back up to the wide, wide world of wonderful events after lockdown, South Coast Party Hire is reminding us of how fabulous events can be, showcasing its hot trending black and clear span marquee, The Verve. Here it is showcased at South Coast Party Hire’s (SCPH) 10th Birthday Celebration last year which doubled as a product launch for The Verve. Erin Johnston, SCPH owner said: “We had over 130 venues and vendors from the South Coast who we have worked with over the past 10 years while building our business, come and celebrate and it was one hell of a party.” The 10m wide black frame with clear vinyl marquee comes in bays of 3m. “The roof panels have printed black lines on the clear vinyl to help to create that greenhouse look we were going for. “We got The Verve in August 2019.

used mostly for weddings where clients are looking for a more contemporary and edgy vibe. “Put simply black is sexy. There is a shift in trends towards a more contemporary and classic look and clients willing to take more risks and go outside the norms for the styling of their event – The Verve has been popular with these clients. “Vendors involved in styling our 10th Birthday Bash event were: Styling – Pia & Jade; Venue - Willow Farm Berry; Florals - Ivy Lane Collective; Photography - Alana Taylor; Catering – Duck Duck Goose Catering; Lighting – Luminous Events.” n

Visit: www.scph.com.au Our business ethos has always been about pushing the boundaries and having a range that isn’t run of the mill. We love taking risks and providing our clients with an expansive range to choose from when organising their event,” Erin said. “The Verve, although a risky purchase for our small business, was one we took to ensure we were staying true to our values and always striving to push the boundaries and take risks. “Since The Verve has been used mostly for weddings where clients are looking for a more contemporary and edgy vibe its launch, The Verve has been

Shipping container ‘reinvention’ key for success From mining camp accommodation to more specialised repurposing in recent years, the ‘reinvention’ of the shipping container has been vital to Royal Wolf’s success over its 25year history, CEO Neil Littlewood said. The company’s listing on the ASX in 2011 was a capital expansion move to meet the sudden demand from the then booming mining sector for camp accommodation. But when that bubble burst, Royal Wolf took a hit. “Yes we did, as did many Australian companies associated with the mining sector,” Neil said. “So we came to a rethink of our business. To diversify we turned down the dial on camp accommodation, but we increased the dial on worker accommodation at civil construction sites. That’s where we have built a niche. “And as a company it helped us learn about ourselves and what we could do. “Most people have this view it is just this steel container, but what you can do inside that is quite interesting. People all over the globe have come up with some sensational solutions.” Standard containers P48

traditionally come in two sizes; 20 foot and 40 foot containers, usually in a muddy-red colour. But Royal Wolf, Australian supplier of shipping containers for hire, sale and specialised modification in the domestic market, has shown even the most rigid of products can be re-imagined when a company needs to adapt. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Royal Wolf was instrumental in providing emergency response testing stations, and in Geelong, the modification of a container into a visitors’ pod at an aged care facility. “Our design team has about 15 different configurations (for pandemic response buildings),” Neil said. The company’s largest longterm solution project has been the 85 container build last year for 180 live-in students at the University of Tasmania’s Sandy Bay campus. As a result of that project, the State Government commissioned Royal Wolf to supply 18 single-person pods for Hobart’s Bethlehem House, a homeless accommodation service for men, and 10 larger shelters for the Hobart Women’s Shelter. Neil said the company and the local team in Hobart found a

Top: Royal Wolf was commissioned to supply 18 single-person pods for Hobart’s Bethlehem House, a homeless accommodation service for men. Above: Inside the accommodation pods

sense of pride in being able to be part of the solution. “To me it is about understanding what governments, councils and clients are looking for; analysing that; providing an innovative and individual solution

for them; and then delivering on that in a timely manner. That is our core function,” he said. n Contact: 1300 651 700 or visit: www.royalwolf.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

EARTHMOVING & MINI EQUIPMENT

Toyota launches first Huski mini excavator range A new range of Huski mini-excavators, featuring high breakout force and zero tail-swing has been launched by Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA). CEA officially became the Australian and New Zealand distributor of Ditch Witch underground construction equipment and Komptech waste recycling equipment

ull supply of the seven model range will available by third-quarter (Q3) 2020 and will include one 1.3-tonne short-radius machine and six Zero TailSwing models ranging from 1.6-tonne through to 6-tonne. Huski Construction Equipment Product Manager, Matt Meddows, said the addition of excavators to the Huski range will greatly complement its current product offering. “Mini excavators are a natural progression for our business since they fit perfectly with our current range,” Matt said. “This has been a long time coming. A lot of customers have been asking about excavator offerings for many years and we are proud to announce we now have a range with powerful break-out force and zero tail-swing in tonnages of 1.6, 2.2, 2.8, 3.8, 5.8 and 6.0. “We know operators trust our skid steer loaders because they’ve proven reliable in the field for three decades. Now, if they’re looking for a new excavator, we can bring all the assurance of the Huski brand to them for those needs, as well. The machines have been made in Italy for the past 25 years by a company founded in the early ‘60s, Matt said. “It was certified ISO 9001 in 1999 and has since continually grown and refined its manufacturing processes. “Fundamental to Huski excavators’ robust construction and functional design is excellent quality-of-materials, high technological content of components and the strict inspection of production and assembly processes. “All models in the range feature leading performance and high safety standards. They will be competitively priced and backed by the reputation that extends to all our machinery under the TMHA banner.” To ensure the Huski mini excavators were specified for Australian conditions and proven to work here, an extensive testing regime was employed. “We have seven models in the country already, for testing,” Matt said. “The first one out here was initially just to gain our own practical knowledge of the machine. We went over it thoroughly in order to make modifications to suit our standards and the applications we expect them to be working in. “We then tested them for over six months by loaning them to customers who already run Toyota Huski skid steer loaders and they’ve been giving us their feedback. HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

CEA now distributors of Ditch Witch and Komptech

A new range of Huski mini-excavators, featuring high break-out force and zero tail-swing has been launched by TMHA

“We have been logging and communicating their feedback to relay that to the factory and make running changes.” “The Huski mini excavators will feature many options when they arrive in Australia. These options will include factory quick-hitch piping, blade-float options on all models (and standard from 2.8tonnes upwards) and extended counterweight options from 2.8 to 6tonne machines. “The 2.8 to 6tonne machines have the option of counterweights for operators who might want a different style of hitch on the front, or just want a bit more stability-forapplication. “The 5.5 and 6tonners will come standard with boom and arm locking valves.” “Our service techs are also adept in the new excavators and on-site service will be conducted in a way familiar to skid steer customers,” Matt said. “Customers like to use a single point-ofcall for servicing and parts. We can look after their needs for both machines; minimising inconvenience to them and helping to streamline their business,” Matt said. “We hear from our customers they feel the same about our skid steer loaders, so it shouldn’t be much of a leap to enjoy the same characteristics and performance our new digger range provides. n” Contact: 1800 425 438 or visit: www.toyotamaterialhandling.com.au

CEA officially became the Australian and New Zealand distributor of Ditch Witch underground construction equipment and Komptech waste recycling equipment from 2 July, 2020. CEA agreed earlier this year to purchase distributor, ELB Equipment, which distributes Ditch Witch and Komptech equipment. As part of the acquisition CEA will also become the distributor of Diamond Z, Screenpod, TrackStack, Hammerhead, Ring-O-Matic and Subsite adding to its expanding portfolio of products for clients operating in the infrastructure construction, utility maintenance, waste management and recycling sectors. As the distributor of JCB construction and agricultural machinery; Dynapac compaction and paving equipment; and Atlas Copco generators, portable air compressors, and lighting towers, the addition of Ditch Witch and Komptech to the CEA portfolio will strengthen the business’s well-established footprint across the country. “We are really pleased to add these strong brands to our product portfolio,” CEA CEO Hylton Taylor said. “As a growing business we are continually looking at how we better meet the needs of the ever-evolving market. Adding strong, well established brands to our portfolio strengthens our ability to support our diverse range of existing customers and provides the opportunity to interact with a whole new client base.” The ELB Equipment head office and administrative staff will relocating to CEA’s head office in Horningsea Park (Sydney) from early July, and ELB’s operations in Sydney, Adelaide, and Brisbane will commence consolidating with CEA’s facilities in coming months. n Visit: www.cea.net.au

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EARTHMOVING & MINI EQUIPMENT

Mecalac introduces MCR Series to maximise efficiency Compact construction equipment manufacturer, Mecalac has introduced a line of crawler skid-excavators, the newly updated MCR Series which includes three models, the 6MCR, 8MCR and 10MCR.

ecalac said its line of compact skid excavators offers superior speed, productivity and compact operation over traditional mini-excavators. “The machines provide the swiftness of a skid steer with the 360degree rotation of an excavator for versatility and travel speeds two times faster than any small excavator,” Peter Bigwood, General Manager for Mecalac North America said. “A compact footprint brings Mecalac’s signature end-user-focused design to new applications and industries for increased safety, sustainability and efficiency,” Peter said. “The MCR Series is truly multifunctional, acting as a skid steer, excavator or rough terrain forklift, depending on the attachment. We designed the new MCR series to go faster than

anything else its size because we know time is of the essence on every jobsite.” “A dedicated pump drives the motor, allowing for twice the speed of any traditional mini excavator on the market. Each of the three machines is capable of travel speeds up to 6.2mph (10km/h). This significantly reduces time spent traveling across jobsites, resulting in faster cycle times and less unnecessary downtime. “On the jobsite, the MCRs’ versatility increases productivity and reduces congestion. The advanced system allows operators to quickly transition between attachments, such as pallet forks or digging buckets, without leaving the cab, decreasing downtime between tasks and increasing overall productivity. Additionally, once the pins are engaged, Connect guarantees

Mecalac introduces its innovative line of crawler skidexcavators, the new MCR Series

zero risk of dropping a bucket. “MCR units combine Mecalac’s three-part arm and a rotating ability to deliver performance as part of the company’s signature 360degree compactness. The three-part arm can also be tucked in, even with a full bucket, allowing for extra compactness and mobility without overbalancing the unit in the front, resulting in a true zero-turn radius. Plus, the boom system gives the MCR unprecedented lifting capacities, pound for pound, exceeding anything else on the market., Peter said” n Visit: www.mecalac.com

Real-time and transparent data for machinery safety Plant Assessor has provided a whole-of-site machinery safety system for Dubbo based wet and dry plant hire, quarrying and property development business, MAAS Plant Hire. MAAS Group undertakes work for clients including local councils, state government departments including RMS, private clients and major contractors managing significant projects such as the InLink Rail joint venture in Parkes. Nathan Finlay, Compliance Manager for MAAS Group said: “Civil earth works is our specialty, we know how to move dirt and we do it very well.” MAAS Group runs a large fleet consisting of more than 200 assets ranging in size from a Caterpillar D11 dozer down to a Bobcat. Plant Assessor was working with BMD on the InLink Rail joint venture to configure the platform to enable site access and ensure compliance for all contractors supplying machinery for the project. That gave Plant Assessor an opportunity to work with MAAS Group and around 50 other businesses. MAAS Group has 49 machines allocated to the project of which 45 were active in June 2019. Prior to being introduced to Plant Assessor, MAAS Group previously managed its machinery compliance function in-house. “Most earthworks projects as a minimum P50

require MAAS Group to provide SWMS, service history, risk assessments and prehire plant inspections which are managed and monitored on an internal system we’ve developed over the years,” Nathan said. “The more jobs we work on we are noticing the requirements can be quite different on each site. We’ve been exposed to different safety management processes and compliance systems such as Plant Assessor,” Nathan said. “The Plant Assessor set-up process was easy to follow. Uploading the details and documents for each machine is straight forward. Once you’ve done a few, the flow is quite quick and easy. It is a very user-friendly system for sure.” “I had to call the help desk once or twice and they were very helpful. I got through straight away and they dealt with my inquiry on the spot. “The system tells you exactly what you need to do before you can get a piece of gear on site which saves us a lot of time and effort. We need to make sure our machines and operators are up and running as quickly as possible so anything we can do prior to the start date to

make this easier is helpful.” MAAS Group has its own service management tool but the visibility around machine use and performance they have through Plant Assessor is an added bonus according to Nathan. “The service interval feature in Plant Assessor that shows which machines have a service pending is really good. It’s very helpful to see the service status on machines, and on the odd occasion there is a problem, the process to address the issue is very easy to follow,” he said. “We have a full-time mechanic and a full-time supervisor on the INLink JV project site so we can attend to any issue around compliance or performance immediately we see a flag on the Plant Assessor platform. Nathan said the machine operators have also embraced the technology for completing pre-start checks on each machine prior to starting work. Daily interaction with the Plant Assessor platform has become an important part of their plant management process. “Our operators are very comfortable with the process around pre-start checks. They understand it’s an important part of ensuring they have a safe work environment and also an important indicator to keep our gear working effectively,” he said. n Visit: www.assessor.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

ALL THE HIRE & RENTAL EQUIPMENT YOU NEED, UNDER THE ONE ROOF.

COMING 2020

ELEVATED WORK PLATFORMS

FORKLIFTS/ WAREHOUSE EQUIPMENT

SCRUBBERS AND SWEEPERS

ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Known for market leading counter-balance forklifts and warehouse equipment, Toyota Material Handling is also proud to offer an unparalleled range of products suitable for Australian hire and rental companies. With a huge range of forklifts, elevated work platforms, scrubbers and sweepers, Taylor-Dunn electric vehicles, plus Huski skid steers, scissor lifts, and mini excavators available, chances are we’ve got the equipment that will suit you and your customers. So, if you’re looking for hard working, fully backed equipment for your hire and rental business Toyota Material Handling has all you need to add value to your operation. That’s the Toyota Advantage.

1800 425 438

www.toyotamaterialhandling.com.au

MINI EXCAVATORS

SKID STEER LOADERS

SCISSOR LIFTS

EARTHMOVING & MINI EQUIPMENT

First hydrogen fuelled excavator After rigorous testing for 12 months, JCB has unveiled a 20-tonne 220X excavator powered by a hydrogen fuel – what it calls the construction industry’s first ever hydrogen powered excavator.

CB Chairman Lord Bamford said: “The development of the first hydrogen fuelled excavator is very exciting as we strive towards a zero carbon world. In the coming months, JCB will continue to develop and refine this technology with advanced testing of our prototype machine and we will continue to be at the forefront of technologies designed to build a zero carbon future.” Lord Bamford’s son Jo Bamford spent 14 years at JCB before moving into the hydrogen sector, setting up Ryse Hydrogen and then buying Northern Ireland bus giant Wrightbus. He has won contracts to supply the world’s first hydrogen double-decker to cities such as London and Aberdeen. Jo said: “I truly believe hydrogen is the

construction industry’s first fully electric mini excavator, the 19C-1E. JCB has also extended electric technology to its innovative Teletruk telescopic forklift range with the launch of an electric model, the JCB 30-19E. Through innovation and design improvements, the company said it has also been leading the way on clean diesel technology to meet Stage V EU emissions regulations and has almost eradicated the most harmful emissions from its latest range of diesel engines. Nitrous Oxide (NOx) is down 97%, soot particulates down by 98% and Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions down by almost half. n

UK’s best opportunity to build a world-leading Visit: www.cea.net.au industry which creates UK jobs, cuts emissions and is the envy of the globe.” Power for JCB’s prototype excavator is generated by reacting hydrogen with oxygen in a fuel cell to create the energy needed to run electric motors. The only emission from the exhaust is water. The development comes after JCB made manufacturing history last year by going into full production with the JCB has unveiled a 20-tonne 220X excavator powered by a hydrogen fuel

Next gen small excavator design drives big productivity Caterpillar’s new Cat 315 Next Gen excavator features a new powertrain, technology and simplified maintenance to boost performance, efficiency and productivity. With a spacious new cab design, the Cat 315 compact design has a host of standard technologies to boost productivity gains by up to 45% compared to traditional grading, making it the most productive Cat excavator ever in the 15-ton size class, the company said. The new Cat App, compatible with the 315, helps contractors to better manage the excavator’s location and maintenance schedules. Standard Product Link automatically collects excavator data to help improve fleet management. The hydraulic system of the new 315 excavator provides the optimum balance of

Caterpillar’s new Cat 315 Next Gen excavator features a new powertrain, technology and simplified maintenance

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power and efficiency to increase productivity by up to 8% over the 315F L. Its new electronic hydraulic valve delivers significant efficiency gains, while offering the capability of future technology growth. A 10% higher swing torque makes working on slopes and the jobsite much more efficient, and the drive system easily navigates tough ground conditions and slopes with 14% more drawbar pull. The new 315’s more powerful Cat C3.6 engine meets US EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, and Japan 2014 (Tier 4 Final) emission standards. Smart mode operation automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to digging conditions to conserve fuel in less demanding applications. The engine is designed to work in a range of ambient temperatures, from 125° F (52° C) without de-rate to a cold-start capability of -13° F (-25° C). Standard new technology elevating excavator productivity and efficiency includes Cat Grade with 2D system, which is upgradable to Grade with Advanced 2D or Grade with 3D. Grade with 2D automatically guides digging depth, slope and horizontal distance to accurately reach desired grade. Up to four different depth and slope targets can be established. Increasing safety when excavating in confined spaces, the new 2D E-fence keeps the front linkage within a predefined work area to avoid hazards on the jobsite as well as standard cab avoidance. Standard Cat Payload helps operators

to achieve precise load targets and increase efficiency by providing on-the-go weighing and real-time estimates of the payload without swinging. Payload can be combined with VisionLink to remotely manage production targets. Critical operating data such as fuel usage, payload summaries and fault codes are tracked by standard Cat Product Link to help boost fleet management efficiency. New Remote Flash works allows dealer technicians to remotely run diagnostics testing to pinpoint potential issues, new Remote Troubleshoot analyses real-time machine data captured by Product Link without impacting machine productivity. With a choice between Comfort, Deluxe and Premium cab styles, a new 13% larger cab increases operator productivity and offers 60% greater vertical visibility. The new 315 Deluxe and Premium cab options include a larger, 10-in (254-mm) high-resolution touchscreen monitor for easy navigation of the intuitive operator controls, while the Comfort cab is equipped with an 8-in (203-mm) touchscreen. Standard rear view and right-side cameras further improve visibility of the work area. Design changes to the new Cat 315 excavator lowers maintenance costs by up to 25% compared to the 315F L.n Visit: www.Cat.Com/En_Us/

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

10 reasons to hire over buy 1. The latest equipment

8. Ensure safety

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.

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.

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. Save time 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.

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.

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. Save Space 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.

Visit www.hireandrental.com.au or call 02 9998 2255

EARTHMOVING & MINI EQUIPMENT

John Deere launches compact construction equipment in Australia John Deere has marked 50 years of building skid steer loaders in 2020 with the launch of its range of compact construction equipment into Australia.

andHQ is one of six new distributors across the country to add John Deere compact construction equipment to its product line-up, which features G-Series Skid Steers, Compact Track Loaders and E-Series Mini Excavators. “This is an exciting new chapter for John Deere and LandHQ,” LandHQ Managing Director, James Evins said. “Our purpose is to ‘Enrich your outdoor work experience’, so it couldn’t be a more appropriate time for us to formally announce our new partnership with John Deere compact construction.” There are 12 models in the G Series (eight skid steer models and four compact track loader units ranging from 50-100hp), and two models for the E Series. Key features of the compact construction range include flexible control choices, programmable performance settings, rear view camera, hydraulic self-levelling and ride control. “One of the things our customers will see is the expansion of our LandHQ field team. We’ve already put a few pieces in place so we can understand the market and customer needs

better including one-on-one demos and virtual 360 degree walk arounds.” “At LandHQ we live and breathe John Deere and are dedicated to providing support for our customers’ equipment, service and training needs,” James said. Construction equipment specialist, Cameron Murrin recently joined the LandHQ team and believes the new range of John Deere machinery will succeed in meeting the quality, performance and price expectations of customers in the hire industry. “John Deere compact construction equipment stands out due to its size, reliability, and serviceability. Customers are much more satisfied with having a robust machine, which focuses largely on uptime. This means productivity is at an all-time high because machines can be hired out for longer,” Cameron said. John Deere construction equipment is also built with better access to the engine and hydraulics for servicing. “LandHQ offers a full range of parts and has a fully qualified team of service technicians trained in everything John Deere to help

ASV explores remote-control technology

John Deere has launched its range of compact construction equipment into Australia

keep your machine running for as long as you need it to,” Cameron said. “The John Deere range is bullet proof and they have an excellent track record for performance and reliability in the US. This is why we think they will be well suited to the hire industry,” Cameron said. In addition to LandHQ and Hutcheon and Pearce branches across New South Wales, John Deere’s compact construction range is now also offered at selected agriculture and turf dealerships around the country. These include Cervus Equipment in Victoria, Emmetts in South Australia and RDO, Vanderfield and AFGRI branches across Australia. LandHQ is a partnership led by James Evins (Managing Director) and Arron Hutcheon – (Hutcheon and Pearce, 2018 John Deere Dealer of the Year with 11 dealerships through NSW). n Contact: Cameron on 0417 471 344 or visit: www.landhq.com.au

Caterpillar acquires robotic expertise

All-purpose and all-season compact track loaders and skid steers manufacturer, ASV Holdings Inc recently explored remote-control technology on its machines as part of the company’s mission to consistently push the limits on innovation. ASV displayed a test model at a recent dealer meeting, allowing dealers to experience the feature hands on. “We’re seeing the market for this type of technology advance at a rapid rate and it’s important for us to stay on the forefront,” Buck Storlie, ASV Holdings Inc Product Line

Manager said. ASV dealers had an opportunity to try the feature for themselves on ASV’s RT-120 Posi-Track loader. Dealers stood outside the enclosed operating area and directed the machine through many common tasks, such as avoiding obstacles and digging and hauling material. “As interest in the safety and convenience of remote-control technology grows, ASV continues to test new innovations and improve the company’s machines, allowing operators to do more work in more places. Remote-controlled machines are beneficial for completing tasks in difficult locations and can increase efficiency by reducing the number of crew members required; instead of one driver and one spotter, the remote operator can fill both roles,” Buck said. ASV, a Yanmar Compact Equipment company, has no immediate plans to integrate the feature into its machines at this time, but will continue testing it and other technological advancements. n

Caterpillar Inc has acquired select assets and hired employees from San Francisco based robot and autonomy technology solutions company Marble Robot, Inc. The company plans to leverage the expertise of leading roboticists to bring scalable solutions to the construction, quarry, industrial and waste industries. “We’re excited to join the autonomy team at Caterpillar,” Kevin Peterson, former Marble CEO, now Caterpillar technologist said. “In many ways, this completes a full circle for me. I had the privilege of working with Caterpillar early in my career at Carnegie Mellon, where they sponsored the development of the first generation of self-driving vehicle software. Now, with the acquisition of the Marble team, together we will drive the next generation of autonomy solutions for Caterpillar customers in the construction, quarry, industrial and waste industries.” n

An ASV RT-120 moves without an operator as part of the company’s exploration into remote-control technology

Visit: www.asvi.com

Visit: www.cat.com

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HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

EARTHMOVING & MINI EQUIPMENT

Mecalac expands growth in North America Compact construction equipment supplier Mecalac, opened a new 14,000square foot facility in Norfolk, Massachusetts, to serve as the North American headquarters and further support the growth of the brand.

pened July 2019, the new facility centralises Mecalac’s administrative offices, equipment inventory, parts, and service support in one building, replacing the three separate locations the

company maintained previously. It will be home to an in-house training facility, and play host to dealer and media events throughout the year. “The North American market has been

very receptive to the Mecalac approach, which puts a heavy emphasis on innovation,” Alexandre Marchetta, Mecalac CEO said. “Every piece of equipment is designed with the end user in mind and solves the challenges operators face daily. The new facility underscores our commitment to the North American market and will allow us to better serve our growing dealer network and customer base.” Mecalac was not involved in the North American market until 2016. The company’s initial dealer partnership was with Lorusso Heavy Equipment near Boston. In 2017, Mecalac acquired Terex’s line of backhoe loaders, site dumpers and compaction rollers. The success of its first US distributor combined with the Terex product acquisition ultimately led to the formation of Mecalac North America. “One of our priorities is to expand our dealer network across North America,” Peter Bigwood, General Manager of Mecalac North America said. “We currently have 15 dealers and plan to grow at a measured but steady pace. To serve our customers the best way possible, we look for dealer partners who understand the construction equipment market and share our enthusiasm and vision for reshaping how contractors work with highly differentiated, innovative products.” Founded in France in 1974, Mecalac specialises in compact construction equipment. Mecalac manufactures excavators, loaders, backhoe loaders, site dumpers and compaction rollers. n Visit: www.mecalac.com

Landscaper’s nineties-vintage Huski a ‘mint’ example Bayswater, Victoria-based landscaping specialist business, Mallawarra Landscapes’ recently purchased two new Toyota Huskis but could not let its 22-year-old 4SDK8 Toyota Huski go. Toyota Material Handling Australia (TMHA) Area Sales Manager, Thomas Machar, said: “Mallawarra Landscapes is a long-time Huski skid steer loader customer and its owner, Robin Cousins, recently upgraded to two new models, a 4SDK4 and a 5SDK8. “Robin traded in his old 4SDK4 for a new one, but kept his old 4SDK8. That machine

Mallawarra Landscapes’ Robin Cousins recently purchased two new Toyota Huskis but could not let his 22-year-old 4SDK8 Toyota Huski go

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

had been put to work in the landscaping business for over two decades.” Robin started out in landscaping in the 1980s, with a friend who had done his diploma of horticulture. The two eventually went into separate businesses. “I originally bought another brand loader for the business, but they were changing to more complicated models, which I didn’t like, so I went to Toyota and bought a brand new Huski. I don’t drive other brands, anymore. “I bought my first Huski 25 years ago. Then a Huski 4SDK8 and that’s still only got a couple of thousand hours on it. It’s still in great shape.” Robin’s business model is atypical in he prefers to buy his equipment outright, despite comparatively low usage. “It might be because I’m older, but I’d rather own something outright. I’m a bit like that. I’d rather own it as soon as possible.” Such was the case when it was time to buy a new Huski 5SDK8. Robin considered trading in his older version, but instead decided to keep his old work companion up his sleeve. “I was going to trade-in the old (4SDK8) eight but it has such low hours, and I had no loan on it so decided I’m going to keep

it for doing some casual contracting in my ‘retirement’. “We’ve looked after the old 4SDK8 as best we could. We’ve always done the usual maintenance by having Toyota service it and it was always garaged in the factory. Robin said the machine turns back the clock when it comes to tough jobs. “It’s still a very powerful machine. That said, there are lots of things I like about the new eight. It’s got a much better interior system and the safety features such as the new automatic locking system – you have to push a button in order to get the thing moving – are improved. TMHA’s Thomas Machar said Robin appreciated other benefits of the new model. “He said the hydraulic controls of the 5SDK8 are much nicer to operate and significantly better from a maintenance perspective. The visibility all round is much improved from what was already a great design, the hydraulic system was improved and the wheel motors are larger.” n Contact: 1800 425 438 or visit: www.toyotaskidsteerloader.com.au

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WASHING CLEANING SANDING

Proud to support rental with big, tough and reliable cleaners Aussie Pumps is proud to be associated with the rental industry and has worked with rental industry customers for years to develop products specific to rental needs.

“

We are all seeking to save time and that includes rental customers, so hiring cleaning products that work faster and smarter will always be a winner for the industry,” Aussie Pump’s Chief Engineer John Hales said. Kennards Hire first encouraged Australian Pump to develop a 4,000psi hire specific pressure cleaner that would withstand the rigors of the rental market. That inspiration led Australian Pump to develop the Aussie ‘SCUD’ pressure cleaner. “First of all, we wanted it to be user friendly,” John said. “We designed all of the sharps out of it and tightened up the design of the existing machines. The unit was pleasing to the eye, easy to move around and still punched out 4,000psi of cleaning power.” The Scud 400 consists of a ‘Big Berty’ Bertolini triplex pump, slow speed, gearbox driven and powered by a 13hp Honda engine and it changed the way people think about renting pressure cleaners. The specification also called for electric start so getting the machine cranked up and working is easy, John said. The Scud design includes an integrated lifting bar that makes it easy to lift on and off utes or trailers. “Since the Scud revolution we developed smaller 3,000psi machines that are now hire heroes. Nicknamed the Pocket Rocket, the Aussie’s Scud AB30 3,000psi machine is small enough to be thrown on the back of a ute but its stainless steel Scud style frame is safe, OH&S friendly and easy to use.

Andy Kennard tests the first hire flat surface cleaner in Aussie’s front carpark at Castle Hill

“It was Andy Kennard who first put a flat surface cleaner into a hire fleet after testing it in Aussie Pump’s carpark,” John said. “Everybody was surprised when the flat surface cleaner lifted off ‘like a hovercraft’ and made cleaning flat surfaces, pavements, footpaths and carparks a breeze. “Today Aussie’s Spinner, matched with the Scud 400, can shave flat surface pavement cleaning by up to 80%.” From pressure cleaners Australian Pump developed the first engine powered Jetter. Again,

it was Kennards Hire, and specifically Andy Kennard who came up with the idea of putting the Jetters into a hire fleet. “Not every plumber uses a Jetter. We calculate, based on our research, there are at least 80,000 plumbers out there that still haven’t given away their old electro-mechanical drain cleaning devices in spite of the general consensus of the industry being they are dangerous, inefficient and dirty,” John said. “One of the things that gives hire companies confidence is starting out with a drain cleaning kit that consists of a portable reel with 60m of drain cleaning hose and nozzles that can run off a 4,000psi pressure cleaner. It’s called the Aussie Viper Mini Reel and it works. “In spite of the obvious advantages some hire companies still rent mechanical drain cleaners. They may be more compact, but they are still heavy and cumbersome but in terms of ease of use they are not in the race against using a 4,000 or 5,000psi Aussie Cobra Jetter.” Australian Pump worked to evolve a super tough range of Northern Italian big high capacity robust wet/dry vacs. “We have hundreds of machines in the 72 litre range. The barrels are round, made on a polypropylene rotational molding process which is the strongest configuration. We looked at square barrels but found they crack at the corners and decided that was a bad design idea,” John said. “The Aussie round vacs are super robust and are the only machines on the market that come with a five year warranty. The machines have a choice of two or three 1200 watt European motors and a unique 99.9% filtration system that captures dirt including cement dust, gyprock dust, even fertilisers and limestone. “Called the Microweb, it is a unique homopolymer fabric that captures 99.9% of the dust and having trapped it in the membrane, can be cleared just by one shake. “Because of its homopolymer construction, the dust ‘cakes on the the Microweb filter. “It’s simpler, it’s healthier, it’s cleaner,” John said. n Contact: 02 8865 3500 or visit: www.aussiepumps.com.au

Aussie Silent Trash Pump Australian Pump Industries has developed a Honda petrol powered silent trash pump called the Aussie QP3TS, a prototype which heralds a new approach to urban dewatering. Aussie Pumps Managing Director, Warwick Lorenz said: “We came up with the idea of the silenced trash pump, after surveying specialist hire companies and local government bodies. We noticed most of the pumps on sites were flex drive, noisy and not particularly efficient.” “The pump, with 3” ports, is a new addition to Aussie’s existing range of heavy duty trash pumps. It will pull 1,500lpm flow and has a vertical suction lift of 7m and a maximum head of 29m,” Warwick said. P56

“Best of all, the machine’s unique design allows it to achieve sound levels of between 63 and 64dbA at 7m. “This noise level is achieved by a unique integrated noise cancelling design operating through the dynamics of the pump,” Warwick said. It is powered by a Honda GX270 9hp petrol engine, with low oil shutdown. The whole machine, in a sound proof box, is being prototyped with two pneumatic wheel trolley with handle. “We think this is going to make a huge difference to councils. It can also be put into a roll frame, so they can move it on and off utes as well,” Warwick said. n

Australian Pump Industries has developed a protoype silent trash pump called the Aussie QP3TS

Contact: 02 8865 3500 or visit: www.aussiepumps.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

WASHING CLEANING SANDING

Less is more with stand-alone boilers

umps Australia’s Mix and Match stand-alone boiler (SAB) range allows customers to purchase separate hot and cold units that can also work together. Pumps Australia’s Mix and Match stand-alone boiler (SAB) range allows customers to purchase separate hot and cold units that can also work together. The units can be used with existing cold pressure washers, so instead of having to buy a new hot water unit, customers can simply add a stand-alone boiler. “You can buy a complete petrol or diesel kit, or ‘mix and match’ with our units or your own,” Pumps Australia Managing Director John Warne said. “The possibilities are endless. Even if you buy the hot and cold units from us, it will cost slightly less than other all-in-one systems. Our units are also easier to clean and maintain than larger versions.” Mix and Match models are

designed, assembled, and tested at Pumps Australia’s Welshpool Service Centre in Perth, using the best brands and components, John said. “This guarantees unmatched quality. The SAB Series can be adapted to suit any pressure washer on the market and can handle flows from 10 to 30lpm and pressures up to and including 7,000psi,” John said. “This modular range is perfect for hire, mine sites, shires, councils, and heavy cleaning machinery users. Units are easy to hook up and set up for workshop wash pads, wash bays, ute trailer units or the rear of contractor trucks. “These boilers can be powered by your standard single phase (240volt) outlet, or our new 12-volt Dc technology,” John said. “This means you can run them off a truck battery or any high-charge single cylinder engine, eliminating the cost of an expensive Genset.”

Pumps Australia’s Mix and Match standalone boiler (SAB) range allows customers to purchase separate hot and cold units that can also work together

diesel fired boiler and our new Combo Smart Flow switch and thermostat control system. “The next generation will also have a multi-brass flow switch with thermostat control we designed from scratch,” John said. They are easy to maintain and have a design life of more than 10 years. “They are very portable,” John said. “Their heavy-duty structure and stainless-steel panels protect them from the environment and Australia’s burning sun.” n

Hire Industry Mag Bimonthly

86.5 w x 130 h

Respirable crystalline silica workplace exposure standards halved WorkSafe Queensland has advised the national workplace exposure standard for respirable crystalline silica has been halved from an eight hour time-weighted average airborne concentration of 0.1 milligrams per cubic metre (mg/ m3) to 0.05 mg/m3. The new workplace exposure standard took effect in Queensland from 1 July 2020. WorkSafe Queensland advised all job sites must manage worker exposure to dust and meet existing duties and obligations under Queensland work health and safety legislation. This means: • using higher order controls (including elimination, engineering, isolation and substitution); • air monitoring; • health monitoring; • training for workers; and • appropriate respiratory protective equipment. The government WHS authority said respirable crystalline silica dust is so fine you usually can’t see it. It can stay airborne

“Traditional hot-and-cold boiler systems are complete petrol, diesel, or electric motordriven units. “Pumps Australia worked out how to split them, making it easier to buy what you need at once or in stages to preserve cash flow. They can be interchanged with existing units or built to specifications.” This also allows customers to improve existing equipment, John said. “Our goal is to improve our products and make life easier and lower cost for our customers,” he said. “Customers can add an SAB to an existing cold-water pressure cleaner mixing petrol pressure cleaner and or diesel pressure cleaners or buy the complete kit. “Servicing them is also a breeze because we can maintain and fix them quickly and easily.” Hot water makes for much better and more sterile cleaning, whether that be oily equipment or a workshop floor, and is great for combatting COVID-19, John said. “This makes SAB Mix and Match units great for hire, mine sites, shires, councils, and heavy users of cleaning material. They produce hot water fast, using a

for long periods of time and easily be inhaled deep into the lungs. Breathing in respirable crystalline silica dust can cause serious lung diseases including silicosis and lung cancer as well as chronic renal disease and autoimmune disorders. Advice offered included managers should review work practices to make sure the workplace is meeting the new standards. 1. Control the dust. o Stop dust at its source. o Remove dust from the air. o Stop dust from spreading. 2. Provide workers with respiratory protection where needed. 3. Carry out air monitoring. 4. Carry out health monitoring. Site managers can order a copy of the Reduction in workplace exposure standard for respirable crystalline silica in PDF format from the Worksafe Queensland website. n Contact: 1300 362 128 or visit: www.worksafe.qld.gov.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

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TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT & SITE EQUIPMENT

The benefits: Cone trucks allow workers to place cones from the relative safety of the truck safely and efficiently. Cone trucks are equipped with clear visual signals and high visibility lights for project managers to effectively manage traffic on site. This allows workers to clearly define traffic routes and designated drop off/ pick up areas. 3. Traffic Utes Ensure equipment is locked in and reduce risks of falling debris from vehicles with a superior Traffic Ute. The benefits: Designed to comply with load restraint legislation while providing an organised system, Uphire traffic utes work to improve efficiency. Easily organise equipment to allow more space and increase productivity while being protected from unsecured equipment.

Uphire Traffic Division offers a dedicated fleet of traffic management equipment to step-up safety on site

5 site upgrades using traffic management equipment Uphire Traffic Division’s Marketing Manager, Kelsey Williams knows working on construction sites comes with inherent risks with vehicles, equipment and tradespeople coming and going, in cities with foot traffic and potential threats to the safety of citizens and workers.

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This is why it is important to have gear in place to not only enhance productivity and meet project deadlines, but to increase worker safety,” Kelsey said. “Uphire Traffic Division offers a dedicated fleet featuring the latest in traffic management equipment to step-up safety on your site. “At the core of Uphire Traffic Division is our passion to provide innovative traffic equipment to reduce risks and improve safety and efficiency,” Kelsey said. Here Uphire offers five suggestions on upgrading work site to be more safety effective. 1. VMS Boards VMS Boards offer message and video displays to alert people to changed conditions, often seen on the side of roads and out the front of shopping centres for retail use. P58

The benefits: The benefits of VMS Boards on construction sites include effectiveness in catching attention. With a viewing distance of up to 400m, ensure all workers or passing by foot traffic are aware of ongoing construction before coming into proximity of the site. Uphire Traffic Division’s VMS Boards come in a smaller A Size, and larger C size, which can be tailored to your specific project needs. The boards feature galvanised steel construction, promising superior performance during a range of weather conditions. These boards also come standard with 3G/4G connectivity, offering remote programming from a user-friendly iPhone or Android app. 2. Cone Trucks Work to separate people and traffic through traffic management vehicles such as a Cone Truck.

4. Lighting Towers Upgrade your site with one of an Uphire lighting towers, built to ensure high visibility and exceptional performance in your night construction works. Uphire has three towers in its fleet: V2 Cube, Solar Hybrid and Hybrid Lithium Towers. The benefits: Each of the lighting towers offers exceptional lighting power and longer run times to ensure projects are completed to maximum efficiency. The V2 Cube is credited as the most efficient hybrid on the market, incorporating Hybrid Diesel technology for lowered maintenance and operation costs. The Solar Hybrid is primarily solar powered, lowering fossil fuel consumption and noise pollution while offering superior visibility on site. The Hybrid Lithium tower incorporates innovative design for environmental protection, with four multi directional lighting heads totaling 1400W. 5. TMA Vehicles As the last line of defence between vehicles and workers, the Light Truck Mounted Attenuator and Blade Truck Mounted Attenuator protect workers during high speed collisions. The benefits: Ensure the safety of workers with a vehicle designed for impact protection. Our LTMA offers impact protection of up to 70km/hr with the smallest TMA in Australia. This also means reduced wear and tear at work sites and can improve overall traffic flow, making it ideal for city roads or metropolitan streets. The Blade TMA is built for large scale projects such as construction on freeways or motorways, absorbing collisions of up to 100km/hr. It is innovative in its design, equipped with the latest safety features for utmost protection. n Visit: www.uphire.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT & SITE EQUIPMENT

Increasing safety is company philosophy With the introduction of new legislation from the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) prohibiting the use of batons to control traffic on roads with a speed limit of 80kmph and over, LDC Equipment said its philosophy aligns perfectly with this legislative change.

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Our philosophy is to develop easy to use products using latest technology that increases safety and reduces the workload of operators,” LDC Equipment Manager Nik Morcus said. “We are a world leader in the production of VMS Boards, Radar Speed Signs, Solar Lighting Towers and Portable Traffic Lights. “Our new PTL3 TYPE-1 Portable Traffic Lights have been designed to withstand the harsh Australian conditions and the main goal of this product is to remove the traffic controller off the road out of harm’s way to increase user safety and reduce the risk of collisions,” Nik said. “Every year in Australia dozens of people get injured and, in some cases, people lose their lives while directing traffic because some motorists get distracted and collisions occur.

we launched them. They can operate up to 18 hours on a single charge with an option to extend operational use to 40+ hours on a single charge. “All of our products are designed and produced right here in Australia in our Gold Coast factory. We employ a large team of engineers and trades people who always endeavour to source our product components from local Australian suppliers. We highly believe in supporting our local economy and employing local Australian workers. “When you buy LDC Equipment’s products, you are supporting Australian manufacturing and supporting local jobs.” n

Contact: 07 5529 1188 or visit: “LDC Equipment fully supports this www.ldcequipment.com.au new legislation because this falls in line with our philosophy of creating products that reduce hazards and increase operator safety,” Nik said. “Our Portable Traffic Lights can be operated remotely from up to 1km away direct line of sight. Two sets of PTL3 Type 1 Traffic Lights can be operated by one traffic controller remotely, thus reducing staffing costs and increasing efficiency. “Our Portable Traffic Lights are TMR approved and LDC Eq uip me nt porta ble l igh ts remov es the t raf fic co ntr oll er off t he r oad have been used on countless out of harm’s way and can be o perated remotely from u p to 1km away direct worksites across Australia since line of sight

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FORKLIFTS

Industrial manslaughter charges By: James Mattson, Partner at Bartier Perry

ndustrial manslaughter charges, a $3 million dollar fine for the company and suspended prison sentences for directors will send a chill down the backs of businesses and boards. While industrial manslaughter charges against businesses and directors are unusual, the outcome isn’t. The case of R v Brisbane Auto Recycling Pty Ltd & Ors [2020] QDC 113 is another case of an employee being killed at work by a forklift and directors working in the business being blind to safety. What sets this case apart from other safety prosecutions is the complete lack of safe work systems and processes to address, in a meaningful way, the hazards and safety risks at work. The risk of death from a forklift is obvious and well-known. The Court found the lack of any safety systems simply remarkable; the absence of a traffic management plan was simply inexcusable. It was reckless for the

directors to not have a safe work system and to not foster a safe workplace culture. As the Court found: “the inaction by the defendants was due to expedience for commercial gain or complacency, or both, the moral culpability of each is high”. The defendant company was an auto wrecking business. A worker on site was struck by a reversing forklift and died eight days later. The deceased worker was “crushed” by the forklift. The driver of the forklift was unlicensed and not looking when he reversed, only looking back when he hit the deceased worker. The directors of the business, and individual defendants, were 23 and 25 years old respectively. Their youth was no exemption from their statutory duties of due diligence

Safety needs to be supported with resources and knowledgeable and skilled staff.

under work health and safety legislation. They worked in the business and as leaders owed important duties. They were also not honest about how the incident occurred when first questioned. In fact, the measures to ensure safety at the workplace were relatively simple. The installation of signage, plastic bollards and marked exclusion zones on site, along with adequate supervision and a traffic management plan, would have gone a long way, a modest cost, to ensure workplace safety. And a worker would be alive. Safety culture starts at the top A safety culture starts at the top. A safe workplace is driven from the top. Directors and senior management, especially in dangerous and hazardous workplaces, need to be discussing and actively driving a safe workplace in board meetings, management meetings and when in the business. The approach to safety needs to be systematic and thorough. Businesses need to ensure hazards and risks from all work are identified and active steps taken to eliminate and control the risks. The safe work methods established need to be developed and communicated to workers, in a consultative framework. Safety needs to be supported with resources and knowledgeable and skilled staff. Safety messages need to be communicated regularly, reinforced and enforced. Never resting on one’s laurels, safety measures need to be systematically audited and reviewed. The Board and management need to ensure all these measures have occurred and are occurring by the provision of adequate support, diligent enquiry and reporting. And if you are driving these steps to occur as a leader, then you can sleep peacefully at night. If you cannot answer any questions on these matters, then it is time to act. n

Fork Force consolidates to become leading supplier Fork Force Australia, Lencrow Material Handing and Hystandard Handling Equipment have consolidated and will transition to become Fork Force Australia, during the 2021 financial year. Announced by the North Fork Group, the majority owned Australian subsidiary of Nishio Rent All Co, the integration is one step in the direction of Fork Force Australia’s vision to become the leading supplier in the material handling sector. This follows the Group’s acquisitions in 2018 of Hystandard Handling Equipment and Lencrow Material Handing in 2019, which has resulted in a combined forklift fleet of circa 4,000 units. North Fork Group and Fork Force Australia Managing Director, Steve Cunliffe, said the combined forklift fleet along with the extended product range and branch network, strengthens its compelling and unique value proposition. “The consolidation marks another milestone and is an important step for P60

Fork Force Australia in cementing itself as a leading alternative independent material handling provider, by harnessing our collective strengths and delivering innovative solutions to the market,” Steve said. “To provide a more consistent customer experience, yet preserve the legacies of each individual business which customers have dealt with for many years, Fork Force Australia will continue to adopt best practice from each business and more importantly, leverage this collaborative culture to harness collective business strengths and provide an elevated offering for all customers,” Steve said. “To enable the market facing integration of the companies, we are excited to announce a number of branch network changes. “The Sydney branches have moved into one mega site, now located at 166 Newton Road, Wetherill Park, NSW. The Melbourne branches, previously in Hallam and Bayswater will now operate from one large site at 23 Monash Drive, Dandenong South,

Victoria. The Adelaide branch has moved to 10-12 Ninth Street, Wingfield, SA and following construction of new facilities in Brisbane, the Archerfield branch has moved into the Fork Force Australia Head Office situated at 41 Radius Drive, Larapinta, Queensland.” According to Steve, these upgrades unlock great potential, which was limited by operating in separate branches scattered across the country. “This is an exciting development for the business because it embarks on our next phase of growth, as one united team, under one roof. “Although Fork Force Australia has always prided itself on customer service, this new chapter will further empower the front line in providing an even greater customer experience and doing so more consistently across the board,” Steve said. n Visit: www.forkforce.com

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

FORKLIFTS

The SEEN IRIS 860 sensor is designed to protect people in the workplace by helping to eliminate forklift and pedestrian contact

SEEN IRIS 860 Pedestrian Detection System A new traffic management safety solution from United Equipment, the SEEN IRIS 860 sensor, uses infrared technology to actively detect reflective tape on high-vis safety gear.

he SEEN IRIS 860 sensor is designed to protect people in the workplace by helping to eliminate forklift and pedestrian contact that can result in serious injury or death, as well as damage to plant and equipment caused by collisions. The new sensor technology can detect reflective tape on high-vis safety gear

including safety vests, safety cones and other reflective markers. According to United Equipment CAT Product Manager, Craig Coles, the SEEN safety system is a simple and cost-effective solution suitable for most industries where forklifts operate including logistics, warehousing, manufacturing and more.

“SEEN effectively transforms the standard high visibility vest into part of an active pedestrian detection system for forklifts,” Craig said. “The system can be easily retrofitted to existing forklifts thanks to its simple design. Multiple sensors can also be added to increase the detection zone. “SEEN technology is quick and simple to install; offers precise and immediate alerts; has minimal training required; protects workers; reduces workplace incidents; and minimises business downtime. “United is now offering this safety system nationally to help customers increase safety especially within pedestrian traffic zones.” A video demonstrating the SEEN safety solution is available at: https://youtu.be/XqAoQHwC7e8. n Contact: 08 6166 9800 or visit: www.unitedequipment.com.au

Chadwick Forklifts signs historic $1.5milion deal Chadwicks Forklifts recently signed an AUD $1.5milion deal with local Manitou agents Jungheinrich Australia for 15 brand new machines including 10 x MC25-4 all-terrain buggies; three MT-X1030ST telehandlers and two M-X50-4 5t all-terrain forklifts. This was a significant deal in dollar terms for both companies and a major boost for the Chadwick Forklift fleet, Director/ Rental Manager Melissa Chadwick said. It also shows how despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Chadwick Forklifts is continuing to invest heavily in new equipment and upgrading our large fleet, Melissa said. “Chadwick Forklifts has had a long history with Manitou. Manitou is what the market prefers when it comes to all-terrain buggies and telehandlers. From the outset we HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

have based our growth around the Manitou brand and we continue to do so. “We also have developed the Manitou service experience and technical capability to back these units up,” Melissa said. The larger capacity equipment will give Chadwick customers access to a greater range of new equipment to tender for projects rapidly expanding their customer base in the process. “Chadwick Forklifts has ambitious continued growth plans and strategies,” General Manager Shane Mathias said.

As part of its ongoing commitment to continual fleet upgrades, Managing Director, Cliff Chadwick has also approved the purchase of 20 x new 2500kg container mast forklifts, six new 5000kg container mast units, one new 7000kg container mast forklift and one new 10000kg forklift. “We are committed to providing our customers with the latest equipment. As construction sites become more stringent with their equipment standards we ensure all units are factory rated for all common attachments and comply with the most vigorous site induction requirements. Our company ethos is to make sure we meet and exceed our customers’ requirements now and into the future,” Cliff said. n Contact: 03 9587 2777 or visit: www.chadwickforklifts.com.au

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FORKLIFTS

Durability drives forklift fleet purchase After changing from a leasing model, Tasmanian food distribution business, SRT Logistics, has taken delivery of 36 new Toyota Material Handling forklifts and pallet jacks.

erformance, reliability and faith the company would get a long service life out of the Toyota forks helped SRT Logistics make the decision to move away from leasing. Headquartered in Brighton, near Hobart, SRT Logistics has grown from a small refrigerated food transport operation to a full supply chain management provider. With five distribution centres, it services every town in Tasmania with dry, frozen and chilled foods for customers such as Woolworths, Lion, and Schweppes, and also ships across the Bass Straight to its Melbourne depot. All its sites feature dedicated refrigerated warehouses with sealed loading docks. CEO Rob Miller said the company began 30 years ago with a refrigerated truck or two, from a ‘truck and a con-note’, taking goods

from A-to-B. “Now we have warehousing and distribution. We have sophisticated freight management systems and equipment with cameras and telematics – lots of real-time data happening. We’re across the whole supply chain,” Rob said. With the requirement for food safety compliance in the 1990s, SRT adjusted its business to accommodate the changes, won some large contracts and started distributing chilled and frozen goods for customers such as Woolworths. “That was when our volume of work started to really generate and provided the foundation for us to grow the rest of the business,” Rob said. Accompanying this spike in volume was a need for material handling equipment to meet such demand. SRT started by renting forklifts from another brand however after some problems turned to Toyota Material Handling Equipment Australia (TMHA). “Our old gear was sort of dying and running out,” Rob said. Rob said SRT’s customers conduct business at a rapid pace and expect speedy responses. In turn, it required a material handling equipment partner with swift response capabilities. “The nature of the market that we’re in is that everything’s fastAbove: Tasmanian food distribution business, SRT Logistics, has taken delivery of 36 new Toyota Material Handling forklifts and pallet jacks. Below: moving and time-sensitive for Performance of SRT’s first four forklifts was instrumental in TMHA being our customers,” Rob said. chosen for the order “To service our customers we need the same kind of response from our business partners – whether it be for forklifts or trucks. “We have found TMHA’s service and attention to any issues to be really good. And they have to be because service back-up is such a big consideration for our business. That’s extremely important for us and therefore was key to our ongoing relationship with TMHA.” With the first four Toyota forklifts performing strongly,

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SRT added another 36 Toyota machines – comprised of Toyota 8FBN 2.5-tonne fourwheel and Toyota 8FBE 1.8-tonne three-wheel battery electric forklifts, 32-8FG 1.8-tonne four-wheel gas forklifts, Toyota BT LPE220 ride-on electric pallet jacks and BT LWE130 electric pallet jacks. SRT conducted due diligence before making the decision, which was based on multiple factors. “We looked at the offerings from the main fork suppliers,” Rob said. “In the end, it was a combination of our history and experience of the Toyota forks – the longevity and consistency of their performance – the pricing of the gear and the ability for our supplier to also meet our short-term rental requirements while the new equipment was on order. All those things went into the decision to choose Toyota Material Handling equipment. Rob said the performance of SRT’s first four forklifts was especially instrumental in TMHA being chosen for its latest order. “The old machines performed really well. We never had any problems with those early Toyota forks. It’s been the most reliable material handling gear we’ve used, so I reckon our history certainly helped in us making our decision to purchase the latest additions to the fleet. “We had good longevity out of that equipment – we still have a couple of those kicking around 15 years later – and expect to get the same or better out of the new machines. If you can get 10-15 years out of that type of equipment you’re doing well. “We pretty much run 24 hours per day, seven days a week and we have operated that model for most of the past 15 years,” he said. TMHA Hobart Area Sales Manager Rodney Jones said: “At TMHA we take the time to understand the details of our customers’ operations so we can help them with equipment solutions to best suit their needs and provide the most efficient and economical outcomes. We call this Tailored Business Solutions and it is one of the cornerstones of the Toyota Advantage.” Rob said: “Once we had placed the order we still needed a stop-gap solution so Rod and the guys stepped in to help round-up a temporary hire fleet to get us through until our new machines were delivered. “That also helped with our purchasing decision. Who we bought machines from was also dependent on how well they could fill the gap in the meantime. “We’d have been less likely to buy the Toyota forks outright if we had concerns about their reliability – especially long-term,” he said. “Toyota has a reputation for the durability of its equipment. It’s reputation as such was a factor in choosing to own the equipment outright. We have faith we will get a long service life out of the Toyota forks. Otherwise we wouldn’t have moved away from leasing.” n Contact: 1800 425 438 or visit: www.toyotamaterialhandling.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

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EQUIPMENT

New power pack for quiet operation and reduced fuel consumption The self-contained Ecosilence 3.0 fits in a 20-foot container size for easier transportation

Hydrodemolition machines manufacturer, Aquajet, has ntroduced the Ecosilence 3.0 Power Pack that reduces noise and allows a more compact jobsite, while enhancing environmental stewardship and lowering overall operating costs.

he new Ecosilence features integrated auto start/stop technology that improves fuel consumption, which saves as much as 25 liters (6.6 gallons) of fuel a day for a smaller carbon footprint, Roger Simonsson, Aquajet Managing Director said. “The re-engineered Ecosilence is more compact, as well, with the entire self-contained system now fitting in a standard, 20foot shipping container. It also produces less noise while in operation, making it ideal for use in urban areas with limited space and strict noise restrictions,” Roger said. The new unit also has dramatically improved pumping pressure, operating as high as 3,000bar (43,511psi), and providing ample power for Hydrodemolition applications such as concrete renovation and road and bridge repair,” Roger said. “The original Ecosilence achieved the low noise levels our customers needed but could not match the power of our standard Power Pack, which was necessary for certain applications. “We knew we could do better, so our engineers went back to the drawing board to provide the best of both worlds; power and quiet operation. Along the way, we were able to incorporate the latest automatic technology

and take three feet off the overall length for a brand-new Ecosilence.” The Ecosilence 3.0 features an environmentally friendly, low-emission engine and high-pressure pump to power Aquajet’s range of Aqua Cutter Hydrodemolition robots. The skid-mounted unit employs auto start/stop technology, like that found in many modern automobiles, which temporarily shuts down the engine when not in operation to reduce idling time by up to 50%. The engine automatically starts up when operation resumes. In this way, the new Ecosilence saves money and significantly reduces emissions. The integrated engine and high-pressure pump unit pairs with a state-of-the-art liquid-to-air heat exchanger to provide quiet, efficient operation for all Hydrodemolition applications. The new, skid-mounted engine and pump are isolated and heat regulated in a sealed compartment at the front of the container, limiting noise to allow operation in urban areas and other noise-sensitive environments. This innovative design also prevents debris or outside air from entering the engine chamber during operation. Because of this, the new Ecosilence can be used in harsh environments such as harbors or cold weather without negative effects.

“Aquajet always strives to provide innovative solutions that meet our customers’ challenges head on,” Simonsson said. “The Ecosilence 3.0’s key features are the result of these customer-driven answers. For example, a contractor working in a harbor struggled with fog filling the unit because the engine was exposed to the cold, wet air. By isolating the engine and pump, the new unit eliminates these challenges.” Like all previous Aqua Power Packs, the Ecosilence 3.0 is easy to transport and set up. It measures 6.1m by 2.4m by 2.6m (20feet by 8feet by 8.5feet) while maintaining innovative sound-absorbing design features. This includes insulated walls and doors, as well as seals on all doors and hatches. Despite the shorter overall length, the container still provides ample storage for the company’s Aqua Cutter robots, accessories and tools. Additional options are available to customise this work area, such as a built-in workbench with a vise that provides contractors a space for jobsite maintenance and a place to store spare parts. The Ecosilence 3.0 is available in several pressure and flow combinations, allowing operators to scale equipment. To help contractors select the ideal unit for their operation, Aquajet launched a new online tool, the Aquajet Configurator, that walks operators through a number of standard and optional features for a customised Ecosilence 3.0. n Visit: www.aquajet.se

Electronic distance recorder for trailers A new, custom-built electronic distance recorder for trailers designed in New Zealand with practical input from Kiwi transport operators has been released by Teletrac Navman and began rolling out in July. The device is part of Teletrac Navman’s electronic Road User Charges (RUC) system, and will automate RUC licence payment and display, and calculate off-road rebates for heavy trailers independently of prime movers. “It is a self-contained, sealed device that generates power directly from the wheel’s rotation,” Ian Daniel, Vice President and Managing Director Asia Pacific said. “There are no wires and no interference with the trailer ABS, EBS or other systems. Operators can self-install the device and use it as part of their Teletrac Navman RUC management solution. “In the development of this solution, we P64

A new, custom-built electronic distance recorder for trailers is now available from Teletrac Navman

spoke with our transport operator customers to get feedback on exactly what they needed and this solution is a result,” Ian said. “Automated RUC management is a very popular technology. Our customers wanted something they could easily install

themselves, that was self-contained and selfpowered, and had a large clear screen. This device ticks all the boxes for a busy operator,” Ian said. “Feedback from customers is electronic RUC saves them hours of admin time and even brings in a steady flow of rebates for off-road travel. With the upcoming increases in Road User Charges, every kilometre left unclaimed represents even more lost value to a business. Staying on top of regular rebates also assists a business with its cashflow.” The electronic distance recorder is already hotly demanded by customers, to provide them with a simple, fast and costeffective way to manage Road User Charges for trailers, Ian said. n Visit: www.teletracnavman.co.nz

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

EQUIPMENT

Portability and operator comfort on corded roller screed A new corded roller screed designed for operator comfort and easy transportation, the Eel Screed 6100, has been introduced by Curb Roller Manufacturing.

he Eel Screed features a direct drive system, eliminating pulleys and linkage belts and adding to the unit’s ease of maintenance, Seth Ulmer, Curb Roller Manufacturing Sales Manager said. A variable speed control, ergonomically integrated into the unit’s handle, allows working speeds between 0-300rpm and provides ease of operation to adjust for different slump conditions or delivery rates. A single button directional change allows for fast and easy directional adjustments in confined areas or complex pours and the multi-position handle accommodates three positions for enhanced operator comfort. The electric-powered Eel Screed requires a 120volt, 60hertz outlet or generator. Internal

cord storage provides for easy machine transport and protects the cord from damage. “The Eel Screed provides an economical, feature-rich solution for concrete contractors,” Seth said. With a lightweight design and a folding handle, the Eel Screed is easy to transport. The one-pin connection on the stainless-steel shaft and screed ends allows for fast setup. Once onsite, operators simply insert the screed ends into SCH40 4inch aluminum pipe and plug the system into a power source. The Eel Screed 6100 provides a comfortable, reliable option for concrete flatwork, which is often back breaking and exhausting. An electric screeding tool helps eliminate potential worker injuries that might come from a hands-

The Eel Screed 6100 from Curb Roller Manufacturing

and-knees board screeding method, Seth said. The Eel Screed design includes a heavyduty kickstand to avoid setting the unit in wet concrete or dust, which can be detrimental to the longevity of the machine. The Eel Screed’s all-steel housing protects the motor and electrical components inside from moisture, concrete and accidental impact, increasing the life of the machine. n Visit: www.curbroller.com

Optimised new Battle Ax mulching head ASV Holdings has partnered with Loftness Specialized Equipment to design a specialised Loftness S-Series Battle Ax mulching head for optimised performance with ASV machines. The skid steer and compact track loader attachment produces a finer mulch with fewer passes. It pairs well with ASV’s RT-75 Heavy-Duty and RT-120 Forestry Posi-Track loaders, each optimised for high performance. “It is important to us our partners’ values align with ours and we really see that in Loftness,” Buck Storlie, ASV Holdings Inc Product Line Manager said. “It’s why we worked so closely with them to make this specialised mulching head. The Battle Ax provides ASV customers the level of performance they need to get the most out

of their machines.” The two companies worked together to match the attachment with ASV machines. ASV and Loftness extensively tested The Battle Ax with the RT-75 HD and RT120F to optimise specifications and features including hydraulic settings, gearing, back pressure and more. The Battle Ax gives contractors the ability to fell large standing trees, shave off large material and complete forward and reverse mulching. The attachment applies everything Loftness learned with the company’s flagship Carbide Cutter G4 and takes it a step further. The signature shear bars and two-stage cutting chamber produce a finer mulch with fewer passes. The Battle Ax also includes the new Battle Ax rotor with built-in depth gauges. The depth gauges are carefully engineered to be less limiting than similar designs, improving productivity while optimising the material feed rate to prevent the attachment from engaging too much material. The Battle Ax attachment includes premium strength steel housing for enhanced durability and a number of features that minimise moving parts and simplify maintenance. An adjustable push bar and skid shoes give operators maximum control. When combined with ASV’s The skid steer and compact track loader attachment available through ASV’s dealer network is designed to produce a finer mulch with fewer RT-75 HD or RT-120F, the passes S-Series Battle Ax performs at

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

maximum capacity thanks to the perfect pairing between the attachment and the loaders’ unmatched hydraulic system capacities and efficient cooling systems. These systems allow for operation even in high ambient temperatures with less risk of bogging down or overheating. In addition, ASV Posi-Track loaders’ advanced suspension and flexible tracks provide more operator comfort and maintain a better control of cutting height and speed as a result of the tracks flexing over obstacles instead of rocking over them. The unique undercarriage design also virtually guarantees the tracks will stay on, even in demanding brush clearing applications. ASV backs that up with the industry’s first noderailment guarantee. The RT-75 HD and RT-120F include enhanced operator protection, including a heavy-duty polycarbonate door, cross bracing and reinforced windows on a falling object protective structure (FOPS) and rollover protection (ROPS) cab. The models also include metal guarding against brush and debris around key areas, such as lights, the AC condenser and rear screen. The machines blow debris from mulching applications out of the engine compartment screens with a hydraulically driven, auto-reversing cooling fan. A full rear brush guard is also available as a factory-installed option. n Visit: www.asvi.com and the Battle Ax at www.loftness.com

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EQUIPMENT

Business practice improvements follow COVID-19 Komatsu’s life after COVID-19 will include higher work productivity and efficiency of solutions in supply-chain management as well as machinery maintenance which it developed in response to the pandemic.

Life after COVID-19 will contain efficiencies Komatsu developed in response to the pandemic

omatsu Australia’s Executive General Manager of People and Strategy, Colin Shaw said: “We are already planning for life after COVID-19 and it will contain efficiencies which we have developed as a response to the pandemic. A greater emphasis on agile supply chain methods, a ramping up of E-commerce ordering, greater reliance on sophisticated machine monitoring allied to customer support centres, and the flexible deployment of key staff to areas of immediate need, have all become part of a rapid evolution process over the course of just two months, Colin said. “While we have in the main achieved our goal of maintaining business as usual, particularly in essential service industries, there is every likelihood business in the future will be conducted in a different and even more failsafe manner,” Colin said. Komatsu is a major supplier of below and above ground heavy machinery. The company’s post-COVID-19 plan will address the needs of large mining and construction companies, and those of smaller plant operators who may need assistance to readjust their businesses. Some new processes which had been introduced only recently have been tested

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and refined by the urgency of the pandemic response, well in advance of normal roll-out procedures, Colin said. According to Todd Connolly, Komatsu’s General Manager of Construction Solutions, use of the my.komatsu.com.au, automated parts ordering portal had nearly doubled during the COVID 19 response. The contactless purchasing process had been well received by new and existing customers alike, Todd said. The portal was launched a year ago and proved robust under the unexpected load of the COVID-19 response, Todd said. “Use of the company’s KCSC (Komatsu Customer Support Centre), a two-way communication, had increased significantly as customers and Komatsu sought alternatives to face-to-face contact. “The KCSC is supported by Komatsu’s extensive use of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) including Komtrax on-board monitoring service with real time assessment of machinery performance,” Todd said. Both initiatives were supported by substantial change to the company’s parts supply chain process, optimising the relationship between regional branches and centralised Distribution Centres by the use of

predictive modelling techniques. When New Zealand lock down laws were enacted, Komatsu Australia had rapidly moved to provide parts to its entire New Zealand network from its Wacol, Brisbane hub. Freight forwarding had occurred with almost no disruption as a result of careful monitoring of transport solutions. “People have been at the heart of our COVID-19 strategy,” Colin Shaw said. “More than two thirds of Komatsu’s Australian and New Zealand total workforce of 3400 has continued to provide service and manufacturing functions in the company’s plants and in the field, while office staff in the main have worked from home.” Colin said a recently inaugurated ‘Start Safe’ policy intended to meet and exceed workplace safety requirements, had adapted well to the current challenge. Komatsu had worked with the Minerals Council of Australia to ensure recommended protocols met industry standards during this special situation, Colin said. “Meticulous process detail goes right to the heart of good customer relations,” Colin said. “Once a machine has been serviced and cleaned, a tag indicates its condition, which gives customer’s confidence every consideration has been taken to ensure the health of their employees.” Komatsu’s technicians have been COVID-19 trained and certified. Paramedics had been employed at key manufacturing sites and split shift protocols had been introduced ranging from separated workplaces and crib rooms through to designated machinery disinfection time between major operations. Customer communication had identified potential areas of vulnerability in operations and Komatsu had worked directly with its staff to find solutions. “A flying squad of technical experts was moved from Western Australia to Queensland in recognition members might be isolated for some time and on-ground local support is far more efficient in current times,” Colin said. “Paramount was the ability of our people to make that commitment without putting their family or personal requirements at risk,” he said. Komatsu Australia now has a supplychain task force with access to global factories to visualise and plan responses to the fast-moving consequences of the pandemic. “At any moment, we have more than a dozen potential scenarios in planning to ensure our response time is minimised, and we are not totally reactionary,” Colin said. “We are learning a lot and already our findings are being translated into new training programs that will pass through our network.” n Visit: www.komatsu.com.au

HIRE & RENTAL MAGAZINE AUGUST 2020

HIRE21

GOLD COAST

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Join the HRIA as we welcome the industry back in 2021 at the Gold Coast Convention Centre

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JOIN OUR VIRTUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2â€“5 NOV. See details and register for updates: conference.pointofrental.com