Steadfast Technology

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Technology poses some real benefits to heavy equipment, operators, and construction project management. As more devices and tools emerge, prices fall and equipment becomes more durable for any construction environment. The more technology the better for construction! 

This week we’re spotlighting three products that have serious positives for project managers and operators alike. So what are we waiting for? Let’s dive right in…

Sonetics Wireless Headsets

Operator hearing is protected AND connected with these smart headphones made for the modern operator. Adjustable situational awareness settings allow you to still hear alerts, warnings, or speech, while simultaneously protecting your ears from sudden loud and often dangerous noises. 

These headsets are durable, rugged, and effective. By using protective tech like this, operators stay safe and program managers comply with OSHA and other safety regulations. Plus, no more work delays when an operator gets hurt or can’t perform their job effectively. Keep the project moving and keep your guys safe with Sonetics Wireless Headsets. 

MB Crusher Products

The MB Crusher excavator attachments streamline workflow by eliminating costly and time-consuming middle steps, saving hours and days on dozens of project types. These attachments can grind, screen, grapple, cut, suppress dust, and more, eliminating the need to take material off-site. Instead of spending hours moving material around, one attachment and one operator can handle the job. Watch the video below and choose your favorite attachment here. 

Torquer Lifting Solutions

Say goodbye to taglines and ground crew accidents with the Torquer lifting system. Their patented remote controlled orientation system, HALO (Hands free Autonomous Load Orientation), allows crane operators to place their container or load exactly where they need it – no ground crew maneuvering required.  

Easy to operate, quick to set up, and safe, remote controlled lifts are the way of the future. Watch videos and learn more about this innovative system here. 

These are just a few of the construction and heavy equipment innovations that cut costs, improve safety, and continue to make building fun. Check out more tech gadgets on our product page and follow us on social media!

Spotlight on General Manager Jameel Worthy

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As we start fresh in 2021, we wanted to highlight our humble Steadfast beginnings. Where else to look but at Founding General Manager Jameel Worthy? 

The powerhouse behind Steadfast Enterprises, Jameel started the company in 2012 after decades in construction and operating engineer management.  

A Heavy Equipment Legacy

Jameel previously supervised over 50 operating engineers as Assistant Lead Engineer at Sunoco Oil Refinery, reinforcing strong logistics management skills. He also operated and maintained Amquip Crane Rental LLC, which has one of the most expansive and modern crane rental fleets in the business, including 11 locations throughout the United States. 

Jameel firmly believes in the power of business to do good and spent his time in management developing his entrepreneurial skills, becoming an OSHA and ANSI expert in safety, and championing technology in the construction industry. 

This Steadfast General Manager specializes in hydraulic truck, rough terrain, and tower crane operation and mobilization. He has two decades of brand experience with Grove, Link-Belt, Terex, Tadano, Manitowoc, Potain, and Liebherr.

Positive Business Philosophy

Jameel is a man of action, often managing job sites in person and meeting with crews wherever he’s called. Since he founded Steadfast Entities, Jameel has helped grow the business to $2 million in annual sales. In addition, Jameel is a strong proponent of innovation and modern technology in a field that isn’t always receptive to change. 

There’s no doubt Jameel is an established expert in operational engineering. What’s more, he’s cultivated a strong business philosophy that holds a company’s employees as its most valuable asset, and sees business as a means to create value for the greater good. A self-professed lifelong learner, Jameel loves reading and expanding his breadth of knowledge.

Connect with Jameel on LinkedIn here. 

Happy Heavy Equipment Holidays

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Happy Holidays from Steadfast Entities! 

Here are 5 heavy equipment holiday tidbits to brighten your holiday season: 

  1. Many towns across the United States host a Lighted Holiday Tractor Parade, with various types of heavy equipment brightly decorated for the season. 
  1. Each year, about 30 million live trees are sold across the United States. Shipping Christmas trees is tough, requiring a dry van or refrigerated truck over short distances with very few stops. 
  1. The Hess Toy Truck started in 1964 by Leon Hess, oil entrepreneur and lover of heavy equipment. The full fleet of toys has included the classic tanker trailer, 18 wheelers, emergency response vehicles, tractors, dump trucks, loaders, RVs, tow trucks, and more. 
  1. On average, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree weighs 20,000 pounds (about 10 tons), requiring a crane with a 142-foot boom. Set up includes two cables: the main load line at the top and a lesser cable at the bottom. Watch the 2020 video here. 
  1. On many construction sites, you’ll see an evergreen tree placed at the top for good luck. This tradition, called “Topping Off,” comes from old Scandinavia, but many today associate it with Native American values or the American dream. 

Every year, cranes and other heavy equipment are used extensively for erecting trees, lights, and large-scale decorations. Without our heavy equipment crew, the holidays wouldn’t be as festive. Thanks to all our operators this month – and every month!

Need gift ideas for the construction worker in your life? Visit the Construction Junkie post for 2020’s best gift ideas and stay safe this holiday season.

Technology Improves Project Safety

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There’s no doubt that advances in technology have made our lives easier. From medicine to smart phones, we’re right in the middle of the technology revolution! The heavy equipment world is no different. Check out these 4 innovations that have helped improve project safety dramatically in recent years.

No More Taglines

The modern crane assistance device Torquer offers a patented remote-controlled orientation system, HALO (Hands free Autonomous Load Orientation). The tool eliminates the need for taglines or workers directing from the ground, so fewer workers will be injured in accidents. Easy to install and operate, with a 20Te capacity, this is one technology to watch out for!

Identify Risk Early

Flipping the switch over to high-tech, new Artificial Intelligence (AI) capabilities allow trained computers to identify risk factors on a job site before anyone sets foot on it, during work, and after construction. One AI engine, “Vinnie,” analyzed millions of job site photos and videos to then be able to recognize hazards like standing water, ladders, lack of protective equipment, material and structural defects, and more. 

Willmott trials robotic exoskeleton vest on live site | Construction News

Protect Workers

Robotic, powered exoskeletons will dramatically change the construction industry by lifting the burden off workers, site managers, and recruiters alike. Imagine Iron Man, but without the evil villians – this wearable exoskeleton allows a single individual to match the productivity of a whole team while avoiding injuries or accidents. Reducing the load on the individual also opens up the role to a wider range of individuals, expanding diversity in the field and helping recruiters. 

Aerial Drone Inspections

Drones are utilized more and more in the construction world to view and assess the structural integrity of work sites and cranes. Drones also help workers reach small spaces, see potential obstacles or hazards, and identify needed equipment or materials. Having better visuals on the front side allows projects to run more smoothly and safely. 

Technology is advancing every day and we can’t wait to see what new tools come out next!

Building Community

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As we approach Thanksgiving and the 2020 holiday season, celebrating our connections and community is more important than ever. The heart of any community is the people and the buildings are what make it possible.

Construction builds community. 

Yes, sometimes that jackhammer noise can be annoying at 7 am. Yet community improvement projects are almost always a significant boon to any neighborhood or commercial area. These are just a few ways that ongoing construction across regions positively impacts your life: 

Economic Boost

Almost all construction projects provide needed employment opportunities and government income. In addition, new residential construction alone provides an almost immediate and dramatic impact on home values. 

Road construction also improves residential and commercial property values while promoting business and tourism. 

Commercial real estate is key for boosting both national and local economies through the wide-reaching trickle-down growth in real estate, equipment, retail, manufacturing, education, business, tourism, and more.

Green Improvements 

Modern buildings and systems follow updated, modern regulations and are more efficiently built. This means new construction projects are improving our environment through erosion controls, rainwater capture, reduced emissions, and other green construction methods. Newer, environmentally-friendly construction is better for everyone in the long run!

Infrastructure Resilience

The construction industry builds the things people depend on. With improved and modernized infrastructure like roads, buildings, emergency routes, waterways, and more, your community will be better prepared for natural disasters or economic dips that might put development on hold. 

Ellicott City, MD and Hurricane Katrina are both dramatic examples of what can go wrong if the infrastructure isn’t up to par. Ongoing infrastructure improvements ensure your city or neighborhood is as safe as possible, no matter what the future holds. 

Cultural Development

Land development fundamentally improves the quality of life for any sector. From improved schools and parks to modern cityscapes, they attract community involvement and improve the quality of life for all those involved. Community projects improve the economy, help the environment, prevent disasters, and unite us. 

Especially in today’s post-COVID world, your surroundings and your community are fundamental to your well-being. Spend some time to learn more about what construction is happening in your area and how it may impact you! 

For more information about Steadfast Entities heavy equipment rental and our passion for building community, click here. 

The Right Equipment At the Right Time

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Choosing the right equipment for your job is no small feat. If you identify the right fit for your project, you’ll maximize efficiency, safety, performance, and revenue. Cutting costs with a smaller machine could hurt your productivity, require more parts, and be a waste of money if the machine proves to be ineffective. Buying too big, though, may create unnecessary expenses, difficulty operating, potential safety hazards, and inability to work in smaller spaces. 

Consider these 4 areas before deciding on your heavy equipment:

1. Work Type & Scope

Of course, the first place to start is considering what needs to be done. What type of work will your heavy equipment perform? Hauling, demolishing, digging, grading, landscaping? How long will the job take and how many different functions are required? 

Whether buying or renting, longer or more complex projects require equipment that’s multi-functional, with versatility in different situations, tight spaces, or job needs. Compact or modern equipment is designed to be more effective at smaller sizes, so it’s worthwhile to consider the latest heavy equipment technology and how it applies to your project. Below are some examples:

2. Ease of Operators

In addition to the scope of work, you have to consider your operators. Equipment should be straightforward and safe to use. If you have your own operators, make sure they’re knowledgeable and comfortable operating the equipment you selected – otherwise you could have accidents, injuries, or disgruntled employees to deal with. With bigger or more diverse projects, consider hiring specialized operators who can ensure the job is done effectively and safely. Last but not least, consider the weather your operators are working in. Upstate New York in February? That enclosed cab is looking pretty good!

3. Built to Last & Easy to Maintain

The third aspect of equipment selection is considering the manufacture and available parts of your machine. Where was the machine made? International brands may have to ship parts from overseas, delaying your work. If your machine is too highly technical or modern, it may require a specialist to repair. Consider your repair plan and pick higher quality machines so you’ll be prepared for the inevitable project obstacles. 

4. Benefits of Renting

The final consideration when choosing your job’s heavy equipment is deciding to buy or rent. Of course, buying is a large investment and risk. It may be worth it if you know exactly what you need and have the available capital to invest in long-term ownership. For most growing companies, however, renting presents several benefits with a fraction of the risk. Renting new or used equipment…

  • Offers a wider range of equipment and operators, ensuring the perfect fit for any project
  • Accesses expert recommendations and equipment sourcing 
  • Lowers the project cost, even with bigger or more modern machinery
  • Eliminates maintenance, parts, or specialist concerns
  • Gets your equipment delivered to your job site when you need it

Whether renting or buying, if you take into account these 4 important considerations, you’ll be in a great position to maintain productivity, safety, and income on your next project. 

Steadfast Entities is passionate about heavy equipment that’s right for any job. For expert recommendations, operator staffing, or a wide range of heavy equipment rental, email us today at info@steadfastentities.com! 

The Future of Augmented Reality

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What is it?

Augmented Reality or AR is an interactive digital experience overlaid onto a surrounding real-world environment. The physical surroundings are enhanced by computer-generated imagery or information. While this technology has been in use for decades in video games (for example, Pokémon GO), AR has left the entertainment sphere behind over the past 15 years! Recent predictions showed the AR global market was expected to grow $90 billion by 2020.

AR is an especially exciting new construction technology trend thanks to the multitude of streamlined applications it presents. Engineers, project managers, contractors, and more can benefit from using this advanced camera and sensor technology. 

So how does it work?

“This amazing technology increases accuracy and efficiency by reducing errors related to managing time, money, and resources,” says eSub Construction Software.   

One example is Building Information Modeling (BIM), an intelligent 3D model-based process that provides architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals the resources to more efficiently and effectively design, construct, and manage infrastructure. Various other versions of this and other AR construction technology apply to almost every facet of design, construction, and site management:

  • Augmented reality gear and wearables like smart glasses and Microsoft’s Halolens can measure a space’s physical elements, including depth, height, and width without the need for measuring equipment, ladders, or lifts. 
  • Morpholio is an app used by architects to more accurately design a project. 
  • Mixed reality applications can also show underground construction, preventing expensive and dangerous work accidents or delays. 
  • Safety and inspections are more accurate with AR. 

How does it affect me?

If you’re a project manager or executive, augmented reality construction technology could help streamline and improve almost every stage of your job, from design and coordination to implementation and ongoing project oversight. Plan with accurate measurements, predict and account for obstacles, improve efficiency, reduce wasted labor and materials, and stack up incredible long-term cost savings.

There are countless benefits for the individual contractors as well. Augmented technology could lead to better health and safety outcomes on the job site, faster yet more effective training, and the tools needed for better on-the-job performance.

Building the Future

There’s no doubt that the future of construction technology includes extensive use of augmented reality software. From contractors to executives, it’s a no-brainer to adopt more modernized operations. It will be exciting to see where construction technology takes us next! 

Follow our blog to get the latest industry updates and news or connect with Steadfast on LinkedIn.

Constructing During COVID-19

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The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and the construction industry have had an interesting relationship this year. Some construction projects are essential and others aren’t. Even though many construction workers continued their jobs as the virus raged on, PPE and social distancing measures weren’t as universally applicable. This has caused some confusion as different states take different approaches. 

So, what are the best practices for people working in the construction industry today? How do we keep our teams safe while still generating revenue?

Read the below tips on keeping your workforce healthy with reasonable precautions suggested by the CDC, OSHA, and others. 

Masks

OSHA and the CDC recommend wearing a face covering whenever possible, but especially when social distancing from others is not possible. 

Given the varying environments workers may find themselves in on work sites, it may not be realistic for employees to cover their faces if they…

  • Work alone or significantly distanced from others
  • Work outdoors and/or in the extreme heat  
  • Get their face covering soiled, wet, or dirty during their shift
  • Must already wear a face covering, mask, or face shield for their work

However, if a team of workers spend a shift together, indoors, working on a project that requires them to be within 6 feet of each other at times, then masks are highly recommended. 

Social Distancing 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provides this guideline chart regarding COVID-19 risk on construction work sites:  

Lower Risk (Caution)Medium RiskHigh RiskVery High Risk
Tasks that allow employees to remain at least 6 feet apart and involve little contact with the public, visitors, or customers.
No special precautions. 		Tasks that require workers to be within 6 feet of one another. Tasks that require workers to be in close contact (within 6 feet) with customers, visitors, or members of the public.
Masks should be worn. 		Entering an indoor work site occupied by people such as other workers, customers, or residents suspected of having or known to have COVID-19, including when an occupant of the site reports signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19. 
Consider delaying this work.		Category not applicable for most anticipated work tasks. Note: Most construction work tasks are associated with no more than high exposure risk; see the work tasks associated with lower, medium, or high risk on this chart.
Unlikely to occur in construction.

Like in the previous example of workers together indoors for a full shift, any work site falling in the Medium column should require face coverings. When your project has a High Risk due to possible COVID exposure, the project should be delayed if possible. 

Sick Time & Administrative Controls

Every project manager should also consider administrative controls as additional precautionary measures. The following steps could effectively prevent an outbreak among your staff and demonstrate to your team and clients that you’re taking their health seriously:

  • Stagger shift start/end times and reduce traffic in high-congestion areas to promote social distancing (ex: open additional break rooms)
  • Adopt flexible sick time policies that encourage workers to stay home when sick
  • Introduce thermal scanning or screening questions when entering buildings
  • Increase sanitation practices
  • Reduce in-person meetings

The Future

It’s not just construction. Numerous industries are balancing the tightrope of maintaining operations and keeping employees and clients safe. 

Fortunately, we live in a time when technology and available resources can meet the demands of a “new normal.” As long as project managers continue to assess safety, follow safety guidelines, and explore new options, sites will be safe and we’ll keep building. 

Keep an eye out for next week’s blog post on one technology that’s taking construction by storm! In the meantime, connect with Steadfast on LinkedIn.