All Access Articles

A few years ago biofuels looked like one answer to rising fuel prices. The idea was to grow sugar crops, such as sugar beet, and starchy plants, such as corn, to produce ethanol by fermentation. Alternatively, oily crops like soybeans and rapeseed can provide a diesel-like fuel oil.

Machine sales is but one part of the access industry, and there is no doubt that sales are significantly down in many parts of the world. What are the indications for other aspects of the business, such as parts and training?

Although most access equipment users probably would not think they're coming quickly enough, component manufacturers are offering solid prospects for improving operating efficiencies. Patrick Hill reports on those developments, as well as current levels in aftermarket activity.

IPAF (The International Powered Access Federation) has appointed Pascal Deher as its new representative in France with immediate effect.

David Smith has been promoted to vice president, operations, for Snorkel International.

JLG Industries and its parent company, Oshkosh Corporation has broken ground for a new manufacturing facility in Tianjin, China. The new facility will produce JLG access equipment specifically for the Asian market.

Skyjack has confirmed that this year's scheduled Christmas shut down at its scissor producing Guelph plant will be extended to four weeks due to reduced demand. However, market share across all product ranges holds up.

UK company Enigma Vehicle Systems PLC, has appointed David White sales manager for the UK and Ireland. Mr White has 15 years experience in the industry and has joined the company from Trafficmaster, where he was dealer account manager. His appointment is part of a rapid expansion at Enigma where staff numbers have doubled in the last year to meet customer demand.

Terex Aerial Work Platforms (AWP) has introduced a range of online service training designed to give technicians an interactive way to learn about troubleshooting and the repair of Genie products.

Man & Material Lift Engineering has unveiled a new website for customers and the general public.

Terex AWP has introduced a free online service program for mechanics to learn more about troubleshooting and repair on Genie machines.

Harsco Corporation has received a three-year contract to supply scaffolding, access towers, and other construction equipment to support the Barwa Commercial Avenue construction project in Qatar. The award also includes provision of rental materials and the potential for scope increases, said the US-based company.

Milton Keynes based Zarges (UK) has introduced a range of access steps and platforms designed to help prevent injury and death to workers in the construction industry. According to Zarges (UK), many injuries caused by falling from height could be prevented by choosing the right equipment for the job and making sure it is used.

UK manufacturer Edmolift has launched the T-zip Micro personal lift to complement their existing T-zip range.

Tanfield Group has rejected speculation that it may close or sell its Snorkel subsidiary and said it was well-positioned to weather the downturn in aerial platform markets worldwide. Tanfield also revealed plans for a Chinese manufacturing joint venture that will be producing small machines by the end of 2009.

US manufacturer MEC Aerial Work Platforms is grasping the challenges set by an economic downturn with both hands. With its sales revenues up 5% in the first three quarters than last year, the company is developing new products and pursuing an aggressive marketing campaign.

Executives from North America’s six largest rental houses and six major aerial work platform manufacturers convened November 11 in Chicago to discuss standard AWP operator training.

David Brotherton has been appointed product manager for the Genie articulating boom product line at Genie Industries. He will report to Alan Lofurno, global general manager, aerial boom product line.

David Brotherton takes the company's post of articulating boom product manager.

The Spanish access rental association ANAPAT held a special ‘crisis’ meeting in Zaragoza on 6 November to discuss how the sector can adapt to worsening market conditions.