Return to flip book view
WWW.MW SMAG.COMMAY 2023DIGITAL EDITION
SEE OUR AD INSIDE THIS ISSUE ON PAGE 33
IMPROVE FLEET SAFETY CULTUREINSURANCE RENEWAL TIPSMAY2023EMPLOY MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONSIMPROVE SERVICE TIMES IN THE SHOPHEAVY DUTY THE SHYFT GROUP BLUE ARC CLASS 5 EVTHE MAINTENANCE +SAFETY ISSUE8 ELECTRICAL SUPPLY TIPSKEEP TRUCK FLEETS IN SERVICEWWW.MWSMAG.COM
CONNECT WITH US on Twitter (@mwsmag), Facebook (www.facebook.com/modernworktruck), and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/modern-work-truck-solutions).INSIDE THIS ISSUEMAY 2023 VOL-8 NO-5PETERSONVEHICLE LIGHTING AND HARNESS SYSTEMSPeterson’s USA-made Rectangular LED Pedestal-Mount Light, 4-inch LED Rubber Housing Work Light, and LED 7-inch PAR 56 Headlight are tough in any environment. www.petersonlightsandharnesses.comDRIVERS ARE DISTRACTED. THIS SURVEY SHOWS HOW MUCH .........................IMPROVE FLEET SAFETY CULTUREINSURANCE RENEWAL TIPSMAY2023WWW.MWSMAG.COMEMPLOY MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONSIMPROVE SERVICE TIMES IN THE SHOPHEAVY DUTY THE SHYFT GROUP BLUE ARC EV CLASS 5THE MAINTENANCE +SAFETY ISSUE8 ELECTRICAL SUPPLY TIPSKEEP TRUCK FLEETS IN SERVICECOVER STORIESMAINTENANCE8 ELECTRICAL SUPPLY TIPS .................30Keep truck fleets in serviceINDUSTRY NEWS ................................INDUSTRY INSIGHT ........................... PRODUCT SHOWCASE ......................IN EVERY ISSUE16LIGHT-DUTY2023 INDUSTRY CHALLENGES PLAN AHEADTIPS FROM TEREX WHAT TO INSPECTHEAVY-DUTY34BLUE ARC EV EFFICIENT AND FLEXIBLE12MEDIUM-DUTYSHOWCASETECHNOLOGYEMPLOY MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS ...................38Improve service times in the shopTHE MAINTENANCE +SAFETY ISSUESAFETYIMPROVE FLEET SAFETY CULTURE ...........46Insurance renewal tips
OPERATIONS THE UNEXPECTED HERO OF REFUELING EFFICIENCY ..............20 How Ricochet Fuel Distributors increased efficiency with Western Global Fuel TanksMAINTENANCE HOW ONE PREDICTIVE ALERT SAVED $40,000 ........................24 Know your vehicle breakdown before it breaks downMAINTENANCE THE IMPORTANCE OF PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE ..................26 A preventive maintenance checklistSAFETY HOW TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS ...............................................42 Loading ramp safety hazardsSAFETY AN AI-ENABLED SAFETY SYSTEM THAT KEEPS DRIVER SAFETY AND PRIVACY A TOP PRIORITY ..................................48 HowNautousescomputervisiontoencouragesaferdriving:part2FEATURED PRODUCT PETERSON VEHICLE LIGHTING AND HARNESS SYSTEMS ........51 A family that lights the way244251www.mwsmag.com 3100 Lorna Rd., Ste 101Birmingham, AL 35216DONNA CAMPBELL Editor in Chiefdonna@mwsmag.com JADE BRASHER Editorjade@mwsmag.comRANDY MOON Associate Publisher randym@mwsmag.comVAL CARRIER Media Consultantval@mwsmag.comGARY BARKER Media Consultantgary@mwsmag.comTIM O’HARA Media Consultanttim.ohara@mwsmag.comLISA AVERY Art Director lisa@mwsmag.comSETH SAUNDERS Digital Media SpecialistINGRID BERKY Office ManagerNo 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 WorkTruck 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 jade@mwsmag.com.SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES OR CHANGES CALL:205.380.2048CHRIS GARMONCFO DONNA CAMPBELLVP, Editorialwww.highlandspublications.com TIM GARMONCEORUSSELL HADDOCKPresidentTONYA BROWNINGVice PresidentWelcome to the month of May and the issue focused on Maintenance + Safety. This beefy issue rounds up current trends in the industry surrounding shop efficiency, maintenance tips, tips for insurance renewal, driver and operator safety, and more! We’ve also showcased the upcoming electric vehicle, the Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab EV, a product of the Shyft Group. Check it out on page 12. For maintenance pieces, check out how predictive maintenance can save money (pages 24 and 26), electrical supply tips (page 30), and tips to maintain digger derricks and bucket trucks (page 34). Learn about ways to improve your fleet’s safety culture on pages 46 and 48. For those who are already on the up and up when it comes to maintenance and safety, check out our Operations pieces this month to learn about ways to improve refueling efficiency (page 20), and read about challenges facing the industry in 2023 and how to overcome them (page 16). There is so much to learn about in this issue, so flip through the pages, and let us know what sparked your interest by reaching out on our social channels. Happy learning! Jade Brasher EditorEDITOR’S NOTETalk soon! Jade
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 20236INDUSTRY NEWSVMAC RECEIVES CANADA’S BEST MANAGED COMPANIES AWARD FOR FIFTH CONSECUTIVE YEARVMAC announced that it has received the Canada’s Best Managed Companies award for the fifth consecutive year; the company will also maintain its Gold Standard designation. The Canada’s Best Managed Companies program annually awards Canadian companies that demonstrate exceptional performance and business practices. Canada’s Best Managed Companies program awards excellence in private Canadian-owned companies with revenues of $50 million or greater. To attain the designation, the program evaluates companies in strategy, culture and commitment, capabilities, innovation, governance, and financial performance. For more, visit www.vmacair.com. MULLEN READIES FOR COMMERCIAL LAUNCHES, ANNOUNCES CUSTOMER ELECTRIC VEHICLESMullen Automotive, Inc., an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, announced customer vehicle pricing for the Mullen ONE, Class 1 EV Cargo Van, and Mullen THREE, Class 3 EV Cab Chassis Truck. “As more fleets focus on their sustainability goals addressing climate change, the net price points of our Mullen commercial products make this an easy choice and help accelerate their transition to electric,” says David Michery, CEO and chairman of Mullen Automotive. “With both vehicles qualifying for the $7,500 federal tax credit, their Class 1 EV Cargo Van acquisition cost will reduce to $27,000, and Class 3 EV Cab Chassis Truck will reduce to $61,000.” For more, visit www.mullenusa.com. ISUZU EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING BRIAN TABEL JOINS NTEA BOARD OF DIRECTORSIsuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. announced that Brian J. Tabel, the company’s executive director of marketing, has been selected to serve a three-year term on the board of directors of NTEA—The Association for the Work Truck Industry. NTEA’s board of directors provides organizational oversight, determines its future direction, sets policy positions, and secures the association’s fiscal health. Tabel is the first representative of an import chassis brand to be elected to the board in NTEA’s 59-year history. For more, visit www.isuzucv.com. BLUE ARC EV DELIVERY VANS WIN EXCELLENCE AWARDThe Shyft Group, Inc. announced its Blue Arc™ EV delivery vehicles have received a Green Car Journal 2023 Green
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 20238INDUSTRY NEWSCar Product of Excellence™ award. The award honors commercial vehicles that feature greater environmental performance through higher efficiency, the integration of advanced technology and electronics, and innovative powertrains that achieve decarbonization goals with low or no carbon emissions. The first order of 2,000 Blue Arc EVs goes into production in the second half of this year. For more, visit www.theshyftgroup.com. PHYSICAL OPERATIONS LEADERS STEP UP INVESTMENTS IN WORKFORCE AND TECHNOLOGY TO REINVENT OPERATIONSSamsara Inc. announced its 2023 State of Connected Operations Report. The reports offers a look into how organizations are reinventing operations. With perspectives from more than 1,500 physical operations leaders across nine countries, the report uncovers the investment strategies leaders pursue to build new revenue streams, leverage emerging technologies, and rise above economic and geopolitical uncertainty. The research found that Connected Operations Leaders—those who reported the highest level of digital maturity—were six times more likely to exceed their financial goals by 25% or more. For more, visit www.samsara.com. ADVANTAGE TRUCK GROUP HOSTS SKILLSUSA MASSACHUSETTS DIESEL EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGY STATE CHAMPIONSHIPAdvantage Truck Group hosted the Diesel Equipment Technology competition for the 2023 SkillsUSA Massachusetts State Championships. The event brought together the state’s top high school students to compete for a chance to represent Massachusetts at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference. During the event, students challenged their knowledge of tools, precision measurement, vehicle components, and job interview skills. Students cycled through workstations that included tasks related to engine diagnostics, electrical systems, brakes, steering, air systems, and safety. In addition to hosting the competition, ATG managed the event and was responsible for designing the tasks at each testing station. For more, visit www.advantagetruckne.com. COXREELS IMPROVED OPTIONS FOR THE VACUUM SERIES REELCoxreels V-100 Series product line has improved and expanded. Introducing the new 1.25-inch vacuum hose reel V-112-735 without hose and the V-112H-735 with hose. The new model features a smaller frame size with 12-inch diameter discs instead of the original 17-inch diameter discs. Coxreels designed the model for use with 35-ft of 1.25-inch vacuum hose. The outlet connecting to the hose remains 1.5 inches. The 1.25-inch hose comes equipped with 1.5-inch slip cuffs on both ends for maximum flow. For more, visit www.coxreels.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202310INDUSTRY INSIGHTAQPATRICK McKITTRICKHow to Keep an Efficient Shop Using a Shop Management PlatformMWS: WE LAST CHATTED WITH FULLBAY TWO YEARS AGO, BUT WOULD YOU MIND GIVING A SHORT DESCRIPTION OF FULLBAY FOR OUR NEW READERS?McKITTRICK: Fullbay is the leading commercial repair shop management platform. It empowers independent repair shops, mobile repair techs, or private fleets with maintenance operations to receive repair requests, invoice customers, and everything in between. At its core, Fullbay brings the traditional approach of handling maintenance on pen and paper into the digital age. You can track preventive maintenance to prevent unexpected downtime, optimize efficiencies across every aspect of the business, use a standardized workflow to prevent lost revenue, manage your inventory, track invoices, collect payments directly in the app, and more.MWS: ARE THERE ANY UPDATES TO THE PLATFORM THAT WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT?McKITTRICK: Absolutely! At Fullbay we are constantly trying to improve by releasing new features and integrations. Over the past two years, we’ve made countless updates to the core platform and invested significantly in our ability to continue innovating. One big highlight is the most comprehensive integrated payment processing solution for repair shops, called Fullbay Payments. Shops using Fullbay can collect everything from credit cards, ACH, fleet checks, and fuel cards. In the past shops may have had to use multiple different solutions to collect all these payment types, but now Fullbay makes it simple and adds a best-in-class payments portal to view transactions, issue refunds, and manage disputes. We’ve also introduced a way for shops to grow their business with Dieselmatic—a premium marketing agency specially designed for commercial repair shops. With Dieselmatic, shops can have a custom website built, their advertising CYCLE TRUCKS THROUGH THE SHOP WITH THE HELP OF FULLBAY
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 11campaigns managed professionally, and more. This frees up owners to focus on their business, while Dieselmatic helps to bring in new customers, recruit employees, and manage their reputation.MWS: WE KNOW FULLBAY IS VEHICLE REPAIR, BUT WILL TECHNICIANS AND STAFF BE ABLE TO OPERATE WITH FULLBAY JUST VEHICLE COMES IN FOR REPAIR?McKITTRICK: Fullbay’s process not only works for heavy-duty repair, but also can easily work for light-duty vehicles as well. We have many customers that repair Classes 1-8 and use integrations like MOTOR’s Auto Labor and Service Guides to be just as efficient with a passenger vehicle as they are a semitruck. Fullbay offers a robust workflow for the maintenance of commercial fleets, whatever the class, but is flexible enough to get an invoice created in just a few minutes. MWS: CAN THE FULLBAY PLATFORM BE CUSTOMIZED TO FIT THE NEEDS OF THE SHOP?McKITTRICK: There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to managing commercial repair shops. Each one has its own goals, its own processes, and different needs from a shop management platform. When a new shop signs up with Fullbay we provide unlimited free guided training to understand the customer’s business and tailor the software to their needs. Fullbay was designed to fit all these different needs while also having the ability to scale as shops grow—it’s just as effective for a single person operating out of the back of a truck as it is for a multi-location business with hundreds of employees.MWS: EXAMPLE OF HOW OPERATIONS HAVE CHANGED FOR A SHOP USING FULLBAY?McKITTRICK: There are many examples of shops that have had great success using Fullbay. One shop that comes to mind told us they saw a 50% increase in revenue right away when they first started using Fullbay, simply because they were able to complete work at a faster rate. Two different mobile operations also saw huge improvements. One reported a 20 to 30% increase in profits and the other started saving between $60,000 and $75,000 a year because Fullbay allowed them to do more with less, negating the need to hire an extra service writer. One more example was a shop that went from having a communication gap to a 25% increase in technician efficiency.These are all real stories, and the data shows that if a shop gets fully up and running with the platform, they’ll see big improvements, which will affect their bottom line and ultimately, will create a better life for that shop owner and those working in the shop. SOCIAL CLIMBINGADVERTISERS MWS SOCIAL MARKETING CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS:• INCREASEbrandawareness• BOOSTinboundtraffic• BECOMEanindustryauthority• IMPROVEwebsearchrankings• RAISEconversionratesFOR MORE INFORMATIONFullbay. Prior to joining Fullbay in 2021, he served as CEO of industry, which is now owned by is in scaling and expanding the Fullbay the company has more than doubled its revenue, added over 100 employees, and completed the the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and lives with his family in Dallas, Texas. Find out more about Fullbay, visit www.fullbay.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202312MEDIUM-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEMEDIUM-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEBlue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab EVDESIGNED FOR EFFICIENCY AND FLEXIBILITYxx
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 13
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202314MEDIUM-DUTY WORKTRUCK SHOWCASEThe goal was to create a “solution that provides customers with flexibility and innovation in a commercial-grade, ready-for-work product,” according to The Shyft Group president and CEO, Daryl Adams. First revealed at Work Truck Week 2023 this past March, the Blue Arc Class 5 EV offers a vast number of end-uses with a capable range and payload for vocational needs.The show vehicle was configured for a landscape operation with a cab large enough to carry a crew and a lightweight aluminum dump body atop a Class 5 electric chassis. It also included a stow-away desk along with several charging ports and outlets for any mobile workstation needs. But that’s just one configuration. As stated before, the Blue Arc Class 5 was designed for flexibility. Although the show vehicle was configured for landscape, that doesn’t mean it isn’t perfect for other uses. When asked which application the Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab would best be suited for, Adams responded that it’s impossible to say because of the flexibility in the body styles available with the EV. WORK-DRIVEN DESIGNEngineers designed the Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab EV using The Shyft Group’s “Work-Driven Design” process. This process, first developed by the Utilimaster brand and now deployed across all Shyft brands, encompasses the “rigorous and intentional design that goes into every detail, from the position of door handles to the height of the cargo deck off the ground,” Adams explains.The Work-Driven Design process takes place through spending time with drivers and collecting and analyzing data. This process allows The Shyft Group to design highly customizable vehicles with business-specific features, details, and entire cargo management systems.“All the deep learnings we have had from doing Work-Driven Design can be seen in our vehicle designs,” Adams says. “Just one example on the Class 5 EV Crew Cab is the weather-protected steps that retract to stay clean and low to reduce risk of fall or injury.”BLUE ARC POWERIf hearing “electric vehicle” makes you think less power, think again. With the Blue Arc Class 5 All-Electric Crew Cab, fleet owners will have the power and payload capacity for serious workloads. The vehicle’s lightweight, aluminum body was built for multiple applications. These include construction, snow removal, landscaping, municipalities, trades, and more.The Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab was built from the ground up, designed for vocational work with zero emissions. The EV features a purpose-built, all-electric chassis, a commercial-grade e-axle, and as mentioned above, a lightweight, aluminum and composite cab. The
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 15Class 5 Crew Cab features modular, liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery packs that deliver a range of more than 200 miles and can reach a top speed of 75 mph. The battery packs can charge in 2 to 6 hours with Level 2 and DC fast charging. And if range anxiety is a concern, the Blue Arc Class 5 is available with a 450-Wh integrated solar roof package. Further, this vehicle has a payload capacity of 6,000 to 10,000 lbs, so get ready to haul.And standing behind its product, Blue Arc backs its Class 5 Crew Cab with a six-year or 180,000-mile battery warranty. The company also plans to offer battery upgrades and buyback programs. Other ways Blue Arc will support its customers are through real-time status updates, in-stock EV parts, factory-trained EV technicians, VMRS codes, nationwide distribution centers, and a dedicated product support team.OPERATOR COMFORTOne of the most interesting aspects of the Blue Arc Class 5 is its intelligently designed crew cab. This spacious interior is 88.5-inches wide and 85-inches high—honestly, the interior somewhat resembles that of a passenger van. In fact, the cab even features a sliding door, adding a layer of safety when operators are using the door near busy sidewalks or city streets. The steps to get inside the vehicle are also similar to those found in passenger vans. The steps are nestled underneath the vehicle, completely protected from the elements. Because of the design of the cab, operators will feel free to stand up in the vehicle when parked and have a more comfortable ingress and egress without worrying about hitting their head, slipping, or opening the door into traffic. But not only is the cab safe and tall enough to keep operators and crew comfortable when getting in and out, it’s also comfortable to ride in. The Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab features enough seating for a crew of six (including the driver), and a jump seat on the driver’s side allows crews to accommodate one more when in a pinch.But the intelligence of the design goes further than simply getting in and out of the vehicle and accommodating more crew members. The engineers at Blue Arc designed the Class 5 Crew Cab with a pull-down table and monitor to be used as a workstation. With the added convenience of the workstation, the Blue Arc Class 5 can support the use of laptops, tablets, handheld devices, phone calls, and more. All in all, the Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab was designed for teamwork. However, Blue Arc offers multiple cab layouts depending on the needs of the fleet, whether each team has multiple members or just one.BLUE ARC SAFETYThe Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab was purpose-built for the comfort of a crew, but what good is comfort if the crew isn’t safe? That’s why Blue Arc included: a 360-degree camera with a 12-inch, high-definition display monitor; a front camera integrated into the vehicle’s AeroCap (the part of the roof above the windshield); a tire pressure monitor; front parking sensors; and blind spot detection. Best of all, Adams says these features will be standard in every Blue Arc EV when the company goes into production with the electric delivery vehicles later this year.FLEXIBLE & EFFICIENTDesigned after spending time observing drivers, hearing their thoughts, and collecting and analyzing data, the Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab delivers on optimum efficiency, whether in delivery, landscape, construction, or other applications. The flexible vehicle offers custom features, like the stow-away desk, for example, that allow owners to build a fleet vehicle that meets all their needs. After all, it shouldn’t be the fleet vehicle that limits the number of the crew, the amount that can be hauled, or equipment being stored. The fleet vehicle should be the workhorse that helps the crew get their job done in the most efficient way possible—just the way the Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab EV was designed.FOR MORE INFORMATION Find out more about the Blue Arc Class 5 Crew Cab EV, visit www.bluearcev.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202316OPERATIONSNavigating 2023’s Fleet Industry ChallengesWAYS TO PREPARE FOR THE ROAD AHEAD By Brian Hollandlight-duty feature
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 17Even though 2023 started a few months ago, the transportation fleet sector continues to face numerous industry, economic, and environmental challenges that are certain to create operational turbulence. Everything from fuel and equipment prices due to interest rates, ongoing driver and technician shortages, and a possible economic recession have many in the industry on edge as they navigate through the early parts of 2023.However, similar to years past, the industry remains resilient, and demand for goods has held up steadily despite higher interest rates and the threat of an economic slowdown. In 2022, transporters were responsible for roughly 12.5 billion tons of freight with an estimated value of more than $13.1 trillion, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Simply put, truck transportation is the backbone of the American economy and will continue to serve in this capacity for many years.That being said, there are a handful of critical areas the industry must continue to navigate to remain prosperous during the current and ongoing economic turbulence.RISING INTEREST RATESFirst and foremost is the continued rise of interest rates and CPI. The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate in early February by a quarter percentage point, bringing the target range to 4.5% to 4.75%. At the time, the Fed gave no indication to ending its rate increase campaign in 2023.With operational costs rising along with the cost of financing, it’s imperative that companies with transportation fleets and their leadership teams have a strategic plan to lower their Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).Organizations are battling the current challenging environment for their fleets with a strategy that leans on using advanced data analytics and fleet modernization studies to help them inject more flexibility and business agility. These strategies help them pay closer attention to their truck’s life cycles to understand where they can save money by optimizing and shortening replacement cycles. Rather than keeping their trucks in operation for several years, companies leverage fleet studies that scrutinize performance data and economic factors to determine an optimum procurement strategy. However, we have seen the need this past year to extend life cycles, especially on young vintage models, due to the shortage of equipment.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202318OPERATIONSPRESERVE CASH FLOWCompanies are also taking a closer look at leasing their trucks, which has proven to improve cash flow, optimize asset usage, and provide maximum flexibility. Lease versus purchase analysis is extremely beneficial to help fleets understand and pinpoint where and how they will preserve cash flow when they move to a lease structure. A recent industry benchmarking survey showed that nearly half of respondents (42%) lease trucks today, up from 31% a year ago. Furthermore, despite the government’s slight 20% reduction to bonus depreciation beginning in 2023, leasing remains the most favorable option for fleets planning new equipment acquisitions. Sale-leaseback programs are also a great example of how companies today can monetize the dormant equity that they had in their fleets to allow them additional flexibility. While it’s easy to think about a pivot to used trucks, the prices of these units have also remained high. Many fleets redeploy off-lease equipment that allows them to fill in some gaps that they might ordinarily have. While prices have eased off their highs, according to the EPA, the increasing seasonality costs coupled with new California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements will keep prices elevated. Investing in new equipment is key, and while Original Equipment Manufacturers’ (OEM) backlogs on orders remain, these pressures are beginning to abate a little. PLAN AHEADThese new regulations will add another layer of complexity to an already difficult market. Therefore, it is essential to start planning ahead. Instead of looking at planning cycles for immediate needs, fleets should review procurement requirements for the next several years, developing a strategic plan based on data to maximize their usage while reducing life cycle. Furthermore, as fleets think about managing a life cycle, they also can’t base a procurement cycle one year out. Therefore, it’s essential to have a multi-year approach and one-, three-, and five-year plan for equipment replacement. This will also help fleets bridge to alternate-fueled trucks when appropriate for their specific operation. Whether it’s electric vehicle trucks, hydrogen, or other alternative fuels, we’re looking at helping our clients take a measured approach so they can introduce these newer technologies and become familiar in a more realistic manner. REDUCE EMISSIONSEntering 2023, reducing the carbon footprint is no longer viewed as a challenge, but more so an opportunity. The best approach to realistically bridge today’s clean-diesel technology into tomorrow’s alternate fuel options is by leading with the appropriate ESG roadmap supported by strategic asset management partners to determine truck procurement strategies with optimal life cycle management. This will maximize environmental considerations and organically progress toward alternate fuel technology. In doing so, fleets will achieve critical ESG goals and continuously operate the most appropriate equipment for their operation. Be sure to find a partner that can help certify your greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) output, as recently mandated under a proposed rule issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This year will most likely offer many operational and economic challenges, similar to years past. But with the right plan in place and the right asset management partner, fleet managers can find better flexibility to make agile business decisions that benefit employees, customers, and the environment.ABOUT THE AUTHOR Brian Holland, CPA, CTP, CGMA, is a market-focused business and of experience driving revenue, improvements in start-up and accelerated-growth environments. As the president and CEO of Fleet Advantage, Holland provides leadership for all aspects of the
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202320OPERATIONSWhat makes your favorite movie stand out to you? Whether it’s plot twists or action scenes, it’s easy to forget that it’s often the work behind the scenes that sets this experience up for success. The same can be said about an efficient jobsite. People often notice the big equipment, but fail to consider the actions that keep the operation running, such as efficient refueling solutions. “Fuel is the offensive lineman of the football team,” begins JD Holland, Ricochet Fuel Distributors senior sales executive. “Nobody cares about it until it’s not there. At Ricochet, our priority is to make refueling equipment as stress-free as possible.” The team at Ricochet sources and matches assets to meet the needs of fleet managers, allowing them to manage jobsite refueling. As part of its focus to offer customers the best The Unexpected Hero of Refueling EfficiencyHOW RICOCHET FUEL DISTRIBUTORS INCREASED EFFICIENCY WITH WESTERN GLOBAL FUEL TANKS By Je Lowe When it comes to meeting customers’ needs with on-site fuel storage solutions, the team at Ricochet attributes part of its success to a strong partnership with Western Global. For additional transportability, fleet managers can consider a TransCube Global fuel tank, which features the same cube shape as a FuelCube but offers the added benefit of being transportable while filled with fuel.
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 21fueling solutions, Ricochet attends trade shows and events to continually research solutions. It was this drive for improvement that led to an encounter with on-site fuel tank manufacturer, Western Global. After experiencing the benefits of Western Global fuel tanks, it wasn’t long before Ricochet offered these on-site fuel storage solutions.A NEW SOLUTIONIn business since 1988, Ricochet built its reputation by offering fuel solutions through traditional round fuel tanks and wet hosing. This approach offered both benefits and drawbacks. Although wet hosing offers the contractor a hands-off approach to refueling a fleet, it also removes the control from the contractor and makes them reliant on third-party drivers for refueling. Opting for traditional round fuel tanks alleviates those concerns. However, this refueling option comes with its own drawbacks.For example, the bulky design of traditional round fuel tanks makes transportation difficult. Additionally, traditional fuel tanks require a secondary containment pan for environmental protection that needs monitoring and cleaning as it fills with rainwater and debris. Regardless, wet hosing and traditional round fuel tanks have become the status quo in the fuel distribution industry because the benefits of these refueling solutions often outweigh the disadvantages. And so, it was for Ricochet until the company won a 500-gallon Western Global FuelCube at a tradeshow in 2015.“A sales manager from Western Global began calling on us shortly after we won the FuelCube,” says Sam Brett, vice president of vendor relations at Ricochet Fuel Distributors. “After a few years, his persistence and constant flow of information took hold, and we were ready to commit to this new fuel storage solution. We’ve probably bought close to 10 truckloads at this point and haven’t looked back since.” A BETTER ASSETWhen outfitting customers with the best on-site fuel storage solutions for their needs, there are considerations to make beyond fuel tank capacity. Ricochet also considers geography, monthly fuel usage, and the type of fuel used. While most of Ricochet’s customers are familiar with standard cylinder tanks or wet hosing, they are often impressed with the added benefits of Western Global fuel tanks.Enhanced Security A perk customers first notice is the added security of Western Global
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202322OPERATIONSFuelCubes. Traditional fuel tanks have pumps located in easily accessible areas for refilling equipment. Unfortunately, that means these fuel pumps are also susceptible to theft, so fleets employ cameras and bright lighting to protect the fuel supply. Each FuelCube includes integrated anti-theft technology that locks the tank to any user without a key card to unlock the dispense controls. Each access card is unique, allowing fleet managers to easily track details about how much fuel each machine uses. Easier Maintenance Traditional on-site fuel tanks require a secondary containment pan that catches rainwater and debris that comes around the fuel tank. This pan requires frequent monitoring and cleaning of external factors that accumulate. Western Global manufactures its FuelCubes with double-walled containment, which eliminates the need for the secondary containment pan. This also means a third party is no longer required to pump out a secondary containment pan before moving the fuel tank, which translates into cost and labor savings. Small FootprintThe FuelCubes’ stackable square design makes efficient use of tight spaces. A single truckload fits more tanks, leading to fewer trips to the jobsite and allowing fleet managers to use multiple FuelCubes—even in areas with minimal space. For even more freedom with transportability, fleet managers can consider a TransCube Global fuel tank. This tank features the same cube shape as a FuelCube but offers the added benefit of being transportable while filled with fuel. FUELCUBE EXPERIENCE Both Holland and Brett have seen how FuelCubes have changed customers’ experience around the country. “There are some dirt movers we work with who are on a jobsite anywhere from one to four months,” Holland explains. “They were originally using standard cylinder fuel tanks with secondary containment pans … We put a FuelCube on the jobsite for them to try, and within the first year they wanted to swap all their on-site fuel tanks for FuelCubes because it made their jobs so much easier.”“We also have a large customer that’s on multiple jobsites throughout the country who vowed to only use FuelCubes after we introduced them,” Brett adds. “This not only benefits the fleet manager, but also makes things easier for our team at Ricochet because we can haul more tanks on People often notice the big equipment getting the job done on jobsites but don’t often notice the things behind the scenes, such as efficient refueling solutions that contribute to completing the task in a timely manner. After experiencing the benefits of Western Global fuel tanks, it wasn’t long before Ricochet altered its offerings to include these on-site fuel storage solutions to make refueling even easier.
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 23our trucks and don’t have to worry about hiring another company to pump out secondary containment pans filled with water or oil.” WINNING COMBINATION When meeting customers’ needs, Ricochet attributes part of its success to a partnership with Western Global. One of Ricochet’s goals is to surpass expectations for customers, and collaborating with Western Global has helped meet this goal as the company delivers millions of gallons of fuel to customers across the United States.“From providing quotes in a timely fashion and helping answer questions to maintaining inventory and short lead times, Western Global’s dedication to being ready with whatever we need has set both our team and our customers up for success,” Brett says. Switching from traditional on-site fuel storage to FuelCubes has aided Ricochet in helping its customers achieve maximum efficiency and reliability. “At Ricochet, we strive to provide quality products and excellent service to match,” Brett says. “FuelCubes bolster that image with technology and a design that surpasses the efficiencies of anything else on the market for the ultimate convenience for customers. You’d be surprised to hear all the calls we get from neighboring jobsites once our FuelCubes hit the ground. Everyone wants to learn more about them and find out how they can help their business reach the next level.” Just as a stunt double or makeup professional enhance a character’s performance in a movie, Western Global’s fuel tanks work behind the scenes to improve jobsite productivity. As one of the go-to companies for fuel solutions, Ricochet sees Western Global’s FuelCubes not only as a benefit for business but as the beginning of a new standard for on-site fuel storage solutions. While most of Ricochet’s customers are familiar with standard cylinder tanks or wet hosing, they are often impressed to learn about the added benefits of Western Global fuel tanks. Collaborating with Western Global has helped the company meet its goal to surpass customer expectations as it delivers millions of gallons of fuel to customers across the United States.ABOUT THE AUTHOR Global is a global designer and manufacturer of tanks and equipment for fuel storage. its customers' business endeavors. its growing customer base. Find out more, visit www.western-global.com and
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202324MAINTENANCEReplacing just one critical truck component can be pricey. Parts and labor prices are on the rise—not to mention hard to come by—and vehicle downtime can add up quickly.As interest rates rise, it’s important to run a tight business. Financing costs are also expected to rise, and used-truck equipment prices aren’t showing signs of slowing. The pressure on profit margins is tightening and likely will continue for the next year. Avoiding breakdowns is the name of the game.A Zonar customer, Hot Line Construction, a voltage utility services company, uses technology to curb the risk of major repairs. The company has a mixed fleet of 800 specialized vehicles, including pickups, cars, cranes, powered trailers, and Class 4, 5, and 6 trucks. They travel to construction sites across cities and suburbs and even remote areas with harsh environments. Fleet managers needed a remote way to monitor vehicle health. This would help them identify maintenance issues like ruptured hoses before catastrophe struck. That’s how a $40,000 alert saved the day.Less than five miles from the yard, a low coolant alert came through. A failed EGR cooler can lead to an engine overhaul or complete replacement. But a new hose could be fixed for $30. Given supply chain stresses, major unexpected repairs—such as a new engine—were out of the question. Managers advised the driver to park immediately. Five miles wasn’t worth the risk.PREDICT TO PREVENTToday, many work truck fleets schedule regular inspections and repairs based on a predetermined set of miles or hours a vehicle or asset is in operation. It’s a preventive approach to maintenance, but even with the best practices in place—consistent pre- and post-trip inspections, asset-specific inspections, and good record-keeping—fleet managers still don’t have a complete picture of the real health of trucks and How One Predictive Alert Saved $40,000KNOW YOUR VEHICLE BREAKDOWN BEFORE IT BREAKS DOWN By Fred Fakkema
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 25equipment. Just one pencil-whipped miss in a trip inspection can lead to breakdowns or accidents on the road. But fleets can close the gaps in preventive maintenance programs with predictive technologies.Consider if a minor problem were to arise between a routinely scheduled maintenance check. A minor defect can easily scale to a much more expensive repair, forcing vehicles out of service unexpectedly and costing more time and money.Rather, modern predictive maintenance bases real-time fleet health on sensor data and connected assets to provide insights of each vehicle in a fleet. Telematics-enabled platforms collect diagnostics data from the brakes, engine, and transmission of every vehicle in the fleet.This works in conjunction with verifiable, digital pre- and post-trip inspections such as Electronic Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (eDVIR or EVIR). This digital process helps catch defects and puts drivers in a safety mindset. Drivers scan specific components on their truck to meet compliance and safety standards, creating a digital record that gets directly integrated via telematics into the fleet’s maintenance software. After all, safety is the responsibility of the full organization: drivers, management, and dispatch.The other component of predictive programs is maintaining a constant pulse on your fleet. Physically checking each yard to investigate the fleet’s health is a major time expense. However, new systems from smart fleet management providers can provide live text and email alerts on vehicle health, safety scores, fault codes, and vehicle locations. This gives fleet managers, drivers, shop technicians, and mechanics a map view of each truck’s health in the fleet. Now, when a fault is triggered, fleet managers review the problem and look for actionable insights into what needs to be done. An escalating fault code system shows whether drivers can safely keep going or if they should pull over at the next truck stop. By fixing small problems before they become big, companies can reduce downtime and parts replacements, keeping their vehicles and assets on the road. A STEP AHEADMaintenance and downtime are taking a toll. As of August 2022, American Transportation Research Institute data shows the average truck-tractor unit drove 11% less in 2022 than the prior year—the lowest amount on record of the past decade. This may indicate that fleets were not driving as far due to more maintenance downtime with outdated parts and trucks. Although the supply chain is stabilizing, inventory of new trucks and parts is still limited, used parts are still expensive, and operating costs are on the rise. Fleet managers have had to make do. Those who boosted preventive maintenance programs with predictive technologies were better positioned to avoid the breakdowns caused by progressive degrading. Now, they’re not just capturing diagnostic trouble codes. Managers can analyze and determine trends, such as which make and model has specific failures and how those compare to other makes and models. As a result, telematics improves maintenance programs and helps fleet managers better plan their purchasing decisions for parts or new vehicles. That’s not just good for safety, it’s good for the bottom line.Fleets have an opportunity to think smarter about vehicle maintenance and driver support. The safest drivers know to look far down the road. The same is true with managing operations and maintenance expenses. Preventive and predictive maintenance technology make it possible to look ahead.ABOUT THE AUTHORFred Fakkema is the vice president of safety and compliance at Zonar. Find out more, visit www.zonarsystems.com
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202326MAINTENANCEUnexpected repairs can be costly, especially when a budget is already tightly delineated. Whether owning one work truck or a fleet of thousands, implementing a preventive maintenance strategy will help save money, increase safety, and ensure the best possible ROI for fleet vehicles.PROTECT PERSONNELFor fleets, the truck isn’t the most valuable thing on the road, it’s drivers and passengers. That’s why it’s important to ensure the safest driving experience as possible. Preventive maintenance helps fleet drivers and passengers stay safe while driving. Keeping up with repairs, top-offs, tune-ups, and having an understanding of the general health of the vehicle goes a long way in preventing harmful collisions, dangerous breakdowns, or other accidents that could compromise driver safety or the safety of others.FEWER BREAKDOWNSIn addition to fleet safety, preventive maintenance reduces the occurrence of unexpected breakdowns. This is important because unexpected breakdowns can end up costing the fleet serious cash. First, there’s the cost of the repair itself. Depending on the severity of the breakdown, fleets might have to pay to get the vehicle towed to a shop for repairs. Then, there’s the money lost from missing any jobs as well as unhappy customers calling to complain. Minimizing the chance of breakdowns protects a fleet’s ROI and a manager’s sanity.MAINTENANCE CHECKLISTAs stated, preventive maintenance keeps a fleet productive, safe, and increases ROI. So, how does one determine the best approach to preventive maintenance? Use the checklist below:Electrical SystemsChecking your electric systems is an easy way to stay ahead of issues like headlight malfunctions and blown fuses. Luckily, many auto part shops offer free electrical testing, evaluating the health of the vehicle’s battery, alternator, and starter. Fleet operators can also do electric assessments at home. Electrical The Importance of Preventive MaintenanceA PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 27tests should be done yearly, and ideally, performed before the extreme cold weather comes around.FiltersFilters are one of the simplest things any owner or operator can replace at home. Air filters protect the engine—catching dirt, dust, and debris before it can contaminate the vehicle and cause poor performance. A dirty air filter can affect gas mileage, acceleration, and carbon deposit buildup. The vehicle’s cabin air filter is just as easy to check and replace. This filter is responsible for catching impurities in the air that are brought into the cabin, where they are then inhaled by drivers and passengers. For those comfortable, owners and operators can even replace their own oil filters between oil changes, saving money at the shop.LightingEvery once in a while, take a look around the truck to monitor exterior lighting. Catching a burnt out headlight or brake light can prevent potentially being pulled over by the police. While checking, look at headlights, brake, signal, and hazard lights. Then go inside the cab and check for any interior lighting that may need replacement. Light bulbs are inexpensive, and regularly checking lighting is an easy way to stay safe and visible on the road.FluidsThere are a lot of fluids that make the truck run—including motor oil, coolant, power steering, brake, windshield, and transmission fluids. These fluids are incredibly important to the smooth operation of the vehicle, and fleet vehicles should never run on low fluid levels. Most fluids can be checked at home in just a matter of minutes. Fluids can be topped off
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202328MAINTENANCEin a hurry, but make sure to regularly change these fluids according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid long-term damage.BrakesThere’s really no need to mention the importance of brake health. Brake inspection should happen at least twice a year. It can often take place when rotating tires. Brake inspections include auditing brake pads, shoes, and rotors as well as brake fluids. Brake inspections are offered at most auto shops, and the staff will recommend replacement when brakes surpass the minimum brake pad thickness. They will also be able to check for unusual wear patterns that could be the result of an unbalanced brake system. TiresEnsuring tires are in good shape involves a few different inspections. The first is tire pressure. Most vehicles will alert the driver when tire pressure is low, some even displaying which tire or just how low the tires may be. Maintaining OEM recommended tire pressure keeps tires in good condition for a longer amount of time, maximizing fuel economy and saving replacement costs over time. The right psi pressure ensures maximum traction with the road. Then, there’s the inspection of the tires themselves. Look for wear and thinning in the tread, and replace tires accordingly. Check the OEM recommended time frame for tire rotation, and take vehicles in for rotation to prolong the life of tires.REGULAR INSPECTIONSThere’s a lot a fleet owner/operator can do to prevent breakdown and costly repairs. Taking work trucks to the shop for regular inspections and tune-ups is a great way to assess the overall health of vehicles and catch anything that needs mending or replacing before it causes a roadside breakdown. The Kansas Department of Transportation provides a comprehensive preventive maintenance checklist that fleet owners and auto shop mechanics can use to keep trucks in tiptop shape.FOR MORE INFORMATIONMonroe Truck Equipment. Monroe Truck Equipment serves commercial customers across needs. Find out more, visit www.commercial.monroetruck.com. BUSINESS NEED A JUMP START?BUSINESS NEED A JUMP START?MWS CAN HELP CrANk it uPHELP iS JuSt A CALL AWAy 205.795.0223 | ruSSELL@MWSMAG.COM
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202330MAINTENANCEWork truck electrical systems have grown more complex in recent years, providing not just ignition and lighting but a growing array of accessories inside and outside the cab. Along with this complexity comes greater risk of electrical problems as wiring and components age and undergo wear and tear. Here’s a look at some of the common electrical points of failure in work trucks and key electrical parts you should have on hand to keep your fleet up and running. 1 BATTERYWithout a working battery, your work truck is in trouble. Make sure wires and lugs are properly connected to the vehicle’s battery terminals and that the points of contact are kept clean. Otherwise, corrosion could build up, causing a reduction in battery performance. You’ll need plenty of high-quality electrical tape to wrap any exposed wiring. Other useful supplies include battery lugs and boots to make sure your battery connections are tight and free of moisture and dirt. Many work truck vehicles come equipped with low-voltage battery disconnects to prevent battery drain when vehicles are not in use. If your vehicles don’t have a low-voltage battery disconnect, you might consider installing one. 2 WIRINGWire corrosion and breakage can sideline a work truck’s electrical system. Keeping a good supply of wire coverings on hand such as heat shrink and braided sleeving will help prevent nicks and damage to your fleet’s electrical wire and cabling. A supply of inexpensive heat shrink butt connectors will help ensure the wires can be reconnected quickly if a wire breaks. If wire needs to be replaced, be sure it is constructed from high-quality copper with durable jacketing to resist wear and corrosion. 3 CONNECTORSEven the heavy-duty electrical connectors found in work trucks and trailers can come unsealed when subjected to the 8 Electrical Supply TipsKEEP WORK TRUCK FLEETS IN SERVICE By Rob Iversrud A solid-state low-voltage battery disconnect manufactured by InPower. Self-closing braided wire sleeving made by Techflex enables easy access to wires without damaging the protective covering. The sleeving can be easily pried open by hand, removed, and put back into place once the wiring work is done.
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 31constant motion and vibration of everyday use. Check your connectors routinely, and keep a few connector sealing plugs and boots on hand. Any cavity that is not being used in a multi-pin connector should be plugged to keep it free of debris. Dielectric grease and corrosion-preventive sealants can also come in handy for protecting connection points.4 LIGHTSMake sure you have a backup supply of turn signal and brake lights, marker lamps, spotlights, floodlights, cargo lights, and any other specialty lighting connected with your trucks. Some lights are built to handle multiple functions within a single housing such as the Stop-Tail-Turn/Backup/License light (shown at left) available at Waytek. Look for lights that are made with shatterproof polycarbonate lenses instead of glass. Older work trucks may come equipped with electromechanical flashers, which are prone to failure in the field and should be replaced with electronic flashers when they fail. 5 CHARGERS & OTHER ACCESSORIESWork trucks are host to a variety of electrical accessories that periodically should be replaced or upgraded. Make sure you have adequate supply of alarms, horns, buzzers, sockets, plugs, and USB chargers. The newest USB chargers come with LED illumination to let you know they’re functioning.6 FUSES, RELAYS, & CIRCUIT BREAKERSCircuit protection devices play a critical role in protecting your electrical equipment. Any time a fuse blows, it must be replaced. And while relays and circuit breakers are more durable, they have the potential to fail the longer they are in use. It makes An assortment of ATO/ATC Maxi and Mini fuses offered by Waytek.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202332MAINTENANCEsense to keep a spare or two in the vehicle and more in the repair shop. Most work trucks come with several fuse blocks built into various locations in the electrical system. Newer cartridge-style fuses such as Eaton’s FMM fuses and FMS fuses take less space than traditional fuses. Battery mount fuse holders—such as Littelfuse ZCASE fuse holders—are also becoming popular because they can be placed directly on a battery for easier access and maintenance. Fuse circuit taps are another practical item to keep on hand, especially if you are adding new lighting, communications equipment, or other electrical accessories. A fuse circuit tap can be added to ease the increased burden on existing fuses.Mini relays that control pumps and heating and cooling fans are especially prone to failure in work trucks. Identify any mini relays used in your vehicles and keep extras on hand. 7 KEEP QUALITY TOP OF MINDMake sure the electrical parts you stock are made by reliable manufacturers with high quality standards. Skimping on quality—whether using cheap wire that breaks too easily or components that wear out too fast—may save a bit of money in the short term, but you’ll have a higher price to pay in terms of future downtime and repairs. 8 DON’T ASSUME AVAILABILITYThe availability of electrical components has fluctuated from the supply bottlenecks of the pandemic to recent surpluses in some categories. No one can say for sure what the future holds. Although some components are easier to come by than they were a year ago, others have lead times of four months or longer. If in doubt about the best time to order parts, talk to your supplier. They should be able to tell you how much of a given part is in stock and the required lead time for parts in short supply. OUNCE OF PREVENTIONElectrical system maintenance is critical to keeping your fleet running safely and reliably. Part of that process includes maintaining your supply of electrical replacement parts. In the long run it will pay off, helping you keep your vehicles on the road longer and reducing the downtime needed for repairs.ABOUT THE AUTHOR Rob Iversrud is the product and category manager at Waytek, Inc. Find out more, visit www.waytekwire.com. Organized by Eaton Hall Exhibitions ATTENTION WORK FLEETSOF 100+ VEHICLESRegistration includes hotel accommodations, meals, all events & sessions and comes with travel reimbursement. “If you’re directly involved in your eet’s decision-making and have any needs for products or solutions that will help your eet run more safely and eciently, then we invite you to apply to attend this year’s Work Fleet Forum”CONNECT with the best ideas, the newest solutions and the brightest minds all in one location.LEARN about new products and solutions with private demos and small presentations. You can even customize your event based on who you’d like to meet with.NETWORK with other top eet managers in a relaxed and productive setting at the beautiful e Palms Resort. You’ll add to what - and who - you know in the eet industry. e Work Fleet Forum is for those who run hard-working eets. It’s designed to be more productive, more valuable, more fun and just for eet leaders like you. NOV 6-92023Register Today!(800) 746-9646 www.workfleetforum.comanthony@eatonhall.comLimited Vendor Opportunities Still Availablee Palms Resort in Las Vegas, NV
Owners and users of bucket trucks and digger derricks are responsible for ensuring their equipment is inspected both a daily pre-shift and annually. While safety is the foremost concern, annual inspections can also reveal small operational issues before they cause serious, and possibly expensive, equipment repairs.According to factory-trained technicians at Terex Service Centers, the following are some of the important inspection items. Most of them apply to either digger derricks or aerial devices, while the last two are specific to aerials. INSPECT DECALSOperational and safety decals provide valuable information to the users. Sometimes it’s not obvious what’s missing from the equipment if you don’t know what decals are supposed to be there. It’s especially important to make sure hand signal charts aren’t missing from digger derricks. Hand signals provide a means to communicate between the operator and ground personnel when they are in a noisy environment. Failure to communicate clearly could lead to possible injury or equipment damage and could result in an OSHA violation. MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202334MAINTENANCEHow to Properly Maintain Bucket Trucks and Digger DerricksTAKE NOTE OF THESE IMPORTANT INSPECTION ITEMS By Rob Morris Oil levels must be checked according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for equipment to operate as designed.heavy-duty feature
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 35OIL & FILTERSOil levels must be checked according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for equipment to operate as designed. More frequent checks based on operating and weather conditions may be necessary.Low levels, if left unattended, could lead to expensive, unplanned repairs. Burning up one pump can easily be a $2,000 repair, not to mention a loss in productivity from the equipment being out of service. Low oil levels are also an indication of a leak in the system that should be addressed immediately. High levels can also cause issues. Checking the fill level when the outriggers are extended can often lead to over filling, which leaves no room for expansion and can contribute to oil leakage.A dirty oil filter can lead to accelerated wear and damage to pumps, cylinders, hydraulic valves, and hoses due to the fact the filter is no longer capturing harmful contaminants and particles circulating in the fluid.WINCH ROPEIn addition to the daily visual inspection, the full length of the load line should be unspooled and inspected hand-over-hand during the annual inspection. Before inspecting, make sure to verify the type of rope used (for example, single braid, balanced double braid, or core-dependent double braid) and the appropriate inspection and replacement criteria for that type of rope. The best sources for information are the rope manufacturer or the Cordage Institute. The digger derrick ID plate will provide the minimum rope strength required of replacement ropes.Among the conditions that should be reported to a qualified person to determine if the rope should remain in service are: excessive roughness, glossy areas indicating heat damage, flat areas or bumps/lumps indicating internal core damage, frayed strands, excessive wear, discoloration associated with chemical contamination, and stiffness due to embedded dirt or shock load damage. When you feel cuts, reduced section, or a bulge, it can indicate internal rope damage caused by shock loading or kinking, and the rope should be replaced. ROTATION BEARING BOLTSWhile the process is simple, this is one of those items that cannot be overlooked. It may be easier to inspect and re-torque bolts with two people—one to rotate the bearing and the other to check the bolt torque. Information on the proper bolt torque and lubricant is available in the operator’s manual. When using a socket with an extension, the torque value does not change. When an adapter, such as a “crow’s foot” is used, the torque value of the wrench must be adjusted to account for the change in distance between the center of the square drive and the center of the fastener being checked. Use information supplied with your torque wrench to make this calculation and adjustment.Use the correct torque indicated in the manual. Do not jerk the torque wrench as you apply torque; instead apply even pressure. Find more information on how to check the torque on rotation bearing fasteners along with other inspection forms on the Terex website.BEARING DEFLECTIONChecking the amount of allowable play in the rotation bearing takes time and a proper understanding of how to measure it. If there is too much play, this may be an indication that the rotation bearing could be worn and needs to be replaced. It could also Sometimes it’s difficult to know what’s missing from the equipment if you don’t know what decals are supposed to be there. Check with the manufacturer to confirm.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202336MAINTENANCEbe an indication that the boom has been shock-loaded and damaged the balls and raceway. Shock loading can occur any time a load suddenly drops and the boom stops the movement. An example would be a transformer slipping off its support and dropping until the load line stops it. Here’s how to measure it:• Attach the dial indicator base to the pedestal, positioning the tip perpendicular to the edge of the turntable bottom plate at the specified indicator radius shown in the unit specific manual. • Make sure you know which way the dial indicator rotates when it moves to get the correct reading.• Zero out the dial indicator. Verify that you have at least 0.25 inches of movement on the dial indicator in both directions when zeroing.• Position boom according to manufacturer instructions.• Read the number on the dial indicator. This is your rotation bearing deflection. Record the reading, and check this against “Maximum Allowable Bearing Deflection.” This value is based on a specific dimension of the reading from the centerline of rotation. This dimension is given with the maximum deflection. LEVELING CHAINLeveling systems on aerial devices should have specific amounts of preload. Too much or too little tension increases wear and possible damage. Checking leveling tension requires taking off boom covers. Failure to keep the chain within tolerance could affect the self-leveling of the bucket as the boom moves through its range of motion.Leveling chains should also be inspected for cracks, turned pins, or damage to the chain or links and should be lubricated with the proper lubricant, not grease, according to manufacturer recommendations.CHAIN WEAROne of the most important causes of premature wear or breakage is inadequate lubrication. In addition to reducing internal friction, maintaining a film of lubricant on all chain surfaces will inhibit rusting and corrosion. Under normal operating conditions, especially in dusty environments, lubricated chains will accumulate a paste-like buildup of grime. This buildup should never be permitted to accumulate sufficiently to seal off the clearances, thereby restricting the lubricant to the bearing areas. At periodic intervals, this buildup must be removed by cleaning and the chain immediately relubricated. Do not Making sure rotation bearing bolts are torqued properly should not be overlooked. Cracks, gouges, and damage to the aerial device platform could affect the structural integrity and contribute to reducing dielectric strength.
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 37steam clean or use de-greasers; use a brush and a safe petroleum solvent such as diesel fuel or kerosene. Chains can also have specific inspections to measure wear or specific replacement intervals, see the manufacturer’s manual for the requirements. If unusual noise of jerking is reported inspect the tension and lubrication of the chains.BUCKET & LINERCracks, gouges, and damage to the aerial device bucket could affect the structural integrity and contribute to reducing dielectric strength if the liner is damaged. Tools can get dropped, which damages the liner and the platform itself. It’s important to look underneath, inside, and outside the platform and liner by removing the liner. Liners also require periodic dielectric tests.Annual inspections are a task to be performed by those qualified, such as Terex Utilities’ factory trained technicians who have access to the right tools to do the job correctly. For owners who perform annual inspections in-house, Terex offers several training programs on its website designed to provide technicians with the knowledge to become a qualified inspector.ABOUT THE AUTHORRob Morris is a regional operaons manager with Terex Ulies. Terex Ulies is a leading global manufacturer of aerial devices and digger derricks for the electric ulity industry and oers service and parts support across North America. Terex Ulies is a business group within the Terex Aerial Work Plaorms Business Segment of Terex Corporaon. Find out more, visit www.terex.com/ulies. 866.251.1777 • 205.824.9796 randym@mwsmag.comREACH KEY INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS get your media planner mwSmAg.COmLOAD ING AN D UNLO ADINGRAMPS PROVIDE A SECU RE PATHOBTAI NING EQUI LIBRIU MQUICK ROUTE TO BR INGING WHEELS IN BALAN CEOCTOBER 2017LIGHT-DUTY2018 T OYOTA TUN DRAMEDIUM-DUTYFORD CUTAWAY E-450 DRWHEAVY-DUTY HINO 3 38THE MORE THIN GS CHA NGESOMETI MES STIC KING WITH WHAT WORKS IS KEYICUEE Booth #L127 FEEL ING WARM INSID ECHOOSI NG THE BES T AUXILIA RY HEATERTHE MORE THIN GS CHA NGEADVERTISING OPSREACH KEY INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202338TECHNOLOGYImprove Asset Service Times in the ShopREDUCE SERVICE-RELATED DOWNTIME WITH FLEET MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS By Rachael PlantPhoto credits, Fleetio. Photo by Fleetio
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 39Inefficiencies in service workflows can increase equipment downtime in the shop. Fleet management solutions automate the service workflow and allow users to create, track, and communicate within digital work orders to improve productivity and quickly get assets out the door.AUTOMATE DATA CAPTUREWhen it comes to process and workflow improvements, data is a key factor in determining inefficiencies causing avoidable downtime. Knowing what to look for and which metrics to track can help work truck fleet managers quickly spot issues to address them early. While this can be difficult for fleets still tracking data manually, fleet solutions such as fleet management software (FMS) automatically collect, consolidate, and aggregate fleet data for you—including data from integrated solutions like GPS, telematics, fuel cards, and even third-party maintenance shops. Cleaner data provides better insights into service processes and compliance rates. Automated data collection helps fleets improve the quality and quantity of asset data and catch errors such as inaccurate odometer inputs and over-fueling. It also helps fleets understand inefficiencies in the service process.Although asset breakdowns and repairs are the leading causes of unexpected downtime, that downtime can be further extended due to delays in the shop. In fact, shop delays can actually cause avoidable downtime even when it comes to scheduled maintenance. Understanding service duration versus time actively spent performing the service is the first step in managing avoidable downtime caused by service delays. Service duration is the amount of time an asset spends in the shop from drop-off to pickup. Tracking service duration and comparing it against active time technicians spend on a job helps surface process issues that could be costing your fleet time and money.OPTIMIZE SERVICE WORKFLOWSSurfacing the cause of service delays is critical to implementing a successful solution. Service delays can be caused by such issues as inefficient scheduling and/or staffing, poor communication, and delays in replacement parts acquisition. Fleets can use FMS to improve communication around service needs using service reminders. Service reminders help fleets stay on top of preventive maintenance and compliance, including receiving overdue and due soon service alerts. Fleet managers can set these reminders to be sent to anyone who needs to see them, such as account admins and managers, the driver to whom the asset is assigned, and the technician to whom the work is assigned. Using service reminders not only makes it easier to schedule service-related downtime, it also ensures everyone in the workflow knows when to be where, why, what’s being done, and when an asset is ready for pickup.Fleets servicing trucks in house can also use digital work orders in FMS to track active service time, service duration, repair priority class (based on Vehicle Maintenance Reporting Standards), parts used, and all associated line item costs. Technicians can use the software’s native app to clock in and out of jobs for more precise service data and can communicate within the work order so all task-related communication is centralized, transparent, and easily accessible. Fleet managers can use customizable labels in digital work orders to further categorize the source of delays, including waiting on parts or waiting for an open technician. Because service duration and active service times are automatically captured in the software in real time, fleet managers can quickly assess the amount of—and using labels, the reason for—service delays. Digital work orders also track work order statuses in real time (i.e. whether a Photo credits, Fleetio.
Photo by Fleetio
Photo by Fleetio
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202340TECHNOLOGYwork order is open, pending, completed, needs approval, or is approved). With this data, work truck fleet managers can implement a plan to optimize workflows and increase service efficiency to reduce avoidable downtime, whether that means improving parts inventory management, scheduling, or hiring additional technicians.Fleet drivers can also use the software’s app to submit digital asset inspections in real time, and failed inspection items alert managers, kicking off the service workflow. This better allows drivers in the field to easily communicate asset health data and ensures the concerns they kick up are addressed. And since managers—and any other relevant parties—receive failed inspection alerts in real time, issues are less likely to compound into a breakdown event, reducing instances of unscheduled downtime.REAL-TIME REPORTINGManually collecting service data isn’t just time consuming, it also increases the risk of data gaps, which can lead to inaccurate reporting, and it makes data consolidation and analysis more burdensome. Automated, configurable reporting is one of the top conveniences FMS provides. Plus, work truck fleets can use integrated FMS to automatically consolidate and aggregate data captured from other fleet solutions as well, reducing data overload. Correcting workflow and process issues without knowing their source can prove to be quite a feat. Configurable reporting in FMS allows fleets to highlight key service metrics to monitor service workflow efficiency in real time and catch any problems as they arise. Furthermore, managers can tailor specific reports to stakeholders as needed, but this is especially helpful when it comes to advocating for needed resources to improve service workflows, including hiring more staff or making larger inventory purchase orders of high-fail parts to ensure your technicians have what they need to tackle the job.Implementing FMS to track, monitor, and improve service workflows reduces avoidable downtime and ensures your assets are in safe operating condition for improved productivity and profitability.ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Photo by Fleetio
Photo by Fleetio
Photo by Fleetio
Photo by Fleetio
Photo by Fleetio
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202342SAFETYIn trucking, moving, storage, and warehousing, personnel often rely on ramps to load and unload a wide variety of heavy or bulky items such as pallets, large boxes, furniture, and appliances from ground level. Ensuring good footing and proper traction going up and down these ramps is critical not only for safety, but particularly in wet or humid conditions where the ramps can become slick and pose a slip and fall hazard. “It is essential that moving ramps have good traction because our moving teams across the country face a multitude of weather patterns, and we don’t dictate what the franchisees require for footwear,” says Ryan Boyer, safety and risk specialist at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®/International, LLC. “So, one way we can be consistent in promoting safety is at the point of contact on every ramp.”Two Men and a Truck, the largest franchised moving company in the United States, is headquartered in Lansing, Michigan, and has more than 405 locations and over 3,000 trucks on the road. The moving company has franchises in 47 US states in addition to the United Kingdom, Canada, and Ireland. A COATING SOLUTIONTo increase traction, ramp manufacturers typically apply a slip-resistant coating to the surface, but it can wear quickly and needs to be restored frequently. Conventional surface restoration products, however, can be difficult to use, have an offensive odor, and lack longevity. “The standard grit on our fiberglass ramps initially provided traction but quickly wore out and would not last much longer than a year,” Boyer explains. “Our franchisees were annually resurfacing the ramps outdoors (with an OEM restoration product) due to the strong odor and long cure times.”Boyer points out that purchasing new ramps was seldom feasible due to the high cost and an order backlog of up to 11 months in some cases.Fortunately, a new category of durable, high-tech, all-epoxy coating is dramatically increasing traction and improving safety on truck ramps. This new type of coating is designed to last for years even in high-use, harsh weather environments, which reduces the need for maintenance and replacement. The coating can be quickly and easily applied without a primer, minimizing cost and disruption.TRACTION & SAFETYAt Two Men and a Truck, Boyer and his team coordinate with the moving company’s domestic franchise groups to promote safety, regulatory compliance, and industry best practices. “We want our personnel to deliver world-class moving services, and the only way we can do that is if they can How to Prevent Accidents LOADING RAMP SAFETY HAZARDS By Del Williams THE NEW EPOXY COATING CAN BE QUICKLY AND EASILY APPLIED WITHOUT A PRIMER, MINIMIZING COST AND DISRUPTION. How to Prevent Accidents LOADING RAMP SAFETY HAZARDS By Del Williams
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 43move items safely and consistently,” Boyer says. “So, it is important that our moving ramps provide good traction in all weather conditions.”After research and consultation, Two Men and a Truck had a safety coating manufacturer apply the non-skid coating called Form-A-Tread® SL (Self Leveling) on a ramp to demonstrate the effectiveness of the product at its headquarters. Unlike similar products, the coating is non-flammable, low odor, and can be installed indoors. The coating provides a durable, slip-resistant surface on ramps, walkways, concourses, industrial flooring, and other large areas with high pedestrian or vehicle traffic.Boyer was impressed with the safety coating’s ease of installation.“When they resurfaced the ramp in our lobby, there was essentially no odor, and it was ready for use much faster (than the previous coating they were using),” he says.FORM-A-TREAD FEATURESThe coating, which comes in a kit, is easy to mix and apply by hand. Installation is fast and typically ready for use in under four hours. It can be applied to composite, aluminum, steel, wood, and other porous and non-porous substrates. Each kit can fully restore the surface of two 14-ft, single fiberglass composite ramps or two 14-ft, split fiberglass composite ramps. The new coating is designed to last for years even in high use, harsh weather environments, which reduces the need for maintenance and replacement. Ramp shown before Form-a-Tread SL application.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202344SAFETYThe most critical factor for Boyer, was the coating’s ability to provide superior traction along with longevity. In this regard, the coating exceeded his expectations.The all-epoxy safety product is a combination of a low-to-medium viscosity, 100% solids epoxy binder and a hard-wearing aggregate that achieves a Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) value of 0.76, well above industry standards. The formulation, along with topically applied aggregate, is designed to last for years even when exposed to extreme weather, temperature, sea spray, sunlight, and chemicals. Due to the anti-slip coating’s excellent traction and wear, it is used in some of the nation’s top commercial properties and entertainment venues to improve safety and reduce maintenance.Consequently, Boyer and Two Men and a Truck’s safety specialists approved Form-A-Tread SL after the successful demonstration for use by the moving company’s American franchisees. Though it is not mandated, the feedback in the field has been very positive.SPECIALIST APPROVED“The traction is so much better (than our previous restoration kit),” Boyer begins. “It provides a better surface contact point for footwear, especially in wet or snowy weather. Every franchisee I’ve spoken with said their moving personnel rave about it. They can tell when they are using a ramp without the product and want it applied on all their ramps.”The new coating on the resurfaced ramps is also much more durable.“Some of our franchisees have now used the recoated ramps for more than two years, and the coating is still in great shape,” Boyer adds. He points out that substantial savings can accrue in preventing slip and fall injuries as well as in reduced maintenance.“Even avoiding one slip and fall accident, injury, or worker’s comp claim could pay for the all-epoxy coating many times over,” Boyer says. “And operations managers are no longer having to spend hours every year resurfacing ramps.” He notes that the all-epoxy coating costs only a little more than the The coating provides a durable, slip-resistant surface on ramps, walkways, concourses, industrial flooring, and other large areas with high pedestrian or vehicle traffic. The old coating must be scraped off as shown above before applying Form-a-Tread SL.The formulation is designed tolast for years even when exposed toextreme weather, temperature, and more.”“
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 45previous coating but is actually quite economical due to its increased safety and longevity. According to Boyer, the coating’s exceptional adhesion also resolved an issue that previously could not be addressed with a conventional coating.“The metal side rails that go up a ramp can be slippery but do not typically have an anti-slip coating. The Form-A-Tread product allowed us to coat the rails to provide safe traction, which was a game changer for many of our franchisees,” Boyer recalls. Based on this success, Boyer believes that the anti-skid coating could be applied to a wide range of ramps.“The coating could provide an additional layer of traction on many ramp types including aluminum washboard style,” he says.WORK MORE SAFELYAs a safety specialist, Boyer sees how the anti-skid coating could significantly improve safety for trucking, moving, and warehousing.“We are working in a climate right now where our employees are more important than ever,” Boyer says. “Why not give them the best opportunity to do their jobs safely? We want them to go up and down ramps without losing traction whether they are carrying a gun safe, piano, or anything else.” He adds, “We have found that (the Form-A-Tread anti-skid coating) has contributed to a safer working environment for our teams. We would love to see the product at more of our franchise locations soon. It is a good, long-lasting product that will help to ensure personnel safety for many years, keeping them healthy and on the job.” A new category of durable, high-tech, all-epoxy coating dramatically increases traction and improves safety on truck ramps.ABOUT THE AUTHOR Del Williams is a technical writer based in Torrance, California. Find out more, visit www.form-a-tread.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202346SAFETYIt’s no secret that the insurance market for work truck fleets has been tough over the past several years. As a provider of online training for fleets, we work closely with insurance companies, so we understand the challenges fleets are presented with when it comes time for policy renewal. Unfortunately, there’s no quick fix to get a discounted rate or be viewed as a safe fleet by your insurance company. But there are things you can do to set yourself up for long-term success when it comes to safety and your overall standing with your insurance provider. FLEET SAFETY DATA Most fleets use safety technologies to monitor driving behavior, yet not enough actually use the information collected from these technologies to their advantage when it comes time for renewals. Before you meet with your insurance provider, analyze safety data so you can discuss your loss history, safety scores, and trends in driver-related incidents. Having this information available for your provider shows them you’re proactive in your fleet safety approach. And with this information, you can make informed decisions to improve in areas you’re coming up short. Insurance providers consider how a fleet is trending during the renewal process. If a fleet has good overall safety scores but they’ve experienced an uptick in safety incidents reported in recent months, their provider could use that against them. Conversely, if a fleet has an average or below-average safety score but has recently shown a steady decrease in incidents, it will tell the insurance provider that the fleet is heading in the right direction.Improve Your Fleet’s Safety Culture and Increase the Chances of a Lower Insurance RateINSURANCE RENEWAL TIPS By Mark Murrell
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 47That leads to benchmarking—another tool to help your efforts. Tracking your fleet safety scores with other similar operations is something all fleets should do. It can help companies gauge how well their safety programs are compared to others in the industry. CONSIDER THE POLICY Less is more when it comes to safety policies. Be concise. Insurance providers notice the way management writes and follows safety policies. Two common problems with policies are: 1) They follow the minimum requirements set by their insurance provider; or 2) They are too lengthy, rules are too stringent, and/or they need to be updated. Both policy characteristics present several red flags. If your fleet follows the bare minimum policies your insurance provider expects, that’s not enough. When they assess your risk level, they’ll wonder why you aren’t doing more to address safe practices within your fleet. Think of it as receiving a C on a test in school instead of an A. Technically, C is a passing grade, but a C doesn’t show strong performance. On the other hand, if your policies are pages long with specific rules the company and drivers need to follow, that’s also a problem. If you have a 100-page policy book, will your drivers actually read all of the material and comprehend everything? After a driver reads through it all, they’ll likely have forgotten what was covered a few pages ago. Often these policies were written years ago, and some of the material may be outdated.CREATE A PROCESSA better approach is to have policies that cover general rules along with an established and documented process on how the company handles policy violations as they come. Actions speak louder than words. For example, a fleet safety committee can evaluate a policy violation and consider all the factors about the incident and driver history to determine the proper way to handle the problem. Not every incident warrants a “yes or no” type ruling. Let’s say, for example, you have a driver with a clean record that’s been with the company for 20 years and is considered your top driver. If that driver is involved in their first serious incident, say cited for reckless driving, and you have a strict policy that says that the driver must be terminated, what do you do? Do you fire the driver that, up until then, had been a shining star and lose one of your most experienced drivers? Or do you keep them on and go against the policy? It’s a lose-lose situation because you either lose one of your best drivers or ignore your policy, which might be questioned when you meet with your insurance agency. By having a process in place to evaluate violations, you can determine the appropriate action that should take place. You won’t be locked in. Not only can this help with operations, but it’s also something your insurance provider and other agencies want to see.DRIVER TRAINING There is a lot of free content and videos available online that fleets use to help train their drivers. If you do a Google search on specific types of training, all sorts of results will populate. While some of the content is good, there’s a lot that isn’t, so safety managers need to compare and contrast. Bottom line: Check for quality first.That said, one of the biggest problems fleets have with using these free resources is that it can be difficult to document the training you’re assigning drivers. Think of it this way: If you assign YouTube videos for drivers to watch without documenting when they watched or without implementing a follow-up activity to determine that the information was retained—then, what’s the point?When you meet with an insurance provider, they want to see proof of training and documentation that drivers are being assigned, completing, and passing course material. COMPANY CULTUREGood company culture is vital to how safely a fleet operates. Many fleets claim they have open-door policies to address driver concerns, but do they actually practice what they preach? Often the answer is no. Fostering meaningful relationships with your drivers and understanding their needs is essential. From company executives to drivers, everyone should have the same level of understanding of expectations regarding safety.Driver surveys are a great way to understand what’s working and what isn’t when it comes to a variety of driver-related topics. If you do them, take the results to heart. Use the information to better your company. You’re much more likely to retain quality, safe drivers if you create a company culture where drivers want to be. If you don’t, you’ll be in a constant cycle of hiring new drivers.As many fleets will attest, it’s been a tough insurance market for the last several years. While there’s no quick fix to get better insurance rates, there are several things you can do to put yourself in a better situation long-term when you meet with your insurance provider.ABOUT THE AUTHORMark Murrell is president of CarriersEdge, a provider of online driver training for the trucking industry, and co-creator of Best Fleets to Drive For, an annual in the North American trucking industry produced in partnership with the Truckload Carriers www.carriersedge.com.
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202348SAFETYLast month’s issue included part 1 of this article. Part 1 introduced the Nauto safety system, which includes a device that installs on a work vehicle windshield that uses computer vision to detect what’s happening on the road and inside the cabin to determine risks. If the device does detect a risk or poor driver behavior, it will audibly alert the driver and give them the chance to correct the behavior.While the device uses computer vision to detect risks and inform the driver, the device also gives fleet owners the option to video record safety events both on the road and inside the cab. This option helps both the fleet and the driver because if an accident does happen, video proof exonerates good drivers when the collision wasn’t their fault. However, in-cab video capture is enough to make any driver feel their privacy is invaded. But with Nauto, drivers can feel more comfortable.Last month’s article ended with Nauto’s ability to honor driver privacy, and this article will continue explaining what triggers the camera to record, how context plays a big role with the safety system, how Nauto helps with driver coaching, and other benefits.WHAT’S RECORDEDIn respect to the driver’s privacy and the fleet manager’s time, the Nauto camera doesn’t continuously record—and as stated in part 1 of this article, the fleet manager must explicitly request for video capture, regardless. In fact, what triggers the recording is actually dependent upon what the fleet manager is most concerned about. The computer vision picks up on these events and then begins to capture those seconds of driving.These AI-captured events can include following too closely, running a stop sign, being drowsy, etc. And in some instances, the camera system won’t even trigger until it receives permission to record from the fleet manager or dispatch, such as when the AI detects yawning or other signs of fatigue. Video capture can even take place outside the vehicle, such as when a vehicle enters a secure area or when a fleet manager wants to monitor tools and equipment from theft.An AI-enabled Safety System that KeepsDriver Safety andPrivacy a Top PriorityHOW NAUTO USES COMPUTER VISION TO ENCOURAGE SAFER DRIVING: PART 2
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 49CONSIDER CONTEXTAnother aspect of Nauto that drivers can appreciate is the fact that the system takes context into account. Stefan Heck, Nauto founder and CEO, uses the example of cell phone use in the state of California.In California, it’s against the law for drivers to use their cell phone even when at a red light; however, just because it’s against the law, that doesn’t mean Nauto will consider that action to be poor driver behavior simply because the safety risk of phone use at a red light is extremely low. “We’re not here to try to enforce the law,” Heck explains. “We’re here to detect safety risks.”Other low-risk actions the system doesn’t alert drivers about are things like adjusting the radio, checking a map, or other interactions that take the drivers’ eyes off the road for less than two seconds. The system also doesn’t alert drivers or fleet managers if a driver travels slightly above the speed limit. In fact, Heck explains that it’s safer to drive along with the flow of traffic rather than drive strictly according to the speed limit in some cases. However, if the driver is speeding and tailgating simultaneously, then that would be flagged as a safety risk.COACHING HELPPerhaps the best part of Nauto is that, in many cases, the fleet manager doesn’t have to be involved in driver coaching. This means no sifting through countless hours of footage, no endless note-taking, and no taking time away from the manager’s or driver’s busy schedules to make time for a one-on-one coaching session. Heck says only about 10 to 15% of drivers using Nauto will ever need a coaching session because of the system’s ability to allow drivers to self-improve by simply alerting drivers of their mistakes. Generally, fleets will see improvement from their drivers within a week and see most drivers scoring in the 90s (on a scale from 1 to 100) within a few months—all without manager coaching. In cases when a driver does not improve, then the fleet manager can step in and assess the problem for issues that computer vision can’t detect: Perhaps the driver can’t see well at night and needs glasses, or perhaps the driver isn’t sleeping well at night due to a new baby at home.If a driver does need coaching, the Nauto manager dashboard provides detailed information and suggestions about what area the driver needs coaching. OTHER BENEFITSNauto detects poor driving behaviors, and it also detects collisions immediately—even minor ones. This is a plus for: the fleet, because the manager can assess damage to the vehicle once it pulls back into the yard; the driver, because once dispatch learns of a collision, they can call for emergency assistance; and the other motorist or pedestrian involved in the accident, because immediate help means less chances of a permanent injury. Another benefit of Nauto versus other systems is its simple implementation. Using Nauto requires the installation of one small, single device on the windshield of the vehicle. And managers can install the Nauto dashboard straight onto their desktop, laptop, or tablet.Over 800 fleets across the US, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Japan are already using Nauto, and the success stories are aplenty. Among those 800 fleets are those in delivery, utilities, oil and gas, pest control, passenger fleets, rideshare, and more—any driver and any fleet can benefit from Nauto.FOR MORE INFORMATIONFind out more about Nauto, visit www.nauto.com.Don’t Read While Driving Dirt RoadsDon’t Read While Driving Dirt RoadsSAFETYTHE MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS DIGITAL EDITION IS COMPELLING, BUT FLIPPING THE INTERACTIVE PAGES SHOULD NOT BE ATTEMPTED WHILE OPERATING A MOVING VEHICLE
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202350WORK TRUCK PRODUCTSVENCO VENTUROVENTURO HT60KXBig jobs in challenging industries need strong, safe heavy-duty equipment you can depend on. From agriculture to construction, municipalities and truck repair, the Venturo HT60KX is a made-in-the-USA heavy-duty service crane that is purpose-built to handle whatever your work demands. Rated at 60,000 ft lbs with a hefty 10,000-lb lifting capacity and 25 and 30-ft reach options, the HT60KX delivers the brute power you need to tackle any job, anywhere. The operator-friendly design and safety-redundant features of the VLC™ remote control system help make the HT60KX the long-lasting, durable crane you need to get the work done. www.venturo.comWAYTEK WIRE3M SCOTCH SUPER 33+ VINYL ELECTRICAL TAPEWhen you need reliable performance and quality in the most demanding electrical maintenance and repair jobs, turn to 3M’s Scotch Super 33+ Tape Professional Grade Tape. Super 33+ tape uses a combination of aggressive pressure-sensitive, rubber-resin adhesive and elastic PVC backing. This combination of adhesive and elasticity offers moisture-tight electrical and mechanical protection. It is compatible with systems using solid dielectric cable insulations and with rubber and synthetic splicing compounds. Protect your work truck systems from corrosion with 3M Scotch Super 33+ tape.www.waytekwire.comVIATECSMART FAMILY OF FLEET ELECTRIFICATION SYSTEMSViatec's Smart family of plug-in electrification systems provides clean power for upfits. SmartPTO, universal ePTO, is ideal for hydraulic applications like bucket trucks and maintaining truck batteries. Quick installation leaves legacy PTO operational and works with conventional and EV chassis. SmartPX is a plug-in electric alternative to gas/diesel generators, producing rotary, pure sine wave power for pumps, welders, and tools requiring 120, 240VAC, and 12VDC. SmartAPU provides power requirements for medium-duty service trucks to run auxiliary equipment. Enclosed systems with simple, parallel installation and telematics reporting set the standard in reliable solutions that power safer, quieter, zero-emissions worksites. www.viatec.us VMACVMAC’s latest Multifunction combines five power sources in one powerful machine. The new 5-in-1 Multifunction system is powered by Honda’s iGX800 V-Twin gas engine. The 5-in-1 Multifunction includes 40 CFM of compressed air, 8 kW of electric power, up to 250 A of welding capacity, 12/24 V charging, and 300 A boosting. Operators can use just one function or all functions simultaneously. Compared to similar systems, the 5-in-1 Multifunction is exceptionally quiet. With noise reduction panels, multi-speed idle controls, and standby mode, it emits only 59 decibels at low idle and 73 decibels at high idle. SEE ADPG 8
MAY 2023 WWW.MWSMAG.COM MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS 51Peterson knows that in any weather and in every lighting condition, work needs to get done. For that reason Peterson developed a family of work truck lighting designed, engineered, and manufactured in America’s heartland that sets new standards in efficiency and durability.Manufactured with legendary quality, the Peterson line of superior forward LED lighting offers greater light output to enhance safety in any environment and energy-efficient low power consumption to last longer. Whether spec’d as OEM standard or as an aftermarket installation, you can count on Peterson lights to work as hard as you do. The Peterson 701 Headlight has a UV and impact-resistant heavy-duty polycarbonate lens and separate high/low dramatically brilliant crisp beams. The wider, even beam with 5,600k color temperature closely matches natural daylight and gives drivers exceptional night lighting, including shoulder visibility, all while reducing eye strain for the driver. The 701 features vibration resistance and energy efficiency and is made in the USA.905/906 LED PEDESTAL MOUNT WORK LIGHTSThe Peterson 905-MV and 906-MV series LED Work Lights with pedestal-mount feature a rugged textured polymer housing and lens and lightweight low-profile design with an optimized bright light beam pattern for even general area illumination. The 905/906 series also has high vibration resistance with low amp draw. It’s also made in the USA.WORK LIGHTThe Peterson 908 features a sealed LED work light installed in rubber housing with lead wires. Created with Peterson LumenX® technology, which prevents hot spots or dead zones, the 908 delivers an extremely even flood pattern for broad illumination. The 908 is available in multi-volt and 12-volt versions and is also suitable to use as a utility light. Additionally, the 908 is made in the USA.The Peterson 925-12 with 12 diodes features an integrated connector design and frosted lens. This work light is perfect for task lighting in small spaces. The light’s voltage is regulated for a 9 to 32 volt operating range. The sealed lens and housing meets IP67 ingress protection level. The 925-12 features a grommet that fits material up to 6-mm thick. It’s also made in the USA.Find out more, visit www.pmlights.com.featured productA FAMILY THAT LIGHTS THE WAY
MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS WWW.MWSMAG.COM MAY 202352Netradyne’s survey respondents for noncommercial drivers ranged from the ages of 18 to 65-plus, both male and female, in all regions of the US. Gez Z made up 14% of the group, whereas Millennials made up 31%, Gen X comprised 24%, Baby Boomers made up 27%, and the Silent Generation made up 3% of the group. Aside from classification questions, noncommercial drivers answered five questions pertaining to distracted driving, with three focusing on a driver’s perception of multitasking behind the wheel. DISTRACTED DRIVERSNo matter the age, anyone can find themselves driving distracted. Even some of the safest drivers become distracted from time to time. Netradyne asked survey respondents to agree or disagree that respondents would classify themselves as a “multitasking driver” by typically doing something else (such as eating, talking on the phone, looking at email, scrolling, or texting) while behind the wheel. A whopping 47% of respondents said they would agree with the statement. When asked if drivers agree with the statement, “I’m actually a better driver when I’m multitasking,” an unfortunate 22% said they would agree.What’s keeping drivers distracted, and where should the motoring public and commercial drivers be on the lookout for distracted drivers?DISTRACTIONSThe survey revealed that the top two distractions for noncommercial drivers were their smartphone (59%) and food/eating (37%). Other distractions included entertainment such as radio and TV (34%), adult passenger (29%), children (28%), and pets (20%). Netradyne also shared that among adults with children, smartphones were still rated higher as a distraction than children (65% versus 60%).Additionally, another survey question asked if drivers avoided using their phones when driving next to different vehicles. According to the responses, drivers are most likely to avoid using their phone when driving next to a school bus (62%), a bicycle (58%), and a motorcycle (57%). Only 51% of respondents said they would avoid using their phone when driving next to a delivery truck.WHERE IT HAPPENSWhere does distracted driving take place? According to the survey, noncommercial drivers are most likely to drive distracted when in their own neighborhood (40%). Side streets are the second-highest to see distracted drivers (35%), and respondents said major highways are the third most likely roads where they drive distracted (23%).FOR THE FLEETSNow that fleet owners and managers know what their fleet drivers are up against with noncommercial drivers on the road, what can be done to help? It’s been proven that fleets using safety technology improve their driving—which can even help correct mistakes that other motorists make. Using its own customer data, Netradyne crunched the numbers of commercial fleets and found that implementing safety technology pays off.For example, on average, fleets that use Netradyne’s safety technology see a 96% reduction in distracted driving incidents. Netradyne’s technology can also help to decrease distracted driving. In fact, in just 12 weeks, Netradyne can help reduce driver distraction by 90%. And further, 42% of drivers using Netradyne stopped looking at their cell phones after receiving an in-cab notification from the safety technology.There is little fleets can do to control the behavior of noncommercial drivers. But fleet managers can ensure the safety of their drivers by training, implementing safety rules, and employing safety technology, such as Netradyne.DRIVERS ARE DISTRACTED. THIS SURVEY SHOWS JUST HOW MUCH.Just in time for the Maintenance + Safety issue, Netradyne, a Safety as a Service (SaaS) provider of artificial intelligence (AI) and edge computing solutions, released its latest safety survey results. The company’s recent survey reveals distracted driving findings from both noncommercial Netradyne’s commercial carrier customers. The information below highlights the results from the noncommercial drivers, and offers insight into how fleet managers can help their drivers.thethinkCabOutsidetheCabthinkOOOOetsideeeeideOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOuuuuuuutsideueutsidedeeiutsideeitututtssssiiiiddddddddeeeeeeeeeeeedddeeeeeeeiiiiiuuuttssiiddeeeeeddeeiiCabCabCabCabThinkTheFind out more about Netradyne and its safety survey, visit www.netradyne.com.Talk soon! Jade