Powered Access Report 2019 by CPI Trade Media

A supplement of:

D E R E W O P S S E C C A REPORT PLUS

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JLG AT 50

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ONE JOB ONE DEAL

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01 A supplement of:

MANAGING DIRECTOR RAZ ISLAM raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5471 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR VIJAYA CHERIAN vijaya.cherian@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713 EDITORIAL EDITOR ANIRBAN BAGCHI

A YEAR OF MILESTONES

anirban.bagchi@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5715 SUB EDITOR AELRED DOYLE aelred.doyle@cpitrademedia.com ADVERTISING & MARKETING SALES EXECUTIVE TOM BROMLEY tom.bromley@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5496 MARKETING MANAGER SHEENA SAPSFORD sheena.sapsford@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5498 DESIGN ART DIRECTOR SIMON COBON simon.cobon@cpitrademedia.com DESIGNER PERCIVAL MANALAYSAY percival.manalaysay@cpitrademedia.com CIRCULATION & PRODUCTION PRODUCTION MANAGER VIPIN V. VIJAY vipin.vijay@cpitrademedia.com +971 4 375 5713 WEB DEVELOPMENT MOHAMMAD AWAIS SADIQ SIDDIQUI FOUNDER DOMINIC DE SOUSA (1959-2015)

The publisher of this magazine has made every effort to ensure the content is accurate on the date of publication. The opinions and views expressed in the articles do not necessarily reflect the publisher and editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content are published in good faith. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. Publication licensed by Dubai Development Authority to CPI Trade Publishing FZ LLC. Printed by Printwell Printing Press LLC. CPI Trade Media. PO Box 13700, Dubai, UAE. +971 4 375 5470 cpitrademedia.com © Copyright 2019. All rights reserved.

This year is turning out to be one for milestones. Readers will have noticed the main issue of CMME this month celebrates Kaeser Kompressoren’s centenary. And now this supplement continues the celebratory theme by recognising the achievements of JLG as it marks its 50th year. As the letters in its name suggest, the company was started by no less a person than John L. Grove, a colossus of the industry. The illustrious mobile crane brand, Grove, another company he founded, already carries his name. But with JLG, to which he lent his entire initials, Grove has created his most seminal work and etched his name in the annals of engineering history. For, with JLG, he not only created a brand but also an entire segment that did not exist before – the aerial work platform or powered access sector. Grove’s invention changed work at height fundamentally and has spawned many competitors, such as Genie, Haulotte, Skyjack and Snorkel, all of whom present their latest news in this report. Despite the competition – and with new brands like JCB entering the fray – JLG still holds its own as a market leader. Now that’s a legacy!

Anirban Bagchi Editor, CMME

JLG P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

STANDING TALL

AS JLG MARKS FIVE DECADES OF EXISTENCE, CMME LOOKS AT HOW THE COMPANY HAS REDEFINED AN INDUSTRY IT ALMOST SINGLE-HANDEDLY STARTED, AND HOW IT CONTINUES TO SET THE STANDARDS EVEN IN OUR REGION

his year marks half a century since a visionary of the construction equipment field founded a company that bears his name and spearheaded the access industry with the introduction of the world’s first boom lift, commonly referred to as JLG 1. On January 9, 1969, John L. Grove rallied a small group of people around one big idea— create a safer way to work at height. This idea came to life with the introduction of the first aerial work platform. Grove’s passion for safety and his pioneering spirit continue today in over 6,000 JLG employees around the world. Grove has been described as a skilled inventor, a savvy businessman and an extremely hard-working individual, who was driven by the pursuit of perfection in the products that bear his initials. A former employee once said, “You could show (him) anything, even a fountain pen, and he could immediately tell you how to improve it,” according to an excerpt from the book The Life and Legacy of John L. Grove. Grove formed JLG Industries with only three investing partners and within a few years developed a unique product that filled a huge void in the construction industry. He quickly won customer confidence and brand preference, and the company expand domestically and internationally. Today, JLG is represented across five continents, with

03 In the 50 years of its existence, JLG has redefined the powered access industry that its founder started, leading the way in safety and new technology.

“Fifty years is a remarkable milestone for both JLG and the access industry. Our founder not only started a company, but an entire industry. This is a key point of differentiation for the JLG brand. We continue to build on this legacy through continuous development of products, services and technology that advance safety for work at height”

manufacturing facilities in the USA and UK, France, Romania, Australia and China. While the boom lift marked JLG’s start, the company’s product portfolio has expanded over the years to include various awardwinning hydraulic and electric drive scissor lifts, telehandlers, vertical lifts and a wide range of low-level access solutions. Today, JLG is also among industry leaders in its after-sales parts, service and training offerings. “Fifty years is a remarkable milestone for both JLG and the access industry,” says Frank Nerenhausen, JLG president. “Our founder not only started a company, but an entire industry. This is a key point of differentiation for the JLG brand. We continue to build on this legacy through continuous development of products, services and technology that advance safety for work at height.” Since its introduction of the first commercially produced aerial work platform, JLG has claimed many industry firsts— including oscillating axles for boom and scissor lifts in 1981, the only fuel-cell powered boom lift in 1999, the first environmentallyfriendly 18.2m electric boom lift in 2000, and the first straight boom lift to reach 45m in 2011. The company surpassed its own record in 2014 with the 56.3m model 1850SJ, the world’s tallest self-propelled boom lift. In the same year, JLG introduced the first true hybrid diesel/electric boom lift, the H340AJ. “For more than 2,000 years, people used inefficient and dangerous methods to access work areas,” says Guru Bandekar, JLG VP, global product management and development. “So, when you think that a mere half-century ago no one had invented a way to safely elevate people on job sites, one realises how remarkable John L. Grove’s advancement was. His accomplishment gives all JLG employees a tremendous sense of pride.” Nerenhausen adds: “Grove’s inventive spirit continues to fuel development at JLG. He blazed a new trail, and we mark 50 years with a steadfast focus on solutions that continue to bring his initial vision and purpose to life.” So, in JLG’s 50-year journey, where does the Middle East fit in? Ian Hume, sales director, Emerging Markets, at JLG, says JLG started here in 2008 but has been supplying the region through partners since the early 1980s. “We had distribution agreements with a number of partners in the region, for example, Genavco in Dubai, starting 1987. We’ve been

JLG P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

with them for over 30 years and we’ve had similar relationships with some other distributors like Zahid Tractor in Saudi Arabia, MMETC in Bahrain and ACM in Oman – these are all companies we have been dealing with for decades. Building on the long history of them distributing for us, we brought set up our regional office in 2008 and grew gradually. Now we have a staff strength of 10, including three engineers and a service manager, and they look after our machines in the region and support our customers and distributors. We also have our JLG trainer here in the region and we look after the parts and support as well in the region,” Hume says. “We started predominantly with the charge of the Middle East and South Africa from here, which has now grown to include the whole of Africa. We also look after Turkey from here, and when I joined in 2017, I also took on South Asia - India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. These regions are part of our MEA operations and as such became

part of this office. Moreover, this offcie also looks after the CIS countries apart from Russia, such as Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan and Georgia.” Geographically, JLG’s Dubai office covers the biggest territory of all its global offices, and with being close to customers as its main focus, it also has the largest team of any access

JLG founder John L. Grove is a colossus in the equipment industry, who founded an entire new segment with the first MEWP.

manufacturer in the region, Hume says. “We’ve just hired new technicians and we’re focused on the capacity to look after our customers, backed by the distribution we have. So, in each country we have the sole distributor, most of whom have been with us for decades. Historically, we have been very loyal to our distributors and they, likewise, to us. We continuously work with them on training and making sure they are as proactive as possible in their markets. They’ve embraced it and are driving forward as well, so we’ve seen record sales from our distributors in the region, both last year and this year.” Elaborating on JLG’s extensive parts support, Hume adds: “We have an online parts portal called Online Express. Our direct customers, such as dealers and rental companies predominantly, have the login details and they can search for parts they need, order them directly and get them shipped. Delivery is usually within 2-5 days and the items come from our EMEA parts hub in Belgium.

NEW CONSTRUCTION BOOMS

ELECTRIFYING THE HEIGHTS JLG has launched a fully electric

drive systems now that the

range of construction booms with

availability of electric drive

three models in the range – 340AJ,

technology has matured. At this

engine maintenance

450AJ and 520AJ. These boom lifts

point in time we are ready to match

is needed, simply

offer working heights from 12m to

technology with application. Also,

because there are none.

18m and an unrestricted platform

battery development has improved

capacity of 250kgs. The range is

throughout the years and faster and

for full electric construction

equipped with Lithium batteries

opportune charging is a reality. For

boom lifts. For a relatively small

and two-wheel drive as standard.

JLG it is imperative there should

price difference, equipment owners

be no performance reduction in

benefit from improved usability

uptime, duty cycles or terrain ability.”

as this machine can work outside,

“JLG is committed to the continued development of more environmentally friendly access

The electric 340AJ, 450AJ and

“The market is now ready

but also indoors if needed”, says

equipment. Working on urban

520AJ offer similar lift speeds

Jan-Willem van Wier, senior

job sites where noise levels and

and platform capacities as their

product marketing manager for

stringent emission standards

conventional diesel counterparts.

JLG access equipment in EMEA.

apply, this range provides an

Equipped with 2-wheel drive,

alternative for conventional

the range provides good terrain

equally to conventional boom lifts,

combustion operated equipment,”

capability in semi-rough terrain.

they produce hardly any noise or

says Barrie Lindsay, director of

Maintenance and parts requirements

emissions. The market wants more

Engineering in Leicester, UK.

are limited, which is a benefit of

electric solutions, for operation

electric drive over conventional

in urban areas and these can

diesel, i.e. no filter replacements or

make a fleet future-proof.”

“As a manufacturer we have improved access to alternative

“While these machines perform

05 POWER TOWERS

RULING THE LOWER LEVELS stage galvanised and paint process.

Power Towers Ltd, a leading global

was acquired by JLG, one of

low-level access manufacturer,

the goals was to realise its

which is now a JLG-owned

manufacturing potential and

product from the company, is

company, has announced that the

sales potential via JLG’s network

now available as a Duo version.

brand will abandon its traditional

while staying true to it position

Equipped with stabilisers the Power

blue and adopt the JLG low level

as pioneers in the industry.

Tower Duo allows for two-person

access colours - orange and grey.

In keeping with its pioneering

The Power Tower, the original

operation indoors improving

spirit, the company has also

job site productivity. Offering a

Towers says: “The orange and

launched ATEX approved versions of

working height of 5.10m, platform

grey expression of JLG’s low level

the Eco and Peco lift. Equipped with

capacity is extended to 250kg.

access product appearance,offers

revolutionary manual operation, the

Deliveries have already begun.

a strong foundation in the access

working range of these products

equipment market. In support of

is now extended into hazardous

introduction of Power Tower. We

our long-term vision - growing

areas, where a potentially explosive

have two sales managers for it here.

the low-level access business -

mix of air and flammable gasses or

They’re fully focused on this product

the revision of our colours is yet

air and dust or air, dust and gasses

and growing its range, which we

another step in increasing the

may occur. Within Europe ATEX

have had great success with in the

global base for our products. We

certification of products for use in

last 18 months,“ says Ian Hume.

Jonathan Dawson, GM, Power

anticipate the first orange and grey machines to be in the market by the second half of this year.” When Power Towers

“Over the last few years, we have encouraged our distribution partners in the region to stock more on the ground, to have more availability for rental companies in the region. Because at the end of the day, specifically for a rental company, they need a machine up and running as soon as possible. To wait 3-5 days is huge due to the lost time and revenue of going two days without a working machine. It could even lose them a job. So, to have that availability is something we’ve really strived for - and its already there. “In the UAE, for example, Genavco has a very large JLG stock, and we have other regional partners with similar stocks, with yet others following suit.” In summation, Hume says: “We are proud to have a wide range of leading products. Our support structure in the region is getting ever stronger, and we’re doing a lot of sales and technical training for distributors and customers. We are doing well and looking to grow further. And in the 50th year of JLG that’s a happy place to be.”

“We are really proud of the

potentially hazardous atmospheres

“This is a product that was

is compulsory. The ATEX proof Eco

not here 10 years ago and now

and Peco lifts are also available in

it makes up 10% of the whole

an off-shore version, with three

access fleet in the UAE.”

GENIE P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

UPLIFTING SOLUTIONS

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO CUSTOMER REQUIREMENTS, COUPLED WITH NEW MODEL DEVELOPMENTS AND ADVANCEMENTS IN SAFETY AND TRAINING, HAS ENABLED GENIE TO MAINTAIN A HEALTHY RECORD IN THE MARKET

hether the times are tough or not, those that are tough will always keep going. One of the prime examples of this in the powered access sector is Genie, the Terex-owned aerial work platform brand, which has enjoyed a good run in the regional access sector in the last 18 months. Recounting the successes the brand has enjoyed in recent times, Sharbel Kordahi, managing director of Terex Equipment Middle East and sales director for Genie Aerial Work Platforms in the Middle East, South of Africa and Russia, says: “Genie has had several noteworthy achievements since 2018 in terms of quantities delivered and regaining old customers. We had one of our oldest customers, Johnson Arabia, taking delivery of a 24-unit Genie order. Models included a broad mix of telescopic Genie S-85 and electric and diesel-powered articulating Genie Z-45/25 J RT boom lifts, electric Genie GS-3232, diesel powered Genie GS-4049 RT and Genie GS-5390 scissor lifts. Working heights of these machines range from 11.7526.38m. For Johnson Arabia, this delivery marks their confidence in Genie as part of a strong, long-term relationship. “We also concluded a delivery of 65 units to AJI Rental, who are a part of the al Jaber

Group. We delivered 37 units to Expertise and 10 XC units to Bin Quraya; we had a delivery of over 104 units to Access Hire to add to their increasing fleet. “These and other major deals we’ve won recently were possible due to the relationship we build with our customers. We do not treat them as a number but give them wellrounded solutions beneficial over the long run. The quality of our equipment coupled with their performance gives a great return on their investment, which over the long run shows why Genie has loyal customers.” Genie is known as a premier brand in the industry and its range sets the standard for competitors to follow, Kordahi adds. Genie’s most popular products in this region are the S85, Z62 & the GS3246 and GS4047, but globally the company counts many other models as equally favourite in specific geographies. It is also a prolific developer of new kit, always responding to customer needs, global demand and new industry niches opening up. Spotting a worldwide demand for lowlevel access and space and weight restricted applications, Genie has developed its GS1330m scissor lift. The unit, weighing in at only 889kg, has a maximum working height of 5.9m with a two-person, 227kg capacity. Unveiled late last year, it is now available globally. “Low level access is a growing segment

07 Terex-owned Genie is among the top powered access brands in the world - a position it has cemented in the Middle East too, with its range and quality.

“Major deals we’ve won recently were possible due to the relationship we build with our customers. We do not treat them as a number but give them well-rounded solutions beneficial over the long run”

in the aerial access industry, with increasing pressure to replace ladders with safe, productive alternatives,” says Mike Flanagan, Genie product manager, Terex AWP. “The low-level access segment is poised to replace ladders in applications beyond the typical jobsite, including in industrial and institutional facilities. Additionally, growing need for productive solutions in low floor loading applications is driving innovation in lightweight product segments. The new Genie GS-1330m scissor lift is specifically designed to meet the needs of our customers in the ever-changing global mobile aerial work platform market.” The GS-1330m is equipped with an allelectric DC drive system for indoor jobsites with quiet, zero-emissions operation. Operators can drive at full height and in the stowed position, the scissor lift is capable of climbing up to a 25% gradient. “With it light weight, the Genie GS-1330m is able to access jobsites previously off limits to heavier slab scissors and vertical mast lifts due to passenger elevator capacity limitations,” says Flanagan. Heavy-duty and rental-ready, this new micro-sized scissor lift’s top applications include construction work in restricted spaces or congested locations, such as offices, high-rises and retail spaces, as well as facilities management tasks. Designed with the operator in mind, the lift is equipped with side-by-side platform quardrailings for easy deck extension and retraction. It is engineered with diamond plate platform flooring, which provides a durable, long-life gripping surface. And with the link stack centered under the platform, the operator is provided with a stable feel and optimal comfort while working at height. Safety is one of the crucial pillars at Genie, and the company’s online TechPro training initiative has been much commended as it has helped save time spent in training an individual and has been a tool that sets certain criteria to attend a training. Since its launch there have already been over 270 courses which have been taken up by trainees in this region and has lessened the load for trainers to personally visit every request that arises. While it is essential for rental technicians and engineers to have a sufficient level of expertise to keep equipment properly

GENIE P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

maintained and safe to operate, with the constraints of a daily job, finding the time for the necessary training can be challenging. To solve this dilemma, two years ago Genie introduced the Genie TechPro eLearning website –a flexible solution that has proved its worth in providing technical teams the ability to gain a higher-level skill set. Accessible to Genie account holders free of charge, the Genie TechPro site features more than 20 “foundation” and “advanced” level theoretical training modules, each lasting from two to four hours. Covering a broad range of Genie products, as well as core skills such as electrics, hydraulics and wire rope inspections, a new course named “Genie Generic Systems on Booms” has recently been added to the TechPro menu. Focusing in generic Genie technologies such as load sense, hydraulic drive and control systems, this new course is one of five modules that are available in French, German and Spanish, as well as English. All future courses will be available in all four European languages. As Phase 1 of a two-step programme,

Genie TechPro training courses are designed for familiarisation purposes before attending instructor-led, practical training. “One of the key benefits of our Genie Tech Pro site is that it offers our customers’ technical teams the flexibility they need to learn anywhere, at any time, with

The all-electric DC drive 1330M scissor llift is Genie’s offering for the indoor work-at-height job-site, with zero-emission, quiet operations.

sessions that correspond to their level and schedule. If they want to go back over a subject, they can do so as many times as they need to. But this is not all,” says Geert Hansen, Genie technical trainer and training manager, Terex AWP for the EMEAR region. Each Genie TechPro module ends with a quiz test that enables users to evaluate their level. Neither an examination nor a Genie diploma, the test allows technicians and engineers to check that their level is good enough to feel comfortable when they begin the second phase of instructor-led, practical training. As Hansen explains: “When the time comes for practical, instructorled training, having already acquired the necessary theory thanks to their Genie TechPro eLearning experience, all participants begin at the same level. In addition to making training more interesting, we have found that this approach boosts group interaction. As a result, participants learn the hands-on skills they have come for more rapidly and need less time to cover a wider range of Genie product families.

NEW DISTRIBUTOR

GENIE PARTNERS BAHRAH IN KUWAIT sales manager for the

Genie has appointed Bahrah

develop a stronger

Trading Company as the new

foothold in the

distributor of its telescopic

Middle East region.

and articulating boom lifts

As part of the Al

excellent reputation

and scissor lifts in Kuwait.

Sayer Holding,

in Kuwait. Led by an

Genie said Bahrah, an

Bahrah is a solid

experienced team

affiliate of Kuwait’s Al Sayer

business with a

of professionals with

Holding, was chosen for its

strong position in

a highly customer-

track record over the last

the marketplace.

focused approach, a

six decades, during which

For Genie, having

it has “evolved into a major

the right partner goes

equipment supplier serving

a long way as it reflects

a broad spectrum of clients

on our brand as well. Now

in the construction, oil and

that Bahrah is part of our

industrial sectors” in Kuwait.

growing regional network,

quality service they rely

customers need to support

“Partnering with Bahrah

customers can be confident

on, is now much easier,”

their business. We are pleased

Trading in Kuwait is part of a

that access to Genie products,

says Sharbel Kordahi.

to have them onboard as

strategic and logical move to

backed by the responsive,

Middle East, Terex AWP, adds: “Bahrah has an

first-class infrastructure and what is probably the best quality after-sales service in the region, Bahrah has everything that Genie

Gary Cooke, Genie regional

a part of our network.”

RENTAL INTERVIEW P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

Comprising over 10,000 items, Byrne Rental’s fleet ranges from temporary buildings to hoists and DNV 2.7-1 containers to powered access units.

“We aim to deliver the ‘one-stop-shop’ experience by ensuring that we can provide everything our client needs – whether it be for a music concert in the events industry or a shutdown and turnaround for the oil & gas industry”

BYRNE-ING A FRESH TRAIL AS THE REGIONAL EQUIPMENT RENTING POWERHOUSE BYRNE RENTAL POWERS AHEAD WITH A THRUST INTO ACCESS EQUIPMENT, CMME CATCHES UP WITH THE COMPANY’S CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, PAT FALLON, TO DISCUSS ITS OFFERINGS, SERVICES AND FUTURE PLANS Please give us a brief overview of your company, its history, development and current standing and operations. Byrne Equipment Rental was founded in the UAE in the early 1990s and since then has grown to become one of the largest plant and equipment rental companies in the Middle East. With 20 operational bases, covering the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain, we have a fleet of over 10,000 items of plant and a team of over 1,500 people. Describe the range of services that you offer and the markets and segments you operate in. We offer high quality equipment rental solutions to a broad variety of industry sectors including but not limited to oil & gas, construction and infrastructure, events, manufacturing and logistics, retail and commercial, marine and ports, defence and military and medical. Our sister companies, Spacemaker (UAE) and Byrne Technical Services (KSA), founded in the UAE in 1990, are turnkey solution providers, able to deliver prefabricated modular building solutions. The business has grown to become one of the highest quality modular building suppliers in the Middle East.

Please give details of your fleet and equipment in the several industry segments you operate in. We have a fleet of over 10,000 items of plant - our fleet ranges from temporary buildings to hoist and access machines to DNV 2.7-1 containers. Our broad and diverse fleet ensures that we can serve a multitude of industries and that we are a ‘one-stop-shop’ solution provider. Byrne recently took delivery of a fleet of powered access equipment. What prompted you to go into powered access? Also, please describe the new fleet and the MEWP equipment you offer. In recent years, demand for access equipment has grown dramatically not only throughout the Middle East but on a global scale. The global market is becoming more safety conscious, and hoist and access equipment focuses on operator safety; so in turn, demand for this equipment has skyrocketed in the last few years. This is where we see access: as yet another rental and lease solution that complements our established business model, and, more importantly, underscores our supply capabilities in the equipment rental field as a true ‘one-stop-shop’.

RENTAL INTERVIEW P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

ACCESS EXPANSION

BYRNE RECEIVES LARGE GENIE ORDER Byrne Equipment Rental took

demand for access equipment

need for suppliers that we can

and strong authorised service

delivery earlier this year of 34

has grown dramatically

trust in terms of best-in-class

provider network, Genie

MEWPs from Genie as part of

throughout the Middle East.

products, the scale and calibre

provides Byrne the peace of

an order of 166 units as the

This is where we see access

of the supply chain, and local

mind in ramping up on this

Gulf rental giant expands in

as another rental and lease

after-sales support coverage

major investment initiative.”

the powered access sector.

solution that complements our

that dovetails into our culture

The delivery comprised a

established business model, and

of always adding benefit to

territory sales manager,

broad mix of the Terex-owned

more importantly, underscores

our client’s expectations.

Terex AWP Middle East, adds:

powered access specialist’s

our supply capability in the

latest scissor lifts and telescopic

equipment rental field as

all the right boxes as a major

discernment every step of the

and articulating boom lifts,

a true ‘one-stop-shop’.

global equipment brand. In

way leading to its final purchase

addition to the production

decision. Our team here is

“As the market matures in the

including its first Genie Xtra

“In every aspect, Genie ticks

Johan Gericke, Genie

“Byrne demonstrated great

Capacity (XC) booms lifts.

GCC, we have seen a sizeable

capacity of factories in the US,

proud to have been chosen by

An additional 132 machines,

shift in demand for operational

Europe and China capable of

Byrne, and we look forward to

handed over some weeks

efficiency from our clients. With

ensuring on-time delivery of

supporting them in every way

later, completed the delivery.

this comes the requirement

a consistently high-quality

possible to help ensure the

for them to operate faster and

product, with the presence of

success of their mobile access

more cost effectively, hence the

a responsive local sales team

venture in the long-term.”

Steve Caygill, Byrne’s regional GM, says: “In recent years,

We supply a full range of vertical access solutions for people and materials. Our fleet consists of transport platforms, material hoists and mast climbers which provide a versatile and safe working environment. Also, our hoist and access fleet includes a wide range of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP), comprising a broad mix of scissor lifts - both electric and diesel, telescopic booms, articulated booms and electric booms. In addition, we have a range of low-level access platforms, including the Power Tower Single, Duo, Pecolift, Ecolift and Nano. How has business been for Byrne for the last couple of years in the region? What prospects do you see going ahead, especially in the powered access sector? Compared to 2018 when markets suffered a noticeable slowing, 2019 has been a year of more positive performance and this looks set to continue at least for the remainder of the year, especially with the current pipeline across the region. How do you deliver the “OneStop-Shop” experience to your customers?

We have a diverse product offering of over 10,000 items of equipment, serving multiple industries. We aim to deliver the ‘one-stop-shop’ experience by ensuring that we can provide everything our client needs – whether it be for a music concert in the events industry or a shutdown and turnaround for the oil & gas industry.

Byrne Rental recently took delivery of 166 Genie MEWP machines. It’s powered access fleet comprises both boom lifts and scissor lifts.

Most importantly, if a client requires a specific product and we don’t have it, we simply purchase it for them. Please explain your ‘On-site Hire Shop” concept. What are its features and advantages and how does it serve customers and help your business? For major construction and infrastructure projects, we offer the added convenience of an onsite equipment rental facility. These are built using our own temporary buildings, providing all contractors, stakeholders and the wider array of people and organisations working to deliver this project, immediate access to a vast range of equipment and consumables in one convenient location. There are a number of benefits of an On-site Rental Facility. It gives the contractor immediate access to a wide range of products and equipment that are fit for purpose and tested in accordance with health and safety regulations. The close proximity to the work site results in a reduction in site traffic to, from and on-site, which in turn leads to a reduction in CO2

13 emissions. Furthermore, the close distance allows for rapid response to site issues, for example to breakdowns or replacement kit. The overall benefit of this concept is that it enables us to support clients in delivering an on-time and onbudget project. What are some of the challenges you face while operating in the Middle East market and how do you solve them? As mentioned, markets are improving significantly in terms of business volumes and activity, particularly across multiple sectors. While this is positive news for many, competition remains strong and payments remain slow in most sectors. In addition, there remains significant downward pressure on pricing so, careful management of costs and cash has become critical for most businesses. How do you maintain and service your equipment? Describe the

Byrne Rental’s chief operating officer, Pat Fallon, believes the company’s commitment to customer service is a key factor in its success.

service back-up and on-site support for customers. At Byrne we pride ourselves on our commitment to customer service which is unparalleled in the industry. We provide 24/7, round-the-clock service as standard, conducting safety checks on all equipment once a month and servicing if need be.

What do you think sets Byrne Rental apart from the competition and has been the reason for its success? Since our formation in the early 1990s the Byrne Group has differentiated itself through its commitment to the provision of high-quality service and to this day customer service is still the forefront of the business, ensuring we deliver an outstanding level of service. Listening and working closely with our clients has resulted in the growth of our strategically positioned footprint across the GCC and the extensive expansion of the fleet to meet the ever-growing demand driven by a proven operational excellence model. We are a GCC company with a strong history and our incredibly experienced team of professionals, who are both multi-cultural and multinational, have helped our business to thrive and succeed in many different ways and this will continue to be an important focus of the organisation in the future.

“Byrne Group has differentiated itself through... high-quality service and to this day customer service is still the forefront of the business”

JCB POWERED ACCESS REPORT 2019

hen JCB decided to enter the powered access arena in June 2017, it was not a decision without a solid base and a bit of experience already behind it. The company was already well-known for its telehandlers, having pioneered the concept in 1977 and sold more than 200,000 units to date. Since powered access is also one of the uses the telehandler is put to, JCB already had some experience of the access sector. “We had been asked by a number of existing telehandler customers why we weren’t in the wider powered access market, so we decided to enter where we thought there was a great opportunity,” says Rajbir Sandhu, regional general manager, JCB Middle East. “It began more than four years ago and involved considerable market research and product investigation. All existing departments within JCB were involved in the design and development of the products. We aimed for a model range that meets approximately 80% of any rental company’s requirements whilst at the same time providing a robust and easy to use machine for the global end-user market.” JCB’s high brand equity has helped immensely. The reputation it has for building robust, superbly-engineered machines,

ACCESSING NEW AREAS

THE GLOBAL CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT HEAVYWEIGHT HAS MADE GOOD INROADS INTO THE POWERED ACCESS SECTOR IN THE SHORT TIME SINCE ITS ENTRY INTO THE SEGMENT AND LOOKS SET TO GROW WITH THE SUPPORT STRUCTURE IN PLACE

15 Leveraging its credentials in the construction machinery sector, JCB entered the access segment two years ago with a range of scissor lifts.

JCB P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

together with its ability to provide superior back-up and parts from its dealer network, has carried over to the access division. The company has built on the position it has carved for itself in the industry to help it make a strong start in this new venture for the group. Having made the start with a phased approach globally in the access sector, JCB initially brought its electric scissor lifts to the Middle East, as Sandhu told CMME last year, when JCB launched access machines in the region. And now, 12 months after the machines were introduced, he gives a positive progress report. “We have grown across the region on market share. All our dealers are well engaged with our new access equipment and focusing on the entire GCC. We already have bulk orders for delivery this year .” Arriving at this point from a standing start took a lot of groundwork, and Sandhu explains: “As we have our own training team here in the Middle

East hub in Dubai, we first got all of our dealers trained in access before we started selling. And now they are passing on the training downstream. “Our regional parts centre in Dubai’s Jebel Ali is fully up-to-speed with stocking all the parts of the models we are selling or will sell in the Middle East. The dealers have also stocked up on the parts that they need to keep, and their service and sales training has been done. All dealers are not only fully aware of all our access products and their requirements but are also meeting customers and actively selling the access products. “All our dealers are, of course, the same for the access products as they are for other JCB products. We are the JCB family and we also engage with dealers to that level, so they are partners in our business.” JCB’s access equipment range includes nine electric scissor lift models, with platform heights ranging

“We have aimed for a model range that will meet approximately 80% of any rental company’s requirements whilst at the same time providing a robust and easy to use machine for the end user market across the world”

Among the prime features of JCB’s scissor lifts is the power source of its electric machines lithium ion batteries.

from 4.57m to 13.7m. Seven of the nine models are rated for outdoor use and lithium battery versions are also offered for all models. Platform capacities range from 230kg to 550kg depending on the model. Other models that could soon come to the region include articulated and telescopic booms, both diesel and electric-powered models.

“Our access models do not need any special modification for the Middle East. In fact, they have been rigorously tested to ensure they perform well in the harsh conditions experienced in this region. We have an option for lithium batteries on our electric scissor range. This option means longer running time between charges and

JCB’s line-up has powered access machines suitable for various types of applications, including logistics and warehousing.

50% shorter charging times. It also takes away the need for daily checks and allows for opportunistic charging, unlike the normal lead acid battery options. Obviously, as we launch more products into the market, we will continue to look at more innovation.”. Sandhu feels the S1930E is proving the most popular in JCB’s access model

INDUSTRY FIRST

LITHIUM POWERED SCISSORS Within a year of entering

solutions to the powered

cycles, four times as many

the powered access sector,

access industry so early into

as lead acid batteries.

JCB has notched up an

JCB’s entry into the sector.

industry first with the

Lithium ion powered scissor

a Battery Management

launch of a range of electric

lifts will offer real benefits

System (BMS) that allows

scissor lifts powered by

to our customers around

customers to monitor each

lithium ion batteries.

the world, particularly in

cell in the battery pack,

significantly reducing total

adjusting the load to ensure

JCB’s lithium-powered

cost of ownership,” he adds.

all cells are performing at

scissor lift range are the

With Lithium ion batteries

The five new models in

JCB Access has developed

their optimum. The BMS

S1530E, S1930E, S2032E,

recharging times are

works in conjunction with

S2646E and the S2646E,

reduced by up to 50%,

the motor controller to

offering working heights

improving utilisation on

ensure that batteries deliver

of 6.6m to 10.1m. Dutch

site, JCB says. Plus, unlike

maximum power and

rental company Hoogwerkt

lead acid batteries, lithium

performance throughout

has already placed an

ion batteries can be left in a

their lives. As the batteries

order for 420 of the new

low state of charge without

reach a low charge level,

models, said the company.

damaging the cells.

the JCB motor controller

Lithium ion batteries

JCB’s lithium ion powered

activates a cut-out to alert

offer up to 40% longer

machines come with a

the operator of the need to

operation and a 50% cut

Smartphone app with

recharge the machine. This

in recharging times, says

wireless connectivity for

ensures there is sufficient

Jonathan Garnham, MD, JCB

real-time condition checks

charge in the battery to

Access. “We are delighted to

of the batteries, which

return the machine to

be offering innovative new

have up to 2,000 recharge

the charging station.

range, as it is most commonly rented out by the rental companies. It is the ‘bread and butter’ of the industry, so, by definition, it is important to the Middle East market, too, Sandhu opines. “Another model I can highlight is our S4550E, which is something that not all manufacturers produce. It offers an additional 1.5m reach compared to most manufacturers who tend to stop at around 12.2m in this category. With warehouses becoming ever taller as land becomes more expensive, this machine allows access to higher ceilings and roof voids.” JCB has made a very strong start in the powered access business with machines that deliver on the brand’s proven promise of quality. With the extensive groundwork JCB has already done in the region in terms of support and parts, the access division looks all set to grow fast and further.

MANUFACTURER INTERVIEW P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

PUSHING FOR CHANGE

INCREASING THE UPTAKE OF ELECTRIC ACCESS EQUIPMENT IN THE MIDDLE EAST REQUIRES MANUFACTURERS TO BRING IN THEIR LATEST GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES AND URGE FOR THEIR ADOPTION, ARTHUR DANELIAN, MD, HAULOTTE MIDDLE EAST TELLS CMME, AS HE DESCRIBES THE BRAND’S OFFERINGS AND SUCCESSES IN THE REGION Haulotte is a manufacturer that has committed heavily to electric machines globally with model ranges such as the Pulseo, but the Middle East still remains an overwhelmingly diesel market. How do you see Haulotte in the region? I consider the Middle East remaining a diesel market so far to be good news. It means our job is not done yet and there is a future. Maybe not today, but in 5-10 years, with the progress of places like Dubai in terms of technology and smart-emission issues, our most advanced technologies will be the right fit for the market. As an example of the region’s appetite for new technology, today you’re highly likely to find more Tesla cars in Dubai than in European cities. We know that the time is coming for green machines to gain popularity here and we are happy about that as it means we will have more business for those models. Of course, we are not focusing only on electric; we have more than 60 models. We always listen to our users and customers to produce our machines. Our first concern is safety and ownership after 8-10 years, and whether rental companies can get easy amortisation on our equipment.

How do you think this region will change with regard to electric machines? Will the change be a top down one, led by official regulations, or will the private players and sector participants themselves adopt alternative fuel sources? That is a difficult question to answer and I think there will be a mix of both happening. As a manufacturer, I think it’s our job as well - to introduce something new in the market and push for a positive change. For example, we are pushing for safety regulations in the GCC like we have in Europe. in Europe today, you cannot work on ladders higher than 3m. This is a rule. For scaffoldings, you cannot go more than 8m up. This is the result of joint efforts by all players in the sector. Similarly, we have to push change in the GCC region as well. Haulotte delivered two electric units in Saudi Arabia recently and the customer is very happy with them. Now I have another company interested. The demand for electric units is opening up. The projects in Saudi Arabia are slowly restarting. For example, there are projects in Makkah where you cannot go inside with the diesel units because of the emissions. And even for some oil & gas projects you cannot use internal combustion

19 Haulotte’s electric units are suitable for indoor access work, while its new models like the HA20 LE Pro, also have small diesel motors for working outdoor.

engines due to safety regulation around flammable environments. So you need a 100% electric machine for both indoor and outdoor work. With Haulotte this is not the slightest problem performance-wise because we have exactly the same capacities in our electric models as we have in the diesels, such as four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering. The machines are exactly same in terms of capacity and performance, the only difference is the power source. We have machines where you have a small engine to recharge the batteries. So when outdoors, you run the engine and while you work, you recharge your batteries too. Then, when you’re inside, you only use battery power, making it an operation using 100% electric power. How many work hours do I get on a fully charged battery? We can get eight hours on Haulotte machines such as the HA20 LE Pro without recharging the batteries. That’s eight hours of actual working time, not continuous driving around. You can recharge using any domestic power socket. And, as mentioned, there is a small diesel engine also for recharging the battery when working outdoors, so when you come back indoors the battery is already charged up.

“We have to push change in the GCC region as well. Haulotte delivered two electric units in Saudi Arabia recently and the customer is very happy with them. Now I have another company interested”

Haulotte also makes telehandlers, but they are not so visible in our region. What is the reason behind this? We started manufacturing telehandlers only in 2004 because of demand. Our clients, who had been working with us for more than 30 years, were asking for them. Today we have a range of telehandlers to complement our offering. I cannot say we are among the top here, because we have certain models in our range and not others, which is normal because we are specialised on MEWPs. Since there is an overlap, we are able to offer some telehandlers if there is demand, such as one with a 17m maximum height and 4t lifting capacity model, or a 110m-height, 7t-capacity one, another 14m model and so on. In fact, we have more than 80 units in Abu Dhabi with Agility on various job-sites and we’ve sent more than 60 units for the Riyadh metro with Bechtel.

MANUFACTURER INTERVIEW P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

Please describe how you support your customers in the region with services and parts back-up. In this region, we’re supporting customers from our office here in the Dubai Airport Free Zone (DAFZA). Our regional technical team is based out of our DAFZA office and we provide one complete free training a year to our big customers, such as the rental companies like Rapid Access and big dealers from the region, covering 7-8 different countries. The purpose of these trainings is to familiarise our partners on the new technology and evolutions in our machines or if our rental customers or dealers have any new technicians. We also conduct trainings based on training needs assessment done by our regional partners. We also perform the function of a master stockist for spare parts in the region from our DAFZA premises. The lead time for spare parts is 48 hours for distribution to our dealers and rental companies, who of course have their own extensive store of stocks. So, this facility is used to add to their storage.

machines only to Turkey, because they are asking for it. We do not manufacture our entire range in China, though. We make only some of our electric scissors there, but mainly for the Chinese market. We have one manufacturing unit in the US, one in Romania and three in France. So, we have six factories globally. Most of our machines in the GCC are made in France, which is what customers here want. Despite a price differences of around 25% sometimes, GCC customers don’t prefer a made in China machine.

Many companies are moving manufacturing to the emerging markets. What is Haulotte doing in this regard? We have a plant in China for more than 10 years now, but it is for the China market. What Haulotte has seen in the Middle East is that in this region, our customers are not so keen on ‘made in China’. We are sending some of our China-made

Haulotte’s regional head Arthur Danelian says customers in the Middle East still favour ‘made-in-France’ machines over ‘made-in-China’ despite the cost.

What does the future hold for Haulotte, especially in our region? We have our own business models for this region, and we have to be ready for everything. But we also need to follow global trends. Today, I’m feeling about the GCC region what I felt in France when I started in 1985 with Haulotte. Here, in the previous 10 years, we’ve sold around 6,000 units for $300m. Even though the market is slow at the moment for several reasons, we are still at the beginning for the Middle East. The nest is yet to come.

HAULOTTE AND IGTECO

EIGHT YEARS IN EGYPT Haulotte says building long lasting

milestone of eight years. IGTECO, a Haulotte dealer

have been used in the Cairo metro construction and

and transformative

since 2011, is Egypt’s main

expansion project, as well as

partnerships is key

AWP supplier and provides

in the mega projects of the

for its aim to achieve

construction machinery

Majid Al Futtaim group in the

sustainable development

and material handling

North African country. IKEA

goals and strengthen

equipment. For eight years

Egypt has chosen Haulotte

customer and supplier

IGTECO has been supplying

quick ups and electrid

closeness, creating

Haulotte products for the

scissors as a solution for its

strong linkages between

entire Egyptian market,

warehouse management.

the manufacturer and its

with a gradually increasing

Many units of Haulotte

suppliers and customers.

market share, year by year.

HT23RTJ O telescopic

IGTECO also provides after

booms and HA41RTJ PRO

between Egypt’s

sales support and world-

articulated booms have

International Group for

class repair and maintenance

been sold to Alexandria,

trading & Equipment

operations by its well-

Dekhila and Damietta ports,

(IGTECO) and Haulotte

trained technical teams.

where the machines are

The partnership

is a good example of this as it’s reaching a

Haulotte articulated booms supplied by IGTECO

used for maintenance and handling operations.

SKYJACK P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

SCISSORING TO THE TOP

RELIABILITY AND SIMPLICITY IN ITS ZERO-EMISSION DC SCISSOR LIFTS HAVE MADE SKYJACK’S MACHINES JOB-SITE STAPLES AROUND THE WORLD, INCLUDING IN THE MIDDLE EAST, WHERE THE COMPANY HAS FOUND FAVOUR WITH THE RENTAL SECTOR

anadian powered access specialist Skyjack may offer a complete range of MEWPs and telehandlers, but the crowning glory in its line-up are scissor lifts, especially the SJIII 3219. Skyjack says that when starting its business in 1984, the company focused on providing aerial equipment that was simple to use, and reliable for the rental industry. The Linamar-owned company maintains that focus today with its expanded line-up that consists of vertical mast lifts, electric scissor lifts, rough terrain scissor lifts, telescopic booms, and articulating booms. “Our iconic scissor lifts have been helping people and their equipment safely get to height for over 30 years. With our reputation for reliability, Skyjack’s SJIII 3219 is the top selling scissor lift in the world,” says Kristopher Schmidt, product manager at Skyjack. “Our entire DC scissor line-up is designed for use on firm level surfaces and confined indoor and outdoor job sites. Skyjack’s DC electric scissor lifts were the first on the market with a swing-out component tray, something we introduced in 1987 and is still an

essential piece of our design today. The swingout tray keeps all major service components easily accessible and contributes to maximum uptime. Our SKYCODED™ colour-coded and numbered wiring system also makes our machines the easiest to troubleshoot and repair, which translates into less maintenance and lower costs for our customers.” According to Skyjack, these zeroemission scissor lifts are among the most versatile equipment a rental company can own, allowing contractors to keep the machines onsite longer, without having to swap them out for other units. “All Skyjack scissor lifts also boast a unique clevis style design with capped ends creating scissor stacks that endure less stress and increased rigidity, thus improving operator comfort when raising and lowering. They’re rated for both indoor and outdoor use, which means that rental companies can rent them out for a larger variety of applications,” explains Schmidt. From standard factory models to aftermarket products, like Skyjack’s ACCESSORYZERS™ line-up, there are several ways to use DC scissor lifts to bring personnel and material to

23 Skyjack’s offers its ELEVATE telematics and SKYCODED wiring systems on the SJIII 3219 scissor lift, which it says is the world’s topselling scissor.

height. Skyjack has also developed the ELEVATE telematics solution that works with all machine classes and is a costeffective way of getting data points and monitoring a fleet in its entirety, from the smallest to the biggest unit. “Skyjack scissor lifts have been lifting our industry for over three decades. We’ve enhanced our product line with new technologies and remained simply reliable,” says Schmidt. These factors have led to success in the GCC region as well, and not only

with scissor lifts. Last month, regional powered access rental biggie, Access Rental Gulf (ARG) placed a 55-unit order with Skyjack, comprising 20 telescopic and 35 articulating booms. Chris Light, MD, ARG, says: “Skyjack is a key strategic partner to ARG. We have worked closely with Skyjack since we established in 2008. Skyjack has proven an excellent investment and we value the first-class support and technical guidance that they have given us throughout.”

TH SERIES TELEHANDLERS

REACH AND LIFT CHAMPIONS Apart from its range of scissors, articulated and boom lifts, Skyjack also has a line of telehandlers starting from the SJ519TH with a maximum lift capacity of 2.5t and maximum lift height of 5.82m to the SJ1256 THS, which has a maximum lift capacity of 5.4t and maximum lift height of 17.14m. Skyjack says its TH series is designed with all major service points easily accessible, limiting downtime and increasing customer utilisation. With their combination

with an operator controlled

of proprietary features, Skyjack

locking differential on the rear

claims its TH series offer the rental

axle and limited slip differential

industry’s best life cycle value.

on the front. This drive system

The innovative Flexcab cab

has been proven as durable, low

design of Skyjack’s TH series

maintenance, and capable of

telehandlers allows fleet operators

navigating a variety of terrain.

to easily convert between open

The flagship of the Skyjack TH

and closed cabs with simple

range is the new SJ1256 THS,

hand tools. Flat glass panels

which boasts heavy lift capacities

with no custom curved profiles

even at extended height and reach.

and a bolt-on/bolt-off window

Barry Greenaway, senior product

retention system ensures minimal

manager, Skyjack, says: “Most

downtime and costs for repairing

telehandlers in this category lift 5.4t

damaged glass in the field.

to just over 6m. The SJ1256 THS

The TH series also comes with

can lift that same weight to 10.5m.

Skycoded, Skyjack’s relay-based

Another outstanding feature is

control system, incorporating its

that it can lift 453kg at maximum

color coded and numbered wiring

forward reach of 13m without

system, making troubleshooting

deploying outriggers, whereas

and repair easier and less expensive.

most similar machines can only

Axldrive is Skyjack’s axle-based

lift up to 225kg, or even no load

drive system for its telehandlers,

at all, in the same circumstance.”

RAPID ACCESS P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

Rapid Access, part of the global giant Loxam Group, boasts an wide range of MEWP machines and also offers simulated virtual reality training.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have the largest maintenance team in the region with lots of field engineers and a 24/7 tech-support line... you see a lot of our kit in airports and in maintaining large infrastructure projects, besides, of course, in oil & gasâ&#x20AC;?

RAISING THE GAME

AWP RENTAL GIANT RAPID ACCESS IS USING ITS EXTENSIVE FLEET AND PRESENCE IN THE REGION TO EXTEND ITS REACH INTO NEW PROJECTS AND TECHNOLOGIES, REGIONAL MARKETING MANAGER JOE KEELY TELLS CMME

here are few companies in the GCC’s rental space that enjoy the pedigree that Rapid Access does. Now part of France’s Loxam Group, the rental giant which is the largest in Europe, Rapid was an arm of the UK’s Lavendon Group before the British company and its assets were taken over by the French multinational. Describing Rapid Access’ response to the present market conditions, Joe Keely, regional marketing manager, says: “The market has been tough; there has been an influx of competitors into the region, which has been a big change. We do have a lot of projects that we are waiting to ramp up on and we’re waiting for them to hit their peaks. And then we also have few projects that are completing. On the whole, there are more projects completing than there are starting. “And that’s why we are looking towards more of the facilities management (FM) side of things because if you look at our total machines on hire across the region, we are probably sitting at about 15% in FM. We’re looking at concentrating more on the FM business and looking at the larger construction projects where we can take advantage. We have the knowledge, skill-sets and the equipment, and we try to tailor our services to focus on large FM companies.” This focus requires certain requirements of

the FM sector to be kept in mind, Keely adds. “They require operator plans and closer to 24/7 maintenance of equipment. We have the largest maintenance team in the region with lots of field engineers and a 24/7 tech-support line. So, we’ve geared ourselves to help the FM sector and that’s why you see a lot of our kit in airports and in maintaining large infrastructure projects, besides, of course, in oil & gas. “We are able to supply that 24/7 service vital to the FM sector. It’s very important that people are able to maintain their infrastructure and facilities in the hours when the public isn’t there or won’t wander in. So, we have to be very reactive and, have well-maintained equipment that can quickly turn around these projects. A significant amount of work takes place at night in the FM sector, and that’s why they rely on our engineering facilities even more. We have to keep them working in top order at very odd hours continuously.” Many FM clients require truck-mounted lifts which are not suitable for indoors, Keely adds. Truck mounted lifts are among Rapid’s new introductions in the region. “We have only very recently inducted them into our line-up. Some are on longterm rental with our largest clients and now we’ve brought more in, anticipating they will find a lot of work. The truck mounted boom lift is very popular in the telecoms and some larger infrastructure FM work, to get to the roofs of large buildings or to the bulbs in light

RAPID ACCESS P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

towers or for maintenance of the treeline. DEWA uses truck mounted lifts for maintenance on lighting in Dubai.” Spider lifts are another area in which Rapid Access sees promise. Explaining the machine’s features and benefits, Keely says: “Spider lifts have lower floor loading. Therefore, if you’ve got delicate surfaces or finished floors you don’t want to damage, the spider is the perfect kit. And then you can just get

up and over and into areas that typical booms can’t, so it’s also specialised that way. Traditionally, people use spider lifts in place of internal scaffolding, because it can build up and over something. It’s cheaper, more effective, faster and just more popular now. You see spiders a lot more in finished buildings, such as in maintenance of mosques, metro stations, malls and especially airports.“ Rapid Access has a spider lift range

Spider lifts are a recent addition to the Rapid Access fleet and have proved popular among customers in various projects in the region.

that comprises JLGs, some LEOs and some Falcons, especially the bigger ones. “Our more complicated ones are from Falcon, but we have had JLG spiders for certainly over five years.” Looking at the future, Keely says Rapid Access will be investing in machine replacement and fleet expansion to service the oil & gas, FM and the wider maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) sectors, such as the metro railways around the region. “We’ve had a lot of success with the spiders we’ve brought into this market, so we will invest in more. Truck mounts are another area we are considering investing in, as well as in a mix of general machines like scissors and booms for fleet renewal. We always aim to keep our fleet less than 10 years old. “Regional growth is expected to be high enroute to 2030. We think tourism will be the focus with the Expo 2020 next year and the FIFA World Cup in 2022. Saudi Arabia is on an ambitious plan to bring tourists in. We are looking to optimise our fleet and service offerings based on these factors, looking at airports, metro systems and areas where people congregate.”

VIRTUAL REALITY SIMULATOR

IMMERSIVE TRAINING Last year, Rapid Access introduced a virtual reality

in operating the machine.

The VR simulator and

“The simulator is just

training tie up to overall

(VR) simulator that builds up

about to go on a regional

safety standards, which

operator competency and

tour around the GCC.

are on the rise in the

confidence in MEWPs. The

It’s going to a few oil &

region. “There have been

simulator, made by Serious

gas and industrial clients

advancements in terms of

Labs, consists of an integrated,

in Saudi Arabia as well as

legislation, and the region

computer-controlled system

to some universities. In

with the basket and controls of

Oman, we will be pushing

a MEWP in which the operator

towards oil & gas and also

If you look at individual

takes up his position and

some new projects there for

sites and organisations like

wears a VR headset with visual

steel erecters and contractors.

and audio channels, through

The device has some work

valid way to learn IPAF Power

standards are just as high as,

which he is immersed into

scenarios to upskill operators

Plus and it allows you to then

say, in the UK. We get asked

VR scenarios programmed

in all of these sectors. New

demonstrate your knowledge

for documentation, machine

into the computer.

developments and scenarios for

using more hybrid scenarios. So,

and training standards that

aviation are also expected in the

they validated it for Power Plus

meet or possibly exceed those

next upgrade,” says Joe Keely.

training and we will be making

in the UK when we deal with

use of it as much as we can.”

these big organisations.”

Each scenario consists of virtual tasks for the operator to perform that will test his skill

“IPAF also recognises it as a

is maturing and catching up quickly with global standards.

Aramco, Expo 2020, etc., their

LAST WORD P OWERED ACCESS REP ORT 2019

ERSARY V I N N A H T TED ITS 60 ER EVENT WITH A R B E L E C SNORKEL Y’S PREMI R T S U VEAWAYS I D G N I D E N H A T S T A HE EL LAUNC D O M W E N

MARKING A

MA U A B T A E MILESTON

automatic , as well as SL 26 SL e th utriggers. ivalent, s without o orkel equ pe Sn o sl r n fo o e of g ce n unch, outsid self-levelli py coinciden arked the la struction m n 42 t was a hap 14 co so al t SR a es el g m Bau Snork orld’s big for the new in ll this year a, that the w ra fe ic er er a, -t m m h A g au u h B rt show, pand its ro lobal No ex g h e ic l h th ee machinery f w h o , d SR1745 ard four-w anniversary – and an three. Stand er to rak e on the 60th ai m lin t d r en le an eat telehand cess equipm cabs with h ortunity powered ac d enclosed an ed the opp ble of lifting bb ve pa ri ra d ca g y is , an the SR1442 in Munich the comp g, n o in ti n o t of 13.5m, ra iti b gh d le um lift hei iling con k-long ce im ve ee ax n w u m he a a by , h as n’ it w ovatio h of 9.5m. T up to 4.2t, h years of inn forward reac ial show. m d u nn ar ie im tr rw ax e fo marking ‘60 m th s at and a , has a new product l debut lifts to 16.4m . ba ty o 45 ci gl 17 pa SR its ca a number of t e lif m and 4.5t S3019E mad .6 el 12 rk of o h h Sn 28 ac ic e d, re Th it in Mun outdoor stan duction un On Snorkel’s ders cluding as a pre-pro or in , g ay in pl pt is ce d pany ac lifts were on 38E n, with the com upgraded A ll productio fu ’s el d o m the recently and E . B for the ar 0 ye 97 boom; S3 by Q4 this ic n tr gi ec be el to u slated act ro gh el as a 5RT comp rthur 5.79m mod A e 75 h th S2 g ic h in JRT w rm Te r lift, Year in ; A46JE, A46 y” slab scisso blished rrain scissors a te st e ms; o re bo o “revolutionar o d nt M pate articulate it features a orkel and A62JRT n lift; S t as r Snorkel said m so d is n push-arou ign for its sc 0 es L4 d U g e e in th th d pen pletely cluding stows com evel lifts, in h -l ic w h lo w d k s le ac an . st issors is enab chassis. Th 010E mini sc , inside the 010P and S3 well as a S3 ay this year as t, aw h g d ei se h as n p -i es o o ep h d e st w it th , a low ots in ning that Art Moore 59 with ro height, mea orkel in 19 pass through Sn to low stowed ils early AWP ed d ra e n d th u an d and fo folding h . It entere ve ry ri st d u this d ic tr in g ec not require ith el efightin Celebrating Equipped w g up to fir ative booms. tin ov n ery lif f in ag o ith e im doorways. w bl al t marke and capa ed historic g, . ct n pi es ri cl de ee cy d st ty an ic u electr e a ML24C ge, the st s long d er events, lik 019E deliver ered herita m S3 o w e o st p u th d, , C n . o kg es -i 0 25 hium timelin ay, were hel viewed a lit E will and ial lift giveaw 26 er SL at e m th n . Snorkel pre io id bH ct d sa nstru en Gm d Level lift an Arbeitsbühn rmance co electric Spee l drive perfo by Dornseiff ee n h o w w ru fo t ed llen -power deliver exce like its diesel eability, just ad gr % 50 d an

1959