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AUGUST 2022DIGITAL EDITION

WWW.MCSMAG.COMTELEMATICS TELEMATICS INTEGRATIONINTEGRATIONBETTER EXPERIENCEBETTER EXPERIENCETRUE CALCULATIONTRUE CALCULATIONTOTAL COSTTOTAL COSTOF OWNERSHIPOF OWNERSHIPAUGUST 2022CARGO CARGO SECUREMENT SECUREMENT TRANSPORT TIPSTRANSPORT TIPSANSI ANSI STANDARDS STANDARDS 3 THINGS TO KNOW3 THINGS TO KNOWPAYROLL PAYROLL PROCESS PROCESS UPSIDE OF UPSIDE OF CHANGECHANGE

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com4TIPS FOR MINIMIZING THE IMPACT OF FUEL PRICESGuest Post by Justin Metzger5 TIPS TO HELP WORKERS STAY HYDRATED FROM SAFETY EXPERTS AT MAGID Guest Post by Jamie Bonnema5648AUGUST 2022VOLUME 16 ISSUE 08Inside This Issue42special focusIN EVERY ISSUEIndustry News ............................ 08Modern Construction Products ... 63Coach’s Corner ........................... 64safety solutionCargo Securementtips for equipment transportlegal solutionDesign Buildavoid risk of incomplete designequipment solutionVenco Venturodelivers reliable quality22equipmenttechnology solutionDigital Technologycritical for site preparation and mobilizationON THE BLOGAn All-NewEquipment CategoryThe CASE Minotaur DL550Compact Dozer LoaderPhoto courtesy of CASE24equipment solutionHitchDoc Fuel Trailerkeeps your fleet rolling28equipment solutionNew Stellar Craneslighter and still strongwww.casece.com

PROJECT PROFILESOhio Road Revamp .................................................... 14Beneficial Collaboration ............................................. 18EQUIPMENT SOLUTIONSIndustrial Tires ........................................................... 20Venco Venturo ........................................................... 22HitchDoc Fuel Trailer ................................................. 24KIOTI Tractor ............................................................. 26New Stellar Cranes .................................................... 28Mastic Sealer ............................................................ 30MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONSTrue Calculation ......................................................... 34Customer Experience ................................................ 36ANSI Standards ......................................................... 38Future Workforce: P1 of 4 ......................................... 40LEGAL SOLUTIONDesign Build .............................................................. 42SOFTWARE SOLUTIONPayroll Process .......................................................... 46SAFETY SOLUTIONSCargo Securement ..................................................... 48Stair Safety ................................................................ 52TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONSEV Charging .............................................................. 54Digital Technology ..................................................... 56MAINTENANCE SOLUTIONMitigating Risk .......................................................... 58FEATURED PRODUCTMi-T-M Portable Generators ....................................... 62SUBSCRIPTIONS For all changes, go to:MCSMAG.COMClick the SUBSCRIPTIONS button in the main menuwww.mcsmag.com P.O. Box 660197 | Birmingham, AL 35266DONNA CAMPBELL Editor in Chiefdonna@mcsmag.comMIKE BARKER Publishermike@mcsmag.com RANDY MOON Media Consultantrandym@mcsmag.comMICHAEL FISCHBACH Media Consultantmichael@mcsmag.com JOHN FRIEND Media Consultantjohn@mcsmag.comKEVIN MCCLARAN Media Consultantkevin@mcsmag.comLISA AVERY Art Directorlisa@mcsmag.comSETH SAUNDERS Digital Media Specialist seth@mcsmag.comINGRID BERKY Office Manageringrid@mcsmag.comTIM GARMONCEORUSSELL HADDOCKPresidentCHRIS GARMONCFODONNA CAMPBELLVice President, EditorialTONYA BROWNINGVice PresidentNo part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage-and-retrieval system without permission in writing from the publisher. The views expressed by those not on the staff of Modern Contractor Solutions, or who are not specifically employed by Highlands Publications are purely their own. All Industry News material has either been submitted by the subject company or pulled directly from its corporate website, which is assumed to be cleared for release. Comments and submissions are welcome, and can be submitted to donna@mcsmag.com.For reprint information, contact Chris Garmon at chris@mcsmag.com.Canada Post Publication Agreement #41578525. Undeliverables 355 Admiral Drive, Unit 4, Mississauga, ON L5T 2N1Modern Contractor Solutions Magazine@mcsmagModern Contractor SolutionsDonna CampbellEditor in ChiefEQUIPMENT: JOBSITE STAPLEWelcome to August! This month’s issue looks at the equipment that is a jobsite staple for projects across the nation. From hydraulic service cranes to vibratory rollers and fuel trailers to industrial tires, it’s peak season for road building and repair, building restorations, and transporting heavy-duty equipment. For accessing work points on large projects, the utility vehicle is taking its rightful place next to 4-wheel drive pickups. The utility vehicle debuting in this issue is the KIOTI tractor on page 26 with three ways to maximize its use on jobsites. Also in this issue: Telematics are front and center for calculating the true cost of ownership (pg 34) and providing a better customer experience (pg 36). And, MCS begins a 4-part series “Future Workforce” with part one discussing how to recruit and invest in new hires (pg 40).For commercial buildings, thinking about and putting in place EV charging stations is becoming a talking point. Check out the article on page 54 and “be in the know” about the future of building. Lastly, this month’s Coach’s Corner focuses on strategic planning and how to overcome three roadblocks to effective planning for the long term (pg 64). DO THIS TODAY: If you have not signed up to receive a weekly Leadership Tip from Randy Goruk, leadership development expert, go to his website and register: www.leadersedge360.com.Cheers, 64COACH’S CORNER 3 strategic planning roadblocksPEARL HARBOR A 1999 Tabernacle High School graduate and Hayden, Alabama, native is serving in the U.S. Navy as part of the world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise, Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC). Petty Officer 1st Class Robert Peeples is an aviation boatswain’s mate aboard USS Abraham Lincoln, a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier operating out of San Diego, California.Photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist John Sorensen

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com8industry newsFONTAINE HEAVY-HAUL CHANGES COMPANY NAME TO FONTAINE SPECIALIZEDThe trailer business previously known as Fontaine Heavy-Haul is now Fontaine Specialized. “In order to meet the evolving and ever challenging needs of our customer base, our product line will continue to expand beyond traditional heavy-haul trailers,” explains Todd Anderson, president of Fontaine Specialized. “Over the last several years we have expanded our Xcalibur extendable flatbed and dropdeck models, introduced the Traverse hydraulic tail models, created a new line of Workhorse lowbed models, and added several new Magnitude heavy-haul models. We believe our name should reflect our entire product lineup, and our Dealer network is very supportive of rebranding the business as Fontaine Specialized.” For more, visit www.fontainespecialized.com. NEW MOBILE TRAINING CENTER LETS COMPANIES ASSESS AND TRAIN OPERATORS ANYWHERECM Labs Simulations, developer of Vortex training simulators, announces the North American release of a Mobile Training Center designed to give companies and training institutions the flexibility to offer training and assessment anywhere. The Mobile Training Center can offer an on-site presence that reduces team displacement and jobsite disruption. For community colleges and vocational schools, it can multiply training locations and provide access to markets that were previously out of reach or too remote.The gooseneck trailer comes in 24 ft and 34 ft lengths and accommodates 1 or 2 Vortex simulators from CM Labs, as well as the Instructor Operator Station, from which trainers can monitor, assess, and report on training progress. The trailer can be hitched to a vehicle for transport or set up as a standalone station. The all-season training environment is equipped with a generator, insulated HVAC cooling, and heating. Included is a breaker panel with a manual power switch to connect to a diesel generator or local grid, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and LED lighting with 3 switch zones. Add-on options include interior storage, bench, awning, and 12kW liquid-cooled diesel generator. For more, visit www.cm-labs.com.KOMATSU’S SMART CONSTRUCTION RETROFIT KITS Looking for a simple way to improve your grading performance? With Komatsu’s easy and affordable Smart Construction Retrofit kits, your conventional Komatsu excavators can be equipped with 3D guidance and payload monitoring, giving operators and managers alike more ways to help work efficiently and accurately.Designed to improve grading performance and provide more time- and cost-management tools, Smart Construction Retrofit OSHA Compliant Guardrail andStair Rail SystemsSafety Boot® Guardrail SystemStringerShield® Stair Rail System1.800.804.4741safetyboot.com• Non-Penetrating Design• Rugged Steel Construction• Exceeds OSHA Regulations• Simple, Aordable & Reusable• Residential, Multi-Family & Commercial Applications• Unique Free Standing Design• Keep Post Attached For Reuse On Next Level Or ProjectFeatured on osha.gov website!

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com10industry newscan bring 3D to most Komatsu excavators in your fleet. Easily installed by a local Komatsu distributor, Smart Construction Retrofit is a low-cost guidance kit that gives operators in the field and managers in the office access to 3D design and payload data to help drive accuracy, control load volumes, and improve operations. For more, visit www.komatsu.com. FELLING TRAILERS ADDS UN31 TANKS TO ITS CERTIFICATIONS Felling Trailers, Inc. received certification for its UN31 Tank design. The UN31 tank is certified as a fuel tank, 607 usable gallons, intended use is for the mobile generator industry. The UN31 tanks were designed to be compatible with Felling’s DDG drop deck generator trailer line. The tank option is utilized in conjunction with an OEM’s Genset mounted to the trailer frame. The tank is certified to meet the safety standards of CAN/CGSB-43.146 for metal IBCs (intermediate bulk containers) for use with liquids in packing group III, such as diesel fuel. The certification consists of a six-stage testing process: stacking, leak proofness, hydraulic pressure, roll over, drop, and vibration test. Each stage of the testing process has specific parameters that must be followed and passing status achieved. Felling Trailers’ Engineering and R&D teams started the UN31 Tank project in the late fall of 2019. Working with testing constraints and Minnesota’s ever-changing weather and accompanying temperatures contributed to the overall project timeline, achieving certification in the first part of 2022. For more, visit www.felling.com.PETTIBONE LAUNCHES X-COMMAND TELEMATICS FOR EXTENDO AND TRAVERSE TELEHANDLERSPettibone introduces X-Command, a new telematics program that comes standard on the company’s X-Series Extendo and Traverse telehandlers. The system offers real-time access to machine data, thereby saving time, money, and hassle for rental centers and maintenance technicians.X-Command allows users to remotely track a machine’s location and observe data points such as engine hours, fuel rate and usage, diesel exhaust fluid level, battery voltage, and more. Equipment owners can access data and generate reports using the online X-Command dashboard on their computer or mobile device. The platform allows for quick and simple remote diagnosis of a telematics-equipped machine, potentially eliminating the need for certain field service calls. By ensuring maintenance is up to date, users can consistently increase equipment uptime and improve their overall return on investment.In addition to being a standard feature for 2 years on new Pettibone X-Series Extendo and Traverse telehandlers,

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com12industry newsX-Command is also available as a retrofit for existing X-Series models in the field. The system is optional on new sales of Cary-Lift material handlers. For more, visit www.gopettibone.com.HILTI AND BENTLEY MAKE IT EASIER FOR CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERS TO DESIGN WORKFLOW WITH SOFTWARE INTEGRATION Hilti North America has streamlined the base plate design workflow for PROFIS Engineering Suite users by integrating the cloud-based software with Bentley’s RAM Structural System. The agreement with Bentley Systems, the infrastructure engineering software company, gives structural engineers and designers the ability to transfer designs quicker and more accurately between the two programs. PROFIS Engineering Suite, a user-friendly, cloud-based application helps handle the calculations and analysis of the different elements of a steel-to-concrete connection, including base plate and anchors, with easier iteration and thorough documentation. Now, RAM Structural System and PROFIS Engineering work together to streamline the workflow and help simplify the base plate anchor design process. Users can leverage the integration of RAM Structural System with the design power of PROFIS Engineering to easily import, design, and export anchor and base plate designs, while ensuring accuracy and maximum productivity. PROFIS Engineering can receive all the information needed to the baseplate and connection design in a few short clicks, helping reduce the need for manual data transfer. This method will save up to one hour per design by optimizing your workflow. For more, visit www.hilti.com and www.bentley.com.EARTHCAM SELECTED AN AUTODESK CONSTRUCTION CLOUD PREMIUM PARTNEREarthCam, the leader in webcam technology and services, today announces that the company has been selected as an Autodesk Construction Cloud Premium Partner. EarthCam is the first camera company to be awarded this status, building on its long-established connectivity with Autodesk. EarthCam’s live jobsite cameras capture and deliver imagery to Autodesk Build, the project management and field execution solution, as well as BIM 360 and PlanGrid. New AI Object Detection and Safety Analytics deliver actionable data to augment RFIs and reports.On the design side, EarthCam empowers VDC teams with live imagery for 3D model overlays that improves collaboration and enables data-driven decision making. EarthCam remains committed to adding many new image integration features for Autodesk Construction Cloud for no additional charge to customers. For more, visit earthcam.net/autodesk.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com14project profileOhio Road Revamphow unique equipment improved the winding roads SAVINGS AND SAFETYSome of the most dangerous roadways in the country include bustling highways, high-speed interstates, and tricky intersections. But unexpected danger lies beyond big city distractions and high-traffic roads, where the hazards relate to nature more than other vehicles.The roads of southeastern Ohio wind around the hills, resulting in sharp turns and corners. While an average vehicle doesn’t have an issue navigating them, the same cannot be said for large trucks and trailers. The turning radius on oversized, multiple-axle vehicles like oil and gas trucks doesn’t mix well with the curvy roads, causing them to frequently end up with their wheels in the ditch. Over time, this repetition causes dangerous drop-offs on the outside corner of the paved roads. This is not a new issue for the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). To address it, they constantly seek out new approaches and solutions to increase safety on the state’s roadways, with a goal to virtually eliminate crashes and injuries altogether.A TEMPORARY FIXTo combat the dangerous situation of the winding roads, ODOT first attempted to stabilize the shoulder with aggregate material. Using a road grader and a dump truck, crews laid the aggregate and pushed it off to the shoulder. From there, they compacted the aggregate, creating what seemed like an effective solution.However, this approach only worked temporarily and presented a maintenance issue. The lack of moisture in aggregate made it less than ideal for a permanent roadway. Crews found that after a heavy rain, the material washed away and exposed the original dangerous drop-offs. At least once a year, crews had to revisit the eroding berms and repeat the placement process. After testing several compaction methods, they opted to evolve to a new approach. With a stickier, denser substance, ODOT could create a longer-lasting solution for roadway maintenance.SAFE COMPACTIONUsing asphalt might seem like a no-brainer, but the application involves a much more intricate—and expensive—process. Traditionally, widening a road with compacted material involves a four-step process: lay the material, use a blade to move the material into place, compact the material with the tires of a dump truck, and finally broom, sweep and clean up. Though it is a common process, ODOT was interested in limiting the number of steps in their approach. Their solution came from one of its own highway workers. “One of my highway technicians presented the idea of an offset road widening attachment,” says Rick Venham, transportation administrator of Washington County in Ohio’s District 10. Ohio University uses Road Widener’s Offset Vibratory Roller in a Federal Highway Association-sponsored study to test the compaction process. Images courtesy of Road Widener LLC

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202215“The guys who work on the projects and actually operate the equipment bring the best ideas and this case was no different.”Road teams attach the equipment to a host machine, such as a skid steer, compact track loader, loader or grader to disperse gravel, asphalt, and topsoil. Using it results in increased efficiency, reduced labor and decreased costs—benefits that stood out to ODOT. Because the attachment is smaller than traditional road widening products, it is much more cost effective and offers higher efficiency and maneuverability. This combination of benefits significantly impacted ODOT’s decision-making process, as they were searching for a solution that offered ease of use with a low cost-per-ton ratio when laying asphalt. THE IDEAL OPERATIONThe skid steer attachment works by dispersing material from a dump truck to the material box, and then carefully onto the roadway. The equipment offers a unique dual discharge, enhancing the versatility and making it easy to disperse the material from either side. One or two people can operate it, thanks to the remote-control of the belt speed. Another benefit of the equipment is its transportability. Because of its compact size, the attachment and host machine can fit on the same common-size trailer. Larger, more cumbersome alternatives require a flatbed trailer. Images courtesy of Road Widener LLCODOT uses the Road Widener FH-R skid steer attachment 2 to 3 months a year. During peak season, ODOT averages 500-600 tons of asphalt per day, depending on the route. For Monroe County alone, they laid about 6,500 tons of asphalt with this new application method.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com16project profilePROOF IN THE RESULTSThe attachment was also used during a recent Federal Highway Association (FHA)-sponsored study. In early 2020, the FHA partnered with Ohio University (OU) on a research project to evaluate ODOT’s berm construction and repair process in Monroe County. Through two phases, OU evaluated and provided recommendations to improve the safety, productivity, and cost-effectiveness of the process. They analyzed both material and equipment in the study.Phase 1 confirmed the main cause of the frequent berm repair is the erosion of berm materials due to the high stress applied by oil and gas trucks. Additionally, it identified equipment and materials that could help improve the berm resistance to erosion.Phase 2 of the study examined the berm performance and service life when using different alternative methods. The results reiterated what ODOT had observed: the best results came from heated reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP).The study not only indicated that these materials significantly improved the service life of berms, it also resulted in significantly reducing the annual cost of berms. The highest cost benefits were obtained when heated RAP or emulsified RAP materials were used as shoulder materials. According to the report, the results indicated that the alternative materials and equipment can reduce the average annual cost of repairing routes with heavy truck traffic by up to 60%.OU took advantage of the road-widening skid steer attachment as one of the application methods for the RAP evaluation. The university also purchased a 4-foot offset vibratory roller to test the compaction process. The offset roller attaches to a skid steer to compact the placed berm materials. The patented design allows the operator’s machine to remain on a flat surface while compacting shoulders and ditches. This provides a safer option than many alternatives, as shoulder compaction rollovers are a significant risk.According to the study, using a berm box to spread and place berm materials, as well as using an offset vibratory roller to compact the materials, resulted in a slightly higher cost than previous methods, but they helped to significantly improve the safety and efficiency of berm compaction. The combination of the two pieces of equipment also increased the resistance of the berm materials to erosion and rutting. The study results stated that alternative berm materials and methods can reduce the time that ODOT personnel need to be in the field for repairing berms on state routes by up to 95%.LASTING SUCCESSEfficiently widening roads comes with a series of benefits, the most notable of which is safety. ODOT uses the road-widening skid steer attachment 2 to 3 months a year. Their operating costs are low, the labor cost is manageable and the results are substantial. During peak season, they average 500-600 tons of asphalt per day, depending on the route. That equates to about 5-6 miles of roadway getting a safety boost every day. For Monroe County alone, they laid about 6,500 tons of asphalt with this new application method.“We were stuck using a grader and loaders,” District 10 equipment manager Jim Kemp says. “It was time consuming and, more importantly, it’s inconsistent. Using this two-step application method for road widening allows our teams to put materials exactly where we need them. It also gives us the option to use aggregate or asphalt, so we can use the same equipment for the initial layer of aggregate and follow up with the lasting layer of asphalt.”Brian Shields, transportation administrator of Monroe County in District 10, agrees. “Once we get a wider road in place, it’s a forever solution,” Shields says. “I’ve done road widening for years and this new method helps to ensure it stays in place. It has held up for at least five years, and I’m sure it will last much longer than that.”CLOSING THOUGHTODOT is making its way through all the dangerous roadways of Ohio. Their ongoing goal is to reduce the number of vehicle injury incidents in accident-prone areas. And while this two-step method saves them money and improves efficiency, the ultimate goal of increased safety has no price tag. for more informationRoad Widener LLC puts more than 30 years of road construction experience to work manufacturing innovative shoulder maintenance equipment. Founded by two road construction professionals, Road Widener is equipped with the industry know-how to provide the solutions contractors need to increase productivity and safety on the jobsite. For more, visit www.roadwidenerllc.com.A freshly repaired shoulder gets the finishing touches from Road Widener’s Offset Vibratory Roller.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com18project profileBeneficial Collaborationiconic NYC hotel restoration project successNIAGARA MACHINE AND SUNBELT RENTALSNiagara Machine and Sunbelt Rentals were an integral part of a historic restoration project in New York City. Trident General Contracting selected Niagara Machine/Sunbelt Rentals for this project based on their high-quality equipment, expertise, reliable service, thorough training, and exceptional reputation. Tremendous efforts are being taken to restore this legendary Park Avenue hotel to its original art deco design and grandeur—while also making it relevant and responsive to contemporary needs.The work consisted of one million square feet of concrete floor repair across 20 floors. Mastic and thin set from previous floor coverings were removed and profiled for primer and overlay. RECOMMENDATIONS“After a careful analysis, we decided the DiamaPro ROG-60 Ride-On Grinder would be the best equipment for this project,” says Jason Squires, director of business development at DiamaPro Systems who was onsite for technical support. “This unit is powerful and compact—it’s simply a workhorse. It allowed us to complete the work in half as much time as a walk behind grinder. Keeping this massive project on schedule was challenging, but something we had to do and the ROG-60 was the ideal solution.” The ROG-60 allows for maximum production in a compact design. It conveniently fits through doorways and tight spaces while its 18 hp Briggs and Stratton motor can prep up to 10,000 sq ft/hour, allowing labor costs to be kept at a minimum. The ROG-60 has sturdy lifting and transportation arms, there is no need for a forklift for onsite tooling changes and machine movement. It has a vacuum hose attachment which allows the unit to be run wet or dry. The ROG-60 was equipped with 10 segment 30/40 grit diamond tools to efficiently grind the concrete and prepare the surface for an overlay application. Sunbelt Rentals had two ROG-60 units on this job which enabled the crew to complete each of the 50,000 square foot floors within 2-3 weeks.PROCESS“We chose to dry grind the concrete to maintain a cleaner work environment

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202219throughout the building,” noted Squires. “It’s easier to contain dust than water. Moreover, with various trade contractors working on different floors, dry grind was the preferred method. For dust control, we utilized our DiamaPro SVX3A. This is the most advanced dust collector available and meets all OSHA standards.” The Diamapro Systems’ SVX3A vacuum is a durable, reliable, and efficient three motor, automatic self-pulsing machine. The easy to maintain system automatically cleans the filters allowing for continuous working time, and long-term durability. The automatic filter cleaning technology ensures constant suction and performance. The infinity bag dust collection system minimizes operator exposure to collected dust particles.OUTCOME“This hotel is such a recognizable landmark in NYC that we were honored to be involved on this historic renovation project,” says Tommy Aspetti, senior equipment rental specialist at Sunbelt Rentals. “We pride ourselves in providing state-of-the-art equipment, supplies and onsite training at the precise time our customers need them. We were confident that the DiamaPro Systems’ ROG-60 machines would meet all of the demands for this job—including the interior space constraints, moving equipment to multiple floors and aggressive deadlines. Trident General Contracting was amazed at how easy these units are to setup and use.”CLOSING THOUGHTNiagara Machine is the complete surface prep equipment supplier to Sunbelt Rentals Flooring Solutions. The highest quality machines are available to tackle heavy traffic areas and the toughest industrial environments. Through their partnership with Niagara Machine, Sunbelt Rentals has DiamaPro Systems’ ROG-60 units available to rent nationwide. for more informationNiagara Machine specializes in providing the highest quality surface prep equipment, supplies, training and support. Headquartered in Erie, Pennsylvania, Niagara Machine has facilities in Charlotte, North Carolina; Gloucester City, New Jersey (Philadelphia area); North Bergen, New Jersey (NYC area); Debary, Florida; and Grand Prairie, Texas. Additionally, there are field representatives and inventory at eleven remote locations. For more, visit www.niagaramachine.com.Sunbelt Rentals offers a level of experience and dedication to customer service that is unsurpassed in the floor care and maintenance industry. For more information about renting the Niagara Machine ROG-60 or any other surface prep equipment, call 800.622.2048 or customerservice@sunbeltrentals.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com20equipment solutionIndustrial TiresIndustrial Tiresmeeting the needs for logistics operationsBKTThe demands in logistics operations have been increasingly challenging over the past couple of years. The different vehicles and the tires they run must be designed to handle intense and extreme conditions. In industrial operations, there are forklifts, container handlers, reach stackers, and skid steers that can be running 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, so increased productivity is important. Moving the most product in the least amount of time is the ultimate goal. MAXIMUM UPTIMEHaving tires that can endure the excessive demands of the environment and reduce any unnecessary downtime is crucial in industrial operations. The tires in these applications need to provide stability, traction, high load capacity, strength, and driver comfort. Some machines run at high speeds. others work in high heat situations, and many carry extremely heavy loads. Others run on smooth surfaces, while some on rough, sharp terrains. Whatever the environment, the tires used need to be designed to handle the specific conditions in which they operate to provide for maximum performance.APPLICATION DESIGNEDBecause of this, tire manufacturers have been developing compounds to increase the performance of tires. BKT is continually developing new compounds to help tires last longer and wear better. Some of the compounds BKT has developed are highly resistant to cutting and tearing and prevent chunking. Other compounds can withstand ultra-high heat or transport heavy loads while maintaining improved TMPH. Each tire is designed to provide for optimum functionality for a particular application. The tires for forklifts lift and carry heavy loads. The BKT MAGLIFT line provides the best performance for both safety and load capacity. They have special compounds to improve resistance to cuts and tears and give excellent load distribution for increased stability. The BKT All-Steel LIFTMAX tire line gives maximum strength in the reinforced sidewall and operates with a low rolling resistance for lower operating costs and a longer life cycle. LIFTMAX also ensures driver comfort and stability even at higher speeds.Container handlers in port operations get the best productivity from the BKT POWER TRAX HD models. The extra sidewall protection, tough casing, and cut and chip resistance compounds prevents damage against flats and punctures. It comes in a smooth version or one with deep tread for rough surfaces.In high lift and transport operations, reach stackers need tires that provide extra stability when carrying heavy objects. The BKT PORTMAX PM 90 is a strong all-steel tire with anti-static compound to ensure resistance to heat and extend tire life. It offers reduced rolling resistance that improves fuel economy over the life of the tire. CLOSING THOUGHTBKT has a full line of tires to meet the demanding needs for logistics operations to help keep equipment running as efficiently as possible. By developing compounds to improve a tires performance, BKT can help operations run smoothly by preventing downtime to increase profits to the bottom line. for more informationFor more about which tires will work best for your equipment, visit bkt-tires.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com22equipment solutionVenco Venturodelivers reliable qualityPERFORMANCE DEFINEDDependability is one of those words that gets loosely thrown around in virtually every industry. But for Venco Venturo Industries, LLC., a premier service crane and truck equipment manufacturer and work truck upfitter, the very word is what the company was founded upon. BUILT ON SOLID ROOTSVenco Venturo’s solid roots go back to 1952, when Arden “Art” Collins grew his company into the largest manufacturer’s representative agency in the truck body and equipment industry. In 1964, Collins pioneered the Truck Equipment & Body Distributors Association (TEBDA) which became the National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA). Presently, the NTEA represents thousands of companies in the U.S. that manufacture, distribute, sell and repair commercial trucks, truck bodies, truck equipment, trailers, and accessories. After Art’s sons, Ron and Larry, took over ownership in 1978 and acquired the Venco hoist line, the company expanded to include new lines of truck equipment. In 1989, crane manufacturer Venturo came aboard, increasing the full product line yet again. By 2013, Brett Collins, Ron’s son, and Mike Strittholt became majority owners and officially changed the business’s name to Venco Venturo, LLC. Today, the Cincinnati, Ohio-based company continues to build upon its ironclad foundation to upfit and deliver high-performing service cranes and equipment for work trucks with the versatility to handle any job—a process that often involves many technical details. TOP-NOTCH EQUIPMENTIf customers don’t get what they need for their operation the first time, they’re likely to spend valuable time and resources trying to get it right. Realizing this is a pitfall for construction and maintenance companies everywhere, Venturo stepped up to the challenge to not only provide top-notch equipment but to get it to the customer with some of the fastest lead times in the industry. “We know a lot of considerations go into finding the right work-ready truck and crane equipment,” says Ian Lahmer, director of marketing and West Coast sales manager at Venco Venturo. “If you don’t get what you need right out of the gate, you could end up adding and removing features as you go and constantly remeasuring your specs depending on the workload. We understand that this risks more downtime and resources. That’s why we get you exactly what you need—and fast.”Equipment selection always depends on the job, but Venturo’s product lines and service flexibility bring immense value to any operation. No matter if a customer needs a new crane body, a full upfit on an existing truck, or an entirely new custom work-ready truck and crane package, Venturo takes pride in delivering precisely what’s needed. “It doesn’t matter if you already know exactly what you want or if you aren’t even sure where to start,” Lahmer explains. “We’ll work directly with you to find a high-performing solution with all the specs you need, nothing you don’t, and get you back to your job.”MIDSIZE SERVICE CRANESWhen it comes to equipment, no dependable work truck is complete without an equally dependable and versatile crane. Enter Venturo’s HT45KX.This fully hydraulic service crane was engineered with a lighter-weight, hexagonal boom structure and crane housing for more crane capacity with a lighter payload. The HT45KX features lifting capacities of 7,500, 7,800, and 8,000 lbs. It’s rated up to 45,000 ft/lbs with 20, 25, and 30-ft boom lengths available and works with all crane service body manufacturers.The key feature of the HT45KX is Venturo’s proprietary Venturo Logic Controls (VLC™) management system. VLC™ contains a wireless, pistol-grip crane control remote, and comes as a standard feature on all Venturo hydraulic

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202223cranes. This system gives operators an easy-to-use remote control with safety alerts and status text on the LCD screen. The crane also contains its own safety measure with an alert light on the underside of the boom, which remains green during safe operation and changes to yellow or red to indicate safety warnings. As an additional benefit to operators, the HT45KX contains an innovative, rugged and compact anti-two block design which automatically adjusts with the boom angle. This minimizes the hook-to-boom tip height, making it less prone to damage. RIGHT TRUCK BODYAnother vital component to any heavy-duty work truck is the body, and Venturo’s 11 Series is a shining example. This 11-foot service body is constructed of 100% 5052 high-strength aluminum, making the lightweight body as durable as steel yet still heavy-duty. The lighter construction—under 3,800 lbs with all accessories—helps to conserve fuel and increase payload. Eleven series bodies are white powder-coated with black injection molded flare. They are available in a stock configuration or with an assortment of modern options including: Crane Reinforcing Package, Chrome or Aluminum Black Flare Options, 3-Piece Roof Half/Full Height, Master Lock Option, Work and Safety Light Packages, and Component Color Options.This service body is one of the most popular that Venturo offers, and is designed to hold the HT45KX crane, making for the perfect heavy-duty bundle. This combination can be upfit on existing trucks, or installed new on a complete, work-ready truck. CUSTOMIZATION AVAILABLEIn addition to multiple top-quality, high-performing product lines, Venturo’s customization capabilities have been keeping operations in several industries running smoothly for decades, as Lahmer explains. “We’re no stranger to custom builds and are happy to do so for our customers.” The seamless on-the-fly solutions are the result of a simple process that makes it easy for customers to get what they want. Whether you need a new crane, a full work truck, or even if you aren’t sure where to begin, it doesn’t matter. We will customize the truck package needed for any job.”CLOSING THOUGHTWith an array of dependable equipment and a custom shop to outfit any operation with whatever specs the job requires, it’s no wonder Venco Venturo has been an industry institution for more than 7 decades. And, the future looks just as strong. for more informationTo learn more about Venco Venturo Industries, LLC., view full product lines, equipment specs, and technical information, visit venturo.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com24equipment solutionFuel Trailerreduce downtime and keep your fleet rolling HITCHDOCIf you’re in the construction industry, you understand the importance of fuel. Depending on the project, you could have any number of diesel-powered machines onsite. Furthermore, if you’ve got multiple jobs, your equipment could be spread across these sites. It’s not practical to take your equipment to the local filling station and waiting for fuel to be delivered creates costly delays and reduces productivity. A fuel trailer provides a mobile solution to keep all of your equipment topped off and ready to roll, saving you time and helping you meet your goal of completing the project on time.THE RIGHT FUEL TRAILERAs jobsites get bigger and more equipment is needed, the demand for fuel trailers continues to increase. Seeing them on the jobsite has become more common. However, not all fuel trailers are created for the demands a construction site can put on them. Here are a few things to consider before you buy.Fuel When You Need It, Where You Need It. Think about your fleet and how much fuel you need in a typical day. HitchDoc fuel trailers are available in 500, 750, and 990 gallon capacities, so you can choose the size that best meets the needs of your fleet and your budget. All HitchDoc fuel trailers are engineered to easily upgrade from standard features, making them customizable to fit your needs without the “custom” cost, plus come with a 12V powered fuel pump and a 20 foot hose with auto shutoff nozzle. The 2 5/16 inch ball hitch lets you securely pull any of these fuel trailers behind a properly equipped pickup and the 7,000 pound square lift jack allows you to easily and securely hook and unhook the trailer when necessary.Fit for purpose. Not all fuel trailers are created equal. Some are made to be pulled on smooth roads and not intended for bumpy, rough terrain common in and around construction sites. HitchDoc fuel trailers are designed for unforgiving construction environments. Every one of their fuel trailers starts with a DOT compliant trailer and comes standard with electric brakes, tail lights, running lights, and safety markings. Rubber torsion axles minimize road bounce when traveling, regardless of whether the tank is full, empty, or anywhere in between. Fuel tanks are made from double seam welded, heavy gauge American steel. This robust steel construction is protected by a powder coat finish that is baked on to withstand harsh environments year round. Inside the tank, two baffles run the full width of the tank to minimize sloshing and improve trailer ride over rough terrain. MORE THAN A FUEL TRAILERYour fuel trailer is an investment, so be sure to get the most out of it. In addition to hauling fuel around the work site, you can outfit your HitchDoc fuel trailer with a variety of options to get the most out of your investment.DEF Tanks. Modern diesel equipment is engineered to meet or exceed Tier 4 final emissions standards, most commonly through the use of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology. Since SCR technology requires DEF to

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202225operate, you need to be sure that you have plenty of DEF available. HitchDoc fuel trailers can be equipped with a 60, 100, or 300 gallon capacity DEF tank with a separate hose and nozzle to ensure you are able to keep all of your high end diesel equipment topped off and running without risking cross contamination of either diesel or DEF. Faster Fuel Pumps. Upgrade from the standard 15 gpm pump to a 25 or 40 gpm pump and fuel up even faster.Nose Cone Storage. Keep your pump and sensitive items clean and out of direct sunlight with a nose cone storage compartment. Add a light kit to the front storage compartment for better visibility when working in low light conditions.Better Battery Charging. Don’t let a dead battery keep you from using the 12V powered fuel pump. Add a solar panel charging kit and take advantage of the sun’s power while your fuel trailer sits outside or upgrade to a heavy duty battery kit with charger to be sure your pump is ready to go when you are.Productivity Options. For the ultimate mobile workstation, HitchDoc offers the 990XL. As the name implies, this extra-large trailer starts with a 990 gallon fuel tank. In addition, the 990XL comes standard with a 25 gpm pump, 1 inch by 35 foot hose with auto shutoff nozzle on a reel, 3 axles, and storage compartments at the front and rear. In addition to standard options, the 990XL can be converted into a mobile workstation with options such as an air compressor, generator, or welder, and a rear toolbox. CLOSING THOUGHTIf you want your fuel trailer to make a statement, HitchDoc offers a custom paint option, aluminum wheels, and a rock guard kit for all models and capacities. for more informationHitchDoc is a family owned and operated manufacturing company located in the heart of the US and proudly manufactures items for the construction, agriculture, and powersports industries from American steel. For complete information, visit hitchdoc.com or call 507.847.4049.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com26equipment solutionKIOTI TractorKIOTI Tractor3 ways to maximize your machine on the jobsiteGETTING TO WORKIn many ways, compact tractors and utility vehicles operate as supersized pocket knives—do-it-all machines with an ever-growing list of potential uses. For today’s contractor, both types of equipment serve an invaluable purpose on the jobsite, empowering operators to complete tasks more efficiently and effectively than ever before. With their unmatched versatility, utility vehicles and compact tractors are must-have elements of a modern contactor’s machinery fleet. Here at KIOTI Tractor, providing top-value compact tractors across North America has been our bread and butter since KIOTI first entered the United States more than 35 years ago. Today, KIOTI supplies nine lines of tractors in the 22 to 110 horsepower range, with new and upgraded models constantly in development. Given KIOTI’s commitment to developing products that are durable, reliable and easy to use, it’s no surprise that we expanded our offerings by branching into the utility vehicle market more than a decade ago. Today, our popular K9 Series of UTVs offers single row, double row and factory-installed cab models and is continuing to evolve and grow.With so many ways to put compact tractors and utility vehicles to work on a jobsite, getting started can be overwhelming. But once you have a better understanding of the machines’ uses, the possibilities are endless.Here are three ways to get the most out of compact tractors and utility vehicles on a commercial construction jobsite. UTILITYWhether you’re grabbing logs or hauling gravel, it’s hard to find equipment that can move heavy materials across a jobsite. That’s where having a compact tractor or utility vehicle can come in handy. UTVs, including those in KIOTI’s K9 Series, can power through a variety of terrains, all while carrying a heavy load. Features such as improved suspension systems will get you around your jobsite without sacrificing comfort. Plus, utility vehicle beds allow for simple and convenient transport of smaller gear and tools. The K9’s bed, for instance, is the widest in its class, providing up to 1,598 pounds of payload capacity. When it comes to tractors, attachments make moving material across a jobsite a breeze. Front-end loaders and backhoes are among the most popular tractor attachments, and with good reason. From dirt to gravel or sand to woodchips, loaders and backhoes are essential tools for moving materials. But the benefits don’t stop with these classic options. With grapples, compact tractor operators can easily grab ahold of larger items, such as logs or stones, and transport By Joel Hicks

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202227them as needed, clearing the items of unneeded debris in the process. That’s why, in response to customer demand, KIOTI introduced our first-ever line of compact tractor grapples last year. LANDSCAPING CAPABILITIES When you think landscaping, your mind probably first turns to mowers. For fully dedicated landscaping teams, investing in a powerful commercial mower like one of KIOTI’s zero-turn-radius models is a wise move. But for general contractors, a compact tractor can do the job. With the versatility of adding implements like a cutter, tiller, box blade or grading scraper, a compact tractor is a good option to tackle jobs beyond just mowing. Adding an attachment like a backhoe or front-end loader will allow you to take on larger landscaping tasks with power and ease. CUSTOMIZABLE OPTIONSA central benefit of both compact tractors and UTVs is operators’ ability to customize each machine to precisely fit their team’s needs. No two contractors can expect the exact same set of demands on the jobsite. With a utility vehicle or compact tractor, they can opt for accessories to create a one-of-a-kind piece of equipment that’s specifically suited for their work ahead.When it comes to UTV accessories, the options are plentiful. Safety, fog and working lamp options, as well as side view mirror kits, help operators prioritize safety on the jobsite. Side rail extensions add height to your dump bed, allowing you to tackle even bigger jobs. With KIOTI’s winch kit, operators can add 3,000 pounds of pulling power and 50 feet of durable wire rope. For both utility vehicles and compact tractors, cabs are a critical element of customization. Depending on your typical working conditions, choose from field-option or factory-installed cabs to create the safest and most comfortable working environment for your team.CLOSING THOUGHTSometimes big things come in small packages, and that’s certainly the case when it comes to using utility vehicles and compact tractors on commercial jobsites. With a nearly endless list of ways, you can put these machines to work, both are invaluable investments that will save your team time and get tough work done for many years to come. about the authorJoel Hicks is associate product line manager with Kioti. For more, visit www.kioti.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com28equipment solutionNew Stellar Craneslighter without sacrificing strengthTHE BEST OF BOTH WORLDSIf there’s one thing everyone is looking for, it’s a way to make their fleet lighter without having to sacrifice lifting capacity in the process. Reduced weight on your equipment can help increase productivity, allow for additional accessories to be added on without worry, and can even save on fuel costs—which all contribute to more dollars in your pocket at the end of the day. Sounds great, but how do you maintain strength while reducing weight? Stellar has been able to do just that with the latest 76 and 86 series Hydraulic Service Cranes. HYDRAULIC SERVICE CRANESWith a new, sleek design, the recently launched Stellar 7621, 7630, 8621, and 8630 Hydraulic Service Cranes feature an overall reduced weight while still maintaining the same, dependable strength customers demand. An updated octagonal boom design allows the cranes to maintain strength while the compact boom tip creates an easier reach for smaller spaces. Additionally, the 86 series cranes allow for a larger crane to be utilized without operators needing to upgrade to a larger truck body.Not only is weight savings important to maximize your crane, it can also help to save some dollars on fuel—an increasingly relevant consideration for many operators. These new cranes have helped to reduce weight by up to 18% when compared to the previous 76 series cranes. To maximize weight savings even more, customers can mount the cranes on an aluminum truck body and incorporate other aluminum accessories.

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202229CUTTING EDGE IMPALEMENT PROTECTIONCARNIE CAP is the most effective way to cap exposed rebar while keeping your workers safe and on the job.National OSHA Compliant • CAL-OSHA ApprovedPatent #5826398, 6073415ORDER TODAY!(888) 743-7725 www.carniecap.comWORKS IN HORIZONTAL, VERTICAL & INCLINATIONAPPLICATIONS✓ ASSEMBLE WITH 2X4 OR 2X6 LUMBER ALREADY ON SITE✓ SAFELY DISTRIBUTES WEIGHT ACROSS ENTIRE SYSTEM✓ NO MORE CAPPING EVERYREBAR!✓ RADIO REMOTE CONTROLAdditionally, the Stellar CDTpro™ with patent pending Range Finder™ technology is the most ergonomically correct and balanced radio remote control in the market. The single-handed controller delivers quick, smooth operation with the most finite control for precise placements of loads while allowing for multiple functions to run at once. The Range Finder feature allows the operator to create a lift plan without ever needing to unstow the crane. This world-first technology estimates crane capacity from the distance the operator is holding the radio remote from the crane.The first fleet managers and operators to test out the Range Finder technology reported loving its unique ability to create a lift plan without having to unstow the crane. This allows for faster and more accurate operation, saving both time and money. Not to mention, the information that the remote provides allows for an effortless use of the crane. CLOSING THOUGHTWhen it comes to making the most out of your equipment, considerations like weight, time, and money saved are essential. Operators are praising the latest hydraulic cranes from Stellar for just that—with more than 300 lbs of weight savings they can get the job done with less weight to worry about. Lighter and just as strong, all while saving you money—that’s the key to delivering excellence. for more informationStellar was founded in 1990 in Garner, Iowa, and has since expanded operations to multiple U.S. locations. Stellar is an employee-owned and operated manufacturer of high-quality work trucks and trailers, in addition to service truck and van accessories. Through the innovative, growing product line and an expanding distribution network, the company has gained an international presence and become the number one productivity choice in many markets. For more, visit www.stellarindustries.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com30equipment solutionThe Clark Avenue interchange is a highly traveled, four-lane road serving as a primary access point to California State Route 135 in Santa Barbara County. It is also an arterial roadway for the Town of Orcutt. One critical problem that the County needed to address was deterioration to the longitudinal paving joint at and around the Clark Avenue Interchange. This type of deterioration can often lead to premature pavement failure if left untreated. THE ISSUE“Considering standard crack sealing to address this type of problem was not an option. The deterioration that was occurring to the joint progressed beyond the point of performing a typical crack sealing treatment,” says County of Santa Barbara Public Works North County superintendent, Andy O’Brien. “An application using cold mix or HMA was also not a viable option due to high traffic volumes. Extensive road closures would have caused a severe disruption to traffic flow.” THE SOLUTIONFinding the right solution would be a challenge. The repair material needed to treat and preserve the pavement, but also not create significant disruptions to traffic flows or safety hazards when applied. According to Andy O’Brien, “We were looking for a repair material that could be quickly and easily installed, flexible, durable, and capable of receiving road paint markings that would hold up well in high traffic.” Through a product demonstration, “Mastic One®” by Crafco met all the requirements because of its ease-of-installation, proven service life of more than 5 years, and the ability to receive traffic when cooled. THE WORKApplied in September of 2017, almost 5 years has transpired since the County installed 4,200 lbs of the hot Mastic One material to treat the longitudinal joint cracking at and around the Clark Avenue Interchange. The work started at Foxenwood Lane on the west side of the SR 135, applying 200 yards of the hot Mastic One at a time with a drag box. This time and labor-saving installation method continued under SR 135, ending at the northbound on/off ramps. THE BENEFITSThe County Public Works Department maintenance crew recognized that utilizing Mastic One to treat longitudinal joint raveling resulted in significantly less traffic interruption, less equipment and crew, less cost and time spent, and an improved long-term repair. These benefits along with ensuring a smooth ride for vehicles provided an unrivaled solution to one of the most prevalent forms of distress in asphalt roads.“The performance has been excellent,” says County of Santa Barbara Public Works North County Superintendent, Andy O’Brien. Mastic One has performed how we expected. The unraveling of the joints/seams has stopped. Another concern was how the mastic material would accept traffic line paint. To our delight, the paint has adhered to the mastic material exceptionally well.”CLOSING THOUGHTThe performance of Mastic One on this project has led the County of Santa Barbara to use the repair mastic on other projects. Mastic One enabled the county to complete the repair in a safe, effective, and efficient manner. Mastic Sealerrepair and preserve pavementSANTA BARBARA COUNTYBy Ade Craig, Crafco, Inc. and Andy O’Brien, County of Santa Barbara for more informationFor more information contact Andy O’Brien at aobrien@countyofsb.org or Chris Vacca at chris.vaccca@crafco.com. For more, visit crafco.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com34management solutionConstruction business owners and managers are increasingly interested in understanding the total cost of ownership (TCO) of their machines. It’s a more complicated equation than you may realize, but if you have access to the right tools—especially telematics data and software—the information is easily within reach.In its simplest terms, you should calculate total cost of ownership as the cost of owning and operating a machine in dollars per hour, divided by what it produces in tons per hour. There are several ways telematics and software can help with all three parts of this equation: owning costs, operating costs, and productivity.OWNING COSTSOwning costs include the purchase price, interest, insurance, tax, residual value, and depreciation. The one OEMs can help customers control most is depreciation. Imagine two of the exact same machines doing the same amount of work on the same jobsite—but Machine A runs with 50% idle time and Machine B is idling at 33%. Machine A runs about 2,000 hours each year, whereas Machine B runs about 1,500. While it may seem small at first, the difference quickly adds up. After 5 years, Machine A has accumulated 10,000 hours with a true working time of 5,000 hours due to higher idling times. Machine B only has 7,500 total hours, also with a true working time of 5,000 hours.The same work rate was achieved over the same period, but the difference of 2,500 lifetime hours can cut thousands from the resale value, depending on the machine size and type—all because of idle time. Advanced telematics services like Volvo’s ActiveCare Direct can help owners and operators monitor idle times and set goals for improvement.OPERATING COSTSOperating costs include fuel consumption, wear parts, preventive maintenance, and repairs. Using an advanced telematics service can reduce unplanned maintenance and repair costs by catching problems before they occur and more quickly diagnosing and solving bigger issues. It can also help customers stay on top of scheduled maintenance with reminders and alerts.Reducing operator misuse is another big advantage of the reports that typically come from telematics. Five of the most common mistakes are hot turbo shutdowns and high-speed shifts on wheel loaders, excessive service brake use and overuse of differential lock engagement on haulers, and misuse of excavator work modes. Identifying these True Calculationusing telematics and technologyTOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIPBy Jim Bretz

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202235and other errors, then training operators to avoid them can save significantly on operating costs, thereby reducing a machine’s TCO.PRODUCTIONMaximizing production in tons per hour is what every owner and operator strives to do. A helpful tool in this arena is site simulation, which can help managers right-size their fleet for the job. When you know what routes, distances, gradients, fuel usage, and hours are involved, you can choose which equipment fits that jobsite best. This will save machines from being used inappropriately, which decreases their value.Many OEMs also offer helpful tech solutions that give operators instantaneous data and insights to help them improve productivity. For example, Volvo CE offers Dig Assist, Load Assist, Haul Assist, and Compact Assist. Haul Assist is particularly helpful in monitoring the productivity part of the TCO equation because it shows productivity data on a hauler’s in-cab display, so the operator can watch production numbers and tons per gallon in real time, comparing against daily goals. It also feeds into a telematics portal so the fleet manager can watch trends and set goals for improvement.SOLVING FOR XMany customers try to evaluate TCO in one way or another. Some use very few data points, and some have very structured programs using all available data. One major benefit to measuring TCO is visibility to machine performance. This gives you the ability to grab the low hanging fruit. As your crew progresses and you continuously measure TCO, you’ll be able to improve your machine purchase process. This can help you identify the best machine, warranty timeframe, maintenance procedures, operator training, machine disposal process, and so on to get to a truer TCO number.CLOSING THOUGHTAs you can see, telematics data and software support not only help you calculate TCO but can also help you control it. Measuring and adjusting things like fuel usage and utilization helps maximize efficiencies and decrease TCO, so don’t assume buying the latest machine means you can “set it and forget it.” about the authorJim Bretz is the director of service & solutions for Volvo Construction Equipment, responsible for leading the Americas Region in product development, launches and long-term strategy. Jim is passionate about new programs and thinking as related to customer telematics programs, having spent time as a senior telematics support specialist before moving to director level positions.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com36management solutionTELEMATICSA construction project consists of multiple moving parts and customers. One change in the project’s timeline or budget can cause significant delays, making both a less than satisfied customer and construction crew. Delays in projects can cause cost overruns for the construction company and their customers not to mention the financial impacts of lost uptime.Over the last 20 years, the telematics industry has steadily grown to meet the needs of fleets and operators by communicating real-time information and tracking specific data tied to construction trucks, including dump trucks, cement mixers, and concrete pump trucks. Gone are the days of paper-based processes. Telematics technological advancements in the original equipment manufacturing (OEM) industry have created opportunities for solutions to some of the biggest challenges affecting construction tools and projects. Autocar has taken our advanced telematics solutions to the next level by integrating the technology with our customer experience—helping keep fleets, contractors, and their customers happy. ADVANCED TELEMATICS TECHThe overall goal of Autocar’s advanced telematics data is for owners and operators to stay abreast of their truck’s health. For example, consider a vehicle with low tire pressure. The Autocar telematics system will alert the operator and owner via a desktop or mobile app as well as a dashboard alert that the truck’s tire pressure needs attention. The owner or operator can then take steps to solve the issue. Additionally, Autocar’s advanced telematics provide: • Real-time updates: Constant updates and real-time notifications such as tire pressure, spark plug malfunction, and other mechanical matters, enabling owners and operators to proactively address pressing issues• Improved decision making: Comprehensive data analytics facilitate informed decisions regarding location, usage, routing, and other operational metrics • Improved operator performance: Owners can track an operator’s driving behavior, which can help with increased safety measures to improve operator performance and accountability • Proactivity: Predictive failure modeling and prognostics derived from leveraged data such as location, usage, and diagnosticsADVANCING TELEMATICS USEIntegrating telematics into construction and other severe-duty vocational trucks aims to help trucks and their operators experience maximum uptime, reliability, and durability. In addition, fleets and construction companies using the appropriate technology can reduce the complexities associated with jobsite logistics, help improve employee productivity, and streamline day-to-day operations. Historically, the telematics data was only worthwhile if the operator and customer monitored it. For most, the customer was responsible for ensuring they had the proper hardware and software to take care of all the data. When a problem arises, they had to handle the repairs and maintenance. This created an enormous burden on the operator and customer.Because Autocar, LLC prides itself on its dedication to customers and its best-in-class support directly from the Autocar factory, it knew that it could offer a solution to this burden. SPARKING AN IDEAThe idea to integrate customer experience and telematics began during a routine visit to a customer’s shop when the customer identified an issue with one of their trucks. The problem was quickly resolved after the customer was directed to submit a ticket with our direct factory support, Autocar Solutions. However, it left us thinking if there was something more we could do on our end to simplify this process by identifying and resolving the problem without the customer having to do anything. This led to the research and development of the post-sales customer experience, including an in-depth look at ways to proactively identify trucks experiencing downtime or an issue. After identifying a code with our advanced telematics system, Autocar created a Customer Experiencekeeping contractors and their customers happyCraig Antonucci

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202237plan to use the truck’s data as a proactive servicing tool. TELEMATICS EXPERIENCETelematics is seen as an essential tool for fleet managers to help them in their job, but it also opens more opportunities for customer experience. So, over the last year, we have worked to be the first OEM to take telematics a step further as a proactive solution. In turn, proactive diagnosis helps customers experience maximum uptime, improved productivity and performance and a truck that lasts to fit the construction industry’s needs. The customer experience strategy takes the power of real-time telematics communication and offers an additional benefit to the system. Autocar’s telematics’ code can alert operators and fleets of mechanical issues with the construction truck in real time, so issues can be quickly addressed, reducing downtime. In addition, it helps to alert Autocar technicians to fix the issue across the board.BENEFITS OF INTEGRATIONThe goal of a contractor is to keep their customers’ projects on time and happy with the results. So, with telematics, customers enjoy the benefit of having a team proactively looking for ways to solve issues. In addition, construction equipment is a significant investment for companies, so optimizing telematics is crucial for construction companies. Telematics can help construction companies manage their fleet more efficiently, allowing them to communicate with workers and track assets and resources in real time. A telematics system designed with the overall customer experience in mind has the potential to save construction firms money as well as improve their services.CLOSING THOUGHTVocational truck manufacturers must tailor their offerings to the needs of their customers, including the post-sale experience and ever-changing customer demand. OEMs that already have a telematics system engineered for the best performance can take advantage of it by transforming it into another benefit. The customer experience will continue to evolve, and telematics will remain at the forefront of driving that evolution. about the authorCraig Antonucci is chief experience officer with Autocar, LLC, manufacturer of severe-duty vocational trucks carrying the first specialized truck brand in North America, the only American-owned and operated original equipment manufacturer (OEM) of trucks. Autocar collaborates with customers to build trucks to their exact specifications and needs. Autocar’s purpose-built severe-service truck lines include ACMD and ACX cab-over trucks, the ACTT and its all-electric E-ACTT terminal tractors and the DC-64 Class 8 work trucks. For more, visit www.autocartruck.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com38management solutionOne of the biggest challenges of implementing the updated ANSI A92.20 suite of standards in the U.S. (CSA B354 in Canada) has been effectively educating MEWP (mobile elevating work platform) owners and users about the changes outlined in the new version. For example, things that may have happened in the past without apparent consequence, such as overloading the platform even minimally, are no longer allowed to occur on MEWPs that meet the current standards. In this scenario, operators need to be aware of how the load sensing features on compliant MEWPs work to prevent operation from continuing when an overload occurs. And, at this point, everyone should now be trained to the new requirements in the updated standards. Written Safe Use programs should be in place and used daily. Familiarization should be taking place on any A92.20-designed machine to cover the new controls and operating characteristics, like load sensing. And equipment owners and fleet managers should have programs in place to regularly evaluate operators. Yet, we find that so many are still unaware of these requirements. Because compliance with the standards is critical to the safe use of these machines, here are three things everyone should know about the updated ANSI standards. Complaint MEWPs may look the same as pre-A92.20 models—but they will operate very differently. Under the updated standards, machines have been required to change. Many new features have been incorporated into a MEWPs’ design that will influence the machine’s operation and/or functionality.Here is a quick synopsis of some of these features and how they can impact machine use:LOAD SENSINGChange: Machines are required to actively monitor load and interrupt normal operations/sound an alarm if overloaded.Takeaway: You need to pay close attention to machine capacity. Jobs can no longer be completed with an improperly loaded machine, which means that you need to take the weight of accessories and tools into account when calculating a MEWP’s load.TILT SENSING REQUIREMENTSChange: Machines that could previously only operate on level surfaces can now be used on slopes but are required to have a tilt sensor alarm and cutout. The system will disable boom and drive functions if the incline surpasses the slope limit.Takeaway: You need to assess the terrain your machine will need to travel over. Depending on the job site, you may need to reposition your equipment or grade the work site to complete the job because MEWPs will no longer operate when on a slope.WIND FORCE REQUIREMENTSChange: To be rated for outdoor use, machines may require reduced platform capacities and/or increased weight for greater stability.Takeaway: You need to check the MEWP you plan to use to see if it’s rated for indoor/outdoor use or indoor use only. This should be clearly marked on complaint machines.So, don’t worry, these new MEWPs are not broken—they just operate differently than previous models. Being aware of these changes and how they will impact machine use will save a lot of frustration and reduce downtime. Compliance with the requirements outlined in the Safe Use program must be documented in writing and kept on file.The updated ANSI standards specify the proper application, inspection, training, maintenance, repair, and safe ANSI StandardsANSI Standards3 things to know UPDATEDBy Rick Smith

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202239operation of MEWPS. And, one of the main requirements is to develop a written safe use program to guide MEWP use as it relates to jobsite safety. It is important to note that “written” is the keyword here. Many jobsites already include the safe use of MEWPs in their tailgate or toolbox talks, addressing topics like rescue planning and workplace inspections, but there’s rarely documentation on file to prove it. In the new version of these standards, all of these discussions must now be tracked to keep records of the details and action items covered as part of the company’s documented safety programs. Machine inspection and service records are also important to ensure a machine is compliant and safe to use. You may need to recertify your training certifications to meet the requirements in the updated standards.Operator training requirements for MEWPs in the updated standards aren’t grandfathered in from the previous version. To comply with the current standards (published in June 2020), operators must now be trained and qualified on each Group and Type of MEWP they operate. That means that anyone who was qualified under the previous version of the standards may not be qualified under the updated standards. For example, training that was provided 5 years ago or more is no longer valid, and an operator’s certification may not be up-to-date with the newly published standards without undergoing additional training. So, how do you know if you — or your company — are compliant with the current standards? The best way for individuals or businesses to check their compliance to the updated ANSI standards is by tracking down records that indicate:• Which machines have been added to an equipment fleet in the last 5 years (newer equipment will be equipped with required features)• Which operators have been familiarized with the compliant equipment, and which ones haven’t• When people were last trained, including operators, occupants, and site supervisors• What the company’s safe use program is for MEWPsCLOSING THOUGHTThis documentation will hold the answers needed to determine what has been done, as well as what still needs to be done to comply with the updated standards. From there, plans can be developed and implemented to make sure everyone’s training adheres to the new requirements. about the authorRick Smith is director of global product training with JLG. For more visit www.jlg.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com40management solutionThe labor shortage in construction is not new, it’s a problem years in the making. This doesn’t stop it from being a pain point for companies short on hands, though and to add more fuel to the fire, workers are getting older. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average age for a construction worker is 42. Industry survival rests in part on attracting younger workers, particularly Gen Z.A recent survey from ECMC Group shows that rising high schoolers have interests that make them ripe for careers in trades like construction. A focus on skills, clear career pathways, and income potential are top concerns when it comes to post-high school decisions. Additionally, since the pandemic, there has been a growing interest in trades and technical schools as students question the value and cost of a traditional 4-year degree.So how do you get them interested? BE TECHNOLOGY FORWARDGen Z is the first digitally native generation. They’ve never known a world without the internet and have grown up in the world of smartphones. For them, technology isn’t a novel luxury but a necessity. It is a tool to make things faster, easier, and more accessible. Leveraging the latest tools and equipment is a great way to attract younger workers and demonstrates a cultural attitude towards innovation and progress. Current construction workers may be resistant to integrating tech into day-to-day tasks, but for Gen Z it’s second nature. You can also use this adeptness to help teach and train older workers. SHOW A CAREER, NOT JUST A JOBGrowing up in the 2008 financial crisis has made Gen Z more pragmatic than their Millennial counterparts when it comes to career and financial choices. They are searching for careers that offer stability and opportunities for advancement. According to Deloitte, 29% of current Gen Z workers listed learning and development opportunities as a reason they went with their current employer. When interviewing younger workers, be sure to highlight any opportunities to learn new skills and clearly illustrate the value these skills could add to their career. Walk through what potential career advancement might look like at your company. Paint a picture that lets them see themselves growing with your organization. WELCOME ONE AND ALLDiversity isn’t just important to Gen Z, it’s a big part of who they are. According to the Pew Research Center, they are the most ethnically and racially diverse generation to date. They also take their commitment to diversity, along with many other social values, with them to work and actively seek employers who they feel aligned with. Demonstrating a commitment to diversity and inclusion is a key driver in attracting younger workers.CLOSING THOUGHTCompanies must learn to adapt to the needs of those who will soon be looking to make a career decision. Change isn’t always comfortable, but it is necessary. In an industry that has historically been slower to adapt, remaining flexible, adopting technology, and accommodating an evolving workforce will give construction companies a leg up when looking to recruit the next generation of workers. about the authorMarcel Broekmaat is chief product officer at Assignar, a cloud-based construction operations platform. For more, visit www.assignar.com.Future Workforcehow to recruit and invest in new hiresNEXT-GEN TALENTBy Marcel BroekmaatPART 1 OF 4

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com42legal solutionThe traditional method of project delivery consists of three distinct phases, design-bid-build, with a transition from one phase to the next only after “completion” of the prior phase. Bidders in the contracting community rely on signed and sealed construction documents, drawings, and specifications issued by the designer to develop scope and price. While there may be addenda released thereafter, for the most part, the bid is based on final, “100% complete” and “issued for bid” documents. Design build is a different animal, with construction work likely commencing before the design is complete. Often the project is broken down into multiple packages, with the demolition, excavation, and footings and foundations designed and constructed before the remainder of the design is finalized. In today’s environment, combined with a fast track approach, time can potentially be saved and cost escalation and market uncertainty avoided. However, design builders, owners, and developers must reasonably anticipate unavoidable consequences of this method of delivery, or risk undoing all benefit of the approach. One such factor which could lead to catastrophic consequences is reliance on incomplete documents issued by the designer for fixing a price. DESIGN BUILD PREVALENT Although called the “traditional model,” design-bid-build is becoming less and less the norm. It is anticipated by the year 2025 that design build will constitute 47% of all construction spending, significantly surpassing design-bid-build, which is projected to capture 15% of the market share. Further, design build construction spending may exceed $400 billion, according to a study published by the Design Build Institute of America in September 2021. Owners also utilize some combination of fixed price, lump sum, or guaranteed maximum price contracts 86 of the time. In the study, the owners surveyed identified “delivery schedule” as the greatest influence in their selection of a project delivery method, followed by a need for industry expertise due to the growing complexity of projects. Key to achieving these owner objectives, then, is team communication and collaboration.Despite these trends, there remain a number of repeated failures requiring reeducation and redress. One of the primary areas of concern in achieving the owner’s objectives is coming to an understanding of early expectations of the design team. Fast track projects typically involve issuing numerous bid packages to allow acceleration of schedule with design overlapping some construction sequences. Since price is typically fixed before the design is complete, assumptions must be made in the estimating process or sufficient contingencies established. With an incomplete set of construction documents, pricing may be based on narratives, progress drawings, or the owner’s request for proposal which sets a certain level of quality or scope. Whether from price escalation or additional material costs due to incomplete scope or design, the risk of added costs to the project is significant in the design build fast track arena. These risks must be accounted for in the contracts at all levels, but most importantly, accommodated by the owner’s budget. One such risk is early procurement of materials subject to cost escalation, such as structural steel. However, when procurement of construction materials is based on preliminary drawings, does it create more risk to the design builder than they propose to mitigate?PROGRESS SETS OF DRAWINGS Most states do not require design professionals to affix their seal and signature on a preliminary set of documents, and instead allow them to be issued unsigned and unsealed, with a notation that they are “preliminary,” a “progress set,” or “not for construction.” Depending on the client’s needs and contract obligations, the designer may be required to produce certain progress sets of documents at 30/60/90/100% complete. It may be that the 100% set of documents are not signed and sealed until they undergo further review and approval by the client, contractor, and permitting authorities. What reliance, then, can the design builder put to a designer’s preliminary, Design Buildavoid risk of incomplete designFAST TRACKBy William S. Thomas

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202243clearly not for construction, incomplete construction documents? If the contract is silent about the level of detail and use to be put to progress documents, the question ultimately comes down to what was reasonable under the circumstances. The designer will be obligated to perform to the “standard of care,” but how that is judged when their design was not complete and therefore not subject to an “errors or omissions” analysis is unclear. The issue has been before the courts, and one case in particular, Middlesex Corp. v. Fay, Spofford & Thorndike, Inc., (Mass. Super. Court 2019), provides an interesting study. In the case, Middlesex, the design builder, was awarded a Massachusetts DOT project based on preliminary drawings prepared by its engineering subconsultant under a “teaming agreement” before contract award. After the price was fixed by the award, the design was finalized, and an additional $4 million in structural steel costs were added. The design builder sought to recover those costs from the designer. The court heard testimony from experts on the type of contingency that should be included on such a design build project, all of whom agreed 10% was appropriate. Middlesex only reserved 1 to 2%. Further, the court found: “that in design/build projects weights, complexities and therefore construction costs invariably increase after the contract is awarded as design development proceeds to the final approved-by-owner construction design,” and ultimately did not award the $4 million sought against the design firm. ADDRESSING RISK As was noted in the DBIA 2021 study, it is critical that the owner and design builder team achieve early alignment on the expectations of design so that goals can be achieved. The number of design packages needs to be carefully considered, as there will inevitably be coordination issues and design changes associated therewith which will increase costs. The owner and design builder need to carefully manage their submittal schedules and decision points to ensure the schedule is maintained. Early pricing of the project must be carefully scrutinized, and should involve the design team in the review process. Before the GMP is established, the design builder should ensure there is a complete list of the scope and pricing assumptions they are making, along with sufficient allowances to address the level of design completeness. The design team should be consulted on these assumptions and allowances and be allowed to weigh in on them. Without clear communication and honest accounting for contingencies, things like re-work costs, unanticipated changes to the design and scope creep will end up busting he budget. Finally, the design builder needs to be clear with the designer on the uses put to the various progress sets of drawings. If it is anticipated they will use the 60% progress set to lock in pricing on building materials, the designer needs to include a sufficient level of detail for major components, to give the subcontracting community enough information to set pricing, provide plug numbers or reasonable estimates, or work with the design builder to calculate sufficient contingencies to account for later changes and additions. At the end of the day, the owner is the only one benefitting from a fast track approach, and so, the design builder, in early contract negotiations must use care to ensure their agreement includes sufficient protections to allow for recovery of costs associated with betterment or cost increases necessitated by design changes due to reliance on preliminary drawings. CLOSING THOUGHTGiven the trend towards more and more design build using a fast track approach, parties to these projects must clearly communicate expectations and appropriately accommodate for contingencies, or else, the trends for more and more claims will increase as well. about the authorWilliam Thomas is a principal at Gausnell, O’Keefe & Thomas, LLC in St. Louis, where he focuses his practice on construction claims and loss prevention. He is a member of the International Association of Defense Counsel, serving on its Construction Law Committee, as well as an AAA Panel Arbitrator, Fellow with the Construction Lawyers Society of America, and member of the ABA Forum on Construction, AIA, and ASCE. He can be reached at wthomas@gotlawstl.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com46software solutionPayroll Processthe upside of changeBEST PRACTICEHorses were used by just about everybody, crowding the streets of New York City. Foul odors and accidents were commonplace. Pollution during this period of time was at an all-time high. Then cars arrived. Pollution was documented to be a lot less than the popular horse. Cars were faster. Multiple people could use the same car.“If I buy something, I first have to go see it and touch it,” was the mantra of most people who purchased consumer products. Then on July 5, 1994, the juggernaut of retailers was born. People buy from merchants on a regular basis.CHANGE IS INEVITABLESome cars steer without touching the wheel and park themselves. Computers fit in our pocket. Mid-American conference schools beat Big 10 schools in basketball and football.For most people, change is … difficult, very difficult. Change usually comes with perceived risk, avoidance of pain, and adapting to the unknown. There can be uneasiness along with the fear of lost time and money. The upside of change is improvement, especially when it comes to construction. Take, for example, doing payroll. Many construction companies still manually prepare their payroll with a writing instrument and paper—just as it was done 200 years ago. Mistakes were prevalent then as they are now.What if changing from manual preparation of your payroll—no matter how big—to automated certified payroll, came with:• No risk or pain• 80% saving of time and money• Total compliance with the Davis Bacon Act• No compliance errors for 77,000+ clients• 24 hour customer service• 8 minute Friday payroll• Inexpensive priceAre you still doing your payroll manually? Errors happen.DAVIS BACON ACTThe Davis Bacon Act, passed by congress in 1931, requires private contractors to pay “prevailing wages” to employees on all federally funded construction projects over $2,000. Stiff fines, debarment, and jail time can result if payroll checks are not in compliance. There are 30+ compliance regulations that must be adhered to for every check. eMars and Compliant Client take care of all the compliance issues, guidelines, and mandates of the Davis Bacon and Related Acts and many state variations.The Compliant Client system by eMars is your answer for worry-free, time-saving compliant payroll. The system is easy to install and use. It provides immediate, concurrent, real-time visibility of all payroll records of the sub, prime, plus—the owner agency. All screens are printable. Every submitted payroll is audited, online, and in real time, against the wage determination and all 30 causes that are in support of Davis Bacon and Related Acts. The results of these comparisons to the provisions set forth in the act are immediately reported, allowing corrections to be made promptly. EASY AND EFFICIENTCompliant Client requires a PC and less than 60 minutes of training. Complete implementation takes less than 1 day after loading the wage determination. Compared to paper and pencil preparation, the eMars system represents an 80% productivity improvement, plus instant recognition of

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202247payroll errors that prompt the user how to solve the problems and guarantee compliance. The system interacts with other computer-based interfaces. The system was designed with considerable input from the Department of Labor, agencies, and contractors. Compliant Client’s 77,000+ clients have not had any random Department of Labor audits for the past 3 years. The Department of Labor’s Chief of Compliance stated that “…your system already has completed the first level of an audit...” Compliant Client also encrypts at rest data, giving another layer of security for this sensitive data, disallowing use of the information. ENCRYPTION CRITICALWhat happens to typical “at rest data” in most computers? For many organizations, private at rest data is only protected by the user name and passcode to get into the computer.The primary purpose of encryption is to protect the confidentiality of digital data stored on computer systems or transmitted via the internet or other computer networks. Modern encryption algorithms play a vital role in the security assurance of IT systems and communications. They can provide not only confidentiality, but also the following key elements of security:• Authentication: the origin of a message can be verified• Integrity: proof that the contents of a message have not been changed since it was sent• Non-repudiation: the sender of a message cannot deny sending the message “Security and peace of mind for our clients is our major concern”, says Woody Chamberlain, president of eMars Incorporated, the company that offers Compliant Client. From routine payroll reviews to the complicated tracking of certified apprentices and calculation of restitution, Compliant Client ensures that at rest payroll data is encrypted, remains error-free, and follows Davis Bacon and Other Related Acts. CLOSING THOUGHTBased on a study of 100,000 payrolls, at least 20% of construction company payrolls will contain one or more errors, when audits rely on human review. A proven web-based certified payroll system by eMars has had “0” errors for all users since its inception 15 years ago. Changing to a web-based, worry-free certified payroll is now an option. for more informationFor more about eMars, call 480.595.0466 for a no obligation discovery phone call, or email woody.chamberlain@emarsinc.com. For more, visit emarsinc.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com48safety solutionMoving materials and heavy equipment to and from a worksite is serious business and it pays to be knowledgeable and vigilant. A LOADED QUESTION“Are we securing this cargo correctly?” It’s a question that’s asked every day across the country. But securing cargo, particularly heavy cargo and construction equipment on open-deck, hydraulic, spread axle, tank hauler, lowbed, flat bed, gooseneck, and ultra-heavy capacity trailers can challenge the expertise of even the most seasoned professionals. Fleets, vehicle operators, and others responsible for securing a payload, must stay well informed and keep up-to-date with federal regulations and how these apply to each vehicle’s individual cargo. They must also possess a basic understanding of their cargo’s shape, weight, geometric form, and how physical forces will act on the load once it is in motion. LAWS OF THE LANDFleets and professional drivers must have a strong working knowledge of federal regulations. In North America, the official regulations are governed by two key entities. In the United States, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) establishes the regulations. In Canada, the regulations are set forth by the National Safety Code Standard 10 – Cargo Securement (NSC 10).The FMCSA is an agency in the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) that regulates the American trucking industry as a whole. The agency provides information regarding safety as required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Parts 392 and 393. The Drivers-Handbook on Cargo-Securement by the FMCSA also classifies different commodities and stipulates the standards for proper securement of these specific load types. These are:• Logs• Dressed Lumber & similar building products• Metal Coils• Paper Rolls• Concrete Pipe-loaded Crosswise on a Platform-vehicle• Intermodal Containers• Automobiles, Vans and Light Trucks• Heavy Vehicles, as well as Equipment & Machinery• Flattened or Crushed Vehicles• Roll-on/ Roll-off Hook-Lift Containers• Large BouldersFMCSA regulations are informed by standards published by The Web Sling and Tie Down Association (WSTDA), regarding recommended standard specification for load securement devices, including synthetic web tie downs, winches used with web tie downs, and load binders used with chain tie downs. The WSTDA standards detail definitions, construction, testing procedures, operating practices for tie downs, winches, and load binders. The National Association of Chain Manufacturers (NACM) writes the standards for steel chain used for load securement.LAWS OF PHYSICSPhysical forces begin to act upon cargo as soon as it’s on the move. The surface conditions and the mechanical action and movement of the trailer begins to be transferred to its cargo. To keep cargo stable and in its proper position, one Cargo Securementprocesses and techniques for transportHEAVY EQUIPMENTBy Ralph Abato

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202249must comprehend the basic forces that can cause a payload to shift, tip, slide, and otherwise become unstable. The gravitational force, most commonly referred to as “g-force” or “g” is the most important part of the equation. One g is basically equal to something’s weight here on earth and first knowing the weight of one’s cargo is necessary to understand performance criteria for the breaking strength and related working load limit (WLL) of tie down assemblies (including chains, wire rope, steel strapping, synthetic webbing, and cordage) and other attachments or fastening devices used to secure articles of cargo. All such devices are manufactured to include clearly marked information on WLL and these must remain legible for a tie down assemblies to remain in service.According to FMCSA regulations for performance criteria, cargo securement devices and systems must be capable of withstanding the following three forces, applied separately:• 0.8 g (or 80% of the weight of the cargo) deceleration in the forward direction• 0.5 g (or 50% of the weight of the cargo) acceleration in the rearward direction• 0.5 g (or 50% of the weight of the cargo) acceleration in a lateral directionSecurement systems must provide a downward force equivalent to at least 20% of the weight of the article of cargo if the article is not fully contained within the structure of a vehicle. WSTDA has established the design factor of tie down straps as 3:1 or a WLL of 1/3 of the tie down strap’s breaking strength. For chains, the design factor is 4:1 or a WLL of 1/4 of the chain’s breaking strength.The combined ratings of all the straps or chains must equal at least one-half the load’s total weight. If the load is 80,000 lbs, the aggregate WLL of all the tie-downs together must equal at least 40,000 lbs. Along with FMCSA guideline, one should ensure that these four critical conditions are met:1. The cargo should be fully contained and supported by the flatbed structure and should be restrained from any horizontal or vertical movement.2. The cargo should be fully restrained from shifting or tipping over by the trucks structure and blocking implements of adequate strength.3. The cargo should be completely immobilized by appropriately applied tie-downs so it can withstand the required g-forces in all directions.4. Consideration should be given to the angle from the horizontal tie down to its anchor point on the trailer, as this affects the downward pressure. The lower the angle, the less pressure and friction against the load. This may result in the need for additional tie downs.1-877-350-5584

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com50safety solutionANGLING FOR SUCCESSOften overlooked, the angle of a tie down assembly can significantly decrease the amount of downward pressure exerted on a load, reducing friction between tiers of stacked cargo, and ultimately, against the deck. As an example, at a 30-degree angle, a tie down may only be able to exert 50% of its effective downward pressure, which under certain circumstances may allow some cargo, including sheeted materials to slide or become unstable.Unfortunately, the noted angle factors assume equal tension on all parts of the tie down assembly, but in reality, tie down tension varies from side-to-side due to friction on the cargo. So, the effective downward pressure impact on actual load securement is compounded.In all cases, chains and straps face limits on cuts, breaks, and other defects as defined in a Defect Classification Table in the CVSA guidelines. Inspectors use the Out of Service Guideline when examining a vehicle’s cargo securement. It’s wise to make chain and strap inspection a part of any cargo securement application process.CLOSING THOUGHTSCargo can be expertly secured at the outset of transit, but once it’s moving, everything can and will change. Per FMCSA 392.9 Inspection of Cargo, Cargo Securement Devices and Systems, drivers are required to inspect cargo before driving the vehicle and no more than 49.7 miles from where the cargo is loaded.Periodic Inspection of Cargo Securement Devices and Systems is mandatory when:• There is a change of duty status for the driver.• The vehicle has been driven more than 3 hours.• The vehicle has been driven for 149.129 miles. Be in compliance! When in doubt, visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website at www.fmcsa.dot.gov for the most up to date regulations in the U.S. and Canadian Council of Motor Transport Administrators in Canada at ccmta.ca/en/. about the authorRalph Abato has been an active member of the Web Sling and Tie Down Association (WSTDA) for more than three decades. He currently serves as vice chair of the Technical Resource Committee, has previously served as vice president of the Association, as technical chairman of both Tie Down and Sling committees. He continues to serve on WSTDA’s Board of Directors. Abato is also president/managing director, Doleco USA. For more about Doleco USA, and its DoNova PowerLift Chain Slings and PowerLash Textile Lashing Chain and Tie Down System, visit www.doleco-usa.com.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com52safety solutionIn commercial facilities built across the country, the most common technique for preventing slip and fall accidents on stairs is the application of non-skid adhesive tapes or epoxy coatings embedded with aggregate. The appeal of this approach is that untrained personnel can quickly and easily apply the protection. However, for high-traffic stairways, tapes can peel off (creating a trip hazard) and coatings abrade away quickly, leading to frequent reapplication every few months to maintain safety standards.Now, a new category of durable high-tech epoxy is available as solution to effectively ensure superior stair tread footing, safety, and visibility for years without re-application. This option dramatically reduces the need for maintenance and replacement even in heavily traveled areas and can be quickly and easily applied on stair treads by facility personnel.SLIP AND FALL EPIDEMICSlip and fall incidents are a leading cause of injury and a factor in many workers’ compensation claims. “In general, falls and slips are responsible for 15% of all accidental deaths, the second leading cause behind motor vehicles and account for 25% of all reported injury claims,” according to The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). “Injuries from falls of all types cause a variety of strains, sprains, fractures, contusions, concussions, back injuries, paralysis, as well as fatalities, particularly when the fall is from a height.”The risk of a serious fall on stairs inevitably increases when people are inattentive, looking at their smartphones, talking with others, or carrying items. The slip and fall hazard—both in terms of physical injury and potential liability—only increases when the stairs are wet and slippery, or the area is not well illuminated.To dramatically improve facility safety, enhancing the traction, feel, and visibility of stair treads is the most effective means of reducing slip and fall incidents and injuries. LONG-TERM SOLUTIONEnhancing the traction of stair treads to improve safety is not a new concept. However, most options on the market are decidedly low-tech, such as applying non-skid adhesive tape or a coating with embedded aggregate to each tread. “We have nice tile stairs throughout the property, and we could not find anything that would [adequately] stick to the porcelain says Harry Ramos, head of facilities at Bear Lakes Country Club in West Palm Beach. He notes that spiked golf shoes, rain, and hot, humid weather dramatically shortened the paint’s lifespan due to peeling and chipping.According to Ramos, when a representative for a high-traffic paint suggested that a primer should be applied before the coating, it still proved unsatisfactory. “Golfers’ spiked shoes chipped the paint and after only a week it started to look worn,” he says.Another common solution at many facilities is the application of a non-skid tape embedded with aggregate. However, if the adhesive does not adhere well to the surface, it can peel off and become a trip hazard within a few months. The aggregate in the tape is only lightly embedded on the surface as well, and in high traffic areas can quickly wear away. In addition to reducing safety, poorly maintained stairs with worn coatings or peeling tape portray a shoddy, unprofessional image as well.“We have many highly used stairs and were re-applying the paint or non-skid tape about once a month,” Ramos says. “After a while, we felt it was a waste of time.”Fortunately, Ramos discovered a more durable epoxy paste consisting of 100% solids that, once applied, can last for years in high traffic areas. The patented product from Form-A-Tread Company provides an extremely strong bond to a range of stair tread surfaces, with embedded aggregate to increase traction. The epoxy paste can be used indoors or outdoors as well as exposed to chemicals, weather, and temperature extremes. The bond is so strong that a chisel or angle grinder is required to remove the stair tread line, an advantage in high-traffic areas.SOLUTION WITH GRITIn the case of Bear Lakes Country Club, Ramos applied the Form-A-Tread epoxy paste to improve safety and minimize the Stair Safety Stair Safety preventing slips and falls ALL ABOUT THE TREADBy Del Williams

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202253possibility of members slipping on stairs given the hot, humid, and wet weather in Florida. “The epoxy sticks to just about anything—including the porcelain tile—and really lasts. A year after we applied the epoxy to our stairs the original [tread] traction is still there, and I do not see any wear and tear. It looks like it was applied last week,” says Ramos.In addition to the high traffic from members, the stairs also are power washed every 3 months without affecting the epoxy. The high strength epoxy paste is designed to be easy to apply to stair treads by even untrained personnel and cures in a couple hours. In a kit supplied by Form-A-Tread, there is a 400 ml cartridge of material that can produce 25 to 40 linear feet of one-inch-wide tread depending on the surface type. A special tool is then used to dispense and mix the material at the time of application in the correct ratio—eliminating the risk of human error. In addition to straight line treads, instructions such as “Exit Here” or a corporate logo can be applied using the material and a stencil.For added safety, the 100% epoxy tread line does not shrink and so provides a superior tactile sensation that creates greater awareness of footing when climbing or descending stairs. CLOSING THOUGHTThe product is available in black and safety yellow to delineate the edge of each stair tread. To increase safety in low light, indoor facility settings, the company also offers a patented photoluminescent version of the stair tread safety product which glows-in-the-dark to provide greater visibility. about the authorDel Williams is a technical writer based in Torrance, California. For more about Form-A-Tread, visit form-a-tread.com.WE BUILD STUFF, TOO.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com54technology solutionYou’ve no doubt noticed the huge nationwide push to transition to electric vehicles. With major vehicle manufacturers pledging to phase out gas vehicles in the next 10-20 years, rising fuel prices already have demand for EVs so high that vehicle manufacturers can’t keep up. The US is currently revving into high gear to roll out the charging infrastructure necessary to power this EV future: Congress’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated $7.5 billion for a national network of charging stations, and state and local governments are passing green initiatives and updating building codes to require more EV chargers at new and existing structures. Huge revenue opportunities are also driving the installation of chargers at retail, hospitality, workplace, and other commercial buildings. Clearly, EV chargers will play a big part in building going forward. However, there are a lot of different chargers out there, and before you start installing them, there’s one important thing to keep in mind: not all chargers are created equal. In fact, many of them are unreliable or just plain inconvenient—so much so that one in five EV drivers switch back to a gas vehicle.You don’t want to commit 10-25% of a building’s parking spaces to faulty chargers that are going to make the owners and you look bad. Here are some important considerations when choosing EV chargers:RELIABILITYYou might’ve heard that cellular providers are discontinuing their 3G service to make way for 5G. Unfortunately for EV drivers, a lot of current chargers require 3G to function and so are now or soon will be unusable.While newer chargers won’t have this problem, it is important that going forward, we invest only in charging stations that are future-proof with LTE connectivity that won’t become obsolete.3G isn’t the only technological barrier facing EV drivers. The majority of the chargers on the market use licensed software, meaning the hardware is not made by the same company that makes the software. This causes all kinds of reliability issues, from broken credit card swipers to stations that tell drivers they are available when they are actually already in use—or inoperable. To make chargers reliable and versatile enough to be worth the cost of investing in them, they need to have integrated hardware and software that can give accurate real-time status updates. The charger company needs to know the moment a station goes down and have a responsive maintenance structure to get it up and running quickly. A recent study found that nearly 28% of San Francisco Bay Area chargers were inoperable. Imagine a gas station during rush hour with over a quarter of the pumps not working.The software on chargers should also have an open API that can seamlessly integrate with apps like Google Maps and PlugShare, allowing users to easily find available stations—and drawing customers to the businesses at which they’re located. The cloud software that owners use to operate their chargers should also be tailored to their particular needs, whether they run a hotel or a parking garage. This software also needs to communicate with the utility companies to regulate grid strain.USABILITYMost charging stations force users to go through a laborious process that includes signing up for a membership, giving personal information, and maintaining a topped-up balance. They probably also require downloading an app, and in some EV Chargingimpact on modern commercial buildingINFO TO KNOWBy Hooman Shahidi

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202255cases, even waiting for a key fob to arrive in the mail. The irony is that since most of these chargers use the same licensed software with a different label on it, you actually need to have several copies of essentially the same app on your phone so you’re prepared for whatever brand charger is nearby. There are, however, chargers that are as simple as scanning a QR code to activate and bring up a variety of touchless payment options.Lately, the question of ADA Accessibility with EV chargers has been rightfully getting more attention. Many charging stations are in the form of pedestals, which can be bulky and not all that easy to place—especially when retrofitting existing structures. Charger screens might be too high or cords too short for those in wheelchairs to access. However, QR codes can be placed on the charger handle for easier access and non-pedestal stations can be installed on various surfaces and at customizable heights.This point also ties into greater aesthetic and design considerations around integrating chargers into existing locations as well as rethinking new building designs to accommodate them. Some chargers can even be customized with vinyl wraps to match the property or brand.FUTURE OF BUILDINGAs cities and states across the US adopt their own Green New Deals and set ambitious goals for going carbon neutral in the coming decades, they’re also investing heavily in EV charging infrastructure to help reach those targets. Incentives for businesses as well as updates to building codes that require increased EV charging capabilities are going to continue to make charging stations an increasingly important part of designing, building and retrofitting commercial buildings. That’s on top of the revenue opportunity charging stations represent for businesses and the competitive advantage they provide in places like apartment complexes. CLOSING THOUGHTIt’s important not only for contractors’ reputations but for a more energy efficient world that we invest in charging stations that are easy to use and install and can reliably power our EV future. about the authorHooman Shahidi is the co-founder and president of EVPassport, the first infrastructure engagement platform using electric vehicle charging hardware and API-driven software to dynamically personalize the charging experience for business owners and operators while providing the most frictionless charging experience for drivers. Hooman is widely considered an innovator and evangelist in the EV and EV charging industry, helping to pioneer the first truly interoperable, EV charging network.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com56technology solutionAs exciting as it is, winning a bid is just the start of the process.Before putting any shovels into the ground and turning any dirt, contractors have an opportunity to put in place a framework for success for the entire job.Contractors face many potential pitfalls on a job, whether managing resources, documenting progress, or grappling with unforeseen challenges.Contractors need unprecedented insights into every aspect of the job. They need real-time data to inform decisions to ensure it is profitable and avoid costly overruns.As part of the process, contractors need to allocate financial and human capital resources and create a detailed plan before breaking ground. Adopting Advanced Digital Construction Management (ADCM) technologies can help minimize a project’s risks and increase the transparency of progress.Empowering teams with ADCM will help boost productivity, manage the complex modern jobsite, enhance safety, and reduce project delays and cost overruns.There are eight core elements of an ADCM: design; revisions and change requests; backup (IT, data, technical, components); terrain; resources; data management; as-built information; and team preparation.ADCM is so powerful that Congress included it in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) that President Biden signed into law in 2021, hoping to fast-track technology’s adoption throughout the construction lifecycle.A PATH TO ADCM SUCCESSWhile every project is unique and requires a different approach to advanced digital construction management, eight core elements of ADCM make up best practices and work from one jobsite to another.Dodge Data & Analytics has consistently revealed that increasing the sophistication of data collection helps contractors improve productivity, safety, and profitability.More than half (56%) said it would improve bid estimation, while a similar number (52%) said it would improve productivity and (51%) improve budget performance. Nearly half (48%) said it would improve safety.It is, however, not always an easy task to prepare people, products, and precious resources. A lack of skilled workers, increased labor costs, and decreasing margins add to the difficulties in completing jobs on time and within budget.Let’s evaluate the ways each of the eight core elements apply to the modern jobsite. IT STARTS WITH A FIRM UNDERSTANDING OF THE LANDSCAPEBefore rolling equipment onto the jobsite, contractors need to understand the intricacies of the location. Doing so will help them make informed decisions and embrace the best approach to complete the project.Missing or incomplete information is often the downfall of a project and can lead to incorrect decisions. Creating a digital twin by capturing and validating existing conditions on the front end helps prevent costly delays and incorrect bids. BE BETTER PREPARED TO HANDLE CHANGESRevisions are a part of the job. While there is no way to eliminate them, contractors can better prepare to make such adjustments in stride.Technology enables supervisors to stay connected 24/7 and without the need to be on the jobsite. So, they can make decisions remotely in real time and share updated plans and information with stakeholders. SECURELY BACKUP ALL CRITICAL DATAData security is a mission-critical imperative in a world filled with cyber threats, making it as critical as the project plans themselves. Whether it’s backing up project plans, user guides, or spare components to complex methods such as cloud-enabled data recovery, the safeguarding of data is as important as collecting the data. UNDERSTAND THE TERRAINJobsites with hard-to-access areas and other challenges, such as no internet access or Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) availability, post a potentially significant problem. The key is to avoid and prepare for those challenges before they become time-consuming and costly. Technologies such as digital terrain modeling, 3D machine control, laser scanning, robotic total stations, Digital TechnologyDigital Technologycritical for site preparation and mobilizationADCM CORE ELEMENTSBy Matt Desmond

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202257advanced GNSS rovers, and underground detection solutions enable teams to work quicker and more safely. SAFEGUARD VALUABLE RESOURCESRising material costs are one of the most significant threats to a contractor’s bottom line. Coupled with inflation and the ongoing labor shortage, contractors don’t have much wiggle room for unexpected cost increases.Easy-to-use software solutions can help contractors expedite their estimates and ensure their accuracy. It also allows them to monitor the use of construction materials throughout the project. DATA MANAGEMENTBelieve it or not, data is the most powerful tool on the jobsite today. Used correctly, it can help contractors inform decisions and drive productivity while keeping workers safe and safeguarding resources. CAPTURE AS-BUILT INFOBefore breaking ground, it’s important to establish milestones to track throughout the project. Before the widespread use of technology, collecting and reporting data was cumbersome.However, digital as-builts have endless potential to enhance safety throughout the project and save time and money by ensuring projects are built according to specifications. ENSURE TEAM PREPARATIONCombatting the ongoing labor shortage requires attracting younger workers and upskilling current ones. Both will complement the move toward a technology-centric jobsite.Using digital technology throughout the project lengthens the asset’s lifespan. Reality capture technology may be used to document an asset throughout its construction to create a digital twin of the asset, which can be used as a baseline for predictive maintenance. GET PROJECT READYUltimately, technology is about making sure the team is prepared for whatever challenges arise. It can help speed up workflow, avert costly mistakes and keep a project’s momentum moving in the right direction. CLOSING THOUGHTIf efficiency is critical to mission success, ensuring that project stakeholders are aligned at every step of the process is the key to making that happen. With that in mind, are you ready to find out what technology solutions your project needs? about the authorMatt Desmond is president of Agtek and vice president of heavy construction, Construction Management Solution at Hexagon. For more, visit heavyconstruction.hexagon.com. Connect with Matt on LinkedIn.

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com58maintenance solutionMitigating RiskMitigating Riskcontinuous waterproofing and methane barrier DESIGN AND PERFORMANCEWith the availability of buildable land declining in many high-demand markets, the pressure to build on suboptimal lots, including brownfields, is intensifying. This makes the requirement to install a robust, continuous waterproofing and gas membrane between the ground and the structure more critical than ever. DUAL THREATS Water intrusion is a perennial concern due to its impact on the long-term structural integrity of concrete foundations and walls, and of the building itself. Concrete is vulnerable to groundwater and chemical contaminants in the soil. These can leach into the pores and cracks of the concrete and degrade its integrity, causing spalling and corroding the reinforcing steel. Moisture migrating into the building can also degrade structural elements over time and lead to mold and other hazards to occupants’ health.In addition, there is growing concern regarding the intrusion of methane and other gases and chemicals, such as trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), from the soil. Methane, a hydrocarbon (CH4), is a potent greenhouse gas (GHG) and can have serious health implications for building occupants. In some jurisdictions, this concern is driving regulations requiring proactive mitigation. In the U.S., California is leading the trend with methane mitigation standards issued by the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS). To comply with these standards, any methane barrier must have Los Angeles Research Report (LARR) approval, certifying that it meets testing requirements defined by the city.BARRIER REQUIREMENTSMeeting these challenges demands a pre-applied or post-applied membrane that meets a host of functional and performance requirements. It must be:• Continuous: Preventing any gaps that could allow water or gas intrusion• Fully bonded with the concrete: Preventing voids that could allow water or gas migration between the barrier and the substrate• Durable: With the ability to stand up to the elements for the life of the structure• Easy to install: Ensuring correct application with typical installer skills and equipment• Proven: With a track record of performance under real-world conditions• Backed by a company: Recognized for technical innovation and product support excellenceGCP has two proven solutions that meet these requirements for both pre-applied and post-applied applications: PREPRUFE® 300R Plus and BITUTHENE® 8000.PRE-APPLIED BARRIERPREPRUFE 300R Plus is a composite sheet membrane comprised of a thick high-density polyethylene (HDPE) film, pressure-sensitive adhesive, and weather-resistant protective coating. As a pre-applied membrane, it is installed directly against the formwork or other soil retaining system before the reinforcement is placed. Concrete is then poured directly onto the membrane, forming a permanent, continuous bond with the PREPRUFE 300R Plus membrane. The membrane’s waterproofing system does not require water activation, confining pressure, or chemical hydration to bond with the concrete.

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202259Once installed on the formwork, the PREPRUFE 300R Plus membrane can be trafficked immediately, allowing placement of reinforcement using standard concrete spacers. The installed membrane is unaffected by typical jobsite conditions, including wet or freeze/thaw conditions. POST-APPLIED BARRIER BITUTHENE 8000 is a self-adhesive, cold-applied sheet membrane for above- and below-ground applications. It can be used either horizontally or vertically. BITUTHENE 8000 features a thick, HDPE composite carrier film. BITUTHENE technology has been proven in more than 50 years of use in the field across countless projects, under a wide range of conditions.GCP helps building engineers, architects, and contractors meet the challenges of today’s construction site realities with advanced solutions for above- and below-grade waterproofing and methane barriers. PREPRUFE 300R Plus pre-applied and BITUTHENE 8000 post-applied membranes have been designed and tested—both in the laboratory and in the field over decades—to provide the highest levels of:• Adhesion performance and continuity• Long-term durability and integrity• Resistance to water migration • Resistance to various gas intrusion, including TCE/PCE/BTEX• Ease of installationCLOSING THOUGHTPREPRUFE 300R Plus and BITUTHENE 8000 offer two compelling solutions for mitigating risk, ensuring regulatory compliance and protecting the health of building occupants, today and into the future. for more informationGCP is a leading global provider of construction products that include high-performance specialty construction chemicals and building materials. GCP partners with producers, contractors, designers and engineers to achieve performance and sustainability goals. The company has a legacy of first to market and award-winning solutions that have been used to build some of the world’s most renowned structures. GCP is focused on continuous improvement for its customers, end-users and the environment. For more, visit gcpat.com.READ ENTIRE ARTICLECOMPLETE WITH GRAPHSMCSMAG.COM

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com60Contractor’s #1 Choice for Flat FloorsA great power screed using straight flat screed bars. TheThe❝❝Black BeauBlack Beautyty❞❞GET FLAT FLOORS!Screed bars are available in lengths up to 20 feet.▼ Equilateral screed bars stay straight through years of use.▼ Now available with “T” handle (shown) or “Bicycle” handle.▼LOCATE A DEALER AT advancedconcretescreeds.com OR CALL US AT 800-64 8-0542.• Well Rehab Products• Manholes• Bentonite• Filter Sock• Inline Chemical Mixers• Sampling Bailers• Clear PVC Pipe• Locking CapsAtlantic Screen& Manufacturing, Inc.Manufacturers of slotted & perforated pipe ranging from ½” to 24” in diameter302-684-3197Fax 302-684-0643142 Broadkill Road ■ Milton, DE 19968www.atlantic-screen.com ■ atlantic@ce.net

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com62featured productFrom general contracting jobs where running multiple tools and equipment is a daily necessity to construction projects where portability is a requirement, Mi-T-M’s vast array of portable generators offer power options for every need. From compact inverters to industrial generators, Mi-T-M has the perfect generator for you and your crew.CHOREMASTER GENERATORSFor larger jobs, Mi-T-M’s popular ChoreMaster generators, ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 watts, are the ideal choice. This new line of open frame generators is equipped with carbon monoxide (CO) detection and automatic shutdown if CO levels become unsafe. They provide maximum power needed for any task at hand and include handles and wheels for easy portability. INVERTER GENERATORSMi-T-M’s inverter generators, also come standard with CO detection and automatic shutdown. They range from 2,000 up to 8,000 watts and are built with inverter technology for reduced size, weight, noise, and fuel consumption. The 2,000 and 2,500 watt inverters are lightweight and easy to carry, the 3,500 features an open frame design and the 4,000 and 8,000 watt models include electric start and digital displays. All jobsites will have the power necessary to run and charge tools with these inverter generators. Leaning towards Mi-T-M’s line of inverter generators? Make sure to consider Mi-T-M’s inverter parallel port box accessory to deliver double the power. The parallel port box allows contractors to connect two inverters to utilize the power of two units at once, improving job efficiency. GASOLINE GENERATORSFor industrial applications and designed specifically with contractors in mind, the 3,000 up to 14,000 watt Mi-T-M gasoline generators are supreme when it comes to powering a multitude of tools on any jobsite. These industrial generators include easy-access and protected control panels and GFCI-protected receptacles. With run times ranging from 6.8–8 hours at full load, they provide power that is essential for commercial and industrial applications. PORTABLE DIESEL GENERATORIf you are looking for a generator that is more fuel efficient, Mi-T-M’s 6000-watt portable diesel generator is the way to go. It provides heavy-duty power for extended operation and is perfect for off-the-grid sites, powering a variety of tools at once to get jobs done quick. BUILT TO LASTAll Mi-T-M generators come standard with low tone mufflers, magnetic circuit breakers, USDA/USFS-approved spark arrestors and heavy-duty steel wraparound frames. They are built to last and perform each and every time. Mi-T-MPortable Generators for Any Jobsite for more informationMi-T-M Corporation is an employee owned company based in Peosta, Iowa. For over 50 years, Mi-T-M continues to manufacture high quality and dependable industrial equipment. For more, visit www.mitm.com.Ensure you are covered for any jobsite situation and invest in a Mi-T-M portable generator today!

www.mcsmag.com AUGUST 202263modern construction productsThe Trencor T14 Trencher is built for heavy-duty digging. Made to rip through rocks and dig deep into the ground, this product contains a Cat® C18 engine. This machine features mechanical power transmission to make on medium to medium-hard soils, digging trenches ranging from 18 inches to 6 feet wide and 30 feet deep. The advanced load control software and telematics are integrated to regulate speeds, maintain peak engine performance and overall uptime. For more about the Trencor T14 Trencher, visit trencor.com. For engine information, visit www.cat.com. TRENCORTrencher In addition to its lighter weight, the Pitts-burgh Energy medium-duty boot offers additional cushioning and flexibility with a KEEN.ReGEN midsole that returns 50% more energy than standard EVA foam, a KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane, and a TPU shank for midfoot support. The Pittsburgh Energy includes asymmetrical carbon-fiber toes that are 15% lighter than steel, an oil- and slip- resistant outsole, and an EH rating to serve as a secondary source of protec-tion from live circuits. Available in two colorways for men and also has a soft toe option. For more, visit www.keenfootwear.com.. KEEN UTILITYWork Boot The Venco Venturo HT45KX is a fully hydraulic service crane available with 7,500 – 8,000 lb lifting capacities and 20-30 ft boom lengths. The crane is rated at 45,000 ft/lbs and features the proprietary Venturo Logic Controls (VLC™) management system—a wireless remote-control system with a simple in-terface, redundant crane safety features, and operator alerts. The 11 Series is an 11-ft 100% 5052 high-strength aluminum service body available with more than a dozen customizable options. This durable body houses the HT45KX service crane. For more, visit www.venturo.com. VENCO VENTUROService Crane The Diamond Products CC5049DC Walk Behind Saw contains a Cat® C2.2 engine. It has a 14 to 42-inch blade capacity and is ideal for cutting expansion joints and making repairs on roads and highways, as well as any construction application that requires ripping out concrete or cutting inro tough material. It is very easy to handle despite weighing over 1,700 lbs, as the weight is balanced over the blade and not the operator. It is the first walk-behind saw in the US powered by Cat Industrial engine. For more, visit www.diamondproducts.com. For Cat engine information, visit www.cat.com.DIAMOND PRODUCTSWalk Behind Saw

AUGUST 2022 www.mcsmag.com64coach’s cornerOperation Outlook3 strategic planning roadblocksJUST A THOUGHTBy Randy GorukDuring the coming months, it is typical for most companies to begin the planning process for the next year or several years. Strategic planning meetings are an exercise in defining (or refining) the direction of the organization and establishing (or refining) the strategic action plans on how to get there. Given inflation, the uncertainty of the economy, the workforce, and the labor pool, leaders are wise to get a head start on addressing these and other challenges.The three biggest roadblocks for most leaders during the planning process are capturing the vision, identifying the correct planning assumptions, and establishing the plan as a meaningful document. TEST YOUR VISIONVisions without clarity can pose problems. When leaders head in a fuzzy direction, getting the entire organization on board, engaged, and excited about the future is among the biggest challenge to address.A good way (albeit risky) to see how well an existing vision resonates with your organization is randomly asking people these key questions: 1) What is the company’s vision? 2) Why is having a vision important? and 3) What one thing can you do to contribute to that vision? If employees don’t enthusiastically and correctly answer these questions, you’re missing opportunities to deliver on your vision and profitably grow your business every day. IDENTIFY CORRECT BUSINESS ASSUMPTIONS Making assumptions when planning can make or break a strategic plan. They can also make or break a leader. That’s why it’s critical for leaders to avoid these three strategic planning traps:1. Being satisfied with a basic set of assumptions to use during the planning process.2. Setting assumptions with only top-down targets for your team to hit.3. Ignoring the assumptions made once the results of the plan are reviewed.Properly and completely addressing assumptions now can save in confusion, disappointment, and turmoil down the road. These suggestions will help you elevate your performance relative to the assumptions you make when preparing your next strategic plan.• Don’t lose the base set of assumptions you typically use; they’re probably fine.• Expand on your base set of assumptions.• Go deeper into the organization to get feedback on what people see and hear. • Consider conferring with an outside source to challenge your assumptions. • Always review your plan’s progress with your set of assumptions nearby. DON’T LET YOUR PLAN LINGER ON THE BOOKSHELFAvoid creating a plan that simply lands on a bookshelf to collect dust. Instead, make it a living, breathing roadmap that guides your organization and provides everyone with a solid basis for decision making. That way, as market conditions change, you can actively modify your plan to adapt to new situations. Stable companies, big and small, are stable for a reason; they put their business plans in writing and keep them active. about the coachAs a leadership development expert, Randy Goruk works with construction industry leaders to improve employee engagement and business growth. Contact Randy directly to learn how he can help you and your team: randy@LeadersEdge360.com. For more, visit leadersedge360.com.ONE LAST THOUGHT One thing to never do is believe your organization has “made” it. Instead, you must strategically tackle the challenges before you, write and execute your plan, evaluate the progress, make adjustments, and repeat.

HELP STUDENTS BUILD THEIR FUTURE©2022 NCCER & BYFEDUCATIONSCAN MEEXPLORE CAREERS Learn about construction jobs, from salaries to skills.TAKE A CAREER QUIZ Use this quiz to get matched with a career that interests you. FIND EDUCATION, TRAINING AND JOBSConnect with schools, training programs or jobs wherever you want to live. CareerStarter™ helps students explore careers in construction right on their phone. They can take a career quiz, explore the various pathways, create a resume and connect to employers and educational opportunities in their area.OCTOBER IS CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION MONTH. Take the Pledge at byf.org.

HELP STUDENTS BUILD THEIR FUTURE©2022 NCCER & BYFEDUCATIONSCAN MEEXPLORE CAREERS Learn about construction jobs, from salaries to skills.TAKE A CAREER QUIZ Use this quiz to get matched with a career that interests you. FIND EDUCATION, TRAINING AND JOBSConnect with schools, training programs or jobs wherever you want to live. CareerStarter™ helps students explore careers in construction right on their phone. They can take a career quiz, explore the various pathways, create a resume and connect to employers and educational opportunities in their area.OCTOBER IS CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION MONTH. Take the Pledge at byf.org.