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DECEMBER / JANUARY 2020
Construction
PLANT NEWS THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR PLANT PROFESSIONALS
TELEMATICS & MACHINE MANAGEMENT HELPING FLEET OPERATORS TAKE CONTROL
WASTE & RECYCLING THE MACHINERY THAT’S DRIVING THIS FAST GROWING SECTOR
THE KOMATSU PC138US-11 IS THE INTELLIGENT CHOICE
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CONTENTS @CPN_mag
DECEMBER / JANUARY 2020 cpnonline.co.uk
e
ljones@hamerville.co.uk
Construction Plant News, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF.
THIS ISSUE... REGULARS
SPECIAL REPORTS
5 6 18 50
10
EDITOR’S VIEWPOINT NEWS FLEET ADDITIONS NEW PRODUCTS
13
The Plantforce Site Ready Operator Package Komatsu’s Intelligent Answer
10
FEATURES TELEMATICS & MACHINE MANAGEMENT
40
20 Topcon and the Future of Construction 23 DoosanCONNECT 26 SiteZone Enhances Safety 28 Verizon Connect Asset Tracking
20
WASTE & RECYCLING 30 Materials Handlers Round-up 34 Bobcat ‘Waste Expert’ Telescopic Loader 36 Atlas 350MH from TDL Equipment 38 Siltbuster – Water Pollution
45
HINCKLEY POINT
SITE MANAGEMENT
40 JCB at the Nuclear Power Station 42 Sykes Pumps Water Pump Solutions
45 Certas Energy – Alternative Fuels 48 Bunkabin – Working in Winter CPN I DECEMBER / JANUARY 3
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VIEWPOINT Editor LEE JONES
ljones@hamerville.co.uk Consultant Editor
TRAIN OF THOUGHT
I
t has been an absence at parameters within which they the heart of the operate. Moreover, not all of construction plant industry these schemes are transparent for many years, but with in their processes, with, for the coming together of seven example, the procedure for bodies, including the the renewal of an individual’s Construction Plant-hire card often unclear. Association, the sector is Defining competence is moving closer to having its very itself a thorny issue, and own representative voice. These Lee Jones, holding a relevant qualification Editor key stakeholders have formed should not be taken as a what has been designated as guarantee of such by any the Plant Sector Representative responsible person on site. CITB are Organisation (PRSO) and it is hoped that currently in the middle of their own work its influence will be most keenly felt in the on industry standards and, in collaboration fields of training and competence. with the PRSO, it is hoped that an accepted Historically, of course, previous efforts framework on competency, which can be to rationalise the industry into a more easily understood and accepted by homogenous whole have been attempted employers, will emerge. – and have largely failed. The Construction It is the avowed aim of the new Plant Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS), with Sector Representative Organisation to CITB as its administrator, was, for “contribute to a sufficient supply of skilled instance, originally envisaged to be the one labour, with a level of competence that card scheme to rule them all, but optimises risk management and total competing interests would ultimately costs”. In other words, to facilitate the thwart those ambitions. development of a workforce which is Today, confusion over the relative merits neither under- nor over-qualified. It hopes of the different training providers – to make recommendations on training and whether their ticket commands the certification, and raise standards in the reassurance of the CSCS logo or not – is process. still one of the most common complaints Clearly much more needs to be done, from the operators and managers of and the role of the PSRO more closely machinery. With the withdrawal of CITB defined. The Construction Plant-hire from direct training provision, and the Association’s own figures suggested that transferal of ownership of CPCS, neither of there are over 289,000 plant operators these organisations will in the future be in a presently employed across the country, position to define standards for the earning a living in a hugely diverse range of industry at large, which make the PSRO a roles. Many of those, of course, will not particularly timely development. even be working in construction, but Of course, there are presently a instead occupy the realms of facilities plethora of bodies, each jealously guarding management, utilities, waste & recycling or their own jurisdiction, so why would we forestry. There will need to be need yet another acronym? In the first conversations with these other closely instance, it should be recognised that card affiliated sectors, as well as with the schemes are independent organisations manufacturers who are pioneering new that largely determine their own technologies and ways of working. Ours is standards. Whilst they are required to an industry that is changing at an conform to NVQ in order to earn the exponential rate, and it should be the aim right to carry that CSCS logo, there is no of every responsible person to ensure that over-arching body that sets the standards keep pace.
NICK JOHNSON
nick.johnson@constructionplant.info Managing Editor TERRY SMITH
tsmith@hamerville.co.uk Assistant Editor KIERAN NEE
pb@hamerville.co.uk Digital Assistant DAVID MOLLOY
dmolloy@hamerville.co.uk Group Advertisement Manager CRAIG JOWSEY
craig@hamerville.co.uk 07900248102 Advertisement Manager JACOB TATUM
jtatum@hamerville.co.uk 07825773737 Magazine Designer GEMMA WATSON Group Production Manager CAROL PADGETT Publisher BRYAN SHANNON Subscriptions Construction Plant News is a business magazine for plant professionals, contractors, materials extraction and processing companies, waste and recycling operations, as well as local authorities. If you are not on our circulation list and would like to subscribe email circulation@hamerville.co.uk To be removed from this magazine’s circulation please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk. Printed by Walstead Peterborough Published by HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF. Tel: Watford (01923) 237799 Fax: (01923) 246901 Copyright © 2020
The publishers and editor do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors of translation in the subject matter in this publication.
Total Average Net Distribution 9,224 1 July 2018 - 30 June 2019
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NEWS
Despite rising costs, a draft copy of the review into Europe’s largest infrastructure project has concluded that the scheme should be built to its current plan. The findings have been viewed as a major boost for the construction plant industry, even though the final bill could increase beyond the current budget of £88bn. Indeed, only minor alterations will be recommended, such as reducing
the number of trains per hour from 18 – 14, whilst plans to link west and central London will equally remain in place. Organisations such as the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) had already called for government to commit to the build in order to help secure economic growth post-Brexit, citing major schemes on this scale as significant wealth generators for
HS2 IS BACK ON TRACK, ACCORDING TO A DRAFT REPORT ON ITS FUTURE. UK Plc. At the same time as backing its continuation, the report has found that the procurement process for works carried out thus far has been largely a failure, with contractors inflating costs and negatively impacting on value for money for taxpayers as a consequence. It remains to be seen whether some construction companies will now need to rebid for contracts.
The full report will be published after the election, and it will then be the job of the Prime Minister, The Secretary of State for Transport, and the Government to then make an informed decision on the rail project.
i For further information on HS2 WWW.RDR.LINK/CK001
FUELLING CHANGE
NEW RESEARCH REVEALS DIESEL DOMINATION DUE TO LACK OF POLICY CLARITY. While the latest Society of Motor Manufacturer and Trader data might show a decline in diesel market share, new insight from the AA and Rivus Fleet Solutions has confirmed diesel continues to remain a primary buying choice for operational fleets in the absence of clarity on future fuel policy. A lack of consistency in local policy interventions, such as the London ULEZ boundary expansion in 2021, the proposed Bristol City Council diesel ban and delays to Clean Air Zones in Birmingham and Leeds, has pushed some operational fleets to replace diesel vehicles like-forlike rather than investing in new technologies.
i To find out more
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK002
ZERO TO HERO
REPORT ARGUES CARBON TAR GET CANNOT HAPPEN WITHOUT RADICAL CHANGE IN CONSTRUCTION. The NFB has recent
ly called on the construct ion sector and the Government to act now if they are to meet the 2050 zero carbon target. With construction directly infl uencing 47 per cent of UK carbon em issions and 61 per cent of UK waste, the sector is a crit ical part of the radical cha nge needed. Nick Sangwin, NF B: “This report is not a doc ument to sit on shelves gathering dust, it is designed to gal vanise the sector into action, to see the opportunities and to lead the way towards zero car bon by 2050.”
i To find out more 6 DECEMBER / JANUARY I CPN
©Sunshine Seeds/AdobeStock
GREEN LIGHT
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BIRTHDAY SURPRISE
2019 BRINGS MILESTONE BIRTHDAYS FOR GAP HIRE SOLUTIONS AND KUBOTA UK. 2019 has seen Kubota UK turn 40, giving us a chance to reflect on how the construction industry has witnessed significant change over the last few decades; whether that be through technological innovation, shifts in the economic climate or changes in how to hire the right skills. But one of its oldest partners also has cause for celebration this year, GAP Hire Solutions. To celebrate this milestone and its longstanding relationship with the hire company, Kubota has gifted GAP with a gold Kubota machine. For the next year, 50 per cent of all hire revenue from the golden machine will go to The Lighthouse Club, a charity which provides financial and emotional support to the construction community and their families.
i To find out more
WOMAN’S HOUR
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY JUST 12.5 PER CENT WOMEN, GMB REVEALS. Only 5 per cent of construction workers are BAME says GMB Union while pledging is commitment to a more diverse workforce, whilst just one in eight construction workers are women. At the current rate it will take almost 200 years to achieve gender equality in the construction industry. Jude Brimble, GMB: “The construction industry is facing a massive inequality challenge. GMB is committed to building a more diverse workforce that is sustainable for the future.”
i To find out more, WWW.RDR.LINK/CK007 ©Linus/AdobeStock
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK004
POLE DILEMMA
DEMOLITION LEADER CALLS FOR A RE-THINK ON SCAFFOLDING. The managing director of an East Midlands demolition contractor has called on the industry to change its mindset in the wake of a spate of scaffolding collapses. This year has seen several scaffolding failures on projects – three in August alone in Reading, Liverpool and Nuneaton, with three injuries reported at the Reading incident. Richard Dolman, managing director of AR Demolition and vice-president of the Institute of Demolition Engineers, said it was time for the sector to consider new ways of dust suppression and protection from flying debris on demolition jobs.
i To find out more
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK005
‘WATER’ GOOD IDEA
ABSOLUTE POWER
EX-CONSTRUCTION BOSSES SET UP GLOBAL MOVEMENT TO HELP MENTAL WELLBEING.
ACCESS MANUFACTURER COMMENCES LITHIUMPOWERED SPEED LEVEL PRODUCTION.
Snorkel has announced that it has commenced full production of two new lithium-powered Speed Level models at its UK assembly facility, in Washington, Tyne & Wear. The two new models are completely zero emission thanks to lithium-ion battery packs with built-in battery management system (BMS), and an integrated electric powertrain developed with Hyperdrive Innovation, a Sunderland-based developer and manufacturer of lithium-ion battery technology for electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
i To find out more
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK006
Previously running construction companies, Paul Holliday and Michael Henderson noticed a massive and frightening suicide rate within their sector and set up the Swim Rise movement to challenge people from all walks of life to help to improve their mental wellbeing. Over 1,000 people from 25 different countries around the world signed up to run into the sea at the break of dawn for the first ever Global Swim Rise. To date over 6,000 people have jumped into the sea at sunrise as part of the project.
i To find out more, WWW.RDR.LINK/CK008
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NEWS
WHEELING & DEALING
ANIMAL MAGIC
SITE WELFARE COMPANY PROVIDES MUCH NEEDED ANIMAL CARE. Kind-hearted Bury-based Garic has donated much needed equipment to the Bolton branch of the RSPCA. The charity has taken delivery of eight desks and a substantial amount of storage racking that the construction site welfare products manufacturer no longer needed. But that wasn’t all as Julie Ashcroft, RSPCA Bolton’s manager explains: “Garic has been extremely generous, they have given us over £10,000 in equipment, labour and cash donations over the past couple of years and we can’t thank them enough.”
i To find out more
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK009
BRANDING TOGETHER
CONSTRUCTION PLANT NEWS ROUNDS UP THE LATEST TAKEOVERS, DISTRIBUTION DEALS AND EXPANSIONS. 씰 ECY Haulmark and Steelwrist sign agreement for coupler systems ECY Haulmark has signed a cooperation agreement with Steelwrist for supply of fully automatic couplers and attachment interfaces. The SQ-system is suitable for all types of excavators working across demolition and construction sites.
i To find out more
UK PLATFORMS MERGES WITH NATIONWIDE PLATFORMS.
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK013
Following the acquisition of UK Platforms in January 2019, Nationwide Platforms has announced that the integration of these two brands will complete with the new enlarged business operating solely under the Nationwide Platforms brand. Over the last months, integration work has been underway with the aim of bringing together these two great trading brands to create a robust business platform with health, safety and customer service at its core. WWW.RDR.LINK/CK010
ONLINE STRATEGY BSI LAUNCHES NEW REPORT DESIGNED TO SUPPORT ORGANISATIONS THROUGH THEIR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION JOURNEYS.
©Raulpixel.com/AdobeStock
i To find out more
씰 Manitou takes control of Midlands dealer Manitou has acquired a majority stake in one of its dealers, Mawsley Machinery, the dealer for the Midlands region, which has been trading since 1981. Mawsley Machinery has 27 employees and generated revenue of £19.2m in 2018.
i To find out more WWW.RDR.LINK/CK014
Research from BSI’s Digital Transformation Report has revealed that 32 per cent of construction professionals feel unprepared and behind in delivering digital transformation standards in 2019. BIM, a key foundation of digital transformation in the built environment has helped construction businesses create collaborative environments from every phase to work together to overcome challenges.
i To find out more
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK011
HIRE PRAISE
ACCESS HIRE MARKET VALUE ASSESSED. According to a recent report, the UK powered access equipment hire market was worth an estimated £482m in 2018. With an annual growth of around 2 per cent on average year on year the powered access market can be viewed as stable. However, when you look more closely it could be surprising to learn that the increase may perhaps have appeared due to the market value of one specific type of MEWP – Spider Lifts. The hire of Spider Lifts alone has more than doubled within the last two years.
i To find out more
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK012
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씰 Morris Site Machinery to develop new site Morris Site Machinery is opening a new manufacturing plant after planners gave the goahead for the £6million investment at i54. The development will deliver more than 60,000 sq ft of manufacturing and office space at the flagship site next to Jaguar Land Rover on the i54 South Staffordshire high-tech business park. When the building programme is complete, it will enable the company to relocate from its existing base at Four Ashes, Wolverhampton, three miles away to its own purpose-built base.
i To find out more
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK015
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S P E C I A L R E P O R T: T R A I N I N G
GET READY! T
he shortage of construction plant operators is now well-documented, and it is certainly a situation that the industry needs to urgently address, but in our haste to welcome new entrants are we increasing the risk of serious safety incidents? Picture the scene: a newly qualified driver presents themselves to the guardians of the site gates with their shiny new excavator ticket just the day after they pass, but with virtually no experience to support it. Once they have completed the necessary induction, they could, for instance, be let loose on a 30 tonne excavator on a complex lifting task – and the potential for disaster is obvious. This is not just a hypothetical scenario but one that has already played out amongst individual contractors and plant hirers, and the consequences have been disastrous. Site Ready Major infrastructure works, such as Hinckley Point and HS2, are the projects on which the sector will thrive, and these will demand not just more bodies but a workforce that is fit for purpose, and that’s why south west and south Wales hirer, Plantforce has pioneered an industry first with its Site Ready Operator Package. The five day programme begins with a medical, moving
10 DECEMBER / JANUARY I CPN
Construction Plant News reports on a new initiative from Plantforce, and Weston College’s Construction Training Centre to provide the site ready workforce of tomorrow.
on to a Site Safety H&S Awareness course. Day 2 is occupied by lifting operations and quick hitch training, with a practical test and simulator profiling on Day 3. Plant proximity, height and slew training then follow on the 4th day, with the last involving multi-brand GPS training, featuring Trimble via their UK dealer SITECH. The hirer presently has over 150 machines operating on the Somerset nuclear power station build alone, all of which are running a full suite of GPS machine control systems, and it is essential
that drivers are fully conversant with the technology if they are to remain as safe and productive as possible. With the likes of BIM firmly embedded in the supply chain, construction is increasingly undergoing a digital renaissance, and much more needs to be done to ensure that those at the controls are keeping pace. “Plantforce has embraced Trimble’s solutions in recent years,” explains the company’s Dale Hawkins, “and we’ve heavily invested in making sure our guys can use it, but that’s only part of our programme. This might be the first but we’re confident it won’t be the last, because the plan is to expand to other colleges across the country. Our package is not revenue generating, nor is it about undertaking a series of tasks by rote merely to pass a test. Instead it ensures that operators can do the job that is required of them on site. The Construction Training Centre at Weston College is one of the few facilities of its kind that is accredited with an ‘Outstanding’ OFSTED rating, so partnering with them was a natural choice.”
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“These training courses will provide the industry with a machine controlready Trimble qualified workforce, while opening up opportunities for operators to gain access to new projects.” SITECH, the UK’s premier Trimble construction technology provider, is particularly keen to endorse the initiative. The rental firm has two Kobelco SK210 21 tonne excavators both fitted with the latest Trimble Earthworks semi-automatic machine control, at the Weston College Construction Training Centre. “There is currently no training facility in existence that provides operators with training on modern machine control, which is required for Tier 1 projects such as HS2 and Hinkley Point,” explains Sam Mercer, Operations Director at Plantforce. “These training courses will provide the industry with a machine control-ready Trimble qualified workforce, while opening up opportunities for operators to gain access to new projects.” “There are many additional benefits for operators,” adds Steve Breen, General Manager at SITECH. “They will acquire new skills, helping them to complete projects faster and become more marketable themselves. We’re really excited to support Plantforce in the launch of these new
courses, not only to further strengthen our relationship but also to improve the adoption of technology in the industry as a whole.” “Our involvement in the Weston College and Plantforce initiative allows us to demonstrate just what machine control can do for new entrants to the industry,” continues Steve. “Ultimately, the ambition of the Site Ready Operator course is to improve safety and Trimble technology has huge benefits in those terms, with fewer boots on the ground around the excavator, and much greater control over the machinery.” Trimble Earthworks Learners at the college will be instructed on the very latest Trimble Earthworks system, equipped with a new 9in. touchscreen, quicker sensors and modem for more accurate positioning, and a cloud-based platform that facilitates a much faster transfer of data. With the SITECH supplied technology, there’s less rework, and higher levels of productivity, with fewer machines on site. In fact, SITECH claims an efficiency gain of up to 47 per cent compared to an excavator without Trimble. Of course, operators will still be required to know the basics of what the machine can do but, with more and more government projects in particular demanding a technology enabled approach, future drivers will need to engage with these new systems, and programmes like Plantforce’s Site Ready initiative allow them to do just that.
i To enquire about the courses or for more information on Plantforce WWW.RDR.LINK/CK016
i For further information on Plantforce WWW.RDR.LINK/CK017
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S P E C I A L R E P O R T: M A C H I N E C O N T R O L
INTELLIGENCE
TEST
M
achine control and machine guidance systems are increasingly becoming an essential part of a plant company’s fleet offering. By providing operators with guidance and automated control systems, contractors can reduce the amount of setting-out on site, cut waste through over-digging and supply of fill materials, save on fuel and improve productivity. Komatsu has been at the lead of this revolution in machine control, offering a growing number of iMC machines, with Topcon-based machine control built in at the factory. In terms of crawler excavators, that initially meant the 21-tonne PC210LCi-11, which uses a factory-installed machine control system that includes sensors on the machine’s hydraulic cylinders. The PC210 machine was joined this year by the larger 36-tonne PC360LCi-11, providing an automated solution for muckshifting and heavy earthmoving customers. A 30-tonne PC290LCi-11 will be added to the line-up early next year, again meeting the demands of heavy excavation companies. However, while the potential savings for a company involved in bulk earthworks are undeniable, many excavator users would also like to see
The Komatsu PC138US-11 is extending the concept of intelligent machine control still further. Dan Gilkes reports. those benefits with smaller models, particularly in the most popular 13 – 14tonne sector. To meet the needs of this customer base, UK Komatsu distributor Marubeni-Komatsu has also joined forces with Topcon, to provide a 3D machine control system for the Komatsu PC138US-11. This reduced swing 14-tonne machine has become an increasingly important seller for Marubeni-Komatsu in the UK, as it offers a digging solution for a wide range of applications, from house building to urban infrastructure. Powered by a 97.3hp (72.6kW) Komatsu engine, the PC138US-11 is available with a choice of mono-boom or two-piece main booms, plus a selection of dipper arm lengths.
It offers a short tailswing of just 1.48m, making it an ideal excavator for confined urban job sites or for road maintenance. However, despite its compact external dimensions, the machine benefits from a full size Komatsu SpaceCab, providing a comfortable operating environment with excellent all-round visibility. By offering machine guidance and automated control on a model of this weight, Marubeni-Komatsu is potentially delivering heavy machine benefits to a much wider audience.
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S P E C I A L R E P O R T: M A C H I N E C O N T R O L The Topcon X-53X Automatic system provides on-screen guidance or, in automated setting, full control of the boom, dipper and bucket, allowing machine operators to rapidly follow 3D designs without over-digging. Once set, simply pulling in on the dipper arm lever, sees the bucket smoothly follow the desired grade, with the boom height and bucket angle automatically adjusting to maintain that cut. The system also provides what Topcon calls a Working Window feature. This allows the operator to set a desired distance above finished grade, which can be adjusted to suit soft soil or harder materials. As the bucket enters the Working Window, it automatically engages the automated digging function, to follow the finished grade height. The system, which for now can only be installed on a new machine, rather than being retro-fitted on an older model, includes a separate electronic pilot valve that is mounted beneath the excavator’s cab. This valve is tied into the servo levers’ pilot hydraulic lines, and takes signals from four movement sensors. These provide positioning
information regarding the excavator body, the main boom, the dipper arm and the bucket, providing a six-axis picture of the machine’s exact position. The excavator gets replacement Topcon servo lever heads in the cab, with up to six buttons on the right-hand lever. Three of these buttons are for the regular Komatsu commands, while three can be assigned to the Topcon control systems. In addition, there is a Topcon control screen for the cab and there are twin GPS receiver antennae mounted on the rear of the excavator’s upperstructure.
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The excavator has to be configured for each bucket that is going to be used by the machine, as the information includes the individual dimensions and the weight of the bucket. However, once the data is loaded, it is possible to change between known buckets without the need for additional set-up requirements. At present the system will not function with a tilt/rotate mount, though this feature is believed to be coming next year. Information can be automatically downloaded from the site engineers’ design programme, providing the operator with a 3D graphic representation of the required digging profile on the screen. This allows for rapid changes of design if required, as they can be sent straight to the system from a remote location. The operator can then dig to grade following the graphics on the screen or, by holding a combination of buttons on the left-hand servo lever, can simply crowd in the dipper am and the automatic system will control boom height and bucket angle to maintain the desired finish grade. Topcon claims that the automated system will make an experienced operator more productive, and will allow a less experienced operator to dig like a pro. Certainly, once set up, it would seem to provide an automated digging solution that is accurate to within 25-30mm.
Once installed, there are no regular service requirements. However, both the excavator owner and Topcon can access the system remotely, using a smartphone app and a web-based support system. This allows for remote diagnosis and monitoring of the system, reducing the need for a service engineer to attend site to problem solve. As mentioned, automated machine guidance and control is becoming increasingly popular with contractors, with plant hire companies also keen to offer excavators with guidance systems when required. While it will no doubt take a little longer for the system to pay for itself on a smaller machine than on a 21-30 tonne model, the improvements in productivity and operator performance, along with the potential reduction of wasted material through over-digging, should result in a rapid return on investment. More importantly for Marubeni-Komatsu, being able to offer the system on a popular 14-tonne model will make the PC138US-11 even more relevant for those customers shopping for a new excavator at this weight.
i For further information on iMC
machines from Marubeni-Komatsu WWW.RDR.LINK/CK018
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S P E C I A L R E P O R T: A W A R D W I N N E R
The prestigious 2019 Dewar Trophy has been awarded to JCB for its development of this 19C1E electric mini excavator.
JCB has stolen a march on competitors by getting significant sales for an electric mini excavator. Its technical achievement has now been recognised by a prestigious award. Nick Johnson reports.
CHARGING AHEAD B eing invited to lunch in one of the esteemed private members clubs in London’s Pall Mall is a very rare occurrence for me. But I had a very good reason for going to the Royal Automobile Club and it was not car related. Finding the imposing 1908 HQ of the Royal Automobile Club was made easy by the presence of a well restored veteran car parked prominently outside (promoting the then forthcoming London to Brighton run). And once inside I headed for the impressive rotunda where, for the first time ever, the object of interest was an excavator rather than the more usual wheeled vehicle.
The award winning 19C-1E is the first excavator to be displayed within the rotunda of the Royal Automobile Club HQ.
Electric First
Rubber Company, Ford Motor Company, GKN Hybrid Power, Group Lotus, Integral Powertrain, JCB, Lucas Girling, McLaren Automotive, Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains, Ricardo, The Triplex Safety Glass Company and Rolls Royce. Interestingly, JCB becomes one of the few companies, in the 113-year history of the Dewar Trophy, to have won it more than once. The first award was in 2006 for the development of the world diesel land speed record-breaking JCB Dieselmax streamliner car. That clocked a remarkable speed of 350.092mph (563.418 km/h) – the company’s 2019 winner is somewhat more sedate with a top speed of only 4.1 km/h! At the presentation of the 2019 Dewar Trophy, JCB’s Head of Advanced Engineering
The machine on show was JCB’s first electric mini excavator – the 1.9 tonne 19C-1E. It was there to mark JCB being awarded the prestigious Dewar Trophy for outstanding British technical achievement in the automotive industry. The Dewar Trophy was originally presented to the Royal Automobile Club in 1904 by Sir Thomas Dewar MP (later Lord Dewar). It was initially awarded at the discretion of the Club’s Technical Committee for the most meritorious performance by an automobile manufacturer in the Certified Trials held by the Club. In 1931 the award was updated to reflect ‘the most outstanding technical achievements in the British Automotive Industry’ and worthy recipients have included The Dunlop
16 DECEMBER / JANUARY I CPN
After accepting the Dewar Trophy for the British made 19C-1E, JCB’s Bob Womersley said it was “one of my proudest moments.”
Bob Womersley said that the rise in diesel prices in 2010 prompted JCB to place greater emphasis on making more efficient equipment. This resulted in the development and introduction of both more fuel efficient, lower emission diesel engines and the first of a new series of machines with electric motors. He says that when the 1.9 tonne diesel engined 19C-1 conventional tail swing mini was being developed, its superstructure was designed to accommodate, as an option, an electric motor and lithium-ion battery packs. The original 19C-1 with its Perkins diesel engine was launched in the summer of 2017 and July this year saw the electric 19C-1E go into production. Both models are being made at the JCB Compact Products factory in Cheadle.
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Lynch Plant Hire supplied this 19C-1E for sensitive excavation works inside a large encapsulation structure at Euston.
The 19C-1E is fitted with a 7.0kW (continuous) AC permanent magnet electric motor supplied by Devon-based Ashwoods Electric Motors. This is powered by three or four well-protected lithium-ion battery packs from Hyperdrive, which is based in Sunderland. In the 19C-1E, these three or four lithium-ion pack options provide 14.8 or 19.8kWh of energy storage. Bob Womersley reports that JCB’s advanced LiveLink telematics system proved to be invaluable when developing the new electric mini. He says that this remote data collecting system showed that 95 per cent of small mini excavators do less than four hours work a day. So the 19C-1E has been designed so that its standard three-battery pack gives four hours of continuous use whilst the optional four-battery pack extends this to five hours of typical work.
Fast Charger The 19C-1E has been designed to be used without the restriction of a trailing electrical supply cable. So the machine is equipped as standard with an on-board battery charger with a 110V input (for a 12-hour recharging capability) and the option for 230V charging when required, with an 8-hour recharging time. An external fast charger can also be used with connections to a 415V 3-Phase supply that will allow charging in under two and a half hours. The 19C-1E utilises the same Bosch Rexroth load sensing hydraulic system and hydraulic cylinders as its diesel powered counterpart. Bob Womersley says that JCB trialled the use of electric actuators but discounted them as they do not provide regeneration and they cannot achieve the same digging forces. Independent testing of the 19C-1E has revealed that it is able to provide the same digging performance as the diesel engined 19C-1 whilst scoring by being five times quieter and emissions free. These attributes will make it invaluable for use on sites in ultra
In its bid to add more sustainable equipment, A-Plant has placed the first significant multiple order for 19C-1Es.
low emission zones, or where noise and fumes are a real issue. One of the first 19C-1Es in the field proved itself to L Lynch Plant Hire & Haulage. The quiet, fume free machine proved very useful for carrying out sensitive excavation works at an ancient burial ground inside a large encapsulation structure during enabling works for the HS2 high speed railway project in Euston, London. Lynch Directors, Merrill Lynch and Rob Lynch, said: “We are very pleased with the performance of the JCB electric mini. The final design meets hirers’ needs to sustain battery life for a longer working period between charges.”
The first significant multiple order for 19C-1Es came from A-Plant. It was quick off the mark to purchase a fleet of 10 electric mini excavators in a deal worth more than £350,000 through dealer Greenshields JCB Dave Harris, Business Development Director for A-Plant, said the investment was indicative of the company’s commitment to purchase a growing range of low or zero carbon products from key suppliers. He said: “At A-Plant we pride ourselves on offering the most comprehensive, innovative and sustainable equipment in the industry.” To assist operator training on electric mini excavators, JCB has provided a 19C-1E to the Southwark Construction Skills Centre (SCSC). Based on the South London Elephant Park development, this training centre is part of the ‘Mayor’s Construction Academy’ (MCA) set up by London Mayor Sadiq Khan to help more Londoners train in the skills they need to access construction sector vacancies on the capital’s housing construction sites. John White, Operations Director of SCSC said: “The JCB 19C-1E is an innovative product delivering environmental improvements and it will be invaluable in training local people on the technology of the future.” JCB reports that it expects to make 400 19C-1E electric minis this year and it is interesting to speculate on future electric machine projects. A remote controlled version of 19C-1E would be good for demolition work and an electric version of the company’s 1 tonne payload high tip articulated site dumper could work well with the 19C-1E.
i For more information about the
electric JCB 19C-1E WWW.RDR.LINK/CK019
To assist operator training, JCB has provided this 19C-1E to the Southwark Construction Skills Centre (SCSC).
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FLEET ADDITIONS
BOELS LIGHTS THE WAY
Boels Rental, the UK division of the leading Dutch organisation has just purchased a further one hundred X-ECO LED lighting sets from the Cambridgeshire based company, Trime UK. The Boels UK lighting fleet is exclusively based solely on Trime machines, and it is the robust build, low noise, fuel saving technology and reduced carbon emissions of the XECO LED that appeals to the hirer and end users alike. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK020
MERCHANT FINDS A MAN OF THE MOMENT
RTB Roofing Supplies has been able to start trading in rapid time, thanks to MV Commercial’s ability to supply a highspec MAN TGM brick grab in just two weeks. The Rainham-based business launched with the arrival of the new truck, part of MV Commercial’s extensive range of assets designed for builders’ merchants and construction companies from the supplier’s Ready to Go Stock of specialist vehicles, including tippers, grabs, hotboxes and plant trucks. The 6x2 truck incorporates a Hiab XHIDUO 158 brick grab for easy loading and unloading of goods such as roof tiles, felt and slate. Equipped with a Euro VI engine, RTB Roofing Supplies’ new asset can be used in clean air zones. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK021
CROWLAND CRANES RAISES LIEBHERR NUMBERS
Peterborough-based Crowland Cranes has recently taken delivery of its latest Liebherr, a full specification LTM 1090-4.2 mobile crane including a double fly jib. This 90 tonne, fouraxle unit can travel with an axle load of 10, 12 and 16 tonnes, and in the UK can travel complete with its 22.5 tonne counterweight and fly jib. This capability, coupled with its 60m telescopic main boom, means that it is a versatile model in the UK’s four-axle crane market. ECOdrive and ECOmode reduce fuel consumption and noise emissions. VarioBase and VarioBallast come as standard. The latter enables the LTM 1090-4.2 to achieve maximum lifting capacities with a larger ballast radius, whilst the smaller radius option provides benefits in constricted working conditions. The new crane’s entire counterweight can be removed quickly to reduce axle loads to 10 tonnes per axle with 0 tonne counterweight duties possible. And the LTM 1090-4.2 also boasts a narrow 2.55m chassis and generous storage. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK022
BCHC TAKES DELIVERY OF NEW LIEBHERR
BELL SOUNDS GOOD FOR THE HILLHOUSE GROUP
The Hillhouse Quarry Group, the industry leading whinstone quarry operation based in Ayrshire, has chosen Bell Equipment UK to supply its latest fleet addition, a new B45E Articulated Dump Truck (ADT). Brought on board to perform demanding tasks, including stock handling and haul back up, the new E-series truck was selected over two competitor models based on operator preference, residual value, fuel cost, service cost and Bell Equipment’s assuring warranty. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK023
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Another hirer to see the benefits of Liebherr’s VarioBase system are Midlands-based Birmingham Crane Hire Company (BCHC) with the addition of a new LTM 1040-2.1 mobile crane. “At Birmingham Crane Hire we are committed to achieving a modern, versatile and adaptable fleet,” declares the rental firm’s, Sales Director, Mark Weatherson. “Since purchasing our first Liebherr in 2016 we have continued to invest in a manufacturer whose products we believe in. We have seen the advantages of VarioBase with our LTM1060 and with this added benefit on our new LTM1040 we feel that we can offer our clients an even greater level of adaptability and service.” FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK024
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BELL CONTRACTING INVESTS IN MECALAC CABBED DUMPERS ISUZU FLUSHED WITH SUCCESS
From its base in St Albans, John Anderson Hire has recently taken delivery of its first two Isuzu N65.150 LWB rigids, which are being used to distribute portable toilets to major events. The Isuzu 6.5 tonne rigids are a perfect fit for the company’s toilet hire operation as the main drawbar body of the rigid is used for carrying the maximum number of single toilet units, whilst the Isuzu can then also tow any of the company’s larger multiple-cubicle units, therefore reducing the number of site visits necessary. Both the Isuzu rigids have been specified with dropside bodies and were supplied by local dealer Arlesey Car & Commercials.
Bell Contracting, has invested in six Mecalac 9MDX cabbed site dumpers. The nine-tonne payload models will be used for earthmoving applications in projects across Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Purchased from Kellands Plant Sales, Mecalac’s dealer for Somerset and the surrounding areas, the units benefit from a curved glass, isolated cab, which enhances visibility, whilst minimising noise and vibration. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK026
DOOSAN CONFIRMS MAJOR CEMEX ORDER
Doosan Infracore Europe B.V. has announced a massive order for around 100 new Doosan wheel loaders from CEMEX, one of the leaders in the global building materials industry. Under the new deal agreed, Doosan has been confirmed as the sole supplier of new wheel loaders for the European operations of CEMEX, covering facilities in France, the UK, Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic and Spain. The new agreement covers Doosan wheel loaders with bucket capacities from 2.2 to 6.0m³, meeting a wide range of loading and handling applications. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK028
FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK025
JW CROWTHER STEERS TOWARDS IVECO
It’s the patented HI-SCR engine technology on IVECO’s Stralis X-WAY eight-legger which made it stand out from the competition for family-run plant hire and bulk excavation specialist JW Crowther. The system utilises passive regeneration of the diesel particulate filter, requiring zero driver involvement. Supplied by Brighouse-based dealer Northern Commercials, the 32-tonne, 8x4 rigid replaces an older competitor model in a 35-strong mixed fleet. “Our first experience of HI-SCR was in 2016 when we bought an IVECO Eurocargo road sweeper, and it was a real game-changer,” explains Nigel Crowther, Director at JW Crowther. “Compared with other Euro VI vehicles we had at the time, the system eliminated the 40-minute delays we’d been suffering during forced regeneration cycles. These can add up to significant downtime over the weeks and months; but with IVECO, our productivity is increased and we aren’t wasting drivers’ hours.” FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK027
JLG ‘LINCS’ UP WITH HIRER
In order to meet growing demand from both local and national customers, Lincolnshire-based powered access hire company Lincs Lifts is expanding its depot and fleet of JLG equipment. The company plans to extend the rear yard of its premises in Scunthorpe to accommodate several new JLG ultra boom lifts, as well as future investments in its core fleet of 450AJ, 600AJ and 800AJ articulating boom lifts later this year. The demand for the new ultra boom lifts is being driven by the trend to build taller buildings and factories. Since ordering its first JLG model in May 2018 – a 1932R electric scissor lift – Lincs Lifts now has a fleet of 26 JLG machines. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK029
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T E L E M AT I C S & M A C H I N E M A N A G E M E N T
COMING OUT ON TOP What will a construction site of 2050 look like? Andy McCann, strategic account and OEM manager for construction at Topcon Positioning GB provides his analysis.
I
f we were to dream up the ideal construction site it would undoubtedly be one where staff were safe, works were efficient, completed on-time and on-budget, there would be no such thing as material waste and operations would be ultra clean – and green. This is not an impossible reality. Data and technology are unlocking new, better and safer ways for the industry to operate, and with the momentum of digital adoption growing, the construction sites we see in 2050 could be the things we dream about today. Andy McCann, strategic account and
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OEM manager for construction at Topcon Positioning GB, discusses the construction technology that is transforming workflows and processes on site and in the office.
Safety First Construction’s biggest problem is that there are people everywhere on sites that are constantly evolving at a rapid pace. We have people around heavy machinery and trenches, working at heights and with dangerous materials. Research suggests there are around 64,000 non-fatal injuries on UK construction sites every year, and between
2012 – 2017 there were 196 fatalities. Because of these startling figures, the biggest change we will see between now and 2050 will be the focus on improving site safety. There are technologies available that are helping address this issue already. Take automation and intelligent machine control for example; automated processes are taking people away from the hazards of sites, improving project productivity by streamlining workflows where these professionals can put their skills to work in other areas that are neglected because of the current need for bodies on site. We may not be able to remove all of the team from site, but there are also AR technologies, like Topcon’s MAGNET Vision glasses, that enable vastly improved situational awareness by keeping eyes up and hands free when using certain equipment. It’s technology like this that will be able to reduce the injury and fatality figures that urgently need addressing.
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CO2 emissions in the industry’s control. Efficient use of plant can reduce these emissions, as well as reduce noise and water pollution, and we will most definitely see electric plant a more commonplace feature as we move forward to address the issue. Technology that accurately measures and uses the necessary amount of material needed for a task will also become popular on sites as sustainability targets become more pressing. It’s likely that the materials themselves will be technologically advanced in 2050 – with self-healing concrete and asphalt already making waves in the industry.
Efficiency Gains When it comes to construction, all too often deadlines are missed, timelines are stretched and budgets are eaten up well before completion. Speed and accuracy don’t tend to go hand-in-hand without years of experience, skill and talent, but technology is making it easier. With the skills gap looming and the usual rotation of machine operation staff, certain technologies can make the job simpler and quicker to avoid delays when less-experienced operators are the only option, and help turn experienced team members into the best in the industry. It opens up a greater pool of staff while we work to inspire more youngsters into our sector. Machine control technology, like Topcon’s new Automatic Excavator (X-53x), can quite literally enable a bucket to walk a tightrope, allow operators to check designs instantly and make complex excavation a walk in the park. Not only does this save time and money, upskill the workforce, provide
The Future is Connected
accurate and quick results, but it also enables businesses to hit sustainability targets. According to Low Carbon Construction, a report from the Cabinet Office Innovation & Growth Team in November 2010, operational energy in completed buildings accounts for 83 per cent of the 300 million tonnes of
The success of a project begins with inception and design. Data collection is critical to ensure accurate plans, which in turn ensure accurate works. While data capture is all well and good, it’s impossible for everyone to understand and stick to designs if data isn’t shared, updated and recirculated regularly. Technologies like Topcon’s SiteLink and Magnet Enterprise enable all members of the project – whether that be project managers, machine operatives or site engineers – to work from the same data and plans that are updated instantly. Innovations like these ensure accuracy at every stage. As we tackle ageing infrastructure and plan more with less space, data capture is not only important for design and execution, but for ongoing management and future planning. At the moment, we have 99.5 per cent of the infrastructure we need in the UK, so focus will shift to how we make existing infrastructure perform better, and a digital representation of those sites, or a Digital Twin, will be critical in planning improvements. There’s momentum behind digital adoption for construction, and there’s more backing from the UK Government than ever before. This speed will not slow, and every blue-chip now has someone at the helm of ‘Digital Transformation’ to drive the business into the next industrial revolution. To those who are still considering the worthiness of these technologies on their projects, my advice would be that you make sure you don’t get left behind.
i For further information on Topcon WWW.RDR.LINK/CK030
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T E L E M AT I C S & M A C H I N E M A N A G E M E N T
Already covering over 70,000 of its excavators, wheel loaders and ADTs worldwide, DoosanCONNECT is set to reach even further.
CONNECT UP W
hatever the size of project, in order to maximise operating efficiency, fleet managers are increasingly looking to implement smart solutions, and telematics is very much part of the package. Data is now the world’s most valuable currency, and collecting and analysing it the key to success. That’s why the real-time monitoring that DoosanCONNECT provides is an invaluable weapon in the fight to increase efficiencies in site management and equipment operation. It can check engine and hydraulic systems, and provide information, mapping and visuals on their location and availability. Efficient equipment deployment can be implemented via a monthly report on operations, with detailed information on service hours and fuel consumption, as well as timely responses to filter and oil replacement.
With the launch of a mobile app for Apple and Android devices new functions will now include directions to machines; call service – whereby the app connects the customer directly with the Doosan dealer’s service operation – and a Chat option to send messages to the service provider.
Expanded Scope The Korean manufacturer plans to further expand the types of equipment covered, and develop various services based on the telematics system to manage consumables and provide enhanced maintenance packages. This will provide comprehensive information about machine performance in a dual mode (satellite, mobile network). As such, it is the only tool of its type capable of providing this level of information, delivering insightful and costsaving data about equipment to help customers work more effectively.
This telematics technology allows fleet managers to compile a number of reports, including fleet status; machine details; machine location; operating hours; fuel usage; engine idle time vs work time; machine error codes; engine warning system; maintenance history and utilisation reports. According to Doosan, the DoosanCONNECT telematics system provides significant benefits for customers through the use of operational data that help improve efficiency, such as altering machine idle times based on fuel usage, machine security and safety. It can support multiple Doosan machines in different locations, helping customers to
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T E L E M AT I C S & M A C H I N E M A N A G E M E N T monitor machine utilisation rates to assess that the right mix of machines is being used; it can also guide drivers to help them to operate equipment with higher efficiency and to locate replacement machines in the event of maintenance work or breakdowns, all under the umbrella of vigorous anti-theft and theft recovery protection systems. Customers can monitor the physical location of their machines, ensuring they are where they are supposed to be, which helps prevent equipment theft. Operational data also gives owners insight into monitoring the machine’s fuel efficiency and the selected power mode in different applications. This is helpful to determine if an operator can make adjustments in order to do the same work with less diesel fuel. Doosan machines provide operators with various power modes to help them best match the power needed for specific applications. If a problem does arise, the system alerts owners, helping reduce machine downtime. The website reports fault and warning codes, and, because they will have more data about what is wrong with the machine, owners – or their dealers – are better prepared to fix the problem when they respond. Doosan dealers can view the problem on the DoosanCONNECT website to help diagnose an issue, without physically being in the same location as the machine. With all of the information available, business owners can make better estimates when completing job bids and planning for
jobs. Accurate machine usage reports, such as the number of hours a machine was used for a particular job, help owners respond to new business opportunities.
Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) Nearly 90 per cent completed by the end of September 2019, the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) Project provides a good illustration of how DoosanCONNECT can be used on construction contracts around the world. Since work began in 2016, the TAP Project has utilised well over 50 new Doosan excavators in the construction phase. Every day hundreds of metres of TAP’s Right of Way (ROW) are cleared, strung, welded, lowered into the trenches and backfilled, in line with the project construction steps and schedule. For the construction of about 360km of the pipeline in Greece, 52 new Doosan excavators alone were used on this section of the works. The Doosan excavators were chosen following a competitive analysis of
eight leading excavator manufacturers carried out by the Bonatti-J&P Avax s.r.l. joint venture, which was awarded the EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) contract for this section of the TAP Project. The Bonatti-J&P Avax s.r.l. joint venture chose the Doosan brand to provide the power and reliability required for the contract, purchasing the 52 new Doosan crawler excavators for the excavation work and for the laying of the 1.2031m (48 in.) diameter pipes in the project. The Doosan excavator fleet comprised models from 30 to 55 tonne and included 10 DX300LC-5, 20 DX340LC-5, 10 DX380LC-5 and 12 DX530LC-5 crawler excavators. Doosan excavators have been working hard in a range of different applications from preparatory work, including grading, removing trees and site clearance, lifting gas pipes to lay them out or ‘string’ them, digging trenches using hydraulic breakers or buckets, to loading crushing and screening equipment to create backfill for the trenches that does not damage the pipes.
DoosanCONNECT and Service Packages The contract for the 52 Doosan excavators included a full service package with a dedicated service team available around the clock. Service has been handled directly by Ergon Tzanidakis, the Doosan dealer in Greece. As a web-based fleet management system that has successfully monitored the performance and security of the machines, as well as promoting preventative maintenance, the support it has afforded has been greatly appreciated by Bonatti-J&P Avax s.r.l.,.
i For more information about
DoosanCONNECT, WWW.RDR.LINK/CK031
24 DECEMBER / JANUARY I CPN
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T E L E M AT I C S & M A C H I N E M A N A G E M E N T
SMART MOVES Gary Escott, Director at SiteZone Safety introduces a new dimension to collision safety, using tailored, pre-emptive systems to complement the SiteZone proximity warning system. Safe Working Spaces Personal space is a concept that we can apply to the safety world. As individuals, we sometimes think, ‘don’t crowd me’ when others get too close. The same mindset can be adopted when personnel are compelled to work around plant and heavy vehicles on site. Only this time, it’s not just about annoyance, but essential safety. SiteZone proximity warning system (PWS) was originally accompanied by a complementary safety campaign called ‘Don’t burst the bubble’ (DBB) when it first launched. The campaign was designed to inform at-risk personnel, health & safety and site managers about work-related collision dangers and raise their awareness of potential risks. Its basic premise was that every working vehicle or plant has an exclusion zone, or ‘bubble’ around it that no site worker should ever breach, in case they suffered a collision while at work.
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HSE statistics show that being struck by a moving vehicle accounted for 27 per cent of fatal injuries alone, while 32 per cent were caused by being struck by moving machinery. Wherever there are large plant vehicles and people working and moving around in confined spaces, the risk of a collision is waiting in the wings. It’s the ultimate breach of personal space. SiteZone enforced that exclusion zone or ‘bubble’, with audible and visual alarms to warn vehicle/plant operators and the workers on foot around them that they might collide with each other. However, vehicle/personnel collision continues to be a real threat in many sectors. Health & Safety Executive (HSE) statistics suggest that proximity awareness is often absent when personnel are working in close vicinity to vehicles and plant. For example, if we look at a very high-risk sector such as waste and recycling; between 2017 – 18, the
Making the Bubble Smarter DBB has proven to be a success, but there was room for even more improvement, so SiteZone Safety has transformed the bubble into a ‘smart’ one. This was achieved by listening to clients’ feedback and integrating it into the technological evolution of the system. The patent pending SmartBubble was created as a range of solutions, designed to enhance the performance of the SiteZone PWS in whichever environment it was being used. These solutions have bespoke capability,
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so improved, automatic collision avoidance safety performance can be created for each client’s specific needs. It’s not a ‘blanket’ approach, but targeted, based on the specific site, machinery and users in question. The original solution works by activating alerts when someone walks too near to a vehicle being driven or operated on site. An audible and visual alarm warns the operator. A further warning is given to any ground personnel via their wearable tags fitted to their hard hat or sleeve, to let them know they’re too close to the vehicle in question. When alerts occur, both driver and pedestrian will know that there is a risk of collision; therefore, both parties can take appropriate action. However, SmartBubble makes proximity warning detection even more accurate.
What Makes it Smart? In a nutshell, it enables automation of authorised approach to a plant vehicle. That means it monitors a machine to determine if it’s static and in a ‘safe state’. In which case, the exclusion zone surrounding it is reduced, allowing people to work around the machine without the proximity alarms activating. As soon as any vehicle safety features are disengaged, the exclusion zone reverts to its previous settings.
“SmartBubble technology ensures that there’s no risk of the ‘crying wolf’ syndrome on site, and when your SiteZone alarm alerts, it’s definitely time to take action.” For example, we often hear from site managers that the PWS activates when the machine is in a “safe state”, reducing the system’s efficacy. It means that workers and plant operators are forced to stop and assess the situation to make sure no one is in danger, even when none exists. This can be disruptive. A SmartBubble solution alters the PWS to integrate with machine functions, including the dead man’s handle (dmh), predominantly found on excavators. Switching any machine on and off repeatedly will damage it over time. So, the SiteZone Safety engineering team designed the PWS to work with a dmh, which puts the vehicle in a safe state. This is specifically relevant when the excavator is static, and personnel may still have to work or walk around it. Therefore, when the operator reengages the dmh, the SiteZone Safety ‘bubble’ expands again – the breach alarm zones are re-activated. SmartBubble also enables the use of a sensor which detects if the vehicle is travelling. If the vehicle is static, the detection zone can be reduced, as soon as the vehicle moves, the detection zone increases. This latest development takes protection
to a new level by automating such safety elements of the collision avoidance process. The machine driver/operator doesn’t have to physically engage, disengage and re-engage the SiteZone PWS system depending on the plant status; it’s executed automatically.
What are SmartBubble’s Benefits? The principal benefit is that it makes personnel/vehicle collision prevention more efficient. It prevents any disruption of operations on site by enabling the PWS to detect even more precisely than before. So, when the alarm engages, workers really know that there’s an issue demanding specific attention, and not the alarm just detecting nearby tags within the safety radius, as per its intended function. Personnel can work or move around any stationary vehicles in a safe state, (i.e. not currently operating, none of its extendable parts moving) without setting off the proximity warning alarm. While the machine or vehicle is in a safe state, the proximity warning alarm is automatically disengaged, so it doesn’t distract workers by making them think they are at risk of collision with it. When used in conjunction with the OverSite telematics system, which captures data from the proximity warning system in real time, the lower risk breaches can be distinguished from higher risk ones. SmartBubble technology ensures that there’s no risk of the ‘crying wolf’ syndrome on site, and when your SiteZone alarm alerts, it’s definitely time to take action without questioning.
i For further information on SiteZone WWW.RDR.LINK/CK032
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T E L E M AT I C S & M A C H I N E M A N A G E M E N T
! e m i t t e Ass
Derek Bryan, VP EMEA, at Verizon Connect explains how his company is leveraging IoT to unlock the next generation of asset tracking in construction.
T
here is a thin line between asset tracking and the Internet of Things (IoT). From simply keeping track of equipment in a spreadsheet to using RFID or GPS to log equipment usage and location electronically and most construction businesses will typically have some form of asset tracking system already in place. However, new developments in number-crunching power and advances in all-in-one software platforms, are helping those companies enhance their asset tracking capabilities by embracing IoT, arguably the next evolutionary step in the development of asset tracking.
IoT makes asset tracking data actionable by adding context. In other words, identifying not just where equipment is being used, but how it is being used and by whom. The industry has evolved to the point where any tool or asset can be inexpensively connected via IoT sensors and data relating to its usage and/or condition can be captured, interpreted and acted upon. With
this information in hand, managers can make better informed decisions regarding whether it’s necessary to rent additional equipment or simply retrieve under-utilised, owned equipment from another job site and deploy it elsewhere. Here we look at some of the ways in which construction managers can get the most value from IoT.
Maintenance Management Upgrading your asset tracking to the level of IoT means more than just developing an understanding of where your assets are. Sensors can be used to send status updates on a range of events, including temperature change, excessive vibration or door movement. This helps track mechanical wear and tear and schedule necessary maintenance (based on usage metrics, such as engine hours) or create alerts for parts when they need replacing. It’s easy to take your business’ assets for granted until they go missing or break down. Using a digital solution to track and regulate equipment maintenance can therefore help protect the lifeblood of businesses and prevent costly downtime. For powered equipment that requires preventative maintenance or routine fixes, a consolidated asset tracking solution can provide a holistic view of maintenance alerts, regardless of manufacturer. Moreover, paperless inspections can help automate the monitoring of equipment condition, which improves on-the-job safety, productivity and overall job efficiency.
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Utilisation Reports Are assets giving a good return on investment (ROI), or are they sitting idle most of the day? Asset utilisation reports can help identify equipment with low ROI, providing managers with the numbers they need to identify equipment that can be sold off or re-purposed somewhere else in the business, or to review how often and for how long a piece of equipment is used on a particular day or during certain periods of time. That data can be matched against the progress of work accomplished to identify discrepancies or inefficiencies. Monitoring asset information, such as time of use, idle time, employee usage and maintenance dates, also helps construction firms to reduce or eliminate unnecessary fuel and labour costs that can eat away at profit margins.
On Track
■ Connected construction sites:
asset tracking is the cornerstone of an effective IoT strategy in construction. As opposed to barcodes or RFID, assets tracked using GPS can transmit their location using the cellular or satellite network, for uninterrupted reporting regardless of location ■ Longevity: GPS tracking devices can
be battery-powered (lasting up to four years depending on their reporting rate) or hard-wired into the asset's power source, beaming data from multiple locations to a single centralised platform ■ Insights: in the era of the IoT, the
standard for tracking is going beyond knowing where equipment and vehicles are being used, to cover how they are being used – i.e. in-vehicle digital tachographs to record speed, braking and acceleration
Combat Theft/Unauthorised Use
Consolidate Data
Given the cost of purchase, and the risk of theft, it’s no surprise that a company that leases or owns construction equipment would want to keep a close eye on its assets. With an intelligent asset tracking solution in place, construction firms can receive notifications when a piece of equipment is operated during an unauthorised time period or even if a piece of equipment is being moved out of hours or outside an approved area. This feature is particularly critical for smaller construction firms that may lack extensive job site security resources or security technology. ‘Geofences’ allow construction managers to easily draw up virtual perimeters around the area in which equipment is authorised to be used. If assets leave that perimeter, they can be instantly notified either via SMS alerts or via their asset tracking software platform’s mobile application. These instant alerts allow managers or their security teams to notify law enforcement immediately, if required, potentially reducing damage and accelerating recovery.
Construction companies own and operate thousands of powered and non-powered assets of various makes, models and manufacturers. These various systems are independent, meaning construction site or equipment managers must access several different sources to pull the asset data they need. Any investment in IoT, therefore, must be matched with investment in a single, complete asset-tracking software system. In so doing, construction firms can make sure all the data from their powered and nonpowered assets is consolidated and centralised, regardless of make, model or manufacturer. With this holistic approach in mind, companies can gain an enhanced level of visibility of assets and deliver positive returns on their investment in IoT.
i For further information on Verizon Connect online WWW.RDR.LINK/CK033
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WASTE & RECYCLING
More speed less waste S crap yards originally used lattice boom cranes to move and sort material. Then as hydraulic excavators got established and second hand units became available scrap processing was aided by the use of these new generation machines equipped with cactus or multi-tine grabs. Nowadays the processing of scrap metal and the recycling of so many other materials has seen an upsurge in the establishment of well organised facilities equipped with new, purpose made materials handlers. This welcome shift to greater recycling in our more environmentally conscious society has led to a greater number of machine makers producing dedicated 360 degree materials handlers rather than simply offering adaptions of existing hydraulic excavators. As recycling yards have become better constructed with concrete working surfaces so most handlers are now wheeled rather than tracked. Wheels provide greater mobility and manoeuvrability without
More construction equipment manufacturers now offer dedicated 360 degree materials handlers for waste and recycling. Nick Johnson reports.
This new 25.0 tonne DX250WMH-5 wheeled materials handler was officially launched by Doosan at Bauma 2019.
Powered by a trailing cable, this is the new Liebherr LH 26 M Industry electric material handler in action
Complete with striking Union Jack decals on its superstructure, Portland Stone’s Volvo EW240E MHE is fitted with a height limiter to prevent hitting the roof of the sorting shed.
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damaging the concrete surface. To maximise working stability most wheeled machines are fitted with four stabilisers although a few have two stabilisers and a blade that can be used for yard clean up. A hydraulically elevating cab is a big feature of purpose-built material handlers so that their operators can see over the sides of hoppers and bulker trailers. Waste machines tend to be equipped with material handling booms and under slung arms with two arm cylinders to provide more balanced operation. Solid tyres eliminate punctures and there are features to prevent dust ingress to the engine and the cab. The Bauma exhibition in April was used by Doosan to officially launch its brand new DX250WMH-5 for waste handling and recycling. Made in South Korea, this 25.0 tonne wheeled materials handler features an elevating cab and four stabilizers.
It is equipped with a straight boom and a choice of straight or gooseneck arms. Power is provided by a Stage IV emissions compliant 129.4 kW (174hp) 6-cylinder, turbocharged Doosan DL06PA water-cooled diesel engine. Maximum height to the arm end pin is 12.0m with maximum reach being 10.4m or 10.7m with the straight and gooseneck arms respectively. The operator gets the choice of four power modes in order to be able to select greatest power or best fuel economy. Other useful features are the rear and side view cameras and the ability to utilise the DoosanConnect telematics system. Volvo introduced its updated E series EW240 material handler at the Intermat exhibition in 2018 and a number of units are already working in the UK. The EW240E MHE got its UK debut at the Hillhead quarry show on the stand of dealer SMT GB which showed one of three units purchased by the
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environmental services company Veolia. Produced at Volvo’s factory in Konz, Germany, the 26 tonne EW240E MHE is powered by a Stage V emissions ready 6-cylinder 126.0 kW (171hp) Volvo D6J engine. The hydraulically raised Volvo Care Cab on the EW240E MHE provides a maximum elevation of 5.7m. Portland Stone is using one of the new EW240E MHE material handlers at its Broadcroft Waste and Recycling Centre on the Isle of Portland. Handling incoming domestic and industrial waste, the machine is feeding a trommel as well as loading skips destined for landfill and high-sided bulkers whilst standing in one position. It is equipped with a 6.5m straight boom, a 4.0m sorting arm and a Dehaco 800L capacity selector grab. Maximum forward reach is 10.0m.
Bauma Premiere Over the years Liebherr has developed a comprehensive range of both wheeled and tracked materials handlers with operating weighs from 17.0 to 40.8 tonnes. Two wheeled material handlers were amongst the many exhibits on the company’s big Bauma stand earlier this year. This duo were the LH 18 M Industry (which was getting its premiere) and a new electric version of the LH 26 M Industry.
Fuchs showed the latest ‘Compact’ version of its MHL320F (foreground) and the brand new MHL375F HD at Bauma 2019.
The waste version of the Case CX290D tracked material handler with curved boom and straight arm.
The LH18 M Industry weighs between 17 and 18 tonnes and is powered by a 105 kW (141hp) Liebherr D924 diesel engine that is EU Stage V emissions compliant. The machine shown at Bauma was configured with a 2.55m wide undercarriage (with outriggers on the rear and a support blade at the front), a 4.85m adjustable boom, a 2.65m long stick and an SG 20B sorting grapple. To aid attachment changes, the machine can be equipped with a fully automatic Liebherr LIKUFIX quick coupling system. The electric version of the LH 26 M Industry weighs 26.2 to 26.5 tonnes and has a This compact 817E is the smallest in the extensive range of Sennebogen wheeled material handlers.
main electric motor rated at 90 kW. The Bauma exhibit had a 6.6m straight boom with a 4.5m stick carrying a 0.55m3 capacity Liebherr SG 25B sorting grapple with an automatic greasing system. Case now offers two versions of its CX290D tracked materials handler – one for waste (with curved boom and straight arm) and one for scrap (with straight boom and gooseneck arm). Operating weights are 32.7 tonnes and 32.5 tonnes respectively. The CX280D waste material handler has a 132kW (177hp) Isuzu Stage IV emissions compliant engine and a Case Intelligent hydraulic system. Complete with a ‘smooth ride’ elevating system, the cab rises up to provide a maximum operator’s eye level of 5.06m. There are sensors to prevent interference between the cab and attachments.
The Green Machine The family run Sennebogen company in Germany makes a very extensive range of purpose designed material handlers. UK dealer Molson Green reports that the most popular models here are the 817E, 818E, 821E and 825E wheeled machines with operating weights from 17.2 to 28.8 tonnes. The machines are distinguished by their green livery and there is increasing interest in electric versions. Launched in 2017 during the Sennebogen company’s 65th anniversary celebrations, the 817E is a compact machine with a maximum vertical reach (to arm end pin) of 9.0m. It has a height adjustable Multicab that can be hydraulically raised to provide a maximum operator eye level of 4.5m. Fuchs is another prominent German maker of purpose built material handlers. Fuchs is a Terex brand and its blue coloured machines
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WASTE & RECYCLING The Wastemaster version of JCB’s Hydradig 110W wheeled excavator is finding favour with recycling companies.
are appropriately sold in the UK by the Blue Group. The most popular models are the MHL310, MHL320 and MHL331 with operating weights of 17.1, 21.0 and 24.2 tonnes. The Terex Corporation stand at the Bauma exhibition in April this year was used by Fuchs to launch its brand new MHL375F HD and highlight the latest version of its MHL320F with new ‘compact’ features including all wheel steer and new front-end equipment. Designed particularly for scrap handling and port applications, the wheeled MHL375F HD weighs in at between 62 and 71.8 tonnes and can be powered by either a 245 kW (329hp) Deutz TCD 7.8 L6 diesel engine or a 200kW electric motor. Complete with an elevating cab, the machine can raise a cactus grab up to 17.0m under its opened tines.
Compact Advantage Better able to work inside more confined space recycling sheds, the 320F compact wheeled materials handler with all-wheel steering utilises a 95 kW (127hp) Deutz TCDF 3.6 L04 engine that is EU Stage IV emissions compliant. The operator gets an elevating cab and can raise a cactus grab up to an opened clearance height of 8.2m. JCB produces a version of its 22 tonne class JS200W wheeled hydraulic excavator with an elevating cab for waste work. Britaniacrest Recycling recently took delivery of a new JS200W which has been put to work at the family firm’s licenced waste transfer facility at Hookwood near Gatwick Airport. It is mainly being used for sorting waste and loading a shredder.
A Cat MH3022 material handler at the heart of the action in a waste transfer station.
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A somewhat different offering from JCB to the waste industry is a Wastemaster version of its 11 tonne Hydradig 110W highspeed wheeled excavator. One of these new generation wheelies has been by the Irish manufacturer of PVCu building products, REKKUR, for use at its plastic recycling facility in County Fermanagh. Waste management companies deliver trailer loads of reclaimed PVCu that has been removed from homes, offices and other buildings to RE-KKUR’s site each day. The plastic is deposited within a designated drop off zone before being transferred by the Hydradig to the processing facility. Atlas is a long-standing German maker of wheeled excavators and dedicated materials handlers. The company was celebrating its 100th corporate anniversary at Bauma 2019 and amongst the highlights on its stand was the 270MH Eco Energy Hybrid. This 26.1 to 27.4 tonne class wheeled materials handler has a 129 kW (173hp) Cummins QSB 6.7 diesel engine and a new Linde load sensing hydraulic system. Its hybrid technology is fitted by Manu Lorraine. The Caterpillar range of dedicated wheeled materials handlers available here through dealer Finning UK now comprises three models. These are the 21.8-22.9 tonne MH3022, 23.0-24,2 tonne MH3024 and 25.226.2 tonne MH3026. All three are powered by a Stage IV emissions compliant Cat C7.1 ACERT engine rated at 126 KW (171hp). The smallest MH3022 is the most popular Cat material handler in the UK. When fitted with a 4.5m drop-nose arm, this compact
machine provides a maximum reach of 11.0m (to arm end pin). Finning can use telemetry to help customers select the most fuel-efficient machine settings for their particular applications. And the availability of a good range of matched Cat attachments such as sorting grapples and five tine scrap grabs means that uses can get a well-matched combination of machine and work tool from a single source.
i For more information on ATLAS MATERIAL HANDLERS WWW.RDR.LINK/CK034 CASE MATERIAL HANDLERS WWW.RDR.LINK/CK035 CAT MATERIAL HANDLERS WWW.RDR.LINK/CK036 DOOSAN MATERIAL HANDLERS WWW.RDR.LINK/CK037 JCB MATERIAL HANDLERS WWW.RDR.LINK/CK038 LIEBHERR MATERIAL HANDLERS WWW.RDR.LINK/CK039 SENNEBOGEN MATERIAL HANDLERS WWW.RDR.LINK/CK040 TEREX FUCHS MATERIAL HANDLERS WWW.RDR.LINK/CK056 VOLVO MATERIAL HANDLERS WWW.RDR.LINK/CK057
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WASTE & RECYCLING
SKIP
TO IT!
“W
e provide top quality waste management services for residential and commercial customers across Sheffield,” explains Barry Howe, one of the owners at H.R. Skip Hire. “We decided to purchase the Bobcat telehandler to meet increasing demand, particularly in the summer period, at the very busy Waste Transfer Station at our headquarters in Sheffield.” In fact, the new TL38.70HF model now hard at work with the Yorkshire-based firm is the UK’s first Bobcat ‘Waste Expert’ telescopic loader, and was supplied by AMS Bobcat, the Authorised Dealer for
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Lincolnshire and East and South Yorkshire. “The unit offers a lifting capacity of 3.8 tonne and lift height of 7m,” continues Barry, “coupled with its excellent specification to meet the tough conditions of the waste and
“Bobcat telescopic loaders are already well proven in the market as sturdy, efficient and particularly easy to operate machines.”
When Sheffield based H.R. Skip Hire needed new machinery they called for ‘Expert’ help.
recycling industry, the new machine allows us to increase productivity and throughput.” Together with the TL35.70, TL34.65HF and TL43.80HF models, the TL38.70HF is one of four of Bobcat’s current productivity and high-flow telescopic loaders that are offered as Waste Expert machines. Powered by the manufacturer’s Stage IV 100 or 130 HP engines, these new Waste Expert models offer lifting capacities from 3.4 to 4.3 tonne and lifting heights from 6.5 to 8m.
Sturdy, Efficient and Easy-to-Operate Bobcat telescopic loaders are already well proven in the market as sturdy, efficient and particularly easy to operate machines, and these are essential features for working in the intensive industrial applications found in the waste management and materials recycling industries. As a result, the new Waste Expert machines are even more robust, with heavyduty Dana Spicer axles and additional reinforced protection, making them the toughest on the market. They also incorporate an extra large boom head, a high tensile steel boom, boom cushioning and protected hydraulic rams under and inside the boom. Like all Bobcat telescopic loaders, the Waste Expert machines have a box welded frame to meet heavy duty cycles and offer a high ground clearance, with a bottom plate along the entire length to protect vital parts.
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Visibility from the cab is also crucial, for the safety of the operator and anyone around them. In the Waste Expert machines, all-round panoramic visibility is provided by the Patented Asymmetric Cab with ROPS/FOPS Level 2 protection and a pillar-less rear window. A protective grill provides added protection for the windshield and roof of the cab.
“We were particularly impressed with the visibility, compactness, boom speed, protection and ease of use of the TL38.70 Waste Expert machine.”
High Performance Features The HF/High Flow Technology in the HF models, such as the TL38.70HF, offers outstanding hydraulic capabilities and performance with a class-leading 190 l/min load sensing pump and flow sharing distributor. This allows the operator to work at significantly lower speeds if needed, consume less fuel and benefit from remarkably shorter working cycles. To prevent unnecessary oil heating and power loss, the load sensing pump supplies oil only when hydraulic power is required. Barry Howe added: “We were particularly impressed with the visibility, compactness, boom speed, protection and ease of use of the TL38.70 Waste Expert machine. To back this up, Chris Scott, Sales Manager at AMS Bobcat, provided us with a fantastic package with extended warranty and a very attractive finance programme.” Unlike any other manufacturers, all its telescopic loaders are covered by a three year/3,000-hour warranty as standard. There is also the option of extending the warranty to five years/5,000 hours. All Bobcat telescopic loaders are designed and produced in Europe to meet the demand for high comfort required by customers.
Wide Choice of Industrial Tyres The TL38.70HF purchased by H.R. Skip Hire has been supplied with new Camso TLH 792S 13 R24 tyres, an extreme-duty solid tyre with optimised stability, durability and comfort – delivering flat-free operation and excellent traction. Equipped with this tyre, machines have a maximum drive speed held at 15 km/h and feature reinforced heavy-duty axles. In order to meet the requirements of the different types of surfaces encountered at waste and recycling sites, the Camso TLH 792S 13 R24 is one of several different tyre options available for Waste Expert machines. These include the Michelin 460/70R24 BIBLOAD – a steel-fortified tyre with a diamond tread pattern which provides more resistance to wear and tear and a smooth ride.The Nokian 480/65R24 Tri Steel tyre, a special steel-fortified tyre ideal for waste handling and recycling facilities and for industrial use requiring enhanced puncture resistance, is another option.
H.R. Skip Hire 25 Years and Counting H.R. Skip Hire is a family-run business local to the Sheffield area, with over 25 years' industry experience in the waste and
recycling industry, including hiring out an extensive range of top quality 4, 6 and 8 tonne skips and a range of grab wagons. Customers can rely on a dependable and punctual service from the company for long and short term hire, six days a week. H.R. Skip Hire also runs its own Environment Agency registered waste transfer station, where the company disposes of all processed waste, including soil, concrete and metal, in an environmentally-friendly and very efficient manner. H.R. Skip Hire uses the latest techniques to dispose of processed waste, sorting and screening waste through its material recovery facility, enabling the company to recycle 90 per cent of all the waste it handles. The materials recycled include bricks, soil, concrete, metal, plasterboard, plastic, cardboard, green waste, glass and timber.
About AMS Bobcat Established in 1992, AMS Bobcat is one of the longest standing Bobcat dealers in Europe with well over 25 years in partnership with in the UK. Over the intervening years, AMS has sold well in excess of 3,500 new Bobcat units into a wide range of industries, including construction, agriculture, shipping, plant hire, mining, landscaping and demolition. AMS has also built up a rental fleet of over 100 machines, comprising compact loaders, compact excavators and telehandlers, complemented by a fleet of attachments.
i For more information about Bobcat and Bobcat products, WWW.RDR.LINK/CK041
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WASTE & RECYCLING
SHOWING YOUR
‘METAL’ H
aving been trading for nearly two decades, Sheffield based Norwood Metals now process in excess of 12,000 tonnes of metals per year at their base. With the requirement for a replacement front-line material handler beckoning, Managing Director, Jamie Hull looked at a variety of leading manufacturers before agreeing to purchase a new 350MH from nearby Atlas dealer for the UK, TDL. “We keep our cranes on front-line duties for up to 10 years and wanted a reliable, productive and economical loader.” Jamie
An Atlas 350MH is the latest addition to the Killamarsh yard of Norwood Metals. explains: “The specification of the Atlas, along with testimonials from other users, and a very comprehensive package put forward by TDL Equipment, gave us confidence.” The 36-tonne machine has impressed the operations team at Norwood significantly since its arrival earlier in 2019. Regular operator Pete Jacques has been at the controls of a variety of plant and machinery for over four decades and reckons the Atlas
is by far the smoothest machine he has operated for a number of years. Powered by a tried and trusted Deutz 6-cylinder, 245hp diesel engine the unit is a dedicated material handler from the ground up. The 5m long heavy-duty chassis is fitted with heavy-duty axles, each rated at 56 tonnes and is fitted with a pair of hydraulic stabilisers at each end to ensure the machine remains stable even under full load cross-carriage. The large diameter slew ring supports the upper structure complete with its hydraulically elevating cabin which lifts the driver’s eye-line from almost 3m up to 5.5m.
Operator Focus The well-appointed cabin is laid out with easy-to-read instrumentation and clear and simple switchgear, all within easy reach of the operator. A fully adjustable suspension seat allows the operator to set up the position precisely to their own requirements. The driver is well protected from potential harm thanks to bullet proof glazing and a substantial ROPS and FOPS guard. End user acceptance of the Atlas is high across the industry thanks to the well laid out cab and
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its large glazed areas providing an excellent view from the seat. The interior space is pressurised to stop the ingress of dust, with a heating and cooling system designed to offer a pleasant working environment at any time of the year. Front end equipment on the 350MH comprises of a 10.6m straight boom with a 7.75m stick, and is completed with a sturdy and industry-respected Atlas five-tine grab with a 1.5m3 capacity. The day-to-day operations carried out at the yard require the Atlas to undertake the majority of stacking and sorting operations. A number of smaller material handlers undertake the sorting of incoming material whilst the bulk of the work falls under the remit of the Atlas, including the loading of bulk tippers when time comes to remove the material to an end processor. Availability is a key factor in Norwood’s purchasing decisions and testimonials from existing Atlas customers vouched for the longevity and reliability that comes from the Deutz-engined material handler. The 6.1 litre unit sits low inside the upper structure allowing the operator a relatively unimpeded view across the rear of the machine. Large
gullwing canopies open up on either side of the body to allow unrestricted access to the cooling pack on one side and the hydraulic system on the other. A key feature on the loader is a reversing fan on the cooling pack. Automatically engaged, the fan clears the radiator cores at regular intervals resulting in lower dust and debris build up which would eventually decrease the machine’s performance.
The machine’s performance from day one has impressed the team at Norwood. “It’s proving to be a reliable and productive machine.” Jamie comments. “We believe we have made the best purchase for our company with the Atlas.”
i For further information on Atlas
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WASTE & RECYCLING
Water feature T
he Environment Agency’s regulatory position statement (RPS) for the “Temporary Dewatering of Excavations to Surface Water” states that contractors must have a bespoke permit to discharge anything other than clean water offsite into the surrounding environment – be that to surface water, groundwater, coastal or estuary waters. In addition, penalties for water pollution offences have been increasing since the introduction of the Sentencing Council’s ‘Environmental Offences: Definitive Guideline’. Given that most UK soils contain silts or clays, almost all construction projects have the potential to generate unclean wastewater. To avoid this, it is wise that decision-makers become more ‘water aware’ at the planning stage of projects.
Prevention There are practical steps that firms can take to minimise silt pollution; most frequently generated when topsoil is stripped and surface run-off carries exposed soil particles to nearby drains and watercourses. These include only stripping the minimum area necessary, installing silt fences in areas to minimise scouring – worsened when surfaces
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Richard D. Coulton, Business Unit Manager (Construction) at Siltbuster explains why a suitable plan for managing water pollution is key to ensuring compliance.
designated areas where adequate spill prevention can be provided. The final main source of pollution on construction sites is concrete wash water, which is highly alkaline. One measure that firms can adopt to better manage concrete wash water is to establish a designated washout area well away from drainage gullies, surface water drains and water bodies. This serves to contain slurry, solids and any liquids generated during the washing down of equipment which has come into contact with fresh concrete. Even after implementing these measures, silty, oily and cementitious waters can still arise, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. are compacted by the use of heavy machinery – and digging cut off ditches to divert run-off from flowing through the site. Hydrocarbons, such as petrol, diesel, kerosene and oils, can also pollute surface run-off. Historical spillages that have been absorbed into the land and unmapped pipe networks still full of product are the main sources of this kind of pollution, most commonly encountered on remediation projects. Again, there are measures firms can take to minimise the damage done, including providing oil spill kits and refuelling vehicles in
Solutions Although silty water can be tankered offsite, this is often prohibitively expensive. As a result, it makes more economic sense to treat it onsite. One solution is the construction of settlement lagoons. These will help with the management of suspended solids but do take up a lot of space on construction sites. Plus, these efforts may not work well in areas of geology with chalk and clay, due to the very fine particle sizes and poor settlement characteristics.
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A more compact solution is to use lamella clarifiers which are up to 20 times more space efficient than traditional baffle tanks or lagoons. If the silty waters have fine slow settling particles, such as clays, a chemical dosing stage may also be required to aggregate the particles and increase the settlement rate. Such systems can be hired or purchased to work in conjunction with existing lagoons or with portable clarifiers. In certain cases, such as site remediation projects, oil contaminated water may be hard to avoid and an oil water separator will be needed to remove the contamination. A floating hydrocarbon leaves a visually obvious rainbow sheen to water, whilst a denser contaminate such as creosote will simply sink to the bottom of a tank. Both can be easily separated from water by either flotation for contaminants with a lower density than water, or settlement for contaminants with a higher density than water.
“There are some simple steps construction firms can take to both minimise the risk of creating onsite water problems and to deal with the problems should they arise.”
However, if hydrocarbons are found to be in a dissolved phase, treatment is significantly more expensive, and typically achieved by absorbing the hydrocarbons onto carbon through the use of GAC vessels. Care should be taken when working with free phase hydrocarbons as selection of the wrong sort of pump can emulsify the oils, making treatment harder and more expensive. A low sheer pump, such as a progressive cavity or diaphragm pump, is best suited to these applications. Cementitious water is highly alkaline. In fact, its pH is between 12 and 13, which is equivalent to oven cleaner. This makes it
highly damaging when discharged to the aquatic environment. For cementitious waters, dilution isn’t a practical or cost-effective treatment method – it takes 10,000 litres of water to lower 1 litre of concrete wash water with a pH of 12 to an acceptable pH of eight. Mineral acids, such as sulphuric or hydrochloric acid, lower pH, but they are dangerous to handle, create secondary pollutants and are prone to overshooting the target resulting in equally polluting acidic water. Treatment systems that incorporate carbon dioxide as a neutralising agent are cost-effective and most fit for purpose. The gas has no hazardous by-products, is easy to store and it’s virtually impossible to acidify water using it. As you can see, there are some simple steps construction firms can take to both minimise the risk of creating onsite water problems and to deal with the problems should they arise. The key lesson is to be pre-emptive rather than reactive; to anticipate the problems, prepare for the unexpected and know what the solutions are – in essence, to plan. To help companies comply with their water treatment consent permits, Siltbuster provides technical support, CPD accredited courses plus bespoke and tailored technical training days. Siltbuster also has an extensive range of systems to treat water pollution that can be used on projects of varying sizes.
i For more information on
Siltbuster online WWW.RDR.LINK/CK043
CPN I DECEMBER / JANUARY 39
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H I N C K L E Y P O I N T: J C B
MORE
POWER
TO YOU!
M
ajor infrastructure projects require plenty of equipment, a massive quantity of materials and huge numbers of workers to complete. They also call for planning and logistics on a scale that would be unrecognisable to the majority of regular construction projects. Imagine a site canteen that has to serve more than 30,000 meals every day, for instance, with as much of that food as possible having been sourced from local suppliers within the surrounding community. Or a park-and-ride bus service, that from start-up now runs one of the largest privately-owned coach fleets in the country, just to get workers in and out of the site each day. That is exactly what is needed to support the construction of Hinkley Point C (HPC), a new nuclear power station project in northern Somerset. HPC is the first new nuclear power station to be built in the UK for more than 20 years. The site is also one of the largest infrastructure construction projects seen in the UK for decades. With a build and commission time of almost 10 years and an overall cost of £19.6bn, HPC will provide secure low-carbon electricity for around six million homes, with its two nuclear reactors offsetting 600m tonnes of CO2 emissions over its 60-year lifespan. Construction started in the second half of 2016 with unit 1 expected to be commissioned in 2025. Bylor – a joint venture between French company Bouygues Travaux Publics and UK construction giant
40 DECEMBER / JANUARY I CPN
JCB is playing its part in one of the largest civil engineering projects seen on our shores.
Laing O’Rourke are delivering the main civils works, worth more than £2.8bn, constructing the buildings that will house the two European Pressurised Reactors and their associated facilities. To get an idea of the numbers involved, Bylor will build 60 major structures over a sevenyear period, employing 3,000 staff. The site will be home to 50 tower cranes and a further 20 crawler cranes, including the world’s largest land-based crane, the Sarens SGC250. The fleet of 2,000 pieces of plant being used by Bylor comes under the control of general plant manager John McCoppin and his team. A seasoned Laing O’Rourke plant
manager, McCoppin has worked for the company on sites from Abu Dhabi to Hong Kong. He handles the demands of keeping such a diverse fleet of equipment running, satisfying the needs of construction teams across the 40ha site, with remarkably calm assurance. The Bylor plant fleet includes a number of JCB Loadall 540-140 telescopic handlers that provide essential lifting duties in the stocking areas and their delivery locations. Materials and supplies are securely transported around the HPC site on large flatbed trailers, pulled by tractors. John McCoppin said: “Our telehandlers
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site dumpers in use on various sections of the job and Bylor purchased two 714 articulated dump trucks to haul material within the project. Two 35D 4x4 Teletruk industrial telescopic fork lifts are also at work in the reinforcing steel preparation area. McCoppin’s team operates as a service to the rest of the project, with the machine operators provided by the various sectors of the site. However, he does insist on having designated operators for each machine. John McCoppin added: “We procure, maintain and supply the plant to the project. But we try to keep ownership of the Loadalls to a single operator. I am confident that with the way we maintain things and the reliability of JCB, these machines will see out this site and then possibly go on to the next one too.”
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do a lot more travel than they would on a conventional housebuilding site. We’re mainly using the machines as a forklift, but we also operate them with sweeper brushes.” McCoppin is considering even larger, agricultural-specification Loadall models that can be provided with air brakes for the trailers, to improve productivity within the job site. He is also looking into rear view cameras, to further boost all-round visibility. The telehandlers were supplied as part of a growing fleet of the manufacturer’s machines by local dealer Holt JCB. With a free hand to purchase whatever equipment is required,
the Loadalls were perhaps one of McCoppin’s easiest decisions. John McCoppin added: “I’ve had JCB machines for more than 25 years now on sites around the world. The JCB telehandler is the market leader. It’s the most reliable and the easiest to maintain.” Talking of which, Holt JCB will continue to service and look after the machines while under warranty, with Bylor taking over their care at the end of that period. Bylor has a fully equipped workshop on site, with a team of experienced engineers. The Loadalls are not the only JCB machines on the project. Bylor recently purchased a 457 wheeled loading shovel, for use in the batching plant; while a 1CX-T tracked compact backhoe loader has been called upon to work in confined access areas. There are several JCB
One feature of the equipment that has proven particularly impressive, is the LiveLink telematics monitoring and tracking system that comes as standard on all JCB equipment. John McCoppin said: “With LiveLink we can track the machine and see how it is being used. There are lots of really good things on LiveLink and now we can put the system on other machinery that we have too. We have 200 mobile access platforms here and we are looking at putting it on those as well,” said McCoppin. The system provides fleet managers with real-time location and operational data; equipment alerts and allows managers to plan timely preventative maintenance. LiveLink also lets customers assess the effectiveness of their equipment fleet, showing how much the machinery is being used and allowing fleet controllers to move equipment between sites to achieve improved utilisation. Even within a single project, especially one of the size and scope of HPC, LiveLink allows McCoppin to assess the effectiveness of machine choice and to stay on top of regular service work. Whatever your criteria, Hinkley Point C is an impressive construction project. With many of the UK’s power stations expected to close in the early 2020s, Hinkley Point C will be an essential element in the fight against climate change. For many workers on site, it will also have been a construction experience like no other.
i For further information on JCB
WWW.RDR.LINK/CK044
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H I N C K L E Y P O I N T: W A T E R P U M P S
MAKING A POINT It’s not just the huge scale of Hinckley Point that presents challenges, and it is the experts at Sykes Pumps who are on hand to deliver the dewatering requirements.
O
ne of the challenges of managing a site of this size and scope, particularly given its coastal location, and proximity to natural water courses, is managing rainfall and tidal surges. To help manage this, main contractor, Kier BAM, has divided the vast site into six water managements zones (WMZ) and enlisted the help of Sykes Pumps, to provide the varied pumping solutions required.
Sea Defences One of the first tasks for Sykes Pumps was to provide a solution to manage the huge surges in flow caused by the tide during construction of the sea wall. Job Koning from Kier BAM explains: “At high tide we needed to be able to pump 350 litres of water per second away from the site. The best approach for this was a submersible pump designed for high flow rates and high heads, which is exactly what Sykes Pumps provided.” The water pump experts provided 3 x PX30 heavy duty electric submersible pumps capable of pumping 350 litres/second and heads of up to 70 metres. These lowmaintenance pumps are simple to install and extremely robust, making them ideal for such a busy site.
Resilience The requirements for managing groundwater and rainfall across the site are much more variable. Job Koning explains: “The provision for each WMZ is based on 100 year storm levels; using data from the last century, we have considered what the worst case scenario would be if rainfall were to be as bad as it has ever been over that 100 year period and we then provided Sykes Pumps with the maximum flow rate requirements based on those calculations.” Kier BAM has hired super silenced Super Wispaset 100 4in. diesel pumps and super silenced Super Wispaset 150 6in. pumps from
Sykes Pumps, for various locations around the site to pump groundwater and rainwater into ‘dirty’ water storage lagoons. Job Koning explains: “Some of the excavations are as deep as 35 metres, which means a lot of water silt and sediment. That’s why water storage lagoons are a critical element of the water management strategy, allowing us to test the water before it’s returned to natural water courses.” All the pumps are fully-bunded units to ensure that there can be no oil leaks and many have been provided with dedicated fuel cubes, and the Kier BAM team carries out daily checks, topping up fuel and oil as required.
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Most of the pumps have been provided with a float switch-based control system to ensure that they will always kick in automatically should water levels rise, without running unnecessarily during periods of drier weather. This cuts energy costs and reduces the day-to-day management required.
Bespoke Electric Assets Kier BAM has also bought a number of specially-modified surface mounted electric pumps to manage the ground water in each of the WMZ. These will be used in combination with specialist filtration units, which have been specifically designed to separate suspended solids and sediment from water before it is released back into natural water courses. The cleaned water can then be tested for impurities before being discharged.
“This is much more than a pump hire agreement because of the size and complexity of the site.” Kier BAM ordered a total of 14 modified electric surface mounted pumps for deployment across the six WMZ; seven 22kW units and seven 55kW units. These have been modified to include an automated priming system, converting the units to automatic selfpriming pumps. The company has also added ultra-sonic control systems with a control room housed in a container unit for each WMZ. The Sykes Pumps engineer involved in designing and implementing the modifications,
Bob Lima, has commissioned each of the pumps and delivered training to the site operatives on managing the control system. Bob explains: “The control systems mean they are extremely low maintenance and will respond rapidly to water conditions in real time. Each WMZ has been specified with a pumping capacity that meets the maximum 100 year resilience required for the specific location with automated adjustments to flow rates and rapid start of up of the pumps with automated priming. “The system also provides fault monitoring and the flow will automatically switch from duty pump to standby in real time if a fault is detected, enabling the Kier BAM team to call our engineers out for a maintenance visit.” The ultra-sonic controls fitted to the surface-mounted electric pumps work on a Windows-based system that collects weather data and predicts water levels based on rainfall patterns, adjusting the flow rate in-line with water storage lagoon levels. Job Koning adds: “This is much more than a pump hire agreement because of the size and complexity of the site. In addition to the right equipment, Sykes Pumps has provided us with a consultancy-based service that ensures we have the right solutions in place for different areas of the site and the varying pumping needs of different elements of the construction programme.”
i For further information on
Sykes Pumps WWW.RDR.LINK/CK045
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FOR ALL THE VERY LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS AND NEW PRODUCT INFORMATION VISIT
WWW.CPNONLINE.CO.UK
Packed with articles on a wide range of industry topics, www.cpnonline.co.uk is the first place to visit for all the latest news in plant and machinery – from the smallest skid steers and micro excavators to the giants of the tower crane market, or the heavyweights in crawler excavators, weʼve got it covered. Get the latest information on the industryʼs biggest deals, as contractors and plant hirers renew their fleets in our Fleet Additions section, as well as all of the newest products to hit the market. Our website is updated daily, bringing you the most important industry news quicker than ever before. YOU CAN ALSO FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @CPN_mag
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MACHINE MAINTENANCE
Rebecca Swann, Product Manager for Fuels and Services at Certas Energy, explains how we can reduce emissions from NRMM with alternative fuels.
TAKE ON FUEL
I
t is an uncomfortable truth that there is no single fuel solution to the air quality problem for the construction sector. Despite advocating the use of alternative fuels where it is convenient, safe and commercially acceptable to do so, an investigation by HM Treasury and DEFRA into the high volumes of red diesel being used for non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) goes no further in setting out confident recommendations to lower emissions. With so many solutions available in the new liquid energy stack yet no clear directive, where can construction businesses start to make quick wins that can propel them on the path towards a net-zero emission future?
Cleaner Alternatives NRMM requires the sudden and powerful burst of energy that is delivered by the combustion of diesel. So it can be difficult to switch to other energy sources that can pack the same punch. While NRMM is subject to emission standards, older ‘legacy’ equipment can produce higher levels of air pollutants due to less stringent standards when the product was manufactured.Yet to move all legacy
NRMM to equipment that meets Stage V standards would be prohibitively expensive. A lack of infrastructure also means that construction businesses must be realistic when evaluating how they can most effectively power the transition to lower emissions on construction sites – especially when it comes to electrification. In fact, many respondents to the recent consultation on NRMM believe that – at this time – no viable cleaner alternatives are available. This is simply not the case. The
technologies do exist to tackle emissions from NRMM and improve local air quality immediately – without causing disruption or requiring investment in new machinery. At the same time, it must be acknowledged that low levels of uptake are first and foremost a commercial (not necessarily a technical) challenge. Without incentive, and while the tax rebate on red diesel remains so attractive, the case for investing in the majority of alternative technologies is a difficult one to build.
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MACHINE MAINTENANCE
As much as this is a challenge, it also represents a huge opportunity for wider uptake to have an immediate and tangible impact on air quality. It’s here that readilyavailable alternative liquid fuels are kick-starting construction on the path towards the ultimate zero-emissions end point.
lessening disruption to the local community by producing less odour, smoke and engine noise than conventional diesel.
Looking to the Future
Making the Case for Change There are many liquid fuel technologies that are already being tested and trialled. These include gas to liquid (GTL), power to liquid, biomass to liquid, hydrothermal liquefaction and hydro-treated biofuel products. However, many of these technologies and developments remain unproven. In the case of GTL, part of the paraffinic family of fuels, the benefits have been proven for NRMM. This particular formulation is based on gasification chemistry and can achieve similar performance levels to diesel while reducing emissions of NOX, PM and carbon monoxide. With noted benefits, including high energy density, ease of use and safe handling – supported by security of supply and approvals from many OEMs – GTL delivers an exceptionally strong value proposition. Paraffinic fuels could also prove to be more effective than other alternatives, with drop-in technologies such as GTL requiring no modifications to existing or legacy NRMM.
46 DECEMBER / JANUARY I CPN
Alternative Fuels in Action GTL is one of the few available paraffinic fuels in the UK, helping its early adopters transition to a cleaner fuel future. To-date its uptake has been largely by commercial users and construction businesses seeking to lower emissions and improve social value in large cities. GTL is being used for a number of high profile applications. J Murphy & Sons, for example, has deployed Shell GTL Fuel on a project to facilitate the construction of the High Speed 2 Railway; while Morgan Sindall has adopted the fuel to power its site at Heathrow. Shell GTL Fuel is also helping Jackson Civil Engineering to minimise the impact of its operations on the Environment Agency’s Perry Barr and Witton Flood Management Scheme. As well as reducing the company’s environmental impacts as a result of its biodegradability and lower emissions, GTL is creating a healthier working environment and
A broad mix of energy sources will surely enable the most cost-effective and robust transformation path to a low-emission future – while driving towards all the strategies and government policy initiatives. The fact that the infrastructure and supply chain is strongly in place for liquid fuels means they can immediately fuel the transition for NRMM. It’s possible that the quick wins offered by alternative liquid fuels are being overlooked because of an over-emphasis on the zeroemission end goal. Naturally, that is where we all want to be. But without embracing evolving enhancements in fuel technology, the truth is it will take us much longer to get there. Certas Energy has developed a threepart Energy Reality series to help construction businesses understand today's new alternative energy mix.
i To discover the readily-available ‘fuels for now’ that can kick-start the transition to a low-emission future, download the first report – The Future of Liquid Fuels – for free WWW.RDR.LINK/CK046
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rdr.link
Introducing rdr.link A new digital service for our readers
With a wide array of online resources supporting the latest solutions – from videos to technical guides, PDFs to Podcasts – it can be a challenge to locate what you need. To ensure you don’t miss out on these valuable resources, we are introducing rdr.link – a new, rapid service to transport you immediately to the online resources mentioned in our stories. So, in articles you may now see things like: “To view an exclusive time-lapse video of the process use rdr.link/AB101” Simply enter rdr.link/ with the unique 5 digit code into a browser and it will take you directly to the mentioned resource – in this case the video. Or, on other pages, you may notice: “For more new products & solutions use rdr.link/AB101” Just type rdr.link/AB101 into your browser and be transported to the products section on our website, packed full of new solutions. Designed to help busy professionals rapidly locate more information – look out for & use rdr.link
©ilkercelik/AdobeStock
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SITE WELFARE
I
n the UK, there are 2.3 million people working in construction, according to the most recent Office for National Statistics (ONS) Workforce Jobs by Industry report. For these employees, working outside is part of their daily occupation, so when winter temperatures arrive, the risks associated with outdoor working are exacerbated considerably. Since nothing can be done to change the weather, businesses need to be aware of the hazards that come with the colder months, and should put all the necessary precautions in place to ensure their staff are able to carry on working safely and productively. The onset of icy or inclement weather can result in outdoor working becoming difficult or even impossible, which can damage productivity to a degree that impacts on the organisation’s bottom line. Here, Bunkabin has provided practical advice explaining the biggest pain points associated with working outdoors in winter and how to work around them.
Plan Around Snow Severe snow or stormy weather can result in shutdowns and delays for projects that rely on outdoor labour. This can lead to companies having to pay staff for work that was not completed – or, alternatively, staff can end up missing out on pay due to not being able to reach their workplace.
48 DECEMBER / JANUARY I CPN
WINTER WARMERS Luke Rothwell, Director at Bunkabin, asks what construction firms can do to improve their health and safety standards during the winter months? ©mjowra/AdobeStock
■ Digging drainage ditches to prevent
rainwater or melted snow from causing flooding or freezing ■ Providing staff with the right clothing and protective equipment to carry on working safely through bad weather
Shorter Daylight Hours
To help reduce the disruption caused by severe snowy or stormy weather, employers should plan around the possibility of winter disruption, and either reschedule tasks to work around it or allow time for potential delays in the overall project schedule. Other actions to be taken include: ■ Covering surfaces and equipment with
protective plastic sheeting
During winter, the earlier sunsets can make it harder to complete essential outdoor work, as the lack of light leads to reduced visibility and a potentially greater risk of accidents – especially when this darkness is combined with inclement weather conditions. A work schedule should be developed that maximises the amount of work that can be completed during daylight hours. Additionally, investing in on-site lighting will allow staff to safely continue their work even after the sun has gone down.
Traffic Disruptions Projects involving outdoor work are often reliant on workers’ ability to commute to and
©ilkercelik/AdobeStock
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“Winter weather isn’t just a threat to productivity and profitability – it can exacerbate the health and safety risks inherent to working outdoors.” from the site. When the weather is bad, these commutes become subject to congested traffic conditions, slippery roads and poor visibility – all of which can lead to delays or even road accidents. To reduce the disruption caused by traffic, employers should help staff with route planning, encourage car-sharing schemes and support workers who may be able to reach the site more easily via public transport. Also, it may be worth providing temporary on-site accommodation, such as rented cabins from Bunkabin, to help reduce the need for travel to and from the site.
Prevent Damage to Infrastructure Bad weather can have a lasting impact, even beyond the initial disruption – heavy rain or freezing temperatures can prevent work-related vehicles and machinery from functioning properly, while the accumulation of snow on structures that are still under construction can cause damage due to the weight. As such, employers should ensure the essential parts of the site’s infrastructure are protected with plastic sheeting and drainage ditches. Before using equipment and machinery, ice and snow should be cleared away and thorough assessments of the functionality and safety of all on-site equipment and structures should be made.
Protect Workers Winter weather isn’t just a threat to productivity and profitability – it can exacerbate the health and safety risks inherent to working outdoors, and put staff members in real danger of injury. Businesses have a legal and moral responsibility to take every necessary precaution. Even if every other aspect of the worksite is safe, staff remain at risk of cold-related illnesses when working in winter, with examples including cold stress, hypothermia, frostbite, trench foot and chilblains. The consequences of these conditions can be serious if left unchecked.
To reduce the risk of workers getting a cold-related injury, employers need to:
To help tackle problems caused by worksites, employers should:
■ Make sure staff are provided with the right
■ Make sure staff are equipped well enough
■ ■ ■ ■
clothing and equipment to protect them from the elements; Ensure everyone on-site is aware of the tell tale symptoms of cold-related illnesses; Take steps to discourage people from trying to work through these symptoms; Plan working schedules to coincide with the warmest parts of the day; and Give staff frequent breaks to help them warm up.
Overburdened One of the downsides of providing staff with extra clothing and PPE during winter is the negative impact this can have on their mobility. Overburdened workers may find it hard to work effectively, and the additional clothing can also lead to them becoming dehydrated more easily.
to feel warm, but not to the degree that they are hindered in their movement ■ Ensure that staff take appropriate breaks when needed ■ Provide workers with access to regular refreshments to help them stay hydrated ■ Encourage workers to look out for each others’ wellbeing on site By being aware of the most common risks and pain points associated with working outdoors in winter, your organisation can maintain productivity even during the coldest time of the year, while keeping your staff safe, motivated and happy!
i For further information on Bunkabin WWW.RDR.LINK/CK047
CPN I DECEMBER / JANUARY 49
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NEW PRODUCTS
MOBILE CRANE
Following the release of the new Valla V70R at Bauma, specialised industrial mobile cranes manufacturer, Valla has now introduced the new 8-tonne capacity V80R electric pick-and-carry crane. The new fully-electric unit shares many of its features with the V70R including full radio remote-control and front-wheel drive. What separates this machine from the competition is its remarkably compact dimensions. An overall width of just 1.4m is best in class and similar-to or smaller-than cranes in the 5.5 – 6.0-tonne class, allowing much heavier loads to be handled in tight environments. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK049
DUAL VIEW DUMPER
The Wacker Neuson Dual View concept allows the operator to conveniently and quickly change the seat position through a 180-degree rotation of the entire operator control panel and the seat console. This always gives the operator a perfect view in the direction of travel – during transport, loading and dumping. With payloads of six to ten tonnes, the DV60, DV90 and DV100 also benefit from hydrostatic drive, a wearfree spring-loaded parking brake, as well as joystick operation. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK048
WATER PUMP
A cost-effective, low-noise solution suitable for a wide range of construction, utilities, emergency sewage, flood response, manufacturing, industrial and agricultural applications, the new 12” electric automatic self-priming surface mounted UV301M from Sykes Pumps is capable of flows up to 450 litres per second, and heads of up to 36 metres. It also offers impressive solids handling while delivering low running costs and a small footprint.“The UV301M offers incredible performance capabilities but is considerably smaller than other units with similar flow rate and solids handling specifications,” declares Chris Graham, sales director at the pump specialist. “That makes it ideal for locations where space is restricted.” FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK050
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COMMERCIAL VEHICLE
WHEEL LOADERS
Attachment visibility, operator comfort and machine performance are just some of the enhancements in the Caterpillar Small Wheel Loader (SWL) line. The Cat 926M, 930M and 938M models now benefit from large wheel loader features, improving operating efficiency, reducing maintenance and increasing loader longevity in the process. The SWL line’s new Fusion Quick Coupler substantially improves visibility to the attachment in material handling applications. With its electro-hydraulic coupler application system activated conveniently from inside the cab, the single piece cast coupler frame with relocated actuation cylinders increases attachment visibility through the coupler by up to 85 per cent while maintaining the benefits of the fusion system. Elsewhere, LED lighting options help improve machine visibility, and seat upgrades keep the operator comfortable. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK051
TRACKED CARRIER
SITE WELFARE
Online configuration in the welfare sector has arrived with a new service from Boss Cabins. It’s online Configurator is a web-based way for users to design and cost the company’s welfare cabins, portable toilets and secure storage. “These days we’re all used to being able to hop online 24/7 to research and price up our purchases,” explains Boss Cabins Director, Matthew Wordsworth. “We wanted to offer the same ease-of-use, transparency and flexibility in the welfare sector as is available elsewhere.” FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK052
Compact dimensions (1,930mm length and 2,595mm width) ensure the Yanmar C08 tracked carrier can fit through even the tightest of spaces, while also guaranteeing simple transportation. Four model variations are available – POWER, POWER+, HI TIP and HI TIP+ – ensuring suitability for almost every application. A large vessel capacity (0.45m3 [POWER], 0.36 [POWER+, HI TIP, HI TIP+]) and 800kg payload is perfectly suited to demolition, renovation, agriculture and landscaping operations, with an oscillating roller design keeping the load stable even on unstable or loose terrain. The HI TIP models have an unloading height of up to 1,500mm and can either tip directly into skips or pass over fences and onto raised work areas. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK053
For the T6.1 panel van and kombi models, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is reducing complexity and offering only Startline and Highline models, with Sportline to follow later. The Startline will be available in T26 (SWB only), T28, T30 and T32 (denoting GVW eg 2,600kg) in short or long wheelbase and with 2.0-litre TDI 90, 100 or 150 PS engines. Highline models are also offered with a 2.0-litre 199 PS TDI with standard seven-speed DSG gearbox; 4MOTION four-wheel drive is available in combination with certain 150 and 199 PS units. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK054
PICK-UP
A special edition in the Isuzu D-Max range, the Blade+ will be produced in a limited volume of 150 vehicles in total and will be available in a manual and automatic transmission. Customers can choose between an Alpha Type E Canopy or Mountain Top Roller Cover with Black Sports Bar. The colour coded Alpha Type E Leisure canopy has pop out side windows, central locking and black roof bars while the Mountain Top Roller Cover with Black Sports Bar combines practical storage with a sporty, lifestyle look. FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/CK055
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