Labour shortages are one of the biggest challenges facing Canada’s construction industry today. According to BuildForce Canada, the sector could face a recruiting gap of over 85,000 workers between now and 2033.1 Additionally, 20% of the construction workforce is set to retire in the next decade, worsening the shortage. 

For project managers, this raises a critical question: How can we maintain productivity with fewer workers? 

One way to build faster with less labour is by improving material handling efficiency. The SuperDeck® retractable loading platform, available through Preston Rentals, offers a smarter way to transport materials across multi-storey buildings. With a one-person operation design, the SuperDeck® reduces labour requirements, improves efficiency, and minimises the risk of costly project delays. 

In this article, you’ll learn how the SuperDeck® system works and how it can help your construction projects stay on schedule, even with fewer workers. 

Maximising Efficiency with the SuperDeck® 

Traditional material handling often requires large teams to manually transport heavy loads across multiple floors – a slow, inefficient, and labour-intensive process. Our SuperDeck® outrigger eliminates this bottleneck by streamlining material movement and improving efficiency. 

How the SuperDeck® Enhances Productivity with Less Labour 

1. Retractable, Space-Saving Design 

• Traditional loading zones can quickly become overcrowded, causing delays and safety risks. Our landing platform extends when needed and retracts when not in use, keeping workspaces clear and reducing site congestion. 

 2. Stackable Configuration for Multi-Floor Efficiency 

• Multiple SuperDeck® units can be stacked vertically, creating an efficient material distribution system across multiple levels. This reduces the need for excessive material handling, allowing teams to work faster and with fewer disruptions. This configuration also produces one loading zone for tower cranes, maximising efficiency. 

 3. High Load Capacity for Faster Transfers 

• Designed to handle heavy construction materials, our outriggers make loading and unloading faster and reduce reliance on manual labour. Materials can be delivered directly to each floor, cutting down on time-consuming manual transport. 

 4. One-Person Operation: Fewer Workers, More Productivity 

• Unlike traditional loading methods that require multiple workers, our multilevel loading platform can be operated by just one person. This allows the rest of the team to focus on high-value tasks, boosting overall site productivity. 

 5. Quick Installation & Relocation 

• The SuperDeck® can be installed and moved quickly, reducing downtime and keeping productivity high. This flexibility makes it an ideal solution for fast-moving construction projects with tight schedules. 

Looking for Outrigger Rental?  

Workforce gaps threaten project timelines, increase costs, and limit the sector’s ability to meet housing demands. With our SuperDeck® system, construction teams can adapt to the growing labour shortage while still maintaining efficiency. 

The construction industry can’t afford to slow down due to labour shortages. The SuperDeck® is the smarter way to build faster, safer, and more efficiently. 

Contact Preston Rentals today 604 817 DECK (3325) or through our website to learn how the SuperDeck® system can help you overcome workforce challenges and keep your projects moving!  

Explore More About Our Innovative Solutions:  

• Construction Material Handling Equipment – Specialised tools, like retractable loading platforms, are designed to streamline the movement of materials on construction sites, improving efficiency and reducing delays. 

• Loading Platforms for Construction Sites – Retractable platforms enable the safe and efficient material transfer to specific floors, optimising multi-story construction workflows. 

• Crane Loading Decks – These external decks integrate seamlessly with cranes, providing a stable area for loading and unloading materials, reducing ground congestion and boosting productivity. 

• Material Hoisting Platforms – Retractable platforms simplify the lifting and positioning of construction materials to various building levels, cutting down manual labour and crane dependency. 

• Construction Site Efficiency Solutions – Equipment like the SuperDeck® enhance material flow, optimise space, and ensure project timelines are met with fewer interruptions. 

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Working on urban construction sites can be frustrating. Tight spaces, narrow streets, and heavy foot traffic create constant logistical headaches. Moving materials efficiently without disrupting the flow of the city—or the project timeline—feels like a juggling act. Sound familiar? 

At Preston Rentals, we’ve spent decades understanding these challenges. That’s why we developed our SuperDeck® retractable loading platform – designed specifically for congested, urban environments. Our outriggers are designed to help streamline operations, enhance safety, and maintain efficiency on job sites, even in the tightest of spaces. 

In this article, we’ll explore how retractable loading platforms improve productivity, enhance safety, and optimise material handling in even the most congested of urban environments.  

Why Urban Projects Require Smarter Material Handling Solutions 

In densely populated urban environments, space is at a premium. Traditional material handling methods often involve large cranes that require exclusion zones and significant setup space, leading to delays and disruptions. Urban construction sites, therefore, need more efficient and space conscious material handling solutions. 

What Benefits Do Retractable Loading Platforms Offer? 

Retractable loading platforms, like our SuperDeck®, are an ideal solution for urban construction projects as they offer a range of benefits: 

Boosting Efficiency in Tight Spaces 

• Centralised Loading: With outriggers, a single crane can serve as a centralised loading point, reducing crane movements and increasing efficiency across the site. With fewer crane repositioning needs, the tower crane is freed up to focus on other core tasks, thereby reducing bottlenecks and improving overall productivity on site. 

• Minimal Space Requirements: As these platforms extend directly from the building, there’s no need for large ground-level loading zones. This saves valuable space in tight urban environments. 

• Optimised Material Flow: Materials are delivered directly to the required floors with outriggers, eliminating the need for manual transport or elevator use.  

Enhanced Safety and Cost Savings 

• Safety features: Retractable loading platforms, like the SuperDeck®, come with integrated safety barriers which protect workers from falls and prevent materials from dropping. This is particularly important in urban settings where pedestrian safety is critical. 
• Reduced Crane and Labour Costs: The reduced need for crane repositioning leads to fewer operating hours, saving both fuel and equipment wear. At the same time, fewer workers are needed to manually handle materials, lowering labour costs and freeing up your team to focus on other tasks. 

 These features ensure that urban construction projects not only stay productive but maintain high safety standards despite spatial constraints. 

 A Smarter Way to Tackle Urban Projects 

When it comes to maximising efficiency in tight spaces, retractable loading platforms like Preston Rentals’ SuperDeck®, stand out as an indispensable tool for urban projects. Whether you’re working on a high-rise development or managing a complex city renovation, you can count on Preston Rentals to provide you with the perfect solution to keep your projects running smoothly. 

Looking for outrigger rental? Contact us today on 604 817 DECK (3325) or through our website to learn more about our range of innovative loading platforms. 

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The post Improving Efficiency in Tight Spaces: Why Retractable Loading Platforms Are Perfect for Urban Projects appeared first on Preston Rentals.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the high costs of purchasing new construction equipment or struggled with the logistics of maintaining and storing it? You’re not alone. In the competitive world of construction, many businesses face these challenges daily. At Preston Rentals, we understand these pain points and offer a solution that can significantly improve your operations: equipment rental. With years of experience in the industry, we’ve seen firsthand how renting can save time, money, and hassle. In this article, we’ll explore why equipment rental is an undervalued strategy in the construction market and how it can benefit your business. 

The Current Landscape of Construction Equipment in Canada 

Rising Costs and Maintenance Challenges 

In Canada, the construction industry faces significant financial pressures, particularly when it comes to the procurement and maintenance of heavy machinery. The initial cost of purchasing construction equipment can be prohibitive, and ongoing maintenance and repair expenses can quickly add up. This is especially true for high-rise construction projects in urban areas, where specialised equipment, like retractable loading platforms, is essential for efficient material handling. 

The Burden of Ownership 

Owning construction equipment also comes with several hidden costs, including storage, insurance, and depreciation. These expenses can strain the budgets of construction companies, particularly smaller firms that may not have the financial flexibility to absorb these costs. Furthermore, the unpredictability of equipment needs on projects means that companies often end up with machinery that is underutilized, further diminishing their return on investment. 

Advantages of Equipment Rental 

This is where equipment rental becomes an invaluable strategy. There are many advantages of renting over buying heavy equipment:  

• Cost-Effectiveness 

One of the primary advantages of renting construction equipment is cost-effectiveness. Purchasing heavy machinery involves substantial upfront costs, which can strain the budget of any construction company. By opting for rental equipment, companies can avoid these hefty initial expenses. Instead, they can allocate their financial resources to other critical aspects of their projects. Renting equipment allows companies to pay only for what they need when they need it, resulting in significant cost savings. 

• Access to the Latest Technology 

The construction industry is continually evolving, with advancements in technology leading to more efficient and safer equipment. However, keeping up with these technological advancements can be challenging for companies that own their equipment. Rental services provide access to the latest models and technologies without the need for constant upgrades and replacements. This ensures that construction companies can leverage the most advanced tools available, enhancing productivity and safety on job sites. 

• Flexibility and Scalability 

As construction projects vary in size and scope, a company’s equipment needs can change rapidly. Renting equipment offers the flexibility to scale up or down based on an individual project’s requirements. Whether it’s a short-term need for additional machinery during peak construction phases or specific equipment for a particular task, rental services provide the adaptability to meet these demands. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for managing project timelines and ensuring that the necessary equipment is always available when needed. 

• Maintenance and Repairs 

Maintenance and repairs are significant considerations when owning construction equipment. These ongoing responsibilities can be costly and time-consuming, often leading to project delays. When renting equipment, the rental company typically handles maintenance and repairs, ensuring that the machinery is in optimal working condition. This not only reduces downtime but also alleviates the burden on construction companies to maintain their equipment, allowing them to focus on their core operations. 

• Reduced Storage and Logistics Costs 

Renting construction equipment can significantly reduce storage and logistics costs. Owning heavy machinery requires dedicated storage facilities and incurs costs related to transportation and logistics. Rental services, on the other hand, handle the delivery and pick-up of equipment, ensuring it is transported safely and efficiently to and from the job site. This reduces the logistical burden on construction companies, allowing them to allocate resources more effectively and focus on project execution. 

• Environmental Benefits 

Renting equipment can also offer environmental benefits. Rental companies often maintain their fleets to high standards, ensuring equipment operates efficiently and meets the latest environmental regulations. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with older, less efficient machinery. Additionally, by renting rather than purchasing, companies contribute to a more sustainable use of resources, as rental equipment is utilised by multiple clients over its lifecycle, maximising its usage and reducing waste. 

• Expert Support and Training 

Another advantage of renting construction equipment is access to expert support and training. Rental companies typically offer comprehensive support services, including on-site training and technical assistance. This ensures that operators are well-versed in using the equipment safely and effectively, reducing the risk of accidents and improving overall project outcomes. For instance, the team at Preston Rentals provide expert guidance on using their SuperDeck® landing platforms, ensuring clients can maximise their benefits while maintaining safety standards. 

Conclusion 

Overall, equipment rental is a highly effective strategy for the construction market. It provides convenience, flexibility, access to cutting-edge technology, cost efficiency, and risk mitigation. These benefits make renting an attractive option for construction companies looking to optimise their operations and achieve project success. By partnering with a reputable rental provider, like Preston Rentals, businesses can ensure they have the right equipment for every job, enhancing productivity and profitability. For more information on our outriggers and how they can benefit your projects, contact Preston Rentals on 604 817 DECK (3325) or through our website. 

The post What are the Benefits of Renting, over Buying, Heavy Equipment? first appeared on Preston Rentals.

The post What are the Benefits of Renting, over Buying, Heavy Equipment? appeared first on Preston Rentals.

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before: You’re in the middle of a multi-storey construction project, racing against tight deadlines, only to be held back by inefficient material handling processes. The crane is tied up, waiting for loading platforms to clear, and your team is frustrated with the slow pace. This scenario is all too familiar for construction managers and contractors who understand the pain of juggling logistics on complex sites.  

At Preston Rentals, we get it. With years of experience in providing innovative material handling solutions, we know the challenges you face and how crucial it is to keep things moving smoothly. Our expertise has led us to develop the SuperDeck® retractable loading platform, a game-changer in the industry.  

In this article, we’ll show you how retractable loading platforms like the SuperDeck® can significantly increase efficiency in multi-storey construction. You’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how these platforms work, their numerous benefits, and why considering multiple platforms can transform your project from a logistical nightmare into a streamlined success.  

How Do Retractable Loading Platforms Work?  

Retractable loading platforms are mounted on tracks, allowing them to slide out from the structure when in use and retract back into the building when not needed, much like a drawer. This design enables easy access for cranes to load and unload materials directly onto the platform, which can then be moved into the building efficiently.  

 The key mechanism behind these platforms is their ability to extend and retract smoothly, providing a secure and stable loading area. When extended, the platform locks into place, ensuring it can safely handle heavy loads. Once the materials are loaded, the platform retracts, keeping the site organized and reducing the risk of accidents.  

What are the Benefits?  

• Improved Efficiency in Material Handling  

Retractable loading platforms significantly enhance the efficiency of material handling on multi-storey construction sites. By providing convenient and accessible loading areas, these platforms streamline the process of moving materials between floors. This reduces the time and effort required for loading and unloading, allowing your team to focus on other critical tasks.  

• Enhanced Safety for Workers  

Safety is a paramount concern on any construction site. Retractable loading platforms are designed with numerous safety features to protect workers during the loading and unloading process. By minimizing the need for manual handling and reducing the risk of falls, these platforms help create a safer working environment.  

• Space-Saving and Organisational Benefits  

One of the standout advantages of these types of loading platforms is their ability to save space on the construction site. When not in use, they retract into the building, keeping the site clear and organised. This space-saving feature is particularly beneficial on crowded urban sites where every square foot matters. 

 The SuperDeck® is a prime example of the benefits these systems offer. Designed with built-in props and screw jacks, our deck is easy to install, relocate, and remove.  

Using Retractable Loading Platforms as a System 

While a single retractable loading platform can be beneficial, using multiple platforms as a system offers even greater advantages. This “drawer-like” system of stacked platforms can transform your material handling process in several ways:  

• Efficiency Gains from Using Multiple Platforms  

Using multiple decks allows for simultaneous loading and unloading on different floors. For example, a typical five-storey building might use three to four SuperDecks, while a larger 50-storey building might require 15 to 20 platforms. This setup dramatically increases the efficiency of material handling, as materials can be moved to various levels without waiting for a single platform to be available.  

• Reduction in Hook Time and Loading Areas  

Stacked retractable loading platforms offer a singular point of reference for the crane crew, significantly reducing hook time. This streamlined process speeds up the loading of the site and reduces the need for multiple loading areas, which can clutter the site and create safety hazards.  

• Benefits of a Singular Loading Point

Having a system of stacked decks simplifies the logistics of material handling. The crane crew can focus on a single loading point, making it easier to manage the rated load of the crane. This not only enhances efficiency but also reduces the complexity and potential for errors during the loading process.  

Conclusion  

Choosing the right equipment for your multi-storey construction project can significantly impact efficiency, safety, and overall success. Retractable loading platforms like the SuperDeck® offer numerous benefits, including improved material handling efficiency, enhanced safety, and space-saving advantages. By using multiple decks as a system, you can further increase these benefits, reducing hook time, simplifying logistics, and maximising productivity.  

With the increasing complexity of construction projects and the need for quick, safe, and organized material handling, there’s no better time to explore these innovative solutions. Speak to our knowledgeable team on 604 817 DECK (3325) to learn more about how our SuperDeck® can benefit your next project.   

The post Why Retractable Loading Platforms Increase Efficiency in Multi-Storey Construction first appeared on Preston Rentals.

The post Why Retractable Loading Platforms Increase Efficiency in Multi-Storey Construction appeared first on Preston Rentals.

Most industries require some type of material handling in their day-to-day operations, from moving boxes around a warehouse to transporting heavy machinery on a work site. Choosing efficient and appropriate rental equipment is particularly important in the construction sector, with the delivery of vast quantities of materials required throughout the building process.  

In this article, we outline two most important factors to consider when selecting the best material handling equipment to rent for your work site.  

1. The type/s of material 

As material handling needs can vary widely, the first thing to take into consideration is the characteristics of the items you’ll need to move.  

• Material type 

From building supplies to formwork and machinery, there’s a variety of materials that are required on a construction site. Focusing on the types of material you’ll need to transport narrows the equipment suited to your requirements.  

Consider:  

• What are the materials made of? 

• Are the supplies solid – like metal, wood, glass – or a contained substance, such as liquid chemicals?  

• Are you moving individual components or entire units, like a HVAC system or heavy machinery?   

• Size, shape, and weight 

With material handling equipment ranging in size from pallet jacks, able to load and unload pallets in a warehouse, to construction loading platforms, capable of bearing extremely heavy loads, the size and shape of your materials will also dictate the appropriate material handling solution for you. If you need to deliver bulky and heavy materials, like large formworks and bathroom pods, into a building under construction a loading deck is an appropriate choice. Our SuperDeck® retractable loading platforms have an impressive 5,000kg or 11,000lbs load capacity and come in a variety of sizes to accommodate the specifics of your job site.  

2. The environment 

It’s important to ensure that the material handling equipment is suited to the environment it will be operating in. Identify any features on site that could present limitations, such as a narrow opening on a building for the delivery of materials. Note, too, any environmental, safety, or regulatory policies you need to adhere to. For example, if your material handling needs to take place indoors, you may require a solution that doesn’t emit fumes.  

Is it a single-level or multi-level building that is under construction? Loading platforms for buildings, like our SuperDeck®, greatly benefit multi-level construction sites as they’ve been specifically designed to streamline material handling. Better yet, as no fuel or power source is required to operate them, no emissions are released.  

Are you looking for a material handling solution for your job site? 

Preston Rentals has SuperDecks available in a range of different sizes to meet your needs. Speak to our expert staff to learn more about how we can help you on 604 817 DECK (3325) or visit our website. 

The post Rethinking Construction Logistics: How to Choose the Best Material Handling Equipment for Your Worksite first appeared on Preston Rentals.

The post Rethinking Construction Logistics: How to Choose the Best Material Handling Equipment for Your Worksite appeared first on Preston Rentals.

Preston Rentals offers solutions for even the most challenging of projects, with our innovative SuperDeck® retractable loading platform system delivering cost savings and enhancing efficiency and safety on site for our clients. With four main sizes available – 2.2m, 2.6m, 3.2m, and 4.2m – and the ability to provide custom decks should you have a special requirement, our SuperDecks are versatile loading platforms that can streamline your material handling needs.  

The SuperDeck® 3.2 is a notable member of our fleet, so labelled to reflect the width of the deck: 3.2m. Offering an impressive loading capacity of 5000kg (about 11000 lb.), the SuperDeck® 3.2 effortlessly handles bulky materials, including formwork material and curtain wall panels. 

Allow us to share 4 reasons why you should choose the SuperDeck® 3.2 for your work site. 

1. Below ground material handling 

Our SuperDecks can fit into tight spaces, both above and below ground level, meaning it is an efficient loading platform for tunnel construction projects.   

2. Superior safety features 

At Preston Rentals we understand that safety is paramount and so our SuperDecks have been designed with safety first in mind. Rear jacks, end stop plates, lifting lugs, the H-frame, and locking pins are all regularly inspected and tested by our team. All equipment has a documented annual inspection completed prior to leaving our yard. On-site orientation and site safety checklists are examples of our rigorous safety procedures devised to safeguard the well-being of all staff and bystanders.  

3. Perfect for transporting bulky materials 

The spacious 3.2m deck makes this SuperDeck® well-suited to handling bulky goods, such as mechanical equipment, curtain wall panels, windows, drywall, and formwork materials.  

4. Buildings with curved surfaces 

Traditional fixed decks don’t work well on buildings without straight edges. Our SuperDecks, however, can be easily and safely installed into structures with curved surfaces, reflecting their superior versatility.  

Are you looking for a material handling solution? 

Indispensable material-transferring equipment, our retractable loading platforms can carry out a wide range of tasks. Our SuperDeck® 3.2 is particularly suited to transporting bulky materials like drywall and curtain wall panels.  

Keen to learn more about how our retractable loading platform can provide an efficient solution to your material handling needs? Reach out to our knowledgeable team on 604 817 DECK (3325) or visit our website.

The post 4 Reasons to Choose the SuperDeck® 3.2 For Your Work Site first appeared on Preston Rentals.

The post 4 Reasons to Choose the SuperDeck® 3.2 For Your Work Site appeared first on Preston Rentals.

Loading platforms are an effective solution to material handling requirements on site, transporting materials from lower to upper floors during a building’s construction. However, it is vital that you choose an outrigger rental that can complete your project safely and with the greatest efficiency. From safety components to size, there are a few factors to consider when choosing the best landing platform to rent.  

There are 3 main factors you should consider when choosing a suitable loading platform for your next project. 

1. Type of loading platform 

There are two main types of outriggers: fixed loading platforms and retractable loading platforms.  

• Fixed loading platforms 

Fixed loading platforms are the standard for most construction applications. They have a static deck, meaning that they cannot be moved in or out and function merely as a structure fixed to the outside of a building. This can make placement difficult as they can easily get in the way of other levels in need of materials. A fixed deck also needs 8 back props to secure it.

• Retractable loading platform

These types of loading platforms can be stacked vertically and rolled in or out of a building as required, unlike static decks. Our SuperDeck® is an example of a retractable loading platform. Its innovative design allows us to use our two-prop methodology which applies approximately half the reaction load to the floor above when compared to the traditional multi-prop installation method of fixed decks. If props are not an option, our bolt-down installation method can be used instead.

2. Size and weight requirements 

Knowing your project specifications is a significant factor when it comes to choosing the best loading platform for your project. To accommodate your material, machinery, and other load needs, it is essential that you know the required weight and size.

There are landing platforms available in variety of widths to facilitate differing load requirements. For example, our SuperDecks are available in 2.2m, 2.6m, 3.2m, and 4.2m widths, each with an impressive 5,000kg lifting capacity. 

3. Safety components 

Safety is paramount when it comes to choosing a loading platform as your employees’ safety should always come first. Knowing the safety features to look for can help when it comes to choosing a suitable outrigger rental. Each loading deck should have safety components and procedures to ensure its safe operation.

Our SuperDeck®, for instance, is made of galvanized steel for durability, features solid guardrails, chequered safety plating, and fixed harness safety points to mitigate the risk of fall, double locking gates to protect against materials falling off the deck, and built in props and screw jacks to securely fix it to the building. We strictly adhere to safe work procedures at Preston Rentals. We undertake pre- and post-delivery inspections of our units, and carry out site inspections to flag any safety concerns before installing a deck.

Looking for outrigger rental? 

Preston Rentals has SuperDecks available in a range of different sizes to meet your needs. Speak to our expert staff to learn more about how we can help you on 604 817 DECK (3325), or visit our website: https://www.prestonrentalsgroup.ca/ 

The post How to Choose the Best Loading Platform for Your Next Project first appeared on Preston Rentals.

The post How to Choose the Best Loading Platform for Your Next Project appeared first on Preston Rentals.

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The construction industry is an important contributor to the Canadian economy, generating approximately $250 billion in revenue annually and employing over 1.5 million people. However, there are many pain points faced by the modern construction company that challenge growth, productivity, and profitability. Factors like project delays, price increases on materials, and inefficient work practices continue to negatively impact the return on investment. More and more, construction companies are seeking improved timelines, costs, and workflow efficiencies on their jobsites.  

The following covers the most common pain points faced by construction companies and what you can do about it.  

Problem #1:  Rising Project Expenses 

According to a 2022 Statistics Canada survey, 72% of construction companies expect rising inflation to impede growth. Supply chain disruptions, high prices for raw materials, and an increase in the cost of borrowing, among other factors, have resulted in a continual upward trend in the cost of construction projects and, as such, lower returns on investment.  

Problem #2: Reduced Productivity 

Despite a demand for new infrastructure, research shows that construction productivity in Canada has seen little growth in recent years. Instead, it has remained at an average rate of 1.3% growth per annum. It now takes 25-30% longer to build equivalent projects compared to 5-6 years ago. Reduced productivity can be the result of challenges faced on site, including material handling inefficiencies, that culminate in extended timelines.  

Problem #3: High Labour Costs 

Labour costs have soared due to an ongoing shortage of workers experienced across all sectors in Canada. As of February 2023, nearly 200,000 positions remained unfulfilled in the construction industry and this shortage was particularly prevalent in regions with a high demand for new housing. This need for manual labour, coupled with limited skilled workers, has led labour costs to skyrocket. In 2022, there was a 9.4% increase in wages for construction workers, nearly double the rate of growth for other industries. Construction companies, therefore, are looking for way to minimise their labour costs.   

Problem #4: Outdated Installation Methods 

When it comes to material handling requirements on construction sites, loading platforms continue to be the tool of choice. However, traditional outriggers can cause costly delays due to their outdated installation method. It takes upwards of 45 minutes to install, relocate, or remove fixed decks. This is in part due to the minimum of six re-shore props required and that they cannot be bolted down. Although loading platforms help to streamline material handling needs on site, this timely installation method negatively impacts productivity on site.  

How a Planned System Can Help  

Investing in rental equipment to enhance productivity, reduce labour costs, and streamline workflow on site is the solution. Innovation in resolving the above problems has led to the introduction of more efficient material handling tools in the market, such as the SuperDeck® retractable loading platform system.   

The SuperDeck® allows not only vertical stacking but also rolling in and out as needed, resulting in a more convenient and efficient material handling process. A single operator reduces labour costs, with the SuperDeck also eliminating the need for staff to manually carry materials to inaccessible levels.

Taking only 15 minutes, its two-prop installation method saves critical time on site, helping to boost productivity.  

If enhancing your operational efficiency is a priority, speak to the team at Preston Rentals to learn more about how the SuperDeck® can provide the solution for your upcoming project. Call 604 817 DECK (3325) or visit our website.  

The post Enhance your operational efficiency with the right construction tool first appeared on Preston Rentals.

The post Enhance your operational efficiency with the right construction tool appeared first on Preston Rentals.

5 Unique Applications Made Easier by the SuperDeck®

Our retractable loading platform system, the SuperDeck®, is a safe, innovative, and cost-effective solution to your material handling needs on site. For decades it has been the preferred choice in high-rise construction projects worldwide. However, it is little known that the SuperDeck® can facilitate quite a wide range of applications. 

Allow us to share 5 applications made easier with the SuperDeck®: 

1.Below ground material handling 

The SuperDeck® can fit into tight spaces, both above and below ground level. Hence, it is an efficient loading platform for tunnel construction projects.  

2. Temporary overhead protection 

Objects falling from cranes and buildings are a significant issue on jobsites, causing injury to workers and civilians as well as damage to structures. However, our outriggers eliminate the need for scaffolding because they provide temporary overhead protection by catching any falling materials.  

3. Additional storage 

Our SuperDecks have been purposely engineered to bear the heavy loads of materials required to be delivered into a building under construction. From bricks and formwork to drywall, our outriggers increase efficiency in moving these materials on site. But you can also use them to provide additional storage space. This is particularly beneficial for jobsites with limited ground capacity. In these cases, equipment and materials can be stored in the SuperDeck®. 

4. Buildings with curved surfaces 

Unlike the SuperDeck®, static decks cannot be moved in or out of a building, functioning instead as a static structure fitted to the exterior. Fixed decks also don’t work well on curved surfaces. The SuperDeck®, however, can be easily and safely installed into structures with curved surfaces. Its retractable function also enables materials to be rolled in and out of the building.  

5. Sites without a typical slab layout 

Don’t have a typical slab layout at your site? That’s no problem for the experienced team at Preston Rentals. Indeed, in these cases we can design one-off installations to create RA support, such as installing a false floor and propping system to accommodate loads.

Indispensable material-transferring equipment, our outriggers can carry out a wide range of tasks, from aiding tunnel construction to offering temporary overhead protection on sites. Keen to learn more about how the SuperDeck® can provide an efficient solution to your material handling needs? Reach out to our knowledgeable team on 604 817 DECK (3325) or visit our website: https://www.prestonrentalsgroup.ca/  

The post 5 Unique Applications Made Easier by the SuperDeck® first appeared on Preston Rentals.

The post 5 Unique Applications Made Easier by the SuperDeck® appeared first on Preston Rentals.

Loading platforms, also known as construction outriggers and landing platforms, are designed to enhance productivity at a worksite by serving as a platform for the loading and unloading of building materials. They can also allow workers on the ground to offload items when required. Retractable loading platforms, such as the SuperDeck®, enable the loading and unloading of materials into and out of a building as needed, offering greater ease and efficiency than fixed units.

Safety is paramount when it comes to choosing a loading platform as your employees’ safety should always come first. Knowing the safety features to look for can help when it comes to choosing a suitable outrigger rental.  

Safety components to look for in a loading platform 

• Galvanized steel construction 

The corrosion-protected surface of galvanized steel offers increased durability, making it a popular choice for loading platforms. Hence, as it’s more resistant to damage, galvanized steel doesn’t rust. This is important as structures made from untreated steel can collapse due to corrosion stress from weathering and rust.   

• Solid Guardrails 

Guardrails are an essential component of any outrigger, providing a physical barrier to reduce the risk of workers falling. Consequently, guardrails protect against potentially catastrophic accidents when working on elevated worksites.  

• Fixed harness safety points 

A safe landing platform has clearly designated safety harness anchorage points capable of withstanding the force caused by the fall of a person located anywhere on the platform.  

• Chequered safety plating

Walking across smooth metal surfaces can be dangerous, especially when wet, as it is easy to slip. The raised pattern of chequered safety plating increases traction, facilitating a skid-resistant surface for both workers and loaded materials.

• Double locking gates 

Double locking gates are designed to prevent workers and equipment or materials falling off the outrigger, risking serious injury or death to those working or passing by below.  

• Built in props and screw jacks 

A safe outrigger should come with built in props and screw jacks to secure it to the building. This speeds up the installation, relocation, and removal process.  

• Safety procedures of the rental company 

Loading platform safety comprises both vital features of a unit and its safe operation, so the work procedures of the rental company you choose are another important consideration. Do they have clear safe work procedures they follow to ensure proper operation of the landing platform? Are they conducting pre- and post-delivery inspections of their units? Do they conduct site inspections? Aspects like these should be taken into account when choosing a rental provider.  

How can Preston Rentals help you with your loading platform needs? 

At Preston Rentals, safety is a core value of our business, and we pride ourselves on presenting the best quality products and services. Our SuperDecks go through rigorous safety testing before renting, during use on site, and upon return. Our innovative SuperDeck® retractable loading platform is the leading choice for multi-story construction projects globally due to its exemplar safety features (it has all the above-mentioned vital components) and its ability to increase efficiency and timely project completion.  

Preston Rentals has SuperDecks available in a range of different sizes. Speak to our expert staff to learn more about how we can help you on 604 817 DECK (3325), or visit our website: https://www.prestonrentalsgroup.ca/ 

The post Safety First: What to Look For in a Construction Loading Platform first appeared on Preston Rentals.

The post Safety First: What to Look For in a Construction Loading Platform appeared first on Preston Rentals.