Safety continues to be a critical issue in the Middle East’s powered access sector. That is the standout message we received when compiling this report. The powered access rental industry accounted for 43% of reported incidents, globally, in 2021, revealed the IPAF Global Safety Report earlier this year. Fortunately, however, some steps are being taken in the region by both manufacturers and rental companies to address the high number of MEWP related incidents each year.
This report takes a look at some of the excellent work being done by Rapid Access in the services and training that it provides, whilst on the product side of things one of most recent innovations aimed at reducing risk in the industry has been Skyjack’s XStep.
Meanwhile, a Serious Labs study shows the effectiveness of tackling safety by using MEWP simulation to understand operator proficiency levels while in our new feature we speak to Stephanie Tannous of Grako LLC about some of the highs and lows of managing work-at-height. Finally, adding colour to this report is the rather unusual MEWP art scene that has been hitting parts of the globe.
Publication licensed by Dubai Development Authority to CPI Trade Publishing FZ LLC. Printed by Printwell Printing Press LLC.
Dowdall Editor, CMME
Stephanie, can you describe your experience working with mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) for high-level cleaning operations?
It has been interesting to say the least. The work for Expo appeared to be challenging at first knowing the extensive amount of work that needed to be done and maintained. The external site had a mixture of art installations, complex shade structures, branded buildings, and last but not least the biggest reflective Dome structure in the region (Al Wasl). The frequency of required use appeared to be unattainable at first but the MEWPs allocation and abundance has tremendously facilitated the successful execution of services performed across site. The teams operating the MEWPs under my supervision were highly trained and experienced. Initially I requested multiple training and licenses to get myself familiar not only with the site but also with the high-level machinery my team was going to operate. In order to do so I first acquired the IPAF Operator Certificate to ensure that I was thoroughly familiar with the services my team would be executing. In addition I also acquired the MEWPs for Managers Certificate.
As a manager what are the key considerations you need to make when it comes to work at height?
There are multiple considerations when performing high level services, but the most important is the health, safety and welfare of my team operating at high level. This also includes the client’s personnel and any other stakeholders on site while performing services. Luckily my client understands and values the measures presented by Grako. Another important consideration is the transparency with the client in regards of the services performed in the best practices to ensure the safety of the client’s assets.
You currently manage the full high level cleaning operations post EXPO. Typically, what does this involve?
Post event period is as challenging as event period. The assets on site still require the same frequency if not more due to the changes in the weather conditions during summer, however, unlike during the event, high-level operations can be performed during the day with certain exclusion zone measures. Similar to the event, the MEWPs are being used on a daily basis, on average we operate 30 MEWPs per day depending on the fixed schedule.
What is the use of high-level rope access, in comparison, for cleaning at height?
On a fixed schedule excluding additional work required on site, approximately 30% of Grako’s operations on Expo site are executed using rope access. Nevertheless, the services performed by rope access are for the major highest key assets on Expo site, including Al Wasl Dome and the three thematic pavilions (Terra, Alif, & Mission Possible). Using rope access has proven to be efficient in Expo site across multiple assets due to the complexity of the buildings and restrictions in accessibility in certain areas where MEWPs cannot be allocated. The challenge using rope access can be the availability of certified anchor points across the assets.
What do you most enjoy about your job?
There are so many aspects that I enjoyed during my time at the event and in Expo. I was able to meet different people from various cultures under one roof. Unlike all my other previous experiences, during event every day was different, and it has been equally challenging and gratifying. The high-level services are considered one of the most complex in operations and I have managed to ensure successful execution with a perfect safety record.
Lastly what are the recent advances in equipment that have made your job easier?
During the event more than one hundred machines were allocated on site operating in different areas. Normally this would have been a challenge, however all the high-level machinery included RFID technology that allows key personnel to manage the machines. In addition to the records of allocations the track unit has allowed visibility of the operators using the machines to ensure that only trained/ qualified individuals can access the machine using the assigned key cards. The RFID technology has also allowed us to limit the breakdowns by sending notifications regarding the conditions of the machines at any given time. Simply, this system was able to effectively support in the management of all high-level services across the site. I am proud to say this was the largest project in the world to use RFID technology for machines.
“Rapid Access has made significant strides by working with its customers to instill a safety culture in their workplaces. With consistency and pursuance to excellence and safety, we hope to see significant improvements in this context”
What were the key factors behind your recent TechX accreditation milestone and how do you believe this approach to safety differentiates the company in the market?
One of the key differentiators in the market is the company’s strong emphasis on safety – not only by lip service but with a physical and stringent internal audit that validates the quality and safety of the work that we have been delivering to our clients across the Gulf. We take pride in our Engineering Division which closely monitors how each country performs, giving our customers the peace of mind that they will receive the same firstclass service in each country Rapid Access operates in. This is an internal challenge to each country and audited yearly, we call this TechX accreditation. To put simply, TechX is a pledge of Rapid Access to its clients in delivering and providing the highest technical service standards in all its operations and engineering activities. This programme helps
us drive consistent improvements across the organisation, ensuring that our clients benefit from the same high standards of reliability, quality, and engineering excellence wherever and whenever we are required to serve them. The TechX team has a set of technical auditors that conducts planned but unannounced or spontaneous audit checks across all our nine depots in the Middle East. Each depot is audited individually (Saudi has three), with 200 questions on our checklist covering 5 sections crucial to our business operation, Site, HSE, Engineering, Transport, and Training. The depots are scored based on adherence to the Loxam Group’s required standards; Bronze (lowest score), Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond (highest score). Rapid Access is committed to excellent customer service, product knowledge, and “best in the business” service expertise. This year we achieved a major milestone with our TechX Platinum certification across all our 9 depots.
What are some of the other measures Rapid Access has adopted to reduce the
Working at height is a risky business, no matter where you are in the world. The idea of any casualty at the site is simply unacceptable to us. And this is what drives our passion for safety in all our operations because Your Safety is our Priority.
As the region’s pioneer and largest provider of licensed powered access training, we educate customers on the importance of safely working at heights by following proven best practices at a worksite. Rapid Access works closely with IPAF (The International Powered Access Federation), providing training to their leading industry best practices and regional standards, which can be conducted either on site or at one of our training depots in the Middle East. As part of this training course, we also provide machine familiarisation when requested to ensure that the operator fully understands the machine they are currently using.
Through our in-house training, our customers are made aware of proper equipment selection, preparation, and safe operation. This helps alleviate any potential health and safety risk.
In certain instances, customers using Rapid Access machines
approach us to conduct work-atheight events on-site. With vast experience working on major projects and tackling site-specific issues, a team of lifting experts from Rapid Access conducts blended theoretical and in-person practical learning at customer’s site. This customized training covers all aspects of working at height and is presented to operators
and site managers who have input when ordering machines.
The equipment selection process is crucial and must be considered while planning for safe work at height. When selecting the right equipment, there are a host of elements to look at, including the operator’s capability, ground conditions, access to the location, environmental conditions, and reach. Through this event, we are able to share best safe practices and ways to be most productive using Rapid Access machines.
Being at the forefront of promoting best-in-class practices in the industry, Rapid Access continuously seeks improvements in providing safety features in its fleet. One of the latest safety innovations that is Rapid Accessexclusive is our HARNESS ON feature. The Harness ON is an Intelligent Anchor Point that reduces the risk of falls from the MEWP by preventing the MEWP from functioning until the operator has connected his harness to the intelligent anchor point. This leading and practical safety feature can be fitted to all MEWPs. As lives are at stake, it is vital that you partner with a credible AWP provider/company with an extensive equipment range and, at the same time, reliable, and places great emphasis on operating safely at the site.
Innovation is an essential component of our business. And Rapid Access is committed to delivering new technologies to its customers, which enhance safety and security when working at height. Each workat-height project presents a unique set of conditions and complexities requiring rigorously safe, regulatorycompliant, and robust solutions.
Loxam Group’s dedicated R&D Department, BlueSky Solutions, is on hand to not only deliver industryleading material handling attachments and enhanced safety features but can also create tailor-made solutions for your specific work at height issue.
We welcome requests for any work-at-height event or orientation that can help prevent accidents,
reduce the risk of downtime, and demonstrate proficiency in the actual operation of the machine.
What are some key challenges both you and your customer face when renting out a piece of equipment?
Operator capability is the main challenge and is a real concern for us. Hiring the Rapid Access machines is certainly positive for us, but the actual use and site operation is a different story altogether. Operating heavy machines isn’t rocket science, but all must be trained and certified due to the safety risks of using this type of equipment. Most of our hotline support calls that we receive due to breakdown stem mainly from the operator’s error.
The first step is to get all your operators trained and certified. With this, you are assured that the operators can safely perform maintenance or repairs, paint ceilings or walls, and perform other tasks necessary at high elevations. But over the course of time, the operators often forget seldom-used AWPs safe equipment use practices and so every now and then, we encourage a refresher training course. Rapid Access offers an in-house VR (Virtual) Training Simulator designed to help improve competency, safety, and performance.
Rapid Access has made significant strides by working with its customers to instill a safety culture in their workplaces. With consistency and pursuance to excellence and safety, we hope to see significant improvements in this context.
In terms of product development where are you seeing the greatest changes taking place?
At a time when environmentally sustainable economies and societies are critical to responding to climate change, as a business, Rapid Access has introduced energy-efficient, electric, and hybrid aerial work platforms to help keep productivity high while helping reduce the carbon emissions.
In the meantime, Rapid Access continuously strives for improvement and excellence in safety. The new safety attachments that we are developing will help enhance productivity and increase work safety at site.
As part of the bigger Loxam Group, Rapid Access is working closely with its sister company, Nationwide Platforms
(UK) to grow and diversify our safety offering. Nationwide Platforms (UK) have over 14,000 assets and a dedicated division called “BlueSky” that focuses on developing and producing safety products for access machines. One recently launched safety accessories is Harness ON, which reduces the risk of falls through a fixed connection when a machine is in operation. The Harness ON acts the same as a seatbelt in a vehicle. With this innovative safety feature, the machine will not operate if a harness is not connected. This safety feature can be fitted to all MEWPs with a harness anchor point.
Which sectors have been experiencing the most demand for your products in 2022? Why do you think this is?
We have seen growth from across all sectors throughout 2022 and Rapid Access is well positioned for this demand. Rapid Access has the largest Access fleet in the Middle East with the most diverse range of market-leading equipment operating in nine depots across the region. The company’s broad range of equipment allows our regional teams to target various sectors from Construction, Facility Management, Logistics & Warehouse to Oil and Gas requirements.
How is 2023 looking for the rental industry in the Middle East and where will your focus and ambitions lie?
Next year, we anticipate that most countries we operate in will see growth. As a business, we are gearing up for a rapid movement across the Gulf region with machine quantity and quality. We will continue to drive best practices to our customers and develop safety attachments for our machines as we have been for more than two decades. With the support of our parent company, Loxam Group, our team’s dedication to excellent service, and happy customers, we are confident that we have good days ahead of us.
In any group of Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) operators, there will be highly proficient operators as well as those who are less proficient – potentially even posing a safety risk on the jobsite. Understanding who these operators are is critical to maximising safety and efficiency, yet most site managers are left using subjective observation and anecdotes to determine their workforce’s
MEWP proficiency. This becomes even more challenging with large crews of dozens or hundreds of people working at height.
Understanding proficiency through data The Serious Labs MEWP VR Simulator was developed as a tool to gather objective data on operators’ MEWP proficiency levels. This data enables never-before-seen insights into which operators are highly proficient
and which operators’ low proficiency may pose a safety risk. Even more importantly, the simulator is designed to zero in on areas of low proficiency (e.g. safety checks or control selection and function) and improve them through targeted training.
Low-proficiency operators: What’s the risk? The vast majority of MEWP accidents occur when low-proficiency operators carry out
WITH THOUSANDS OF MEWP INCIDENTS GLOBALLY EACH YEAR THE SERIOUS LABS MEWP VR SIMULATOR HAS BECOME A VASTLY IMPORTANT TOOL IN UNCOVERING WHICH OPERATORS’ LOW PROFICIENCY LEVELS POSE A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY RISK
work at height and cause incidents as a result. Their proficiency might be low because they’re inexperienced, lack equipment familiarity, they’re poorly trained, or because it’s been a while since they used a MEWP. Globally, there are thousands of incidents each year, some of which result in fatalities.
In 2020, Serious Labs partnered with the
Alberta Construction Training Institute (ACTI) and Building Trades of Alberta (BTA), to assess 133 operators drawn from a wide cross-section of trades using the MEWP VR Simulator.
These operators all participated in MEWP 3a/3b (i.e. scissor and boom lift) practical evaluations on the simulator. All operators were overseen by evaluation on a screen from outside the simulator. Each session took about 30 minutes.
Based on their MEWP performance in safety (e.g. safety checks and hazard avoidance) placement, and control use), the operators were scored out of 100.
The study found that:
• 49.6% (66) of the operators had Good proficiency (ESP of 80 or more)
• 43.6% (58) of the operators had Average proficiency (ESP between 50 and 79)
• 6.8% (9) of the operators had Poor proficiency (ESP of less than 50)
The study also tracked how many operators had a potential incident or near miss (defined as driving or elevating without looking in that direction for 5 seconds) or a collision with an object or hazard in the simulation, as follows:
• 6% of the Good operators had a potential incident or a collision
• 67% of the Average operators had a potential incident or a collision
• 88% of the Poor operators had a potential incident or a collision
• The MEWP VR Simulator was able to assess operators’ proficiency far more accurately than traditional assessment approaches (i.e. observation and anecdote).
• As expected, more proficient operators were much less likely to experience a potential incident or a collision.
• The vast majority of safety incidents resulted from not looking in the direction of travel before driving, elevating, or lowering the MEWP.
• Even average operators had a high likelihood (67%) of having a potential incident or a collision in a given halfhour session.
• It was possible to assess 133 operators in a short time with each assessment
requiring only about 35 minutes in total.
Having access to a detailed breakdown of a team’s MEWP proficiency gives site managers several ways to reduce incidents and save costs. Using the MEWP VR Simulator, several industry-leading companies and organisations are already applying these steps:
Assign work tasks based on proficiency: Assign challenging or complex tasks to the most proficient operators, reducing the likelihood of an incident. Operators with lower proficiency can concentrate on ground-based work until they have a chance to upskill.
Provide targeted upskilling for lowproficiency operators: Each MEWP VR Simulator session produces a detailed report including areas to focus on. The simulator also includes practice modules to help upskill in these areas if necessary. Training and safety managers can use this targeted training to efficiently address deficiencies and make operators safer.
Practice for greater efficiency: If operators are consistently taking a long time to complete tasks in the MEWP VR Simulator, this can reflect a lack of confidence or bestpractice knowledge. After identifying which operators are taking too long, the simulator can help them work more quickly while maintaining a high standard of safety.
Identify team-wide issues: If entire crews are experiencing challenges in similar areas, this can help identify gaps in previous team training and allow site-wide safety refreshers on these specific topics.
Data that is generated in simulation is valid as long as the simulation is an accurate reflection of what it’s meant to simulate.
A 2021 report from the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) compared over 100 operators in simulation alongside traditional evaluation on a real MEWP.
The report found that the simulator was a 97% match for scores from a skilled, experienced human evaluator, and a strong predictor for behaviours and proficiency levels with a real MEWP.
The MEWP VR Simulator has been rigorously tested, audited and approved to deliver a range of operator credentials in simulation.
Safety is a crucial issue in the construction industry as evidenced by the most recent IPAF Global Safety Report which revealed that falls from the platform, electrocution and platform overturns continue to be the most com-
mon type of incidents leading to serious injuries and deaths. This is something that has remained consistent over the past ten years.
The same report also found that the sector from which most incidents were reported was the powered access rental industry with 43%, followed by construction
with 29% of incidents while facilities management accounted for just under a tenth (9.8%) of all reported incidents.
However, in 2021, there was a slight reduction in the number of global fatalities with 603 reports from 28 countries, resulting in 109 fatalities. The year previous there had been 126 fatalities.
Through all of this, with the increased use of innovation and technology, manufacturers have been looking to the future and how these types of incidents can start to see a long-term, marked reduction. Against that backdrop, MEWP manufacturer Skyjack has been one the trendsetters this year with its focus on safety and sustainability through Skyjack’s brand new XStep, providing a safer way to gain access to tight spaces without having to stand on the rails of the platform.
Industry research and observations have shown it to be commonplace to see operators standing on railings to gain a little more height to access small areas. For example, standing on the railings to obtain access through suspended ceiling tiles. According to Skyjack, using Skyjack’s XStep helps eliminate this dangerous practice and maximises reach and productivity by providing operators with safe, increased access into and around tight, restricted spaces and avoids the elevated risk of falling from the platform.
The XStep consists of a swing down base with full height railings that in turn is securely mounted on the mid rails of the scissor lift. The operator can step up (48cm) into the XStep, close the top rail and work safely gaining extra jobsite access. The XStep is mid-rail mounted and provides 0.48m additional working height, 1.15m high rails and self-locking gate with 113kg capacity. It allows full access to the upper controls to allow normal movement around the jobsite and when stowed is lower than the base unit platform rails.
Important in the design has been the ability for one person to install the XStep using no special tools or lifting equipment and to do so in five minutes. The XStep, which can easily be moved from one scissor to another, increasing a rental company’s fleet flexibility,
is likely to make the most impact in the market for its offering of all round fall protection, access to controls, simple installation, and increased productivity. It is suitable for the current generation Skyjack SJ3215 and SJ3219 DC.
While progress in safety is absolutely critical the overall manufacturing of new products and machines continues apace. The new SJ12 E/16 E Vertical Masts have been introduced featuring working heights ranging from 5.65m to 6.75m, fully proportional drive and lift controls, direct AC variable speed electric drive which provides up to 30% duty cycle improvement, improved controllability, and consistent torque, with 70% less hydraulic connections.
In addition, the new inverted telescopic mast incorporates a multistage hydraulic cylinder which eliminates chains, cables, and rollers to reduce maintenance. Like the previous generation the mast is located at the rear to provide a totally unrestricted view and excellent maneuverability with a zero inside steering radius. Top of the mast is now in line with the platform rails, which when traversed provides up to 0.41m up-and-over capability.
On-board diagnostics provide real-time information in plain, simple language readouts and the lift up maintenance hatch offers easy, unrestricted access to all major components and batteries for routine servicing.
The SJ12 E and SJ16 E are one of the first Skyjack products to feature the company’s ECO label offering a 15% operational carbon saving compared to previous models.
SJ45
Last but definitely not least are the low weight optimally designed SJ45 AJ+ and SJ60 AJ+ which offer high load capacities up to 454kg with three people. These come together with SMARTORQUE technology which utilises AXLDRIVE as well as high torque Kubota engines. According to Skyjack, the simplified, high efficiency hydraulics helps deliver the necessary torque and performance found in larger engines while reducing fuel consumption.
Among the highlights of these booms is EASYDRIVE, a unique direction sensing drive and steer system. The AXLDRIVE feature provides superior traction with low maintenance and SKYRISER for true vertical rise. The SJ60 AJ+ also includes SPEEDYREACH which offers the speed of a straight boom along with the flexibility of an articulating boom.
All Skyjack products feature ELEVATE Live which provides easy access to machinespecific information. With 2023 on the horizon the market looks forward to the Skyjack’s next steps in innovation in each of these areas from safety to vertical masts to articulating boom lifts.
When one first hears the term work-at-height street art is probably the last thing that comes to mind. Yet, that is exactly what MEWPS continue to be used in one particular city in France. Launched in 2015, the Street Art Fest Grenoble Alpes has changed the face of the city with hundreds of facades and gable walls transformed into colorful murals with the help of aerial work platforms.
In less than ten years, Grenoble has become a reference for street art with its 335 pieces of art painted on the walls of the city and neighboring municipalities. All of them were created during the annual editions of Street Art Fest Grenoble-Alpes. The festival was launched for the first time in 2015 by street art specialist, Jérôme Catz, who is also a former professional snowboarder and has authored the book, “Street art mode d’emploi.”
Every year in June, more than fifty artists get together and attend the festival – all coming from different places in the world and backgrounds. For them, it’s the perfect opportunity to share their creativity with the rest of the city by displaying their masterpieces.
“The idea was to expose permanently street art in the city centre, and not typically in the suburban areas where we usually see it. In eight editions, we have built up a real artistic heritage,” Catz says.
Art pieces of all sizes have been created by graffiti artists, stencil artists, gluers and muralists, who paint gigantic murals of dozens of metres high. In October 2022, Australian artist Guido van Helten, a specialist in large-scale murals, gave a new perspective to “Avenue La Bruyère” by painting a 50-metre-high wall. It is today the highest fresco in Grenoble. For such a remarkable piece, there was a need for proper elevating machines.
“A few decades ago, the first painted walls were made with scaffolding. For muralism, a street-art trend that developed in the 1990s, aerial work platforms have become a must. There is a wide range of sizes, versatility, and
these machines are available everywhere,” says van Helten..
The festival, whose next edition will take place in 2023 (from May 27 to July 4), will require about twenty aerial platforms.
“Before choosing the right machines, I usually go on site with the artists, and we take measurements. I need proper guidelines on what will be done and how,” explains Benoit Debauge, technical director of the festival. The Street Art Fest GrenobleAlpes uses many solutions, from suspended platforms to heavy-duty platforms, including scissor lifts and self-propelled platforms.
“Simply, we need machines that are easy to use and intuitive. The Haulotte HA16RTJ is definitely one of these. At the moment, we use diesel machines because they are more convenient, but hybrid aerial work platforms could allow us to work at night. We are also looking for aerial work platforms with a wider outreach. Once we painted most of the walls in Grenoble, it became difficult to access the ones that remain available” says Debauge.
The festival has built partnerships with several MEWP rental companies, including Loc Nacelles in Bourg-en-Bresse, which provides all mandatory training to drive aerial work platforms, including near electrical installations, through their partner “Le Centre Formation”.
Today, muralism is very popular, and more and more cities, condominiums or landlords are asking for street artists to enhance their heritage. “It is a very nice and creative way to change the image of a city, of a district, or even of a building for those who are living in. We usually team up with residents and schools” explains Catz, whose teams have been asked to create frescoes in the new town of Rillieux-la-Pape, northeast of Lyon.
While the festival attracts the biggest artists in the industry it has also created a new dynamic in the region. With the emergence of local artists and the creation of a network of partner companies, - 80% of its budget comes from private sources - the presence of MEWPS on the street art scene continues to be keenly felt.
ver the past few years, advancements in battery technology and products mean that choosing the best battery for a specific application is now more challenging than ever. With so many options to choose
from, it is relatively easy to select a battery that merely does the job, but are we well enough informed or tech-savvy to know if it is the best choice for modern applications – is it easy to use, has the best performance and is value for money?
Those of a certain age will have used and know the flooded lead-acid (FLA) battery, in
a car, boat or caravan, probably because it was first seen about 150 years ago that has barely changed since. However, like many products using older technology, they tend to have a lower purchase price and reduced performance than modern equivalents, doing an adequate job rather than the optimal product. The FLA battery also has several is-
sues requiring regular care and maintenance and can cause equipment damage.
FLA batteries need topping up periodically and be kept upright to avoid spilling the corrosive electrolyte. Damage around the battery installation can be caused by spilled acid, and flammable hydrogen gasses can be emitted when recharging, meaning the area must be adequately vented.
The new DRY CELL battery from a leading specialist Canada-based company, Discover Battery, is a recent addition to the market. The range is based on a modified AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) battery. It features thick plate traction battery construction combined with a Hydro polymer technology that resists battery dry-out - one of the most common reasons for AGM failures when used for a prolonged period.
Discover Battery collected typical battery use data in developing the range, particularly from those reaching the end of life or that failed prematurely.
Three common causes of failure were found: continuous operation at a partial state of charge, high current deep discharge, and high operating temperature.
To help overcome these issues, the Discover DRY CELL AGM batteries were designed with increased electrolyte saturation levels, an ultra-absorbent separator, and improved battery charge acceptance. Rigorous tests simulating real-life battery conditions revealed Discover’s battery delivered 15 percent more capacity and lasted longer than other DRY CELL batteries without Hydro Polymer Technology. Even batteries nearing the end of life provided more consistent runtimes when subjected to sub-optimal working and charging conditions and offered faster recharge times.
The battery uses a heat-resistant polypropylene case which gives excellent durability. It has precision pressure relief
valves to reduce water loss and extend its life and integrated flame arrestors to prevent fire and explosion.
The thick traction plates with graphite enhanced alloys inside the battery deliver maximum run time over its operational life. Carbon additives increase the duty cycle performance, charge acceptance, and partial state of charge operation while using automatic ‘through the partition’ weld technology is said to improve intercell weld consistency and reduces lead waste compared with welding by hand.
Everyone accepts that regular lead-acid batteries are the least expensive to purchase. However, correctly caring for and maintaining the battery can also add significant costs. As a result, Discover Battery maintains that there are significant indirect costs associated with the total cost of ownership of a traditional flooded lead-acid battery.
“By choosing a DRY CELL AGM battery there are the obvious savings of not carrying out the routine maintenance of topping up the water, etc. However, there are a lot of indirect costs associated with the total cost of ownership,” says Alex Marotz, Discover Battery’s product and business development
manager for Europe.
According to Marotz, these include “fewer equipment repairs due to corrosion damage from acid spills and off-gassing, and reduced equipment failures and call out charges because of battery malfunction due to improper maintenance by the user.
He adds, “There is also no risk to operators and sensitive areas such as food processing facilities and hospitals because of an acid spill or fumes. DRY CELL AGM batteries also charge faster because they have a higher charge acceptance due to a lower battery internal resistance. There is low selfdischarge resulting in lower maintenance requirements during storage. In short, they are safer, cleaner, and more user friendly than FLA batteries.”
Marotz continues, “By eliminating battery maintenance costs and premature battery replacement, there is a significantly lower total cost of ownership. Yes, the initial purchase cost of the DRY CELL AGM battery is slightly higher, but it may well save up to 50 percent of the purchase cost over its entire service life compared to a lead-acid battery. For years, many major equipment manufacturers have specified DRY CELL AGM batteries as an Original Equipment part.”
“Our latest DRY CELL AGM battery range,” he concludes, “provides both users and equipment owners with a more robust battery, designed to withstand and protect against common battery challenges that are often encountered across the various sectors.”
In the last year, which of Zoomlion’s products have had the biggest impact, both regionally and internationally?
Producing Zoomlion’s full range of lithium-powered AC drive scissor lifts and the world’s largest telescopic boom lift ZT68J was definitely the main highlights for us in 2022. The AC/AC-Li scissor series ranges from 7.8m to 15.7m work height, the whole series is driven by AC motors, with zero emissions, low noise and low vibration, which provide reliability and prolong the service life of the scissor lift. AC-Li series is equipped with exclusive Li-ion batteries of 5-year warranty, enabling a life span 3 times longer than the traditional lead-acid ones.
The ZT68J boasts a 67.5m work height, providing users with access to 20-story heights. It offers horizontal outreach up to 31m and has an unrestricted platform capacity of 300kg delivering industryleading productivity.
What other new models and features have Zoomlion introduced into the Middle East region in 2022?
We brought the ZT26J telescopic boom lift to the region, which is a diesel telescopic boom lift equipped with leading unrestricted platform capacity of 300 kg, allowing for two occupants plus tools. With 23.31m maximum horizontal outreach, it provides access solutions with full versatility on the jobsites. Featuring 4WD and oscillating axle system, it offers long-lasting durable
performance in rough and muddy jobsites.
How would you describe the Zoomlion range for low-level access platforms in the Middle East?
The Zoomlion ZS0407DC/DC-Li can access elevators easily due to its slim size and lightweight. Plus, they operate with low noise due to the use of driving motor and power units. With a working height of 6.5 m, it is ideal for tight spaces and are perfect for accessing narrow overhead areas such as elevators and standard doorways. The ZS0607 series can be widely used in basements and tight floor spaces because of its slim size.
As a Chinese manufacturer in what way has the business has grown in the Middle East over the last couple of years?
In the past three years, Zoomlion has experienced extremely fast growth in terms of both market share and fleet size in the Middle East. At present, we have introduced over 96 MEWPs in four categories to the region, including boom lifts, scissor lifts, low-level access lifts and telehandlers.
Moving forward, what are your main goals and future plans for the region?
At present, in the Middle East ZOOMLION GOLF FZE (Zoomlion Dubai subsidiary) plans to build a first-class point-to-point service including factory tour, product training and after-sales service. so our end customers can take a close look at our MEWPs in the factory, enjoy the highest quality, fastest service, and price advantage as well.
ZOOMLION HAS EXPERIENCED RAPID GROWTH IN ITS ACCESS DIVISION IN THE REGION OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS WITH ITS RANGE OF STOCK RIVALLED BY VERY FEW. ON THE BACK OF THIS GROWTH THE MANUFACTURER GIVES CMME THE LOWDOWN ON ITS MOST RECENT STANDOUT PRODUCTSC M Y CM MY CY CMY K
From its beginnings in a small workshop to the grand SINOBOOM Industrial Park; from three to more than 700 employees; from an unknown name to one of the leading brands in the industry, fifteen years of hard work have helped SINOBOOM
to reach its strong position today, one which recently received recognition when the company was welcomed into the annual T50 Top 50 World Construction Machinery Manufacturers listing.
In addition, Sinoboom was also acknowledged with two awards marking significant achievements. First, was an
accolade that placed Sinoboom among the top 10 most profitable companies in the T50 listing, while the second recognised Sinoboom as one of the top 10 companies in the listing with the highest return on assets.
For the global manufacturer of mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) solutions it reflects how far the company has come
Electric power was a primary focus at Sinoboom’s stand at Bauma recently with all but one of the models on show exclusively battery powred.
over the last decade and a half. Founded in 2008 with its global headquarters located in Changsha, it has gone on to become one of the top MEWP manufacturers in China offering a range of operating platforms and product operations, with working heights from 6-48 meters for work such as stadiums and plants, petrochemical sites, shipbuilding,
municipal works, ports, complex construction and commercial maintenance.
It is against this backdrop that Sinoboom has been spreading its wings a bit further recently with an appearance at the Big 5 in Dubai coming in the midst of an expansion drive in Europe where the company is now adding staff and resources to ensure that this trend of growth continues as planned into the coming years.
It was decided recently that a new company, EG Equipment, would take responsibility for driving sales in 12 smaller countries across Europe under the direction of Sinoboom BV. The company is led by Erik Geene who has movesd from his existing role of VP Business Development at Sinoboom BV to start the new operation.
“Three years ago, Sinoboom’s group CEO, Susan Xu, and Tim Whiteman, the then CEO of Sinoboom BV, asked me to develop the distribution network for the larger regions and Key Accounts in Europe. That structure is now in place and I am proud to pass this to Sinoboom BV’s General Manager José Peña. I want to thank Sinoboom for giving me the opportunity to turn my full attention to the smaller regions within Europe which will allow me to build up the support and sales networks they need,” said Geene, speaking about the opportunity.
position: “I met many of our customers during Bauma Munich and am convinced we can bring innovative and flexible solutions to their financial challenges,” said Donders on the appointment.
At Bauma in Munich recently Sinboom showcased a diverse range of products at its largest stand to date, featuring equipment for a wide variety of usage scenarios and designed to fit into managed fleets.
Sinoboom exhibited 15 machines at Bauma, including a range of new and upgraded products
15Electric power was a primary focus on the Sinoboom stand, with all but one of the models on show exclusively battery powered. According to the company, the development of reliable environmentally friendly options for work at height has, for the last few years, been a priority at Sinoboom, aiming to balance the twin customer requirements of performance with minimised environmental impact.
The 15 machines on the Sinoboom stand included a range of new and upgraded products, such as models featuring lithium batteries and AC drives, and several of Sinoboom’s heavy-capacity Plus models, from the scissor, telescopic and articulating boom lift lines.
“Erik’s many years of experience in the industry, and six years with Sinoboom products, make him the ideal person to lead this push for excellence across Europe” said José Peña, General Manager of Sinoboom BV.
At the same time Sinoboom announced the appointment of Sergio Cerdans as Regional Manager for Spain and Portugal. Cerdans has over 20 years of experience in the MEWP market, originally with one of Spain’s leading rental companies before becoming involved in MEWP sales: Sinoboom has also added Ronald Donders as Trade Finance Manager to assist in the provision of the best possible financial terms and conditions for its growing customer base. Donders is based in Sinoboom’s Ridderkerk office just south of Rotterdam, and brings many years of experience in interim credit risk management to the
The event was marked by a deal with Danish spider lift manufacturer Falcon Lifts which is set to increase its sales of large spider lifts within China. It follows extensive research and cooperation during the last 12 months which has seen Sinoboom successfully launch its own-branded spider lifts built by Falcon into the China market.
“This agreement is part of Sinoboom’s total commitment to providing its global customer base with a complete range of MEWPs,” said Susan Xu, CEO of Sinoboom. We expect the combination of Falcon high quality design with Sinoboom’s worldwide customer base and after sales support to make this a great success.”
The new agreement is also intended to further develop international sales opportunities for the Chinese manufacturer. As Sinoboom gears up for further opportunities in 2023, one thing is clear. It has been a busy couple of months for the Chinese manufacturer on several key international fronts.
xhibiting five products at the event, it was the super novelty of the colorful Ragno TTZJ 58 that people were most curious about, attracting by far the most attention at its outdoor stand.
According to the company, the machine was born following the many requests from its customers, developing markets and new applications in expansion phase, while it completes “the already large range of Palazzani Spider Lifts.”
products, such as compactness, lightness, safety, easy usability and agility.
Much like boom lifts, except with a smaller base with four legs, or outriggers, holding it firmly to the ground, Spider Lifts have become increasingly popular in the last few years. Similar to an articulating boom lift, spider lifts have multiple hinges in its arm for flexibility and working its way around obstacles while they can operate in difficultto-access spots, depending on the build. With its ability to maximise reach upward as well as outwards the Spider Lift’s greater flexibility allows performance at a range of levels dependant on the maximum outreach of the machine. Working at height on uneven terrain, for example, can be simplified with a spider lift’s ability to extend the outriggers allowing the machine to distribute the weight evenly for better stability.
The aerial platform TTZJ 58 has a totally new design, a system of articulated arm with double telescopic and fly jib and it is designed to be used in a wide range of applications, especially for interventions at important heights with difficult access, such as telephony, maintenance or restoration in both buildings indoor and outdoor, wind industry and rental.
To give some preliminary data, the Ragno TTZJ 58 reaches the maximum aerial working height of 58 metres and the 20 metres outreach, with 120-230-400 kg basket capacity. While reaching such an imposing height, this machine maintains all the necessary features of the Spider Lift and Palazzani
At the Bauma event, Palazzani also presented the Ragno TSJ 35.1 shown on tracks and in full green ECO power option including AC and lithium battery. It is designed to replace the existing TSJ 35 and has a 35m working height and 15m outreach.
Meet the world’s largest self-propelled boom lift. W ith patented design features like static axle transformation and secondary platform controls, the high specification Snorkel 2100SJ features impressive reach and lift height. Exceptional up and over capabilities offer a maximum horizontal reach up to 115 ft. (35.1m) with a 30 ft. (9.1m) jib boom and a best-in-class working envelope, with 770 lbs. (349kg) unrestricted capacity with the jib boom stowed. Robust 4-wheel drive and five steering modes deliver superb rough terrain performance with a tight inside tur ning radius for excellent maneuverability
