F.A.T.mag

STANLEY® Smart Measure Pro

Katrina — Mon, 23 May 2016 00:15:38 +0000

Delivering professional estimates in minutes

The new Smart Measure Pro from STANLEY® is an innovative, time- saving digital measuring device that can capture the height, width and area of targeted locations from pictures taken on a smart phone – generating quick and accurate estimates, ideal for builders and contractors, plasterers, painters and roofers.

After connecting a smart phone to the Smart Measure Pro via the Smart Measure Pro App, the user simply takes a picture of the required surface area, and the intelligent digital device allows the user to obtain measurements accurate up to ± 2mm. It is also possible to review, store and share the same measurements and estimations to a desktop device.

Connectivity via Bluetooth ensures the phone, tool and application work seamlessly, with the camera and Smart Measure Pro communicating with the help of an invisible, embedded laser. The laser measurer wirelessly syncs with the application to generate accurate measurements in real time, and stores them automatically in the app’s database. This provides users with the convenience of viewing the measurements immediately or storing them to review at a later time.

The STANLEY Smart Measure Pro can be used with tablets and iPhones, and is compatible with both Apple and Android devices. The Smart Measure Pro application can be downloaded
free of charge, although some features may require subscription or in-app purchase. Files can be exported in JPG and PDF format. The Smart Measure Pro is powered by an internal lithium-ion battery and is equipped with a standard USB cable for charging.

Available in store from July 2016. Visit www.stanleytools.com.au for more information.

Safety first with Metabo

Katrina — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 03:00:48 +0000

Since 1924, Metabo has been a name synonymous with metal working machines—and safety first.

With safety becoming increasingly important on-site, it’s easy to see why cordless power tools have gained popularity. Milwaukee continue to deliver power tool products that not only revolutionise cordless expectations, but also integrate brand-new technology that deliver safer solutions for tool users.

By utilising advanced FUELTM technology, Milwaukee introduces a host of cordless products that minimise safety issues, which unfortunately have become all too prevalent on the jobsite. Not only does cordless portability boast convenience and limit time spent searching for power outlets, it also limits trip hazards from power cords, promoting a safer, more productive working environment for
the user. Products such as the new Magnetic Drill, Force LogicTM platform and the new Braking Angle Grinder, all feature cutting-edge technologies that have been engineered with job-site safety as a core focus.

The new M18 FUEL Magnetic Drill delivers a strong magnetic hold and functional design that benefits magnetic-tool users. Featuring a patented magnetic base and Auto-Stop lift-off detection, this new tool allows safe drilling in one-quarter-inch steel and automatically ceases power to the motor if excess motion is detected while drilling. It also utilises a permanent magnetic base that operates without power. This feature ensures that the drill doesn’t deactivate if the battery is exhausted, which can pose a potential hazard for magnetic-drill users.

With a focus on job-site safety and efficiency, Milwaukee is introducing the Force LogicTM press tools category. These hydraulic-driven cordless tools are an effective alternative to the traditional soldering connection, engineered for the plumbing, electrical and utilities market. This press process involves flame-free installation, where fittings are consistently pressed—minimising risk of gas leaks.

The philosophy of our company from the beginning has always been safety first, and in 1966 Metabo rose to the forefront of grinder safety with the first mechanical safety clutch, the ‘S-Automatic’. To this day, we still believe the mechanical safety clutch is a much safer option than any electronic clutch on the market, and our safety clutch has been applied to all our German-built, five-inch grinders and drills.

How does it work?

The safety clutch works similarly to a clutch in a car. As the load builds up on the grinder via high pressure or a disc jamming, the clutch starts to slip—thus reducing the impact force when a full jam occurs. While a very simple concept, we believe this is the most effective way of protecting the user against grinding wheels exploding due to jamming disks.

Metabo is continually improving its safety features, examples include:
- The Metabo Auto Balancer, reduces vibration by 50 per cent in conjunction with the Anti Vibration handle.
- The Metabo Mechanical Brake, stops the blade spinning within two seconds of the switch being released.
- In 2014, Metabo released what we believe is the safest and most powerful five-inch grinder in the world—the ‘WEPBA’, a 1700-watt grinder with all the safety features jammed in to one machine.

What does WEPBA stand for?

W Is the German word for angle grinder, ‘winkelschleifer’
E Electronics’, constant speed control, soft start and restart protection
P Paddle or dead man switch
B Brake, stops the grinding/cutting wheel within two seconds
A Auto balancer, reduces vibration caused by a worn grinding wheel.

In some workplaces, the WEPBA is the only grinder allowed on-site due to more exacting safety standards. One of our end users says, “As society progresses and continues to demand a higher degree of safety, with zero harm to the driver, usage of a grinder as a cutting tool will no longer be an acceptable risk.” says Steve, the safety officer at Mt Isa. Now the only grinder allowed on-site at Steve’s workplace is one with a mechanical clutch to protect the user.

At Metabo we have also developed a range of inexpensive cutting guards and adjustable handles for a safer and more comfortable user experience.

Portable Power Pros

Katrina — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 02:56:18 +0000

When you’re relying on serious power tools to get the job done, you want the ones that are going to do it as safely as possible.

With safety becoming increasingly important on-site, it’s easy to see why cordless power tools have gained popularity. Milwaukee continue to deliver power tool products that not only revolutionise cordless expectations, but also integrate brand new technology that deliver safer solutions for tool users.

By utilising advanced FUELTM technology, Milwaukee introduces a host of cordless products that minimise safety issues, which unfortunately have become all too prevalent on the jobsite. Not only does cordless portability boast convenience, and limit time spent searching for power outlets, it also limits trip hazards from power cords, promoting a safer, more productive working environment for the user. Products such as the new Magnetic Drill, Force LogicTM platform and the new Braking Angle Grinder, all feature cutting-edge technologies that have been engineered with job-site safety as a core focus.

The new M18 FUEL Magnetic Drill delivers a strong magnetic hold and functional design that benefits magnetic tool users.

Featuring a patented magnetic base and Auto-Stop lift-off detection, this new tool allows safe drilling in one-quarter-inch steel that ceases power to the motor automatically if excess motion is detected while drilling. It also utilises a permanent magnetic base that operates without power. This feature ensures that the drill doesn’t deactivate if the battery has exhausted, which can pose a potential hazard for magnetic drill users.

Cordless grinders are also progressively replacing many traditional corded versions on the job-site. Notably, the new M18 FUEL Braking Grinder, another advanced cordless solution, that reflects Milwaukee’s dedication to safety. The Grinder features RapidStopTM that will completely stop a grinding disc in less than two seconds, protecting the user from kickback, reducing user injury and increasing productivity. Milwaukee have introduced a slimline body design to reduce user fatigue commonly found with extensive use of a grinder. RAPIDSTOPTM and ergonomic design make this new grinder the perfect solution for job-site safety personnel and professional tool users.

These new power tools are a prime example of Milwaukee’s commitment to deliver advanced solutions that help professional tool users improve safety and productivity on the job-site.

Fat Chance Winners!

Katrina — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 02:52:19 +0000

Crete off

Katrina — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 02:46:57 +0000

Removing cement splatters and build-up from tools is a frustrating task, but a product discovered by accident is now promising to take the hard work out of the process.

As anyone working in construction or mining is only too aware, most labour-saving devices almost always come with a catch. Sometimes that cost is financial, other times environmental—but more often than not it comes in the form of compromise, where performance or product longevity must be sacrificed for the sake of saving a few hours on the tools.

There’s a new product causing a stir among tradies, DIYers and engineering professionals that looks set to change all that. Crete-Off Concrete Dissolver is designed to dissolve the Portland cement compound in concrete, mortar, grout, thin-set and other cement products—as the name suggests.

Paul Henderson, maintenance and fabrication manager of pre-cast pit company Aus Pit, says his company started using Crete-Off five years ago to help clean up its machinery, concrete kibbles and moulds. He says the company now goes through around 20 litres per month.

“We started using Crete-Off because some of the other so-called concrete removal products created occupational health and safety issues with their personal protective equipment requirement, training, storage and disposal. This product made it easy for operators to keep equipment clean.” Construction Supply Specialists (CSS) marketing manager Paul Davy says unlike other products of this nature, Crete-Off is a sugar-based liquid—meaning it’s non-toxic, odourless and won’t cause harm to any painted surface, tool, metal or plastic surface, or any type of plant or vegetation. Traditionally, hydrochloric and muriatic acids have been used on stubborn, dried-on ready-mix.

While effective, they’re also highly corrosive. Crete-Off doesn’t contain muriatic or sulphuric acid, it’s 100 per cent biodegradable, and can be shipped and stored without hazmat markings.

Suitable for use across a range of applications, it’s most effective when used to clear concrete build-up on hand tools, mixers, screeds, pumps, wheelbarrows, scaffolds, mud tubs, generators and vehicles. It can even be used on windows and framing.

Davy says Crete-Off works by attacking and dissolving the “glue” in concrete, by deconstructing the bond between the Portland and other ingredients—such as sand or gravel—eliminating hammering, scraping and acid washing. “It turns material into soft mush, which doesn’t require hazardous waste disposal,” he says.

Developed by a “mad” scientist who was in the process of developing a new washing detergent, but accidentally spilled some on the concrete floor. Crete-Off normally works in just
a few minutes, and the amount of time required is proportional to the thickness of the concrete being dissolved, he says.

“The minimum amount of time it takes to work is around 10 minutes, but thicker materials may take 30 minutes or more, and repeated applications.”

Davy says in order for the product to work correctly it’s important that users go to great effort to keep the material dry before applying Crete-Off, as any water on the material will neutralise the effects of the concrete dissolver, potentially jeopardising its effectiveness.

For this reason it works best when it’s applied with a brush, air former or sprayer, then washed off with a high-pressure hose. The dissolver of choice for many companies large or small, Davy says Crete-Off’s use extends beyond the traditional construction sector and has been used by everyone—from swimming pool contractors and stonemasons, to panel beaters and landscape gardeners—to assist them to remove concrete from surfaces where it shouldn’t be. However, he explains, it’s the mining sector where the concrete dissolver is really gaining traction.

“Mining sites are very focused on having their employees work in a safe environment. Due to the large number of workers [in the field], the risk ratio of someone getting injured at work is high.

“If workers get injured then they’re off on leave, putting a strain on resources which can reduce production. Because Crete-Off’s acidity is like a citrus fruit, it doesn’t burn human skin, so it’s a safer alternative.”

Crete-Off is available in 750ml spray bottles which retail for around $22.00, 5Lt and 20lt containers and 208Lt drums are also available on request.

For more information on the product, or to find your nearest stockist, visit www.creteoff.com.au.

Damage control – So you can Perform & Protect on the job

Katrina — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 01:48:45 +0000

DEWALT® is constantly pushing the boundaries to create the most innovative tools for the construction professional. Power tools that carry the Perform & Protect shield have passed rigorous testing to ensure they exceed the highest demands of the toughest environments, while maintaining a fundamental emphasis on safety. All of these products have to meet strict criteria in one or more of the following core areas: Control; Vibration; Dust.

CONTROL
When the Perform & Protect shield is awarded for control, it guarantees additional innovative torque control safety features have been incorporated into the design of the tool.

Bind-up situations can occur when drilling, cutting or grinding. These sudden torque reactions, when the tool body rotates, can be potentially hazardous and result in damage to the tool or injury to the user. With unique systems such as 2 Stage Clutch, Anti- rotation System for rotary hammers and Electronic Clutch for drills and grinders, DEWALT® offers several products that provide extra control in those critical bind-up situations.

Tools in the ANZ line-up that have been awarded the Perform & Protect Control shield are:
• Drilling—D25722K-XE, DWD530KS-XE
• Grinders—DWE4597-XE, DWE4599N-XE, D28136-XE, D28114N-XE

VIBRATION
When the Perform & Protect shield is awarded for vibration, it is guaranteed that tri-Axial vibration levels have been reduced, increasing usage time without reducing performance.

The AVC or Active Vibration Control system from DEWALT® which features on many or our corded and cordless hammers offers maximum productivity with minimum vibration.

Overexposure to power tool vibration can have serious effects on health, such as damaging blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and joints, and can potentially lead to serious medical conditions such as hand arm vibration syndrome and vibration white finger.

DEWALT® innovative Active Vibration Control (AVC) design features target hand-arm vibration at its source, maximising user protection and extending usage time for optimal job-site productivity.

Tools in the ANZ line up that have been awarded the Perform & Protect Vibration shield are:

• SDS+ and SDS Max Hammers & Breakers—D25263K-XE, D25414KT-XE, D25601K-XE, D25722K-XE, D25902K-XE, D25941K-XE, D25961K-XE, D25980-XE, DCH364M2-XE, DCH274, DCH273, DCH254, DCH253

• 18V XR Framing Nailer—DCN690,DCN692

DUST
When the Perform & Protect shield is awarded for dust, it guarantees a dramatic reduction to potential dust inhalation, to give a cleaner, safer working environment, while also increasing the durability of the tool.

Dust inhalation may lead to serious long-term and life-threatening diseases, such as asthma, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cancer. The risk of develoing these diseases will depend on the type of dust you are exposed to, as well as the concentration and exposure time.

Using a dust control system can decrease the potential dust inhalation, increase visibility, and reduce cleanup and maintenance costs. DEWALT® Perform & Protect dust management products provide solutions for concrete cutting, grinding, drilling and chipping applications. DEWALT® solutions for dust containment include surface grinding shrouds, corded and cordless SDS drilling extractors, and pavement breaker extraction system. These systems are used in combination with a dust extractor vacuum that meets the safety requirements for construction applications in material with OEL limit values of >0.1mg/m, including quartz and hardwood dusts.

Sika and AGM Fasteners Tools in the ANZ line up that have been awarded the Perform & Protect Dust shield are:

• Shrouds and Extraction Systems—

DWE46150-XJ, DWE46170-XJ, DWH050K-XJ,
DWH051K-XJ, DWH052K-XJ, D25301D-XJ,
D25302DH-XJ, DWV9210-XJ, DWV9220-XJ &
M Class Dust Extractor DWV902M-XE

Thirsty work

Katrina — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 01:12:35 +0000

Getting thirsty on the job might seem like a problem with a simple solution— drink something! But it’s easier said than done, and now there’s recognition that dehydration can become a serious health risk if workplaces don’t manage it properly, Sue Nelson reports.

Dehydration can creep up on you, particularly if you’re putting in long hours on-site, especially in extreme conditions. It’s easy to forget to listen to your body or to underestimate how much fluid it needs to keep going, and what types count.

Coffee breaks and an after-work trip to the pub are definitely not the answer. In fact, these caffeinated and alcoholic drinks can make dehydration worse; they act as diuretics, causing you to relieve yourself of more fluid than you put into your body in the first place.

Some workers may find they inadvertently limit their fluid intake because of the nature of their work, their access to water and rehydrating drinks, the gear they may wear (masks or helmets), a reluctance to leave tools unattended or because of limited toilet facilities on site. All these issues are compounded by extreme weather conditions, or physical exertion —often both.

John Pica is the Health and Safety Superintendent for CITIC Pacific Mining. The mine is located in the remote Pilbara region, situated on the north-west coast of Western Australia. “Most of our work on-site happens outside in hot, humid conditions for extended periods,” says John. “In addition, the majority of our workforce are fly-in, fly-out—and the climate in Perth can be completely different to what is experienced on-site.”

Even mildly dehydrated workers may start to lose concentration and productivity, heightening the risk of mistakes and even accidents. Signs to watch for include dry lips and mouth, sweating, fatigue, decreased alertness, dizziness, muscle cramping, stomach-aches, headaches, decreased or dark urine and irritability.

The recommended intake of eight glasses a day doesn’t cut it when your workers are working up a sweat, often in hot or humid conditions. Easy access to flowing water—preferably filtered tap water—is crucial.

The first step is to assess your company’s needs by conducting an audit of the workplace, and ensuring there’s easy access to fluids—water or hydrating drinks—and toilet facilities. The next step is worker education, which appears to be a very effective means of ensuring dehydration in the workplace is prevented. “We provide education to our employees so they have the tools and the knowledge to identify signs of dehydration,” says John.

But is drinking water sufficient? Some companies offer replenishing drinks to replace the essential salts, minerals, carbohydrates and amino acids needed to maintain optimum performance and productivity at work.

“We provide our staff with electrolyte products as one of many different ‘heat and hydration’ initiatives,” says John.

“Part of the logic of using an electrolyte product is it replaces some of the salts and minerals lost when an individual sweats,” says Jeffrey Bowers, Health, Safety, Environment, Security (HSES) and Training Manager with Darwin-based Leighton contractors,
a company building a $34 billion gas plant in Darwin. “But they can’t drink gallons of the stuff, as too much can have an effect on their kidneys.”

“As a safety manager, I constantly keep an eye on the workforce, along with my team and our construction supervisors. We supply Thorzt, an electrolyte-replacement drink, in bottles and large water barrels and we also issue camel packs. We regularly stop and talk to the guys and, during these conversations, we also give the workers an ice block. We also use ice blocks if one of the guys is starting to show the early signs of heat stress.”

“The guys initially didn’t like the Thorzt product because it wasn’t as sweet as the competitor,” Jeffrey says. “They now enjoy all the different flavours available—and we buy the one-litre bottles of concentrate, which mix perfectly into a 20-litre water barrel. We also buy the single-serve sachets for the guys who use 600ml bottles.

“All of this is supported by regular communication and education sessions—we invite guest speakers, such as former Olympian and Thorzt spokesman David Rhodes, to give the workers an opportunity to hear a consistent message from someone other than us.”

Jeffrey also cites location and work type as the main risk factors for dehydration. “Darwin experiences seven months during the dry season where there’s no rain, but a constant temperature range of 25 to 33 [degrees],” he says. “During the wet season, humidity dramatically rises – today we have 85 per cent humidity – and we have 220 workers working outside, tying steel and pouring concrete, erecting large structural steal and installing metal-roof sheeting. We also have guys working inside

completed buildings but, because there’s no permanent power on-site, there’s no building air conditioning, so the guys have to use portable generators and fans.”

Jeffrey says that one of his biggest challenges is helping the guys understand how their bodies change. This is dependent on whether they had a meal or drank alcohol; whether they drank water before going to bed and whether they had a decent night’s sleep. In addition, did they drink water when they woke up? Did they drink water while travelling to the job site? Leighton’s job site is approximately a 40- to 50-minute drive in a vehicle, but 90 per cent of the workforce is driven to and from the site in large 50-seat coaches. During the day the guys sweat a lot—some more than others— and this starts on the journey to work.

Because each worker is so different, it seems a multi-pronged approach to keeping the guys’ fluids up is best. But the most effective weapon against dehydration is always worker awareness. “We encourage our employees to drink a bottle of water before they come to work, and to drink fluid consistently throughout the day,” Jeffrey says.

And preventing dehydration is also about looking after a mate: “Our staff members are trained to look
for the signs of dehydration in fellow workmates as a part of a program encouraging ‘mate safety’,” says Jeffrey. Avoiding worker dehydration is practical risk management for any hard-working company.

Padman starts

Katrina — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 00:50:21 +0000

When irrigation manufacturer Padman Stops struck a period of rapid growth, it was the company’s strong supplier relationships that helped see it through, writes Shane Conroy.

I’s been over 25 years since John Padman set out to revolutionise the flood irrigation industry from his back shed. Today, his company—Padman Stops—employs 50 people, and supplies a wide range of innovative irrigation products to famers around the country.

Based in Victoria’s Strathmerton, Padman Stops designs, develops and manufactures precast irrigation gates and automation systems for the surface and flood irrigation industry.

The company’s key product is the Padman Stop—a watertight, rubber-flap irrigation gate that transforms inefficient flood irrigation into efficient surface irrigation to achieve significant water savings for farmers and protection of a valuable natural resource for Australia.

The innovation has scored several environmental awards for the company, and has helped power its rapid growth in recent years.

“We had a big expansion about four years ago, where we went from 12 staff to 50 over a really short period of time,” says Shawn Padman, John’s son and general manager of the company.

“The growth was sparked by a sudden government injection of funds into water-efficiency grants for farmers, and managing such an expansion was a major challenge for the company,” says Padman.

“It was a bit unnatural for a company to grow that quickly, so there were some testing times for a couple of years,” he says. “We had to learn pretty quick. We use a business coach now, and [have] built a leadership team, and are trying a lot of different things to change the culture and stay focused on all the things that matter.”

A friend in need

What matters most, says Padman, is relationships, and the supply relationship we have with the CSS-member company in Shepparton, Ultimate Fasteners, is a strong one, and vital to fully capitalising on their expansion opportunity.

“When you go through a period like that, you fall back on the people you know you can rely on,” he says. “It’s not a time when you want to be hunting around for new products and trying new suppliers. You go back to basics, and you go back to who you know will give you good service, and Ultimate Fasteners ticks all the boxes”.

The key to building strong relationships, says Padman, comes down to the supplier’s willingness to develop a strong understanding of their customer’s operations and how they can support the business.

“We work with the guys at Ultimate Fasteners closely so they have a good understanding of the materials we go through quickly, and they always have good stock for us,” he says. “Through building that relationship, Ultimate Fasteners has been able to hold the right materials on the floor in Shepparton for us—which means we can keep up with ongoing demand.”

The customer is king

Padman also rates quality customer service as an important reason for his company’s long-term loyalty to suppliers such as Ultimate Fasteners.

Ultimate Fasteners are based in Shepparton and have a strong supply offering, which extends all across the Shepparton and outlining regions. Being local gives them the on-the- ground experience and understanding of customer needs within the region, and provides the team at Ultimate

Fasteners with a true affiliation with local companies as well as rural customers.

“Service is really important to us,” he says. “At the end of the day, a lot of these materials can come from many different companies, and we order enough quantity to get whatever price we want if we shop around and negotiate with different companies.

“But the reason we stick with Ultimate Fasteners is service. We’re able to get a rep up here to have a look at our operation and process. He can come in and say ‘no, you should be using a different product or material’, that is a better fit for purpose or more economical.”

“Our supply partnership with Padman Stops is something we enjoy and respect”, says Dean Jones, owner of Ultimate Fasteners. “It’s open enough for us to discuss opportunities and develop a product offering that meets their needs”. In conjunction with another CSS member, HES in Melbourne, who specialise in hoisting equipment, Padman Stops have manufactured a winch for the Padman Stop that has their own unique branding on it, thus promoting Padman Stops to all that may see their products out in the field.

Padman Stops has a strong research and development focus and is constantly working on new products and expanding existing efficiencies. Suppliers who are able to share expertise with the company, says Padman, are valued as genuine business partners.

“We do a lot of experimental and prototype work, so the right advice from a supplier about the best products or materials to use can really help to improve our development process,” he says. “And if we need parts really quickly we can generally get them on the day. As the years go on, service is everything.”

New horizons

Padman Stops also works hard to build relationships with farmers that add value to their operations.

“We’re always on farms, talking to famers and finding out what they need,” says Padman. “We have the ability here to do the whole process right from design to manufacture and delivery, we just need to know what the farm needs.

“That’s what it’s all about at the end of the day. We make a very unique product and have always hung our hat on being innovative and making products that listen to the farmer and what they want.” As Padman looks to the future, he’s optimistic about the outlook. The agriculture industry continues to power the company’s growth, and future excursions into new markets, such as roadwork, are on the cards in the medium term.

However, it’s the emerging Queensland market that is currently keeping the company on its toes. “We produce a lot of infrastructure here in Victoria and send it to Queensland, so it’s always a challenge to ship them halfway across the country,” he says. “But our product is unique and well-respected enough—with a good reputation—that we’re still able to do that, and we have a very good emerging market up there. The fact that we can still produce it here in Victoria and ship it all that distance is a real feat, and that’s the exciting challenge for the company in the next 12 months and beyond.”

The company will also focus on research and development as it continues to pioneer new technology manufacturing in for flood irrigators, and serves as Australia is looking up if we compete on our knowledge centre for local farmers seeking farm-planning advice.

“We’ve always got something new and exciting happening,” says Padman.

“And along the way we’ve managed to be very successful in saving a lot of water for the country.”

Ultimate Fasteners have a strong sourcing network capability due to their membership with the CSS group—the group has 72 CSS member stores nationally. “Being a member of CSS has opened up many doors for us, and helped our business become a strong competitive supplier to customers like Padman Stops,” says Jones.

“Helping customers like Padman’s achieve great results in business, and seeing them become strong in the market, gives us comfort in knowing we’re doing our bit” says Jones.

Knowledge is power

Katrina — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 00:28:18 +0000

Tools in the workplace can be your best mate—if you use the right tool for the job and handle it correctly—or they can become your worst enemy, causing you an injury or illness that can last a lifetime, says Paul Davy.

The ongoing development of tools and tool technology is a major focus for power tool companies. They seek to provide users with a tool that is not only designed for the job at hand, but safer, more reliable, more powerful and user-friendly than ever before. Can you remember the first circular saw you purchased? Perhaps, the blade kept spinning for up to a minute after you had cut your timber? Or feeling the kickback from a drill when it got caught in timber? And grinders, well I think we all have a story to tell about those. We may have a laugh when telling the stories to our mates about ‘olden day tools’, but believe me many of these tools are still being used today.

During 2015, I was fortunate enough to have been invited to a couple of power tool product launches. I was blown away with the improvement in tools and tool technology about to come through during 2016. Improvements in tool design, with a view to reducing the risk of injury and fatigue for the user is at front-of-mind for the power tool manufacturers. The following examples might help draw your attention to problems associated with using tools, particularly in anti- vibration and dust extraction, enabling you to make the right purchase choice when buying your next tool.

ANTI-VIBRATION

Not feeling the vibe? Most tradies will relate to the tingling sensation and numbness in your hands after using
a grinder or jackhammer for a long period of time. What does this mean though? Is this normal? Will prolonged exposure to it cause long-term injury?

Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is the medical term for symptoms caused by vibration damages. Symptoms may occur in the fingers, hands and arms when working

with vibrating tools or machinery. Vibration injuries are divided into three subgroups—neurological disorder, vascular disorder and muscle skeletal disorder. These damages can occur alone or in combination.

Become educated about the symptoms and try not to expose yourself to this type of injury. Work Safe Australia recommend reducing exposure, or creating shorter periods of tool usage so that your hands and arms get a break from the vibration. They even recommend not gripping the handle tightly as this adds to the problem, but in the real world you need to hold the tool tight, otherwise you could cause another type of injury. There are also gloves on the market that help reduce the vibration, so consider buying a pair of these along with the right tool for the job.

If you are using a tool that is going to cause some sort of vibration, then be aware there are tools on the market, such as rotary hammers, jack hammers, grinders etc, that have been developed to reduce this sort of injury. Power tool manufacturers are designing their products to be more ergonomic, to reduce your exposure to injury. The vibration factor occurs differently depending on the tool you’re using and the job you need to perform. It might be the impact the tool is making when drilling, demolishing or chiselling, or vibration from grinding or cutting.

The development is different in each tool, and can be in handle design or tool balance improvements—all with the aim of reducing the vibration heading back up into the user’s hands and arms.

Milwaukee’s new 28mm SDS 800w Rotary Hammer boasts the lowest vibration in its class, due to the new design in their handles. Metabo have introduced an ‘Auto Balancer’ into their grinder models, which reduces vibration by 50 per cent, in conjunction with the Anti Vibration handle.

Milwaukee’s marketing manager, Marcus Monch, said, “It’s the AVS (anti-vibration system) that reduces the amount of vibration to the user. The handle mechanics work like a shock absorber and this reduces vibration to the user. Depending on which rotary hammer you are using, the AVS system can be either at the top of the handle or both the top and the bottom.”

Bosch and Hitachi Breakers all have vibration control systems built into their tools, at the bottom where the impact occurs, as well in handle design. There are products out in the market to help reduce your risk of HAVS, so talk to your CSS-member store and find out what’s available for the job at hand.

DUSTY AND DANGEROUS

Increasingly, dust-producing power tools are being made today with dust-extraction systems, or systems that add water to reduce the dust when cutting, drilling or grinding concrete.

These are a very good investment, as many don’t realise that dust from drilling, grinding or cutting sandstone or concrete can contain a carcinogen known as ‘crystalline silica’. Breathing the dust can cause serious health issues years later, including lung cancer among other diseases.

Prevention is often better than the cure and you can’t always control what is going on around you on a job-site. It needs to be a joint effort by all on-site, to make sure we are looking out for those around us, and not putting other people’s health in danger. You yourself might ‘hold your breath’ while cutting
a cement sheet with an angle grinder, or circular saw, but others around you aren’t. Dust lingers and settles, and then with little disturbance rises again. The best prevention is to remove dust, and there are tools that can do this, so you won’t need to hold your breath.

In 2010, the Australian Safety & Compensation Council, now Safe Work Australia, requested the development and fielding of the National Hazard Exposure Worker Surveillance survey, to determine findings on the extent Australian

workers are exposed to occupational, disease-causing hazards. The survey had numerous findings regarding disease-causing hazards from fumes and gases to smoke and dust, but relative to our topic here are some findings on dust hazards.

Over 4500 workers were surveyed,
it was found that approximately 39
per cent of workers were exposed to airborne hazards in the workplace,
with half of the workers exposed to dust. Across the industries affected
by dust, workers in the health and community services, construction and manufacturing industries were the most likely to be provided with masks.

Dust extractors and attachments are becoming increasingly popular, possibly due to users becoming more mindful of

health issues, and the availability and affordability of the products. In the past buying an additional attachment was considered an expense, but now it’s as important as buying a dust mask.

Products, through development, are getting better—vacuum units attached to extractors have filters to the clean the air, as opposed to bag attachments to saws that capture saw dust. If you’re going to be exposed, choose the right dust mask or respiratory protection to suit the situation and ensure you’re protected.

Our next issue of F.A.T. Mag will highlight the masks available to protect you from different gases, fumes and dust, but seek advice from one of the CSS-member stores before you start your next job.

Against all odds

Katrina — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 00:15:27 +0000

This Australian-owned family business stood up to endless challenges before becoming the iconic success that we know today, writes Chris Sheedy.

The early days of Tridon, originally a Canadian business (which, at one confused stage, sold soft toys into the Australian market) are a far cry from the well-managed and successful business we know today.

Richard Lennox was employed
as the managing director of the Australian business in 1985. At the time, Tridon only sold three types of products—clamps, electronic flashers and wiper blades—in the Australian market, and the business was struggling.

Previously an accountant who had run his own practice, and a partner in a motor dealership, Richard had the knowledge and the experience to recognise that Tridon was in trouble.

“A few months after starting at Tridon I had to go over to Canada and present a budget,” Richard recalls.
“I said to the owner of the company that the Australian business was going nowhere, but I was confident it could be turned around with their support. Fortunately, they agreed.”

On returning to Australia, Richard called in the auditors. They told him the profit the previous management forecast to make in 1985 was actually going to be a heavy loss. “So it was a bad start,” he says. “But with a lot of support, we turned it around and made very good profit in 1986, which is when we set up Tridon New Zealand. The New Zealand company is now a clone of Australia, albeit smaller and without any manufacturing, but managed by an excellent team. We set about adding a large number of products into the Australian and New Zealand markets.

In 1987, Richard was transferred to Europe as president of Tridon International, in order to manage the
15 Tridon-owned companies that were operating outside of North America.
In 1988, after executing a substantial reorganisation of Tridon International, Richard was offered the chance to purchase the Australian and New Zealand businesses. He agreed without hesitation. The original owner of the Tridon Group retained a one-third interest in the businesses.

When that partner sold Tridon Group to a large public company, then that business sold to an $8 billion multinational, the partnership turned sour. In 1999, an epic five-year court battle began, which was eventually settled in 2004 with the Lennox family taking, among other things, all of the shares of the business and certain intellectual property.

“Fortunately, both my children had been in the business for some time and stepped up to allow me to concentrate on the litigation,” Richard says. “We also had a formidable management team and this combination meant Tridon was not noticeably affected
by the litigation. In fact, the company continued to grow strongly during this very disruptive period.”

“I think their intention was to get hold of Tridon Australia, which was a very successful company. It had grown impressively and both Tridon Australia and New Zealand had remained profitable at all times.”

The entire company now belongs to the Lennox family.

Family ties
By 2004, both Adrienne and Andrew had been in the business for several years, Adrienne with a degree in marketing and Andrew with a degree in mechanical and electrical (mechatronics) engineering. Both had worked in other companies before joining Tridon.

Andrew worked his way through Tridon, beginning 19 years ago as a junior engineer on the manufacturing side. Coming up through operations, then into general management, he took the long way to the top. Adrienne started in junior marketing roles, ultimately being appointed marketing director in 2002.

At the same time the legal issues ended, Richard says, Andrew was running the company and was already general manager by default. Richard recognised that it was the right time for him to step aside as managing director and, in June 2004, he appointed Andrew to lead the group.

“I handed over my office to him and retired to the golf course to get out of his way,” Richard says. “I don’t believe you can have two people being captain of the same ship.”

Richard remains on the board as chairman, but has nothing to do with the day-to-day running of the business. Andrew brings his father in every so often to take care of special projects (“There are only so many games of golf I can play,” Richard smiles), but the future of Tridon was, and still is, very much in Andrew’s hands.

Innovation and growth

Tridon is a perfect-sized business right now, Andrew says. It is big enough to be run with the discipline and scale of a large corporation, but compact enough to include the benefits and features of a small business.

“The benefits of a small company include outstanding customer service and the ability to be flexible to requirements,” Andrew says. “It’s about making sure that you treat the small things with great importance and not just offer a one-size-fits-all solution. The good things about a large company include discipline in terms of financial management and reporting, the way you manage your HR, the way you control the quality of your products and the way you market and distribute your products.”

Being based in Australia helps a great deal with the manufacturing of goods for the demanding local environment.

“Manufacturing in Australia has enabled us to adapt to changing market conditions by providing
tailored solutions to complex sealing or fastening requirements,” Andrew says. “Our engineers use the latest technology to design innovative solutions where customers have a particular need for a specially designed hose clamp, such as clamps with specific diameters, special cut outs, numbers of perforations or notches. We are also able to control the quality of our product from production right through to packaging as it’s all done under one roof.”

Quality has long been an obsession within Tridon, Andrew says. It means the company’s products—including brands such as Sykes-Pickavant, Hit, Toledo, Matson, Rennsteig and Knipex—are not necessarily the cheapest, but always represent outstanding value and quality.

“The other important thing about Tridon is that when we launch a new product range, we don’t do it half-heartedly,” Andrew says. “We do full ranges and full catalogues. When we go to our customers with a new program, it’s the best we can possibly offer them. An example is our wiper blade range. We’re constantly bringing out the latest designs. We offer a wiper to fit an old Holden or a new Ferrari. We’ve got a really good, up-to-date program that covers the full market.”

“There is a lot of competition so innovation, for us, is about making it easy for our customers. It could be the way we put a catalogue together to help them select the correct part for their car. It could be the fact that we have warehouses all over Australia to make it easy for us to get goods delivered to our customers quickly. It could be the way we stay up-to-date with changing technology.”

So what does the future hold for this brave battler of Australian business? Where does growth actually come from?

In Australia and New Zealand, Andrew says, various ongoing innovations and new technologies will keep the business on its toes. But it is overseas, in previously untested markets, where real opportunity lies.

“We’ve got some good brands, including the recently acquired Matson brand, that are going very well, so we’re looking at other regions,” Andrew explains. “In addition to our manufacturing plants in Australia we’ve established a manufacturing and distribution facility in Malaysia. We believe there are some great opportunities for Putting the boot in expansion in the southeast Asian regLoicoalnm.anufacturer Beaver Brands on We’re a pretty steady company so we’re not going to jump into the Asian case study on making a region and do what we have done in Australia overnight. We will do things in a measured way, applying the principals learnt over the past 30 years in Australia.”

“The world is changing so quickly and people are more interested than ever in good quality products, so
we think the timing is good for us to establish ourselves in another region. That will help with finding consistent growth over the next five years. We see a very exciting future for the group.”