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As more and more companies realise the importance of employees’ safety in the work at height environment, the more business NAPS receives for providing a product that surpasses all other safety methods on the market. JLG is the leading supplier of access platforms worldwide and pride themselves in a product that consistently out performs expectations. Says Jason, “JLG MEWPs are quite frankly ‘workhorses’ and there is no problem that our technical department cannot solve as they only work on JLG product and have the back-up of a multibillion dollar corporation.” He adds, “Exciting times lie ahead as NAPS continues striving to increase sales and improve service levels.”

Jason continues, “Most rental companies across South Africa use JLG products, owing to the fact that break downs cost money and JLG MEWPs are completely reliable and low on maintenance costs. NAPS service and supply into all provinces in South Africa, and we take pride in our service delivery response times.” Jason adds, “Tenders are a vital part of NAPS’ business, as we are a level 4 BEE company. We are proud to have been awarded tenders by large corporations such as Transnet, Eskom and Sasol to name but a few. Going forward, our constant striving for perfection in servicing JLG MEWPs sold into the market, keeps customers coming back.”

NAPS have found two JLG product lines to be extremely popular in 2009 in the South African market:

“There are two models in this specific JLG product range: the JLG T350 with a 12m working height and the JLG T500J with a 17m working height,” explains Jason. He continues, “These boom lifts are excellent for tasks such as: gutter cleaning, tree trimming, pressure washing, construction work, painting and street lighting maintenance. All tasks are light work with JLG’s Tow-Pro series of trailer mounted boom lifts.” Jason adds, “There are also a number of benefits using this equipment, with control [proportional joystick control for smooth operation], strength [in design and build] and technology [for example, independent hydraulic outriggers which are controlled electronically] being the key benefits.”

He adds, “The Tow-Pro’s compact size and automatic self-leveling make it ideal for a wide range of jobs. Its all new boom design provides a rigid platform feel – resulting in workers feeling more secure while on the job.” According to Jason, transportation is extremely sturdy owing to the design of the boom which faces the tow hitch. Because of the Tow-Pro’s standard 50mm ball hitch, a towing speed of up to 100km/h is possible. The boom tiedown stabiliser protects the basket from any movement during towing. Hydraulic autoleveling outriggers make the Tow-Pro easy to set up. Other features include one-hand operation of boom functions and standard air and water lines as well as AC power to the platform.

There are a number of models in this specific JLG product range, with working heights from 15.72m to 47.72m. Jason explains, “With their up-and-over configuration, these boom lifts are versatile and ideal for reaching up and over machinery, equipment, and other obstacles mounted on floors. They are also perfect for reaching elevated positions not easily approached by a straight boom lift or other conventional methods. The machine’s turntable may be rotated 360 degrees in either direction and the boom can be raised or lowered from vertical to horizontal, and extended [telescoped] while the work platform remains horizontal and stable. The JLG Articulating Boom Lifts are drivable at full elevation.” Jason adds, “For improved mobility the boom lifts are fitted with four wheel drive and an oscillating axle for increased gradeability and traction when traveling on rough terrain.” With a larger work envelope on the jib, the reach can be extended, thereby increasing productivity.

The exclusive Control ADE® [Advanced Design Electronics] system improves performance and serviceability and the familiar control system makes it easy for operators to use.

Jason continues, “MEWPS require constituent assessors, and niche training owing to the nature of the product. NAPS choose to use MEWP Training Academy, one of the few accredited training providers for MEWPs.” He explains further, “Through utilising the MEWP Training Academy, NAPS is assured of competent operators and not just operators with certificates that do not reflect their competency.

“In addition, MEWP Training Academy provides Operator Temporary Licenses [allowing for work place experience] and licenses through the professional body Institute for Work At Height, which ensures authenticity and competency.” Jason continues, “Work at height has always proved precarious by nature, and conventional methods have become more cumbersome, legislative and cost prohibitive, compared to a JLG MEWP which allows the operator to work at height efficiently and effectively.”

He concludes, “Safety for NAPS, like JLG Inc, is number one and not negotiable.”

According to Jason, government’s drive to reduce fatalities and injuries on the work site by implementing the Occupational Health and Safety Act is ongoing. He says, “Users of JLG MEWPS are clearly taking legislation seriously, and are demanding accredited training that truly results in competent operators.” He adds that there is confusion with regards to legislation on the MEWP product which is currently causing concern within the Services Seta and Institute for work at Height [www.ifwh. co.za] and even more so in the market place.

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