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AUGUST 2007CONTENTS1616AUGUST 2007 | www.utilitycontractoronline.comHitting the SkidsBy Nick ZubkoSkid steer loaders have been aroundsince the 1950s, but in the last five yearsthe market has exploded onto jobsiteseverywhere. Take a minute and climbinside some of the most versatileand hardest working machines inconstruction.28 3222283236All the Small ThingsCompiled by UC StaffToday, equipment manufacturers devote as muchtime and effort to their smallest loaders as they dotheir biggest excavators. Here are some of thelatest creations in the compact marketplace.Getting AttachedBy Tara Deering-HansenSave time and money by using your skid steer,track loader or compact excavator to run a varietyof useful attachments with just one machine.Substance ControlBy Peter CholakisConstruction is dangerous under ideal conditions,but it’s even more so when drug use is added tothe equation. It’s a serious problem on jobsitestoday — and more common than you might think.Watching the WheelsBy Todd RamseyWhen properly selected and maintained, tires canremain in service longer, keeping your equipmentoperating efficiently and reducing downtime.DEPARTMENTS8 Groundbreaking News51 Equipment Spotlight52 CalendarNUCADEPARTMENTS6 NUCA President’s Message42 Inside Washington44 Safety Management46 NUCA NewsMARKETPLACE53 The Pipeline54 Advertisers’ Index4 Utility Contractor | August 2007

NUCA PRESIDENT’S MESSAGEA Different WorldIt was a different lifeWhen we were boys and girlsNot just a different timeIt was a different worldThose lyrics are from “A Different World” — a songreleased not that long ago by country singer BuckyCovington. The song reminds us of a time gone by whenthere was no cable or satellite TV, no laws requiringseatbelts in cars, no concerns about lead-based paint, no helmetsfor bike riders, and so on. The song rings true — we live not onlyin a different time, but also in a different world. Technology in particular hasdramatically changed the way we live, play and work. One has to look back only 10years to see that there have been monumental changes in our industry, especially inthe way we perform the work.And, nowhere is this truer than in the area of compact equipment — the focus ofthis issue of Utility Contractor. On cramped city streets, residential neighborhoodsand environmentally sensitive jobsites, it is often the solution of choice. In demandin all segments of the construction industry, compact equipment is selling likeproverbial hotcakes. Buzz words like “mini excavator,” “compact loader,” “zeroradius” and “no tail swing” abound.Major manufacturers like Caterpillar, John Deere, Bobcat, Ditch Witch, Komatsu,Vermeer, Volvo and Case have all placed a greater emphasis on the North Americansmall machine market. And, as this equipment market segment has changed, so hasthe availability of a broad range of universal attachments used by the equipment.There is truly something for everyone. As you read through this issue, notice thevariety of equipment and attachments that are out there and then consider whatthey might allow your company to accomplish. The possibilities today are endless!It’s a different world at NUCA too. As I have traveled across the country visitingour local chapters, I have become aware of a new wind blowing — one that carriesenthusiasm, dedication and a sense of “we’re all in this together.” In terms of whatis being accomplished in the areas of advocacy, safety promotion, professionaleducation and membership growth, I think we may very well be at a high-watermark in NUCA’s storied history.With regard to membership growth — an impressive 300-plus new membercompanies — I want to single out our chapters. The work they have done to growmembership and give back to their communities has been phenomenal. And, Idon’t want to forget individual members and NUCA staff. In short, I am trulyimpressed with the efforts and accomplishments of everyone involved in the workof the association. It might be a different time that we live and work in, but it’s agreat time to serve as your president. And, if you’re not already involved in NUCA,it’s also a great time to jump on the “bandwagon.”Regards,James KingBENJAMIN MEDIAPublishing TeamPublisherBernard P. Krzys — bkrzys@benjaminmedia.comAssociate PublisherRobert D. Krzys — robk@benjaminmedia.comEditorJames W. Rush — jrush@benjaminmedia.comAssociate EditorNick Zubko — nzubko@benjaminmedia.comAssistant EditorJason Morgan — jmorgan@benjaminmedia.comCreative DirectorW.M. Conley — mconley@benjaminmedia.comGraphic DesignerElizabeth C. Stull — estull@benjaminmedia.comMarketing ManagerPete McNeil — pmcneil@benjaminmedia.comRegional Sales RepresentativeRyan Sneltzer — rsneltzer@benjaminmedia.comCirculation ManagerAlexis R. Tarbet — atarbet@benjaminmedia.comNUCAOfficersPresidentJames King Jr. — Conyers, Ga.President-ElectTerry Dillon — West Lafayette, Ind.Senior Vice PresidentLyle Schellenberg — Salem, Ore.TreasurerDan East — Albuquerque, N.M.SecretaryRyan Schmitt — Jacksonville, Fla.NUCAVice PresidentsJim BarronJoppa, Md.Kevin CrippsGreensboro, N.C.Virginia DiCristofaroWarwick, R.I.Glenn ElyNewtown, Pa.Alan GravelPowder Springs, Ga.Roy MoorePortland, Ore.Alex Paris, IIIAtlasburg, Pa.Bill PauleyPhoenix, Ariz.Dave RiceHenderson, Nev.NUCAStaffMike SmithAlbuquerque, N.M.Keith SteenWest Point, Ga.Steve TheisRolling Meadows, Ill.Bill WeltinBrownsville, Wis.Andy WolfDavenport, IowaMike WoodallJacksonville, Fla.Kirk WoodwardPhoenix, Ariz.Brandon YoungDes Moines, IowaChief Executive OfficerBill Hillman — bhillman@nuca.comChief Operating OfficerLinda Holtz — linda@nuca.comDirector of CommunicationsSusan Williams — susan@nuca.comAugust 2007 Volume 31, Number 8 UtilityContractor (ISSN 1098-0342) is publishedmonthly for the National Utility ContractorsAssociation by Benjamin Media Inc., 1770Main Street, PO Box 190, Peninsula, OH44264. Periodicals postage paid at Peninsula,OH and additional office. Subscription price:$1.50 per issue, $15 per year. Foreign subscriptions:$3 additional per year.Subscription rate for members is $15, which isincluded in the dues. ©2007 NUCA. All rightsreserved by the National Utility ContractorsAssociation for articles contained herein exceptwhere otherwise noted. No part of thispublication may be reproduced or transmittedby any means without written permissionfrom the publisher. Printed in the U.S.A.POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:Benjamin Media PO Box 190 Peninsula,OH 44264-0190 USA.6 Utility Contractor | August 2007

GROUNDBREAKING NEWSWinner of NUCA Membership Sweepstakes Takes Homea John Deere Skid Steer LoaderMike Gallitz entered the NUCA membership sweepstakes in January for achance to win a new John Deere 300 Series skid steer loader.When Mike Gallitz of ZenithTech Inc. went to the World ofConcrete in Las Vegas earlier thisyear, he passed by hundreds ofbooths. At one of his stops, he wasconvinced to fill out a form toreceive Compact Equipment magazine— and give him a chance towin a brand new John Deere 300Series skid steer loader.The promotion was part of aneffort by John Deere and BenjaminMedia (publishers of both CompactEquipment and Utility Contractor) toincrease membership in theNational Utility ContractorsAssociation (NUCA). John Deerehas been involved with NUCA sincethe beginning, as one of the association’scharter members in 1964.When Gallitz was done with theform, he probably thought thatwould be the end of the story.Instead, he got a call from JohnDeere a few months later. Out ofmore than 4,700 people who filledout the same form, Gallitz’s namecame up.“Not only did I win somethingin Vegas, I won a new Deere 317skid steer,” Gallitz said. “When Iwalked through the John Deerebooth at World of Concrete, Inever figured I’d walk out with agreat machine like this. I wasamazed when they called to tellme the good news.”Gallitz was invited to visitone of John Deere’s factoriesin Dubuque, Iowa, on July 3to see his new skid steer comeright off the assembly line. Hetoured the facility, met withJohn Deere engineers andtook his new 317 for aninaugural drive around thegrounds.“We got to drive the 317right off the assembly line,”he said. “I brought alongZenith Tech’s resource managerand design engineer, andwe were very impressed withthe workers there — friendlyand hard-working people whoare proud of the machines theybuild. They made us feel welcome.It was a great day.”Gallitz started his constructioncareer fresh out of high school,going to work as a laborer at ZenithTech, a Waukesha, Wis.-based civiland heavy highway contractor.Eventually, he worked his way upto carpenter, field superintendentand fabrication manager.Having been a loyal customer ofHillboro Equipment, a nearby JohnDeere dealer, for more than fiveyears, Gallitz says he’s looking forwardto using his new 300 Seriesskid loader for some landscaping orconcrete work around his propertyin rural Waukesha.“At Zenith Tech, we get a lot ofwork out of our John Deere 310Gbackhoes, so I’m expecting this skidsteer to be rugged and productive,”noted Gallitz. “I own 15 acres andthere are plenty of landscaping andother jobs waiting for me there.Between the skid steer and all theattachments Hillboro offers, I’ll beable to handle most any job.”Gallitz was able to test drive his new 317skid steer after a tour of the JohnDeere factory in Dubuque, Iowa.8 Utility Contractor | August 2007

GROUNDBREAKING NEWSWells Fargo Completes CIT AcquisitionCIT Group Inc. recently signed an agreement to sellits CIT Construction lending business to Wells Fargo,the nationally recognized financial services company.Headquartered in Tempe, Ariz., CIT Construction hasprovided commercial financing to the constructionindustry since 1938. It serves contractors who build andrepair infrastructure, as well as equipment distributors/dealersthat sell and rent construction equipmentthroughout the United States. It will now operate as adivision of Wells Fargo Equipment Finance Inc.“Consistent with our vision to satisfy all our customers’financial needs, CIT Construction significantlyexpands our equipment finance lending capabilitiesand brings us opportunities to serve our customerseven better,” said Tim Sloan, group head of WellsFargo’s Commercial Banking, Real Estate andSpecialized Financial Services Group. “We’ll be ableto offer Wells Fargo’s full suite of products and servicesto CIT Construction’s customers. This transactionsupports Wells Fargo’s long-term strategy toexpand a core industry important to the growth ofWells Fargo Equipment Finance.”Gehl Co. recently lent a helpinghand by donating one of its AVAN-TAGE compact loaders — completewith a trailer and equipped withmultiple attachments — to help theWashington County Fair Park withits events and maintenance at thefairgrounds.“We are pleased to be able toassist the Washington County FairPark with the Gehl Equipment,”said Dan Keyes, vice president ofsales and marketing for Gehl. “Wehave the right equipment to helpthe Fair Park prepare for theupcoming events and are proud tobe a part by assisting the surroundingcommunities.”Attachments donated includedseveral buckets and poweredattachments including; earthaugers, aerator/seeder, rotary“Our decision to exit this long-standing CIT businessreflects our commitment to increasing shareholdervalue through proactive portfolio managementas we look to redeploy capital to other high growthareas of our business,” added Walter J. Owens, presidentof CIT’s Corporate Finance Group.CIT Construction originates and services seniorsecured loans collateralized by a wide range of high-qualityconstruction equipment. It is one of the largest noncaptivelenders in the industry with long-standing relationshipswith most of the industry’s leading participants.“This transaction complements Wells FargoEquipment Finance’s strategy of providing capital tomeet the needs of customers, ranging from middle marketcontractors to large manufacturers, in a core U.S.industry,” said John McQueen, head of Wells FargoEquipment Finance Inc. “CIT Construction is recognizedas an industry leader. The team that will be joiningus is experienced, passionate and committed to theconstruction industry. We look forward to building onits success by providing additional products and servicesfor both our customers.”Gehl Donates Compact Loader to Washington County Fairgroundsbroom, backhoe, snow blower,trencher and more.“When the Fair Park was openedin 1999, Gehl Co. visited with FairPark officials and entered into a partnershipto supply [us] with neededequipment,” said Sandy Lang, FairPark deputy director. “This partnershiphas grown stronger over theyears, which is evident by thisgenerous new donation.”The compact loader was presented to Fair Park management by Gehl’s VP of sales and marketingDan Keyes (far left) and the company’s trade shows and special events manager, Terry LeFever (far right).10 Utility Contractor | August 2007

GROUNDBREAKING NEWSIndustry Leaders Working to Make AEM’s “Construction Challenge” a SuccessThe construction industry faces acontinuing shortage of skilledworkers to manufacture, maintainand operate today’s technologicallysophisticated construction equipment.According to the Associationof Equipment Manufacturers(AEM), the average age of workersin the industry is 52 years old, withtheir pending retirements reducingthe talent pool at the same time thatthe industry is predicted to add 1million jobs by 2012.In response to this imminentchallenge faced throughout theAEM’s “Construction Challenge” is part of an ongoing effort to attractconstruction industry, AEM earlierthe best and brightest young people to the construction industry.this year announced the formationof the “Construction Challenge,” a unique endeavor and develop criticallife and job skills such as the industry, its employees and itsinvolved because of its passion forspecial youth-oriented criticalthinking and creative problem-solvingcompetition, which AEM devel-— directly advancing industry that passion and enthusiasm inteamwork and strategic thinking customers. “We want to encourageoped in partnership with experts at efforts to ensure a talented workforcefor the future.strate that there are exciting andtoday’s young people and demon-Destination ImagiNation Inc.The Construction Challenge is Over the last few months challenging opportunities in thepart of AEM’s ongoing efforts to several companies have taken construction and related fields forattract the best and brightest young advantage of the opportunity, career growth,” Studdert said.people to the construction industry including the likes of industry The Challenge will start with sixin professions ranging from manufacturingto in-the-field careers. It Case Construction Equipment, United States in January 2008 —leaders such as John Deere, regional events held across thewill focus on three areas: awareness Caterpillar, NES Rentals, Terex, including the West (California),of construction-related jobs, constructionequipment and manufac-Industries, Manitowoc, BOMAG, England (New Jersey), East CentralDitch Witch, Cummins, Astec Southeast (Georgia), East/Newturing, and infrastructure awareness. Genie, Wacker, Gradall, Stone (Ohio), Southeast (Texas) andIn the end, the Challenge is designed Construction Equipment, Trimble, Midwest (Wisconsin) regions.to bring attention to the importance Link-Belt, Bridgestone Firestone, Winning teams qualify to participatein the finals competition inof the construction industry and the MTU Detroit Diesel, Power Curbers,benefits it provides.Metso Minerals and the American March 2008 during AEM’s internationalCONEXPO CON/AGG expo-“The Challenge is also about Rental Association (ARA).having fun, and we’ve structured it “The construction industry sition in Las Vegas.to generate excitement among the builds the infrastructure we all The Challenge finals, which feature60 teams of high school stu-young people and adults who will depend on for our way of life,” saidbe involved,” stated AEM marketingdirector Nicole Hallada. John Deere Construction & dialogue segment is comprised of aJim Orr, director of marketing for dents, include three segments. TheSince the program was launched Forestry. “We’re excited to be a part researched presentation with moderateddiscussion and debate on theearlier this year, AEM has been of this event, which gives studentsurging companies in the constructionindustry to sponsor teams of business while developing critical infrastructure and quality of life.the opportunity to learn about our relationships between constructionhigh school students to participate life and job skills.”The product development segmentin the Challenge finals. Through According to NES Rentals chairmanand CEO Andy Studdert, the design and develop a new product,requires each team to research,sponsorship, companies enablestudents to take advantage of the equipment rental giant got while the “Road Warrior” segment12 Utility Contractor | August 2007

GROUNDBREAKING NEWSasks the teams to explore infrastructureissues and implement asolution with team-created constructionequipment.“With more than a million newjobs available by 2012, our industryis booming, yet the workforce iscontinually shrinking with theretirement of baby boomers,” Orradded. “Our hope is that this eventwill challenge these young peoplewhile conveying to them thetremendous opportunity that awaitsin the world of construction.”For more information on theConstruction Challenge, visitwww.aem.org or contact StacyWessel at (414) 298-4114 or bye-mail at swessel@aem.org.CAT Customer SafetyServices LaunchesNew Web SiteCustomer Safety Services, a divisionof the Caterpillar Technology& Solutions Division, haslaunched Safety.Cat.com, a newWeb site dedicated to promotingthe safety and health of everyonein, on or around Caterpillar products.Formally launched byCaterpillar chairman James W.Owens on June 5, the site buildson Caterpillar’s commitment toprovide its customers with thesafest and most reliable productsand services available.Visitors to the site will find informationthat reinforces safety messagesfound in the company’s officialOperation and MaintenanceManuals (OMM). The site also coversthe world of safety in motion.For the first time, Caterpillarvideos on walk-around inspectionsand operating tips are available ondemand from one online source.Other offerings include OMMexcerpts, multimedia pieces andtoolbox talks on a variety of safetytopics. With information spanningthe entire Cat product line,Safety.Cat.com promises to becomeone of the most comprehensivesafety sites for the industriesCaterpillar serves.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 13

GROUNDBREAKING NEWSUnited Rentals has served the New York City marketsince 2001. In addition to its flagship branchlocated on West 44th on Manhattan’s West Side, thecompany operates two satellite branches on LibertySt. and on the city’s Upper East Side at 111th St. andSecond Ave. On June 28, United Rentals celebratedthe relocation of its Manhattan branch in New YorkCity with a grand re-opening event.“It has been six years of steady growth for UnitedRentals here in the metro area,” said SteveNadelman, senior vice president of field operationsand corporate real estate for United Rentals. “Withour move into this impressive new facility, we haveexpanded our ability to serve our contractor, indus-United Rentals Celebrates Grand Reopening of Flagship Branchtrial, municipal and homeowner customers in thefive boroughs. This branch demonstrates our commitmentto the metropolitan area.”The Manhattan grand reopening is one of 15 majorbranch relocations completed by United Rentals inthe past year as part of the company’s program ofcontinuous improvement. The equipment rentalbranch houses a contractor supplies showroom,maintenance facility and full-service yard.At 45,000 sq ft, the property is nearly twice thesize of the former rental location, carrying a broadrange of equipment for commercial and industrialconstruction, renovation and maintenance, includingthe latest technologies in aerial work platforms.The grand re-opening of the Manhattan branch (pictured)is one of 15 major branch relocations completed byUnited Rentals in the past year.Among the United Rentals personnel on hand for theevent were (l-r) Nadelman, Greg Shaughnessy,regional manager of real estate, and Frank Gioe,regional manager of design and construction.Kerr Named CGADirector of ProgramDevelopmentThe Common Ground Alliance(CGA) has announced thatKhrysanne Kerr will join CGA asthe director of program developmenton Aug. 1. As a contractor tothe CGA, Kerr has served as the projectmanager for CGA’s 811 campaignsince September 2005. In hernew capacity, she will work withCGA staff to advance key programsand initiatives, including the continuedpromotion of 811.“We are very excited to haveKhrysanne on board. She hasproven to be an invaluable part of14 Utility Contractor | August 2007the 811 campaign during the pasttwo years and we know she will bean extremely valuable asset to theCGA. Her enthusiasm and dedicationto her work is unparalleled,”said Bob Kipp, CGA president. “Weare truly fortunate to haveKhrysanne joining our team.”A 1994 graduate of Kent StateUniversity with a bachelor of sciencedegree in public relations witha concentration in business management,Kerr began her undergrounddamage prevention careerwith the Ohio Utilities ProtectionService in 1997 as the assistantdirector of marketing. In 1999, shewas promoted to director of marketingwhere she served untilFebruary 2005.Hired as the One-Call marketmanager for Celeritas Technologiesin March 2005, her primary focuswas to manage the 811 campaignas a contractor to the CGA. In thiscapacity, she worked on multipleindustry projects including the 811educational campaign.“I am very excited about theopportunity to work directly for theCGA on various damage preventioninitiatives,” Kerr said. “I am trulygrateful to Celeritas Technologiesand my colleagues for their supportand direction of the CGA/811Campaign.”

Hitting theSkidsClimbing Inside Some of theHardest Working Machinesin ConstructionBy Nick ZubkoWhen you think of a utility installation, thefirst images that come to mind probablyconsist of the standard pieces of equipment— a few excavators, a directional drill ormaybe a trencher or two. While at least one of those isprobably the star of the show on any given jobsite, thereis usually another machine taking care of all the littlethings before, after and in between the main acts. They’rethe busy little workhorses known as skid steer loadersthat you see hustling around a jobsite, playing the role ofsupporting cast through practically every phase of autility project.As with any piece of compact equipment, the skidsteer’s small stature can be one of its strongest sellingpoints — for two reasons, really. The first applies to anywork that takes place in a residential environment. That’sdue to the simple fact that the idea of bringing a 50-tonloader or excavator just to move some dirt around a suburbanstreet borders on the absurd. Not only would it benearly impossible to move them around, but who knowswhat kind of damage they might do?Then there’s the cost. Operating a large piece ofmachinery is simply a lot more expensive — especiallywhen you factor in the cost of transporting it to the jobsite.Those costs add up fast and they really can’t be justifiedwhen a much smaller and cheaper machine coulddo the job just as well, if not better. In reality, skid steerscover all the bases… they’re cheap on gas, easy to movearound and are able to do the work of several differenttypes of machines all rolled into one.“The skid steer loader is paramount in the utility, siteprep and finish contractor segments of our business,”notes Robert Beesely, product manager for KomatsuAmerica’s utility division. “The applications of these unitsare extremely varied. The attachments seem to be unendingand each one allows a new application, making skidsteers some of the most productive and versatilemachines on the market.”And that’s what really sets the skid steer apart from anyother machine. In addition to being able to completemost types of jobs that involve digging, loading, levelingor backfilling, the ability to run hundreds of differentattachments off the machine’s front loader arms andhydraulic system gives skid steers the ability to participatein every stage of a project — from site preparation,clearing and leveling, through the actual installation(either digging itself, or in conjunction with an excavatoror a backhoe loader to haul material and load it into a16 Utility Contractor | August 2007

truck) all the way to putting on a few finishing toucheswith precise backfilling and even pristine landscaping.“There is a big myriad of work that a skid steer loadercan do for a utility contractor on a site, from the beginningto the very last machine off the site,” says KellyMoore, skid loader product manager for Gehl Co. “Ofcourse it depends on size and the scope of the job, butthey really can be involved in every phase of a utilityproject. If it’s a small contractor on a smaller job, the skidsteer might be the single machine that does all the workwith its attachments. If it’s a large job and a large contractor,who has a whole fleet of everything from largeexcavators down to the compact machines, the skid steeris going to be the supplement machine to perform someof the backfilling and the smaller parts of the project.”Making HistoryLike any other product market, skid steers have gonethrough a marked progression from where they started.Classified into nine different categories by theAssociation of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), today’sskid steers are broken down by rated operating capacity(typically 600 to 3,700 lbs). With operating weights rangingfrom 4,000 to 9,900 lbs, customers can usually pickup a brand new loader for $16,000 to $40,000. But themarket today is a far cry from where it started 50 yearsago, when brothers Cyril and Louis Keller designed andbuilt their first three-wheeled, front-end loader in theirmachinist-blacksmith shop in Rothsay, Minn.“The Kellers built that first loader to help a nearbyfarmer mechanize the process of cleaning his turkeybarn,” notes Mike Fitzgerald, loader product specialist forBobcat Co. “The light and compact machine had a rearcaster wheel that was able to turn around within its ownlength, while performing the same tasks as a conventionalfront-end loader. Melroe Mfg. purchased the rights tothe Keller loader in 1958 and hired the Kellers to continuerefining the loader invention.”As a result of this partnership, the self-propelled M-200loader was introduced at the end of that year. Melroe Mfg.(now Bobcat Co.) later replaced the caster wheel with a rearaxle and introduced the M-400, the first four-wheel skidsteer loader. The “Bobcat” name was added in 1962 todescribe the key attributes of the machine — tough, agile,and quick. The M-440 came out soon after, boating a 15.5-hp engine and 1,100-lb rated operating capacity, followed inthe mid-1960s by the M600.But Bobcat wasn’t the only one who saw the new market’svast potential. Other American manufacturers startedto throw their hats in the ring throughout the 1960s and’70s, including Mustang, Case, Gehl and New Holland.Over time, the market has grown not only by the numberof players, but also by size, shape, creature comforts andthe variety of tasks the machines are able to accomplish.“There have been many, many changes in skid steersover the years,” Moore says. “The very first loaders werevery compact, strictly agricultural machines used for smallfarm operations. As it progressed over the years, it wentfrom gasoline powered and then into the early ’80s startedusing diesel. Eventually, they grew into much largermachines, much more stout and much more ergonomicallypleasing and comfortable for the operator to run.”Skid steers have the ability to participate in every stage of a project — from site prep, clearing and leveling, through the actualinstallation. It’s also very useful when used in conjunction with an excavator or a backhoe loader to haul and load material.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 17

Bobcat may have been the first, but today there is a healthy competition among skid steer manufacturers. And the markethas grown not only in the number of players, but also in the variety of sizes, shapes and creature comforts that are available.Gehl, which started in the agricultural business, firstbranched off into construction in the early 1980s. Lastyear, the company phased out its agricultural implementsto focus fully on its line of compact equipment. The movecame on the tails of the revamping of its skid steer offeringearlier in the year, with the introduction of six new E-Series skid loaders.“Today, we have seven models total in our E-Series,”says Moore. “The two smallest machines are 35 and 46hp, which are lightweight and as narrow as 4 to 5 ft wide.They’re good for doing a variety of jobs on a smaller scaleand provide very economical options. Our mid-rangemachines go from 60- to 82-hp turbo diesel engines and1,650 to 2,900 lbs in rated capacity. Our largest modelis the 7810E, which is used for large-scale, highproductivityjobs.”A New MarketJust in the last five to 10 years, the bulk of the heavyhitters in the equipment business have followed suit.John Deere got the ball rolling in 1999 with four newloaders dubbed the 200 Series, then upped the ante witha new and improved 300 Series late last year. Komatsufirst entered the North American skid steer market in2000 and now offers four wheeled models (SK815-5,SK820-5, SK1020-5 and SK1026-5), in addition to twocompact track loaders (CK30 and CK35). In addition,Bobcat introduced its latest line of skid steer loaders withthe K-Series (S130 to S330), now with 12 different modelsranging from 700 to 3,300 lbs.Caterpillar introduced its first four skid loaders into thefray in 1999 and now offers a total of 10 loaders ranging18 Utility Contractor | August 2007from 50 to 90 hp and operating loads from 1,400 to 3,250lbs. The company upgraded the line again this May withthe introduction of the C-Series loaders, which consist offour new skid steers (246C, 256C, 262C and 272C) andthree tracked units, or “multi-terrain loaders” (the 277C,287C and 297C).With a rated operating capacity of 3,250 lbs, the 272C isthe largest capacity skid steer Caterpillar has produced todate. The vertical lift 272C is joined by the smaller 262C,which has an operating capacity of 2,700 lbs and also featuresvertical lift for enhanced truck loading capabilities.The 246C and 256C are radial lift machines with ratedoperating capacities of 2,150 and 2,350 lbs, respectively.“Over the years, we added several new units to ourproduct line, including high-flow and vertical lift units,”notes Kent Pellegrini, skid steer and multi-terrain loaderindustry manager for Caterpillar. “Skid steers serve as avery useful aid for any type of construction for the utilitywork, most of the jobs need prep and cleanup work to bedone. That can include things like backfilling gravel for anew drainage ditch to finish grading. It comes down toavoiding overkill, where the machine you bring with youdoesn’t fit the job.”Over the years, the market has also expanded into variationson the original theme. In the last five years, manyskid steer manufacturers have incorporated dedicatedtrack machines called compact track loaders. Track loadershave taken the idea of over-the-tire tracks to the nextlevel with a fully dedicated undercarriage, which was firstinvented in the 1980s by ASV and Takeuchi.Outside of the undercarriage, manufacturers build theirtrack loaders to the same specifications as their skid

steers, but provide extra traction and stability, a smootherride, more pushing power and a lighter footprint. Theirdisadvantages include a higher purchasing price, higheroperating costs and the inability to roll over hard surfaceslike concrete and asphalt without major wear.The other variation takes the versatility and maneuverabilityto a new level. Referred to as a mini skid steer orcompact utility loader, the miniaturized versions of theconstruction site standby works are also becoming popular— especially for rental uses.The little loaders are fitted with tracks or wheels andequipped with little arms that could run a variety of differenthydraulic work tools (buckets, breakers, augers,trenchers, pallet forks and any other implement).Designed to work in very cramped residential or constructionworksites where only wheelbarrows could fitbefore, the loaders can adapt to almost any work application— boring holes, loading material, trenching and simplycutting down on manual labor that’s usually donewhere a machine won’t fit.Fully LoadedTraditional skid steers still come in a variety of sizes,but there are also a few fundamental differences in skidsteers that potential buyers (and even renters) need toknow about. For example, skid steer loaders can eitheruse lift-arms with radial lift or vertical lift designs. Radiallift arms are connected to the machine with a single pinon each side, which allow the bucket to follow an arc asit rises.“On a radial lift, the bucket sits close to the machinewhen it is in the down position to make the machinemore stable and compact whenmoving loads around,” says GreggZupancic, product marketingmanager for skid steers and compacttrack loaders at John DeereConstruction & Forestry. “As thebucket is raised, it moves awayfrom the machine and thenstraight up. This gives themachine extra reach, making iteasier to dump a load into themiddle of a pickup or place a palletinto a deep shelf.”According to manufacturers,radial lift machines are typicallybest-suited for digging in hardsoil and are more conducive torough and abusive conditions. Onthe other hand, vertical liftmachines are better suited forhandling, loading and palletwork. While both types can beutilized for any application, lifecycle and productivity determinewhich unit is a better match forthe job and the contractor.Variation in operator controls is another important factorto consider. Most skid steers are controlled by eithersingle- or two-lever steering. The single lever system isbest suited for pilot control systems and allows the operatorto “split” the control of the machine into their rightand left hands. All travel is accomplished by the left leverwhile the right lever controls the lift and tilt. With twoleversteering, the left travel and lift is accomplished bythe left lever and right travel and bucket are controlled bythe right lever.“Komatsu uses pilot-proportional controls as standardon its models and offers a pattern change valve as anoption that allows the operator to choose between singleand two lever steering,” says Beesely. “Pilot controlsappear to be the latest change to sweep the market. Whilesome have had pilot controls from the beginning, all othersare now introducing or planning introduction of thissystem. They allow very fine control with little operatoreffort. All in all, control systems are mainly based onoperator preference and operators simply prefer controlswith which they are familiar.”In the last few years, joystick controls have been integratedinto the operator controls, providing more intuitiveoperation. Caterpillar used joystick controls in itsfirst loaders back in 1999, and other manufacturers havetaken similar approaches. Bobcat currently offers threetypes of operator controls, including traditional (footpedals and steering levers), advanced controls(advanced hand and foot controls) and selectable joystickcontrols (ISO-pattern or H-pattern controls). Theyare also designed with what is referred to as Bobcat’s“selectable joystick controls” or the SJC System, whichThe skid steer market has expanded on its original theme, with many manufacturersadding dedicated track machines called compact track loaders. They are built to thesame specifications as skid steers, but provide extra traction, stability and pushing power.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 19

In the last few years, joystick controls have beenintegrated into the operator controls, providing moreintuitive operation.uses low-effort joysticks to allow the operator to controlall machine functions with their hands.“The SJC system allows the operator to match the travelspeed to the operation requirements for optimizingattachment performance and more precise control ofmachine movements in tightareas,” Fitzgerald explains. “Italso manages the horsepower toautomatically adjust the drive systemto maximize pushing and diggingpower without stalling themachine. And, features like footthrottle and fingertip switchesmake it easier to control variousmachine functions.”Besides buckets, skid steers canbe armed with a warehouse full ofattachments for your exact operations.Skid steers have an auxiliaryhydraulic system (from 15 to 35gpm) to power attachments likeaugers, trenchers, planers, breakers,grapples, vibratory plows,cement mixers, graders, broomsand everything in between. Sowhile the loader arm is designed tohold many more different tools20 Utility Contractor | August 2007than just a bucket, the size of theengine and the accompanyinghydraulic flow will also affect buyingdecisions. Depending on the types of attachments youplan to run, the loader needs to have enough oomph to getthe job done as effectively and efficiently as possible.But as any contractor knows, the last few pages areirrelevant if the operator inside the cab is unhappy oruncomfortable. Operators are spending more time in themachines than ever before, looking at their cab as less ofa temporary workspace and more like their office. Sowhen it comes to buying decisions, those comfortfeatures are being looked at more critically than ever.That’s why manufacturers have made enormous strides inbringing operator comfort to its highest levels.More spacious cabs, air-cushioned seats, heat, air conditioning,radios and a variety of other features have startedto become commonplace. Actually, operator comforthas become somewhat of a new focal point in the ongoinggame of one-upmanship in the world of constructionequipment. Caterpillar, for example, recently made a significantstride with its C-Series cabs, creating an industryfirstsealed and pressurized unit that provides one of thecleanest and quietest working environments a constructionworker has ever seen.“Skid steers are such small machines; the engine is rightbehind you so noise levels are critical,” notes Pellegrini.“Skid steers used to be just a complementary machine —the rarely used ‘wheelbarrow’ of a jobsite. And things likecomfort and visibility didn’t really matter. Now it’s oneof the most popular machines in construction andoperators are in there eight hours a day. As a result,operator comfort on these machines is being taken to awhole new level.”Nick Zubko is associate editor of Utility Contractor.Operators today see their cab like an office, so comfort features are being lookedat more critically than ever. That's why manufacturers have made enormous stridesin bringing operator comfort to its highest levels.

All the Small ThingsThe Latest Creations in the Compact MarketplaceASV Rubber Track LoaderThe ASV RC-100 Rubber Track Loader is the most powerfuland productive of its R-Series product line. Powered by aPerkins 1104C-44T turbocharged diesel engine, the RC-100offers high output with low emissions and low sound. ThePosi-Power Control system lets the operator work the RC-100 to its fullest potential, as it automatically shifts the hydrostatto match available horsepower. The machine’s tracks aredirectly driven by two-speed drive motors with travel speedsup to 11.5 mph. The hydraulic system provides up to 38 gpmto the standard high flow auxiliary circuit on demand or 20gpm to the low flow circuit. The RC-100's advanced loadsensinghydraulic system produces 10 percent morehydraulic horsepower. Forty-two wheeled contact pointsspread the machine weight over 18-in.-wide rubber tracks,exerting only 3.5 psi ground pressure.Bobcat Zero Tail Swing ExcavatorContractors needing a zero tail swing (ZTS) excavator in the2- to 3-metric ton size class now have a new option with the425 compact excavator from Bobcat Co. The 425 standard-armexcavator delivers a maximum digging depth of 8 ft, 4 in. anda maximum reach of 14 ft, 10 in. at ground level. The 425 longarmoption hasa maximumdigging depthof 9 ft, 4 in. anda maximumreach of 15 ft, 9in. at groundlevel for evengreater spoilplacement.Both modelsare powered bya 26-hp, liquidcooleddieselengine and featuretwo-speedtravel motorsalso available.Boxer Compact Utility LoaderThe Boxer 530X sports a 30-hp Kohler Command Pro aircooledgas engine and a two-pump, 3,000 psi, 14.5 gpmhydraulic system, providing the muscle to tackle any task.The mighty compact utility loader offers an integrated tracksystem that retracts from a fully extended and is easily controlledby a joystick lever on the control panel. This designmakes it simple for the operator to maneuver through tightareas. 530X can handle over 50 universal compact utilityloader attachments. The standard quick attach systemenables the user to quickly switch from bucket to forks.Case M Series 2 Loader BackhoeCase Construction Equipment’s M Series 2 is the latestaddition to the Case legacy of rugged, durable loader backhoes.The new M Series 2 Series includes the 580M, 580MTurbo, 580 Super M, 590 Super M and 580 Super M+ models.These five models range from 76 to 98 hp with loadercapacities from 6,182 to 7,327 lbs. New engines and a newlow-effort pilot control option have been added to allM Series 2 models. For the ultimate in operator comfortand control, M Series 2 loader backhoes are now availablewith Case Pilot Controls. An exclusive thumb-proportionalcontrol for the Extendahoe provides relaxed, precise andeasy fingertip operation.22 Utility Contractor | August 2007

Ditch Witch Excavator Tool CarrierThe Ditch Witch revolutionary compact utility vehicle,the Ditch Witch XT850, is a cross between the company’sSK (mini skid steer) and MX (mini excavator) series. TheXT850 is a powerful, lightweight excavator tool carrierwith options that include trailer, stands and enoughattachments to handle virtually any underground constructiontask. A special feature of the XT850 is its patentpending260 degree excavator sweep, which allowsunprecedented offset digging capability from one point.When it is time to move, the machine’s turf-friendly rubbertracks are controlled by independent hydrostatic grounddrives, giving the operator zero-radius turning capability.Doosan Zero Tail Swing CompactExcavatorThe Doosan DX35z is available in a cabin model with27 hp and an 8,069-lb operating weight and canopy modelwith 27 hp and a 7,848-lb operating weight. Both modelsfeature a zero tail swing which provides the ability to workin very narrow areas. The newly designed swing bracketand increasedboom cylinder sizeensures powerfuland stable boomswing performance.Otherhighlights includea powerful diggingforce, dozer blade,comfortable cabinand easy maintenance.The DX35zhas a powerful andenvironmentallyproficient 3TNV88engine that provideshigh operatingefficiency.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 23

Gehl Zero 383Z Compact ExcavatorThe new Gehl 383Z excavator features zero tail swingmaneuverability, which allows the machine’s superstructureto rotate entirely within the tracks. The 383Z canoperate close to walls and obstructions without risk of contact.Its small size, weighing 7,826 lbs with a canopy and8,002 lbs with a cab, and maneuverability make it a perfectfit for operating on congested sites without obstructingtraffic. The size of the operator’s compartment is maximizedby mounting the powerful 29-hp Yanmar dieselengine on the side of the machine and the hydraulic andfuel tanks on the rear of the machine.The PC58UU features the offset knuckle-boom that enablesoperators to dig exactly where the tracks can travel. This featureallows trenching or digging alongside barriers or obstaclesfound in urban work sites or wherever workspace is ata premium. Another advanced feature of the PC58UU is theProportional Pressure Control (PPC) joystick. A PPC valvebuilt into the joystick circuit enables an operator to actuallyfeel the movement of the machine. Pressure proportionalcontrols allow any operator to work with precision andsmooth control using all the functions at the same time.Kubota’s B-Series TLBsKubota Tractor Corp.’s new B-series Tractor LoaderBackhoe (TLB) compact tractor offers added horsepower,loader-lifting capacity, backhoe digging power and depth tomake it a star workhorse for light construction, agriculturalwork or around the home. Whether the job calls for atractor with three-point implements, backhoe or loaderapplications, the B26 can take on all three applications.Under the hood, the 26-hp Kubota diesel engine increasespower by 23 percent, while offering a combination ofhigh torque rise, low noise and vibration, and cleaneremissions. Additionally, the B26 features a reinforced,integrated main frame for an uncompromising ability totake on repetitive loader backhoe work.John Deere 17D Compact ExcavatorWith numerous improvements, the new John Deere 17DCompact Excavator provides maximum versatility and productivity.Chief among its enhancements are the newadjustable-width tracks and a new backfill blade with foldableend sections. When the tracks are retracted and theblades’ end sections folded, the machine fits through a 40-in.opening. When fully extended to over 50 in., the undercarriageprovides maximum stability for operation. What’s more,the standard mechanical quick coupler/hydraulic attachmentpackage makes for endless job site possibilities.Komatsu Tight Tail Swing ExcavatorKomatsu’s PC58UU tight tail swing excavator gives operatorsmany new features to increase jobsite productivity.24 Utility Contractor | August 2007

New Holland’s C175 Track LoaderMeeting the needs of landscape, construction, utilityand grounds maintenance contractors who require thefeatures of a smaller size compact track loader, NewHolland has introduced the C175, with a 2,200-lb ratedoperating capacity and an operating weight of 7,535 lbs.Having an overall width of 71.1-in., a length of 10 ft, 8 in.and a ground pressure of 5.3 psi, the C175 can get intohard-to-reach areas with little disturbance to the workingenvironment and will fit on most standard trailers. TheC175 has a New Holland turbocharged engine rated at 60gross hp and features a standard two-speed transmissionfor travel speeds up to 7.4 mph.Takeuchi Compact ExcavatorsThe TakeuchiTB153FR combinesthe advantages of azero-tail swing excavatorwith a patentedside-to-side (STS)offset boom systemto give the operatorthe ability to slew360 degrees withininches of themachine width. Thisfeature offers operatorsof all experiencelevels the opportunityto work with confidencenext to walls,close to traffic, andin other limited access areas. The innovative STS boomdesign coupled with a low machine center of gravityprovide the digging speed, stability, power and visibilityfound in Takeuchi’s conventional excavators, as well asthe TB153FR’s efficient variable displacement pistonpumps that automatically adjusts digging power andspeed to match operating conditions.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 25

Terex TC50 Compact ExcavatorVolvo B-Series Skid Steer LoadersVolvo B-Series skid steer loaders includes five models withoperating capacities ranging from 1,350 lbs to 2,250 lbs andengine power from 45 to 81 net hp. These loaders offer theoperator a choice (depending on preference or application)of popular foot and hand mechanical controls or the comfortand efficiency of hand-operated hydraulic pilot controls. ATerex introduces the TC50 compact crawler excavator, thenewest addition to the company’s zero-tail swing lineup.The TC50 excels in constricted work environments and isdesigned to turn within its tracks, guaranteeing that the rearof the machine does not swing into nearby structures orlandscaping or out into oncoming traffic during operation.In addition, the offset boom allows for working in closeproximity next to buildings and foundations. With a 39.4-hpYanmar 4TNV88 engine and load-sensing and load-independentflow division hydraulics system, the TC50 weighsonly 11,067 lbs and offers a maximum dig depth of 12 ft, 1in., maximum reach of 20 ft, 4 in. and incorporates a newdozer control lever directly next to the joystick.Vermeer CX Series ExcavatorsThe Vermeer CX Series of compact excavators featuresseven models ranging in operating weight from 3,527 to11,224 lbs. All the CX models are powered by Kubotadiesel engines, which meet all current emissions requirements,and are controlled with pilot-operated joysticks.Additionally, they feature two travel speeds, an angledbackfill blade and auxiliary hydraulics for powering themost demanding hydraulic attachments. The CX219Z is azero tail swing machine and both the CX219Z and theCX218 offer expandable undercarriages that can retractto 3 ft, 3 in. The 18-hp CX216 is only 3 ft, 3 in. wide andoffers a dig depth of 7 ft and a reach of 12 ft, 2 in.seat bar provides an ergonomic armrest and control leverpositions fall naturally to hand, creating improved efficiencyand reducing fatigue. A rear counterweight helps protect therear door and improve weight distribution for smootheroperation onsite. Hydraulic and driveline systems provideoptimum performance and increased travel speeds.Yanmar’s -5 Series ExcavatorsIn addition to the new color scheme, Yanmar's newViO27-5 and ViO35-5 -5 Series compact excavators includea number of features and improvements that will increasethe productivity and salability of the extremely popular -3series. The new universal boom design is similar to thedesign of theViO45-5 andthe ViO55-5.The side plateson the -5 modelsare 1.5 timesthicker than theside plates onthe -3 models,and the curve ofthe -5 boom ismore gradual tospread the stressload over awider area. TheViO35-5 offers28 hp, while theViO21 offers 21hp of the ViO27.26 Utility Contractor | August 2007

GettingAttachedHydraulic Work Tools CanProvide Big Options forYour Small MachinesBy Tara Deering-HansenWhen a contractor needs to installelectrical, plumbing, phone, cable or fiberoptic lines for residential andcommercial properties, it’s no surprisethat they all look for the most cost-effective way to getthe job done. In the last several years, many haveturned to compact equipment to get that extra boost inproductivity.Not only can a skid steer loader, compact excavators— and more recently compact and mini track loaders —squeeze into small places at a fraction of the operatingcost of their larger machines, they are also able to run avariety of attachments to complete almost any task.According to Justin Odegaard, attachment product representativefor Bobcat Co., compact machines give contractorsthe ability to perform more than one task becauseof the number of attachments the machines can utilize.“Compact machines are especially useful for utilitycontractors, who are able to use them to cost-effectivelyextend their utility installation offerings,” Odegaardexplains. “Instead of buying several dedicated pieces ofequipment, contractors can spend thousands less bypurchasing attachments for their loaders andexcavators.”The size of a compact skid steer, track loader orexcavator is of course one of the most obvious benefitsof the machines. For utility contractors working inestablished areas where they must access tight spaces,compact equipment allows them to go where largermachines can’t. But Odegaard explains that loadersand excavators with track undercarriages provideadditional benefits that include improved traction,increased productivity, better flotation and reducedground disturbance.28 Utility Contractor | August 2007

“Instead of buying severaldedicated pieces ofequipment, contractors canspend thousands less bypurchasing attachmentsfor their loaders andexcavators.”— Justin Odegaard, attachment productrepresentative for Bobcat Co.“Since most contractors work on soft surfaces whenperforming utility installation, tracks are a definiteplus,” he says. “Because tracks distribute the machine’sweight over a greater area, they reduce ground pressure,thus minimizing ground disturbance. So for contractorsinstalling service lines on established lawns,this means less worries about performing repair workafter the job’s done.”A mini track loader or compacttrack loader also allows landscapersto work in ground conditionsthat might prove difficultfor wheeled loaders. Track loaders’improved traction and flotationenable contractors to workmore effectively in wet andmuddy ground conditions.Bobcat manufactures two minitrack loader models, six compacttrack loader models and 11 excavatormodels, all of which havetrack undercarriages.All of these machines can bepaired with a number of differenttypes and styles of useful attachments— including several thatcan be used for utility installation.Of the multitude of attachmentsavailable on the markettoday (Bobcat alone makes morethan 80), Odegaard says thetrencher, vibratory plow, boringunit, auger, combination bucket,digger, backhoe, angle broom,pallet forks and hydraulic breakerare among the most popularwith utility contractors.Trencher AttachmentsThe trencher attachment is likely the most recognizableutility installation attachment. For years, utilitycontractors have turned to the trencher attachmentbecause of its strength, ease of use and versatility.Another reason the trencher is commonly seen onutility installation jobs is because it’s usually readilyavailable for rent at most dealerships or rental stores,and it’s relatively inexpensive when compared to otherattachments. Odegaard says there are also several advantagesto using a trencher attachment.“While the trencher works well in all soil conditions,it also has the power and strength to digthrough extremely rocky soil,” Odegaard says.“Contractors can equip their trencher attachmentwith several different teeth and chain configurationsin order to correctly match it to the soil conditions inwhich they’ll be digging.Bobcat’s trencher attachment has dig depths from 2to 5 ft and allows utility installation specialists totrench close to buildings, fences and other objects withthe removal of its auger. However, contractors shouldbe careful where they choose to use their trencherattachment. Because it cuts through the ground anddisplaces a strip of soil, it’s typically better used innon-established areas where there isn’t any sod or seedand where ground disturbance isn’t a worry.While a trencher attachment works well in all soil conditions, it also has thepower and strength to dig through extremely rocky soil.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 29

Boring UnitsAnother popular attachment for installing utility linesis the boring unit. When contractors are faced with placingutility lines in areas where they’re unable to trench orplow, many of them turn to the boring unit. This attachmentenables them to place service lines under sidewalks,driveways and other structures.Bobcat’s boring unit can install pipe as large as 3 in. indiameter up to a maximum distance of about 25 ft. So howdoes this unique attachment work? Well, Odegaard says ascrew-type boring bit is driven through the ground as themachine is driven forward. As this happens, the ground iscompacted outward to create a tunnel under the obstacle.“Once the boring bit reaches the other side, a reamingbit is then installed and the utility line is connected to theswivel on the reaming bit,” he explains. “The machine isthen backed up and the rotating reamer bit further compactsthe soil as it pulls the utility line through theenlarged tunnel.”Vibratory PlowsIndustry watchers are seeing more utility contractorsusing vibratory plows mainly because of increased awarenessabout the attachment’s primary benefit — minimalground disturbance to lawns. This efficient attachmentplaces utility lines up to a maximum depth of 18 in. belowground level by slicing a thin blade into the ground andplacing the line directly into the trench with a single pass.“The vibratory plow saves time because unlike thetrencher (where contractors must dig the trench firstbefore installing the line) they can do both at the sametime,” Odegaard says. “Less ground disturbance is hugebecause you don’t have to go back, put the pipe in or levelout the ground you dug up. You’re installing as you go.”With a vibratory plow, you don't have to go back, putthe pipe in or level out the ground you dug up.You're installing as you go.Boring units enable contractors to place service linesunder sidewalks, driveways and other structures.And Many MoreContractors can also utilize several other attachmentswith their compact machines to help complete utility installationsfrom start to finish. For example, a combinationbucket can be used to carry or move dirt and rocks and tobackfill trenches. When installing irrigation systems, landscapersmight attach an auger, digger or backhoe to theirloader in order to dig holes for the system’s valve boxes.In heavy soil conditions, landscapers might use anauger attachment to dig deeper holes so that they can thenfill the valve boxes with rock or gravel to allow fordrainage. A backhoe attachment comes in handy whenneeding to reach and dig holes in extremely sensitive areaswhere loaders can’t travel.Once the installation is complete, contractors want toleave the site looking just as good (or better than) whenthey arrived. Attaching an angle broom to a loader allowsyou to sweep dirt, rock and other debris from sidewalks,driveways and parking lots. Other popular accessory-typeattachments include pallet forks for hauling materials, ahydraulic breaker for breaking through rock in difficultsoil conditions, or a stump grinder for cutting and removingtree roots that are in the way of utility lines.Utility contractors have several choices when it comesto attachments. But before deciding whether to purchasea trencher, vibratory plow, boring unit or backhoe attachment,Odegaard suggests trying before you buy.“As with any application, contractors should make surethey match the right tool to the job by considering possiblechallenges and whether they’ll be working in mostlynew construction or established areas,” Odegaard says.“A utility contractor will also want to consider what typeof soil conditions are found in the region they’ll be workingin before choosing their installation method.”Tara Deering-Hansen is a technical writer for Two Rivers Marketingin Des Moines, Iowa.30 Utility Contractor | August 2007

SubstanceControlComprehensive Drug TestingCan Be a Critical Measurein Jobsite SafetyBy Peter CholakisEven under ideal conditions, construction is adangerous job. Every year, the industryconsistently posts the highest number offatalities and struggles with high workercosts. And when you combine the inherent dangers ofconstruction with drug abuse, the numbers havenowhere to go but up.Today, approximately 10 percent of America’s workingpopulation abuse illicit drugs, which can includeanything from illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin ormethamphetamines, to non-medical use of prescriptiondrugs and alcohol abuse. In the construction sector,that statistic jumps to as high as 30 percent.The devastating impacts of drug abuse upon corporatesafety, productivity and the financial bottom-line are welldocumented. Up to 65 percent of on-the-job constructionaccidents can be related to substance abuse, while insurersnote that drug and alcohol use is linked to 40 percentof construction fatalities. Drug abuse also negativelyimpacts employee turnover, absenteeism, workplace violence,inventory shrinkage/employee theft and medicalinsurance utilization rates.Significantly improving safety and financial performanceis already a big incentive for any firm to drug test,but U.S. companies are also required by law to provide asafe workplace for all employees. And without a compre-Employees Reporting Drug AbuseWithin Past Year by IndustryConstruction 20-25%Manufacturing 10-20%Hospitality/Lodging 12-28%Retail 13-28%Finance/Real Estate 15%32 Utility Contractor | August 2007

hensive, drug-free workplace program in place, maintaininga safe jobsite in the United States has become virtuallyimpossible.So how can contractors, owners, employees, unionsand insurers, significantly improve jobsite safety?The answer lies in deterrence and detection of on-the-jobsubstance abuse. It is the first step to ensuring a safer,happier workplace environment — and one that justmight just save a drug abuser’s life or your own.Implementing a ProgramMany corporations and contractors believe that following“DOT Standards” is the most effective way tocreate a safer, drug free workplace. Unfortunately, this isa false, yet common belief. DOT and other federallymandated drug testing regulations are required in certainlimited circumstances (truck drivers for specifiedclasses of vehicles, vehicles carrying a certain number ofpassengers, etc.).However, this traditional type of drug testing is morethan 20 years old and doesn’t test for many of today’snewer designer drugs. Furthermore, it is cumbersome tosay the least, as it relies exclusively upon laboratorybasedurine drug testing.Urine testing, without direct observation during specimencollection, is little more than an intelligence test fordrug abusers. Beating a test by adding any of thehundreds of products readily available on the Internet orsubstituting one person’s specimen with drug-free urineor synthetic urine is commonplace. The practice hasbecome so ineffective that there are arguably more drugabuser’s beating urine tests than there are drug positivesfrom this outdated method.A good place to start with any drug-free workplaceprogram is to establish goals and objectives appropriatefor your organization. These will help you create afoundation to write your workplace drug policy:a prerequisite to the implementation of any drug testingA good place to start with any drug-free workplaceprogram is to establish goals and objectivesappropriate for your organization.program. When it comes to implementing a drug freeworkplace program, the documentation and impartialapplication of policy are critical. Not only do ad hocapproaches not work, they can cause serious employeemoral and legal issues.Drug testing is a strategic corporate issue affectingeveryone in the organization, as well as the corporateimage. Therefore, company-wide involvement and “buyin”are needed across all levels, including CEOs, CFOs,COOs, human resources, loss prevention, risk management,occupational health and safety and employees.When implementing any drug testing program, it is recommendedthat the following areas be considered:• Legal ramifications or “What rules apply”• Type of testing: pre-employment, random,post accident, or return-to-duty• Reasonable suspicion or cause• Ease of use and administration of testing methods• Immediacy of resultsNew Technologies: A Mini Case StudyWhen one construction firm decided to institute arandom drug testing program for all the company’semployees, it began researching drug testingtools. It discovered that many companies relied onlab-based urine testing. But, by nature, urinetesting wouldn’t lend itself well to a constructionenvironment.Collecting the sample would be troublesome,as laborers would have to be observed duringthe entire process to ensure no adulterationwould take place. Furthermore, workers wouldhave to leave the job site, possibly for hours ata time, for specimen collection. Plus, each testwould cost more than $150 to $200 includinglost labor. Urine testing was determined to becost-prohibitive.After further research, the firm discovered thatoral-based drug testing eliminated many of thedrawbacks of urine testing and offered more effectiveresults. In fact oral-based testing was the onlytechnology that would allow the company toimplement a truly random drug testing program.By collecting just a swab of a person’s saliva oralfluid-based tests can detect drugs almost immediatelyafter ingestion. Urine tests can only detectdrugs six to nine hours after a drug has beeningested; enough time for the drug to metabolizeand show up in urine.Current oral-based testing tools were easy toadminister and would allow the director of safetyto do all of the testing himself, with results ready inless than 15 minutes. The impacts on this constructionfirm were astounding. Its accident ratedropped to near zero, workers compensation premiumsdropped 13 percent and overall savingswere calculated in the millions.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 33

The following components are typically included in acomprehensive drug-free workplace program:• A written, signed drug testing policy• Drug tests (onsite as well as laboratory-based) usingappropriate specimen types including oral fluid,urine and hair• GC/LS/MS laboratory confirmatory testing• MRO (medical review officer) services• Employee assistance programs• Ongoing drug education and awareness programsPre-Employment TestingWhile many companies have been practicing preemploymenttesting for more than 20 years, it has been onlymarginally effective at reducing drugs in the workplace fortwo reasons. First, pre-employment testing, by definition,only addresses a small part of the workplace. Second, itignores the fact that more than 77 percent of drug abusersare currently in the workforce. Not to mention that it caneasily be circumvented by drug abusers.Any type of testing with a previously scheduled dateallows applicants or employees that abuse drugs to employa wide variety of methods to avoid detection as previouslynoted. This is reflected in the fact that random testing ofthe full workforce — while currently practiced by a smallsubset of corporate innovators — has proven to be themost effective deterrent to illicit drugs in the workplace.Post-accident testing has become the norm for largerbusinesses, and most states allow employers to deny workerscompensation benefits to employees who test positivefor drugs of abuse. Reasonable cause or “suspicion testing”is helpful if employees and supervisors are trained to recognizethe signs and symptoms of drug abuse.Lastly, “return-to-duty testing” is a means of enablingemployees to come back to work, after testing positive todrugs of abuse. These employees usually complete anemployee assistance program and/or similar substanceabuse recovery program and undergo random testing.A Workplace BenefitA carefully designed comprehensive drug-free workplaceprogram is a clear benefit to everyone: employers,employees, unions, insurers and owners. Zero-tolerancerelative to substance abuse is critical; however, programscan be non-punitive in nature. While the mere existenceof a random drug testing program acts as a strong deterrent,there will still be instances where employees aredetected abusing drugs.When this occurs, it is recommended that the employeebe offered an opportunity to participate in, andsuccessfully complete an employee assistance program.While not being allowed to work in a position that couldnegatively affect workplace safety during an interim periodis a benefit, firing an employee, vs. temporary suspension,might not best serve anyone’s best interests.The company may be losing an otherwise excellent workerbased upon the specific circumstances involved and/ormight prove to be one in the near future.Also, fellow nonabusingemployees aremore likely to come forwardand report incidentsof drug abuse, ifthey know that fellowworkers will be providedan opportunity toaddress the issue ratherthan being terminated.Training employees,supervisors, and evenfamilies of the signs orsymptoms of drug abusemay also be of significantbenefit. How effectivewill an employee beif a family member hasreached advanced stagesof drug abuse?A comprehensive drug-freeworkplace program includes testof several different specimens.These can include oral fluids(shown on top) and onsite urinetests (center and bottom).The FutureMany, if not most,senior “C-level”professionals aren’teven aware of thesignificant threatsposed by workplacedrug abuse.A variety of excusesare given for not drugtesting and simplydemonstrate a culturaltendency to sweep theproblem under therug, in addition to alack of education andawareness. Some ofthe more popular onesare: “We don’t have adrug abuse problem atour company,” or“Implementing a comprehensivedrug-free workplace problem — inclusive ofdrug testing — would be too hard for our corporation.”Unfortunately, a catastrophic event is required to drivesome corporation’s to effect change. Yet, more and morecompanies are beginning to take the advice of theirsafety and risk management teams and proactivelyaddress workplace drug abuse.Drug-free workplace programs and innovative technologiessuch as oral fluid-based random testing offer contractorsa means to protect themselves and their workersfrom this pervasive problem. With multiple avenues availableto help solve the problem of workplace drug abuse,the final question remains, “Why don’t you test?”Peter Cholakis is vice president of marketing for AvitarTechnologies Inc.34 Utility Contractor | August 2007

Watching theKeeping a Close Eye on TireCondition Can Be Vital to YourBottom LineBy Todd RamseyHere’s an easy tip to help you improve yourbottom line — take care of your tires. Tires aretoo often an afterthought to some contractorsand machinery operators. When properlymaintained, tires remain in service longer, reduce downtimeand help to keep equipment operating efficiently.Just as any part of a contractor’s business plan, the keysteps to making it work are knowledge and execution.Making the right choices in tire selection can often be justas important as developing a simple maintenance routine.In the long run, spending just a few minutes a day maintainingyour tires can help you avoid hours of downtimeand additional repair costs. Establishing (and following)regular tire maintenance steps can prove to be an integralpart of the success of your overall equipmentmaintenance program.The Importance of SelectionMatching the proper tire to the machine and the applicationis another way to maximize productivity from anequipment tire. Site managers should implement a tailoredtire management program. This should include elementssuch as proper haul road or site maintenance,properly training operators in best practices and continuallymonitoring air pressure and temperature.The impact that a tire program has on equipment productivityis less visible than actual tire costs. However, amachine that runs more efficiently has a direct effect ona company’s profitability. By matching the right tread,rubber compound and air pressure to the job, operatorscan often improve traction, gas mileage and up time ontheir machines — all of which improve productivity andwiden profit margins. Every worksite is different, withunique demands and conditions that must be addressed.Factors such as the tread pattern and depth of a tiredetermine how it will interact with the landscape. Thesecan influence how much traction and adherence a tirecan have along with how much damage the tire canresist.Another element of a tire is the chemical makeup ofthe rubber compounds. Similar to tread pattern anddepth, the selection of the rubber compound is determinedby the application and worksite conditions.Softer compounds are usually used where vehiclesneed to move faster for longer periods of time on wellmaintainedroads. Harder compounds are used inextreme conditions where cuts, abrasions and tears aremore of a concern. Michelin, for example, uses up tosix different rubber compounds to develop tires thatmeet specific needs.Many developments have been made to accommodatethe different conditions contractors put their equipmentthrough as they travel from jobsite to jobsite. In the1940s, almost all construction, mining and quarryequipment ran on bias ply tires. A bias ply tire is made oftextile plies, usually nylon or rayon, crisscrossed on topof one another and bonded together by a rubber compound.This design is prone to damage from poor heatconduction and punctures. In addition, sidewall distortioncan lead to uneven wear and reduced adhesionbetween plies.In 1959, Michelin brought radial tire technology tothe heavy equipment market. The biggest differencebetween a radial and a bias ply tire is that the sidewallof a radial is separate from the crown, allowing eachcomponent to work independently, and thereby to36 Utility Contractor | August 2007

enhance performance. In the radialtire, metallic casing plies hold thesidewall and the crown together andreinforce the strength of the tire.In addition, the metal allows forgreater heat dispersion and impactresistance. Since the sidewalls couldflex independently of the crown, thetire offered exceptional operator comfortwithout compromising stability.To further improve upon the radialdesign, modern Michelin radialsincorporate a special butyl rubberlayer that eliminates the need for atube in the tire. Tubeless earthmovingtires provide several advantages byeliminating the risk of puncturing theinner tube and of trapped air betweenthe tire and inner tube. In addition,when a puncture does occur, there isless likelihood of a sudden deflation.With a tubeless tire, air loss is slower,allowing an operator more time toreach the repair workshop.The true cost of a tire should not bemeasured by the sticker price. A radialtire that costs twice as much as abias-ply tire, but lasts four timeslonger provides more value when all factors are considered.By selecting higher quality tires, end users canhelp minimize life cycle costs associated with unnecessaryflat repairs, unplanned downtime, lost productivity,cut tires and rapid tread wear. Tires are an investment,especially in very rough environments, where usersoften have to scrap tires prior to complete wear life. Inthose instances, heavier duty tires should be considered.The investment pays off in the long run.Tires are an investment, especially in very rough environments, whereusers often have to scrap tires prior to complete wear life.Maintenance PlansOnce you select the best tires for your application, allyou need to do to ensure that your tires operate at peaklevels throughout any season is follow a few importantmaintenance tips. Routine maintenance not only reducesdowntime, but it also eliminates preventable majorrepairs, improves operating efficiency and promoteshigher levels of productivity.Tires can also have a significant impact on the equipmentoperator, as a comfortable ride allows operators towork with more efficiency and confidence for longerperiods of time, by reducing fatigue. Tires that aredesigned for a specific machine in given work conditions— and are properly inflated and maintained — canmake a big difference.As with any tire size or application, pay close attentionto the manufacturer's recommended air pressuresand follow a tire maintenance schedule. Check thevehicle's owner's manual to determine precise pressure.It should provide initial data on the weight of the vehicleand standard load. Your tire distributor can helppinpoint the exact air pressure recommendations foryour tires based on the manufacturer's requirementsand the application in which the vehicle is being used.Air pressure should be checked daily on vehicles inconstant use, because air pressure is critical to a tire'sperformance. It should be checked weekly on vehicleswith less demanding schedules.Visual inspections of your vehicle's tires should beconducted prior to operation. There are two areas tolook at when evaluating tire wear: the tread and thesidewall. Look for signs of cutting, chunking, puncturesand rubber tearing. This will help you to determineif the tire is properly inflated and/or matched tothe application. Also, measure the tread depth on aweekly or monthly basis by using a ruler or tread depthgauge to determine the average wear rate. Compare thiswear rate to other tires and machines.In addition, look for signs of irregular wear in the treador shoulder of the tire and examine the tire for bubbles orbumps caused by air infiltration or foreign objects.If you notice either of these symptoms, have the tirerepaired promptly because both can lead to tire failureand potential danger. If you notice deep cracks, cuts orother major problems during the inspection, don't operatethe vehicle.Always have a trained service person diagnose theseverity of the problem and make the proper repairs.Never allow an unskilled person to attempt repairsbecause incorrectly mended tires can lead to performanceAugust 2007 | Utility Contractor 37

problems in the future or even result in personal injury ifthe tire fails.Avoiding a few common mistakes is another way tomake the most out of your tires. For example, avoid mixingtires on your vehicle. Pairing a normal tread depthwith a deep tread depth or a bias-ply tire with a radial cancause damage to a vehicle's internal components.That's because the tires will not work together to providethe same traction and handling performance.Other things to avoid are operating vehicles that haveflat tires, damaged or distorted rims or wheels, missingbolts, or cracked studs. Any of these symptoms could bedangerous. Never weld or apply heat to parts of the wheelnear the tire. Heat causes serious damage to tires and cancause them to explode. Tires should always be removedbefore these types of procedures are conducted.Store tires properly when they are not in use. Place themin a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to avoidpremature aging. Also, prevent exposure to ozone sourcessuch as sun, arc-welders and mercury vapor light bulbs, aswell as ultra-violet rays and inclement weather. Store tiresstanding upright on the tread and avoid stacking — whichcan weaken the tires on the bottom of the stack.What else can an operator do to ensure he is gettingthe most out of his tires? Just pay attention. The wayyour equipment is running can tell you a lot aboutyour tires. If the tires are over-inflated, they will tendto wear irregularly in the middle of the tread and willbe much more susceptible to cuts, abrasions, tears orpunctures. If the tires are under-inflated, irregularThe way your equipment is running can tell you a lot about your tires. If they areover-inflated, they will tend to wear irregularly in the middle of the tread. Thismakes them much more susceptible to cuts, abrasions, tears or punctures.38 Utility Contractor | August 2007Checklist forMaximizing Tire LifeSelect the best tire for the application.Run the manufacturer’s recommended airpressures.Check tire pressures at the start of a work shiftto ensure the pressure readings are correct.Make sure that valve caps are on.Check that tire rims are in proper workingcondition.Ensure that the worksite is free of hazards.Follow a recommended tire maintenanceschedule.Make sure machine operators are properlytrained.shoulder wear and abnormal amounts of sidewallflexing may occur.Small construction tires can be relatively simple tomaintain, if the operator follows the basic rules: Check tirepressures at the beginning of each work shift and ensurethat tires are properly inflated before operating theequipment. Regular pressure checks can warn of situationsthat (if not detected) could lead to bigger maintenanceproblems. Always have valve caps in place and ensure thattire rims are in proper working condition.Large equipment is equally as importantto maintain. When a haul truck orgrader stops moving, a company stopsmaking money. Site profitability is directlyrelated to equipment mobility, fromresidential construction in theSoutheastern U.S. to large-scale surfacemining in Northern Canada. And becausetires play a significant role in equipmentmobility, it's vital that they be properlymaintained on equipment, large or small.There are still — and will probablyalways be — those who don’t take tiremaintenance and selection seriously.But the reality is that not only will thosepeople have to pay to repair or replacetheir tires, but they will also lose theproductivity of that machine. And thatultimately costs your company money.If proper tire maintenance is not a priority,a contractor or operator is virtuallyguaranteeing he will reduce the tire’stread life, increase the likelihood of tirerelatedfailures (punctures, flats, etc.),reduce the machine’s productivity andunnecessarily cost the company money.Todd Ramsey is director of replacementmarket sales for Michelin Earthmover Tires.

It is our responsibility to prepare the workers of today and tomorrow.NUCA provides leadership training, operator training, specialized seminars,and even scholarships aimed specifically for our field of work.There is nowhere else that you can receive the specialized educationand training that NUCA provides.- James King, President of NUCANUCA is the largest trade associationworking solely for the undergroundutility construction industry.To learn more about NUCA and the benefits of membership,call 800.662.6822 or visit www.nuca.com

INSIDE WASHINGTONOSHA “Reform” in the 110th CongressBy Eben WymanNo matter which party is in control of Congress,proposals to “reform” the policies and regulatoryinitiatives of the Occupational Safety andHealth Administration (OSHA) are always onthe table. However, OSHA reform means very differentthings depending on whom you talk to. The Democratictakeover of the 110th Congress did not take the issue outof play, but it did turn the tables on the business community,which quickly switched from offense to defense.Conflicting Philosophies andApproachesDuring the 12 years that the GOP had control ofCongress, Republicans offered several OSHA reform billsthat NUCA supported. The overall goal of the Republicanbills was to make it easier for employers to challengeOSHA violations. Specifically, the GOP “OSHA Fairness”package would have:• Provided the Occupational Safety and Health ReviewCommission (OSHRC) flexibility to make exceptions toarbitrary deadlines to file challenges to OSHA citations• Increased the membership of OSHRC from three tofive members to ensure cases are reviewed in a timelyfashion• Restored independent review of OSHA citations byclarifying that OSHRC is an independent judicial entitygiven deference by courts that review OSHA issues• Leveled the playing field for small businesses by providingthem better recourse to recover attorneys’ fees ifthe employer successfully challenges an OSHA citationThese Republican bills easily passed the House severaltimes. Unfortunately, the Senate was unable to musterany substantive momentum to move the legislation to theSenate floor, and Republicans were far short of the 60votes necessary to pass the bill. After the November 2006elections, it was clear that although some legislativeopportunities would present themselves, NUCA and fellowcolleagues in the business community would alsohave to prepare to play some serious defense. OSHAreform is no exception. Although the goal of “reform” isstill a priority, the meaning of and approach to reformunder a Democratic majority is vastly different.Earlier this year, Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) andRep. Lynn Woolsey (D-Calif.) introduced the ProtectingAmerica’s Workers Act (S 1244/HR 2049) in the Senateand House, respectively. The legislation would increasepenalties considerably and establish a $50,000 minimumfine if a worker’s death was found to be caused by a “willful”violation. The bill would also raise the criminalpenalty from a misdemeanor to a felony for a willfulviolation that results in a death or “serious bodily injury.”Additionally, the legislation would expand OSHA jurisdictionto cover all federal, state and local public employees,enhance “whistleblower” protection requirementsand public right-to-know provisions, require employersto provide personal protective equipment (PPE) andrestrict an employer’s ability to dismiss an employee forrefusing to perform duties he/she considers dangerous.“Since the passage of the Occupational Safety and HealthAct in 1970, thousands of lives have been saved,” saidWoolsey, author of the House bill and chair of theSubcommittee on Workforce Protections. “But too manypeople still die at work and millions more become injuredor sick. With this bill, we can make OSHA mean somethingagain and can further the most important goal — to ensurea safe and healthy workplace for all workers.”Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Woolsey’s counterpart onthe Senate Subcommittee on Employment and WorkplaceSafety, agreed. “Health care, construction and low-wageworkers come to my office and tell me that they don’thave the protections they deserve,” Murray said at aSenate hearing that put OSHA operations under themicroscope. “It is abundantly clear that much more workneeds to be done to reform OSHA so we can begin tomake OSHA work for working Americans.”42 Utility Contractor | August 2007

INSIDE WASHINGTONCooperation vs. AntagonismNUCA has long maintained a “safety first” philosophy,which is backed up by the best safety awareness andtraining programs in the industry. While any and allefforts to enhance workplace safety should be consideredadmirable, we maintain that OSHA operations under theBush administration have proven to be considerably moreeffective than the over-burdensome “regulate, cite andfine” approach to safety enforcement that existed duringthe Clinton administration.Indeed, since taking office, the Bush administration hastaken a much more cooperative approach through theestablishment of several strategic relationships andalliances with industry organizations (including NUCA)that represent various facets of the regulated community.Further, through the use of voluntary consensus standards,OSHA has encouraged industry input indeveloping new regulations rather than promulgatingblanket, “one-size-fits-all” safety rules. Recent federaldata indicates that these policies have worked; the currentrate of workplace fatalities in America is the lowestin OSHA history.NUCA believes that working cooperatively with thefederal government is a much more effective way toenhance workplace safety. The Democratic approach asproposed in S 1244/HR 2049 would place OSHAin a much more adversarial role and damage orpotentially destroy the collaborative relationships thathave been fostered over the past six years. OSHA’sprimary role should be to work together with industryto prevent workplace accidents, not to focus efforts onreacting to them.But all is not lost. The business community and itsfriends in Congress will benefit from the same proceduralhurdle that served as an Achilles’ heel to OSHA reformlegislation when Republicans held the gavel — namely,the need for 60 votes to close debate and bring the bill fora final vote. The House would probably pass the Woolseybill (HR 2049), and it might get a slim majority of theSenate. But it will not get 60 votes, and the BushAdministration would surely veto the bill if it did.OSHA reform bills are nothing new, but the goals andstrategies of “reform” are so far apart that it is almost certainthat neither side will get their legislation signed intolaw anytime soon. That said, NUCA will continue tomonitor and act on legislation to ensure that any newsafety requirements do not unfairly burden the utilityconstruction industry.Eben Wyman is NUCA Vice President of Government Relations.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 43National Utility Contractors Association

SAFETY MANAGEMENTManaging Electrical PowerLine HazardsBy George KennedyMany construction operations require workersto perform their jobs in proximity tooverhead and underground power lines.It is therefore imperative that constructionworkers, equipment operators, truck drivers and othersbe trained to recognize the dangers of letting their bodies,equipment, tools or vehicles make contact with, orcome too close to, power lines.Unfortunately, the reality is that while electrical utilityworkers are routinely trained to recognize and manageelectrical hazards, most construction workers arenot. That lack of knowledge of the potential electricalhazards present in their work environment makes themmore vulnerable to electrocution, electric shock, burnsand falls caused by contact with electrical energy.For example, many construction workers do not knowthat the coating on overhead power lines is only there toprotect the conductor from the weather; it is not electricalinsulation. Nor do they know that most constructionelectrocutions are due to equipment making contact witha power line, which in turn electrocutes workers workingin contact with the equipment or materials being handled.Even a brief contact with low-voltage lines can killa worker or result in serious, disfiguring and/or debilitatinginjuries.The data clearly show that a high number of constructionworkers have been killed or seriously injureddue to contact with power lines. For example, in 2005,the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that 107construction workers were fatally injured by contactwith electricity. Of the 107 workers killed, 49 diedbecause of contact with overhead power lines. An additional627 were seriously injured when they contactedpower lines — 313 through contact with overhead lines,314 with underground lines. According to the NationalInstitute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH),electrocutions from contact with overhead power linesresult on average in 128 work-related fatalities per year.Managing the HazardAll power lines present a potential hazard. The firststep in controlling electrical hazards is to assume that allpower lines are energized and avoid making contact —unless the electric utility company has verified that thelines have been de-energized and grounded.Notify the power company before starting the work andgive them an opportunity to reduce the hazards and makethe power line electrically safe. Although it is often difficultand may be impossible for the power company to deenergizethe lines, there are other things it might be ableto do to reduce the exposure, such as place protectivecovers over the lines or temporarily relocate lines.However, employees should be made aware of the factthat insulating sleeves alone might not allow equipmentand workers to work safely close to lines.“While electrical utilityworkers are trained torecognize and manageelectrical hazards, mostconstruction workers arenot. That lack of knowledgemakes them vulnerableto electrocution, electricshock, burns and falls. ”44 Utility Contractor | August 2007

SAFETY MANAGEMENTThis NIOSH photo captures the aftermath of a fatalaccident in which a crane boom made contact withan overhead power line.OSHA currently requires a minimum safe distance of10 ft for voltage up to 50kV and an additional 0.4 in. foreach additional 1kv. Local conditions may requiregreater distances, so it is a good idea to check with thepower company for their recommendations.Additionally, a trained, qualified worker should beassigned to observe the clearance of equipment operatingnear overhead power lines when it is difficult for theoperator to judge and maintain the required distance.Contact the power company for assistance; it mightbe willing to install non-conductive flags or warningtape to assist the operator in judging the distance.Electronic warning devices that can be installed oncranes or other equipment are also available and canbe used to alert the operator if the boom is coming tooclose to an energized line.Before excavating around underground power lines,contact the Dig Safe One-Call System (call 811anywhere in America) at least 48 hours (some stateshave different requirements) before you dig. It willarrange to send out a locator from the power companyto mark the lines.Once the lines have been marked, excavators arerequired to hand dig or vacuum excavate (notpermitted in some states) when working within the tolerancezone established by state laws. Most states requireexcavators to maintain an 18-in. tolerance zone aroundthe line and other states require that a greater distance bemaintained. Check local requirements and make surethat workers know what they are.If Contact Is MadePower line contacts will sometimes cause the lines totemporarily de-energize, but they will also reset automatically,often more than one time. Therefore, ifequipment makes contact with a power line, everyoneshould move away without touching the equipment,attachments or rigging. If a power line is down, everyoneshould be kept away. Only qualified personnel fromthe power company should touch or attempt to move afallen power line. (Note: Damaged underground powerlines present similar electrocution hazards.)The equipment operator should attempt to breakcontact with the power line without breaking the line.If that is not possible, the operator should remain in theequipment until the line is de-energized by the powercompany — unless there is a fire or the equipment is indanger of being struck by the power line. If the operatormust exit the equipment, he/she should jump offthe equipment, landing with both feet together.No part of the individual’s body should touch the rigand the ground at the same time, or the individualcould become a path to ground and be electrocuted.After getting off the equipment, the operator shouldhop or shuffle away from the equipment with feettogether to avoid becoming a conductor between twoareas of energized ground. The operator should notreturn to the equipment until the power company saysit is safe to do so.ConclusionBecause electricity is such a familiar part of our surroundings,it often is not treated with the respect itdeserves. Overhead and buried power lines on the jobsiteare especially hazardous because they carryextremely high voltage.Fatal electrocution is the main risk, but burns andfalls from elevations are also hazards. Using tools andequipment that can contact power lines increases therisk. All this and more must be conveyed to workers,equipment operators, truck drivers and others who performtheir jobs in proximity to underground and overheadpower lines.To assist employers in meeting the requirementsand establishing relevant safety policies and procedures,OSHA offers an online Construction eTool onelectrical safety at www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/construction/electrical_incidents/mainpage.html,andNIOSH a Safety and Health Topic page atwww.cdc.gov/niosh/injury/traumaelec.html.In addition, a DVD titled “Contractor Safety –Preventing Electrical Injuries” is available through theBurn Foundation (215) 988-9882. NUCA membersmay also access a toolbox talk titled Overhead PowerLines in the members-only section of the NUCA Website at www.nuca.com.George Kennedy is NUCA Vice President of Safety.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 45National Utility Contractors Association

NUCA NEWSNUCA Utility ConstructionEXPO ’08 Goes HawaiianIndustry leaders arecurrently registeringfor the NationalUtility ContractorsAssociation’s UtilityConstruction EXPO’08, which will beheld at the GrandHyatt Kauai Resort &Spa on the island ofKauai, Hawaii, Jan.15-19, 2008. Hawaiihas always been apopular destinationfor EXPO attendeeslooking to escape thewinter grind on the mainland forthe sun and sand of the islands,and EXPO ’08 promises to be noexception.The other draw of the 2008event is the “ExecutiveExperience” format, which isdesigned to facilitate the creationof real partnerships between utilitycontractors and the industry’smanufacturers and suppliers.EXPO ‘08 education sessions,which they will attend together,have been condensed to maximizethe time spent outdoors anddesigned to address the needs ofboth groups. As always, the lineupof speakers is impressive — Flagsof Our Fathers author JamesBradley, political pundit NormanOrnstein, television host LarryWinget and more.Opportunities for networkingabound — “Aloha NUCA”Welcome Reception, “Trade WindsRoute” Auction, “NUCA “Build-Your-Own-Race Car 500” and thePresidents’ Luau. For the athleticallycompetitive, there will be bothgolf and tennis tournaments, andfor the romantically inclined, anoptional sunset cruise along thefamous Na Pali Coast.Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is the site of an optional sunsetcruise. Photo courtesy of RE/MAX Kauai.com.The host hotel for this “businessin paradise” event is the luxuriousGrand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa,which is known for its spaciousguest rooms, each with privatelanai and magnificent view.Attendees can indulge in a revivingtreatment at ANARA Spa or simplytake in the refreshing oceanbreezes at the resort’s beautifulwhite-sand beach. Championshipgolf, tennis, fine dining and moreonly add to the appeal of thisGarden Isle retreat. Reservationsmust be made prior to Dec. 14).For the details, visit the NUCAWeb site at www.nuca.com. To findout what sponsorship opportunitiesare still available, call LindaHoltz at (703) 358-9300. Portabledisplay opportunities for bothmembers and non-members aregoing fast, so interested vendorsshould contact Cheryl Stratos orVictoria Geis at (703) 212-7745 assoon as possible.CAT Rental Stores toOffer NUCA ExcavationSafety & CPT ProgramCaterpillar Inc. has announced itsendorsement of the NUCAExcavation Safety and CompetentPerson Training (CPT) program,which will be offered through NorthAmerican Cat Rental Stores to customersas part of their existing arrayof value-added services that enhancethe equipment rental experience.“Caterpillar and The Cat RentalStores understand the inherent dangersthat arise from not adhering totrenching safety standards and theimproper use of or lack of protectivesystems,” said Chris Gustafson,Caterpillar’s North American RentalDivision Manager. “Cat RentalStores offer a full range of trenchshoring equipment to meet jobsiteneeds. It is only logical that we alsooffer the training to ensure that ourcustomers have the ability to usethat equipment in a safe manner.”“NUCA’s Excavation Safety andCompetent Person Training programis one of the most highlyregarded trench safety training programsin the country,” said GeorgeKennedy, NUCA Vice President ofSafety. “It was specifically designedto inform construction managersand workers about excavation safetyand the applicable laws, regulationsand best practices. Workingtogether with Cat Rental Stores, wecan help ensure that people returnhome safely to their families at theend of every day.”46 Utility Contractor | August 2007

NUCA NEWSNUCA Launches New HDD Safety Training ProgramNUCA has announced the releaseof a new Horizontal DirectionalDrilling (HDD) Safety TrainingProgram. Developed by NUCA’sTrenchless Technology Committeefrom one originally developed byNUCA member Steve Theis (vicepresident of safety for the MYRGroup Inc.), the program will alleviatethe current scarcity of safetytraining materials specifically relatedto trenchless methods.Available as a PowerPoint presentation,the training program will helpconstruction managers, foremen,competent persons and workersidentify common hazards unique toHDD and provide information abouthow to eliminate or control them. It isdesigned to be presented by aninstructor (in-house or consultant)who will use the included notes todiscuss the issues in detail. (It is notrecommended for use as a self-taught,e-learning training experience.)For detailed information on programcontent, contact NUCA VicePresident of Safety George Kennedyby phone at (518) 885-2560 or viae-mail at gkennedy@nycap.rr.com.To obtain a copy of the HDD SafetyTraining Program, visit the NUCAWeb site at www.nuca.com and clickon NUCA Store.GUCA to Host PopularCrew Leaders CourseThe NUCA Institute for LeadershipDevelopment’s Leadership Skills forCrew Leaders program will be held atthe offices of the Georgia UtilityContractors Association (GUCA) inForest Park, Ga., Sept.13-14. This isthe chapter’s second hosting of theNUCA Crew Leader class. Accordingto GUCA Executive Director VikkiMcReynolds, who has receivednumerous requests from members,“It’s back by popular demand.”Taught by experienced constructionprofessionals who have workedin the field and understand the challengesof being a crew leader, thetwo-day program covers people management,safety management andproject control. The registration formand the program outline are availableon the NUCA Web site atwww.nuca.com. The registration fee is$525 for NUCA members and $735for non-members, with a 10 percentdiscount for three-plus registrantsfrom same company. For more informationabout GUCA, visit the Website at www.guca.com.UCANF Builds Playground forLocal CharityMembers of the Utility Contractors Association of NorthFlorida Inc. met on May 19 at Seamark Ranch to build aplayground for the abused and abandoned children that willsoon call the 468-acre ranch home. The playground equipmentwas donated by Terry Rogers of Southern Recreation,Inc. The installation was completed by Rogers’ staff andsome 30 UCANF members and their families.UCANF adopted Seamark Ranch — which is supportedsolely by private donations of capital and in-kind services —as their official charity in 2003. Since then, members of theNUCA chapter have donated services and materials of allkinds. NUCA awarded the chapter the 2006 William H. Clausen Community Service Award for helping develop andbuild Seamark Ranch. For more information about UCANF, visit the Web site at www.ucanf.com.August 2007 | Utility Contractor 47National Utility Contractors Association

NUCA NEWSUCANF Celebrates Education NightOn May 22, the Utility Contractors Association ofNorth Florida Inc. held an Education Night celebration atA.J. Johns Inc. to recognize the 25 students and fiveinstructors who had recently completed the chapter’sBasic Underground Construction Training Series. Thetwo-month course of study included modules on dewatering,earthworks, roads and highways, heavy equipment and pipe installation. The instructors who sharedtheir expertise and experience were: Ashton Milam,Thompson Pump & Manufacturing Inc.; Lon Barfield,Ring Power Corp.; Paul Christos, Jensen CivilConstruction; Mike Gruber, Ellis & Associates; and MikePatton, England, Thims & Miller. For more informationabout UCANF, visit the Web site at www.ucanf.com.NCUCA President Ken Malonson(left) presents Patterson & WilderConstruction Co. President GrayLewis with the 2007 NCUCA SafetyAward for companies with morethan 100,000 man hours worked.48 Utility Contractor | August 2007NCUCA PresentsAnnual Safety AwardsDuring the North CarolinaUtility Contractors Association’sSpring Conference — held April26-29, at the Marriott GrandDunes in Myrtle Beach, SouthCarolina — the chapter recognizedthose among its members who hadsubmitted to a rigorous review oftheir safety and risk managementprograms and demonstrated outstandingdedication and performancein the area of safety.Gray Lewis, co-chair of the Safety& Risk Management Committee,accepted the award in the “greaterthan 100,000 man hours” categoryon behalf of the company of whichhe is president, Wilmington-basedPatterson & Wilder ConstructionCo. The award in the “less than100,000 man hours” category wentto Trans-State Construction Co. ofDenver, N.C. Honorable Mentionsin the 2007 Safety Awards Programwere presented to DistributionConstruction Co. (Greensboro) andRonny Turner Construction Co.,Inc. (Hickory). For more informationabout NCUCA, visit the Website at www.ncuca.org.AENC Honors NCUCAED Jim LowryThe AssociationExecutives ofNorth Carolina(AENC) recentlyhonored JimLowry, ExecutiveDirector for theNorth CarolinaUtility ContractorsLowryAssociation (NCUCA), as the 2007Outstanding CEO of the Year onJune 11 at its Annual Meeting inWinston-Salem, N.C.Lowry, who first joined AENCin 1979, has served as memberand Chairman of the AENCCommunications Committee,capturing a PICA Award for theAssociation’s MembershipDirectory and establishing theAssociation’s website, www.aencnet.org.Lowry has also served asa member of the LegislativeReception Committee, whichassists with the staging of fiveOpening Night Receptions formembers of the GeneralAssembly, members of Councilof State and justices. Lowry currentlyserves as co-chair of theAENC Annual Trade Show, theAssociation’s number one nonduesrevenue activity and premiernetworking and showcasefor the industry’s providers ofgoods, services and meetingvenues.In accepting the award, Lowrymentioned AENC’s firstExecutive Director, Eleanor

NUCA NEWSUpton, who invited him to joinwhat was then known as theCarolinas Society of AssociationExecutives (CSAE) and FredAllen, former AENC Presidentand North Carolina AggregatesAssociation Executive Director.Lowry acknowledged that it wasthese two who had taken himunder their wing and helpedhim to learn the profession ofAssociation Management.Lowry noted that awards suchas these honor everyone in theorganization, because withoutthe camaraderie, professionalsupport, business relations builtand friendships forged, such anhonor would not be possible.For more information aboutNCUCA, visit the Web site atwww.ncuca.org.• The most essential information on microtunneling• 85 figures and pictures, plus 26 charts withunique, color graphicsFree Shipping for NASTT Members!*Shipping & handling not includedGUCA HOLDS 2007ANNUAL CONFERENCEON AMELIA ISLANDMore than 325 GUCA members,family members, and guests gatheredat the Ritz-Carlton in AmeliaIsland, Fla., for the 2007 GUCAAnnual Conference that was heldJune 14-17. Highlights of theevent included: the election of the2007-2008 GUCA Officers andDirectors, presentation of 2006-2007 awards, an update on the2007 Legislative Session, a “Backto the Future” Auction, educationalsessions, networking events anda keynote presentation titled“Leadership Traits for Success” byDick Burleson, engineer (DMJMHarris Engineering Firm), decoratedArmy Reserve officer andformer SEC football official.Dick Burleson — engineer (DMJMHarris Engineering Firm), decoratedArmy Reserve officer and formerSEC football official — spoke toattendees about “Leadership Traitsfor Success.”NUCA President James Kingand Member & Chapter RelationsVice President Heather Caldwellupdated attendees on issues atthe national level. For moreinformation about GUCA, pleasevisit www.guca.com.• Reviewed by Prof. Ray Sterling, Director of theTrenchless Technology Center at Louisiana Tech University• “A rare jewel!” According to German Prof. Dr. J. Wagner• Totally new calculation approach for jacking pipe• Extensive discussion of geotechnical considerations• Comprehensive review of pipe materials• Fantastic guide for the design of trenchless technology installationsAuthor: Professor, Dr. Dietrich Stein; Stein and Partner GmbH Price: $160*• Presents main lines and laterals• Covers pilot tube and conventionalmicrotunnelingAuthor: Professor, Dr. Dietrich Stein; Stein and Partner GmbH Price: $50*August 2007 | Utility Contractor 49National Utility Contractors Association

NUCA NEWSSWFUCA Honors PastPresidentsOn June 21, The SouthwestFlorida Utility ContractorsAssociation held a Past PresidentReunion and also presented fiveMemorial Scholarship Awards.Among the more than 85 attendeeswere 14 out of the 16 past SWFU-CA presidents dating back to 1990.Also present, as guest speakers,were NUCA President James Kingand NUCA Vice President ofGovernment Relations EbenWyman. The association alsoawarded Memorial Scholarships toKayla Richmond (overall winner),Victoria Neubert (1st place runnerup),Kristin Mason (2nd place runner-up),Katelyn Scafidi (honorablemention) and Ryan Pope(honorable mention).The following sponsors contributedto the Reunion: AceAsphalt, Bonita Grande Aggregates,Coastal Precast, HD Waterworks,Fourteen out of the 16 past SWFUCApresidents attended the reunion.Kelly Tractor Co., Mainline Supplyof FL, MWI Pump Rentals, NortraxEquipment, Premier Insurance,Rinker Materials/Concrete PipeDiv., South Florida Lift Stationsand Thompson Pump Co. Formore information on SWFUCA,call (941) 728-3443.UCA of WashingtonHolds “Last DitchOpen” Golf EventThanks to sponsors and invitedguests, UCA of Washington’s 19th“Last Ditch Open” GolfTournament at the WashingtonNational Golf Course on June 29raised essential funds for theUCAW Scholarship Program andother special programs directlybenefiting its members, the communityand the industry.The Platinum Sponsor of thisyear’s golf event was UnitedRentals Trench Safety, which alsoprovided a $10,000 Hole-in-OneSponsorship, a golf glove to everyplayer and several items for theawards ceremony. Other sponsorsincluded: SCI Infrastructure andHD Fowler Company (GoldSponsorship cosponsors) andHanson Pipe & Products (SilverSponsorship). Individual BronzeSponsorships were given byUULC, Ferguson Waterworks,Parker/Smith/Feek, and ActiveConstruction. For more informationon UCAW, visit the Web siteat www.ucaw.org.NEW MEMBERSCONTRACTORSAlfred Riedel Construction Inc.Patty Rangel5350 North IH 35New Braunfels, TX 78130-2629Work: (830) 625-8256Fax: (830) 620-4328arconst5350@sbcglobal.netBrontexi Corp. Inc.Bennett Feinsilber2250 Estate Gate DrSan Antonio, TX 78260-2214Work: (830) 438-2783Fax: (830) 438-2781Carson & Roberts Site Construction& Engineering Inc.Dan Carson171 State Route 94 NorthLafayette, NJ 07848-4614Work: (973) 579-4100Fax: (973) 579-4105Directional Road Boring Inc.Tommy Emmons4415 Shores Dr., Ste. 209Metairie, LA 70006Work: (504) 780-7883Fax: (504) 780-7884doleary@drbi.netwww.drbi.netPortland Road and Driveway Co. Inc.Michael Bright10500 SE Jennifer St.Clackamas, OR 97015Work: (503) 650-5006Fax: (503) 650-8022tbright@portlandroadinc.comwww.portlandroadinc.comTwin Peaks Utilities & Infrastructure Inc.Frankie Gindler1500 Overlook Dr.Lafayette, CO80026Work: (303) 665-8585Fax: (303) 665-8979frankie@tpuic.comWestern Utility & Excavation Inc.Neil Miutke25720 S. Beavercreek Rd.Beaver Creek,OR 97004Work: (503) 632-0777Fax: (503) 632-0888westernutility1@aol.comDennis Craig Construction Inc.Jason CraigP.O. Box 595Redmond, WA 98073Work: (425) 882-2922Fax: (425) 881-0380jason@drcconst.comwww.natlww.comJ.D. Allen Enterprises Inc.Josh AllenP.O. Box 694Hiram, GA 30141Work: (678) 567-0637Fax: (770) 222-2915S.M. Tatham Inc.Sean TathamP.O. Box 921Plymouth, NH03264Work: (603) 726-4785Fax: (603) 726-4785smtatham@adelphia.netASSOCIATESHD Supply WaterworksBob Johnston1680 Expo LaneIndianapolis, IN 46214Work: (317) 271-1463Fax: (317) 271-2026bob.johnston@natlww.comvisitnuca.comfor more info50 Utility Contractor | August 2007

EQUIPMENT SPOTLIGHTDitch Witch Introduces JT3020 HDD RigDitch Witch recently introduceda new HDD rig that builds on thesuccess of its popular JT2720 Mach1 unit. The new JT3020 Mach 1 isan extended-range, self-containedmachine with 30,000 lbs of pullbackand the capacity to bore pilotholes up to 4.5 in. and backreamdiameters up to 12 in.“The JT3020 Mach 1 is everythingour customers love about theJT2720 plus greater power, lessnoise, a better operator’s station,and an incredibly efficient mudpump,” says CMW’s RichardLevings, senior product manager ofHDD equipment. “The engine has anew cooling design that allowsextraordinary horsepower (148 hp)in a small, quiet package. Undernormal operating conditions, the engine is quieterthan some of our much-smaller HDD units. But theengine automatically turns up the horsepower whenthe drilling conditions become more challenging.”The JT3020 actually combines the best qualities ofseveral Ditch Witch models, not just the JT2720.For example, it has the same kind of wrenches,pipeloader and stabilizers as the JT1220 and JT2020Mach 1. Another feature is the machine’s fluid pump,which delivers 42-viscosity drilling fluid at 50 gal perminute, helping the JT3020 drill with outstandingefficiency. Machine operators will be a lot more efficient,too, thanks in part to a work station redesignedwith a great deal of customer input.“All of the information an operator needs during abore, like pressure gauges and tracking information, isnow right in his line of sight as he looks at the tooljoint,” Levings says.The JT3020 also features a rack-and-pinion thrustdrive with a double rack that is welded rather thanbolted on, which prevents misalignment with the pinion.The double rack distributes the load equally, sothere is less wear on the machine.Online: www.ditchwitch.comDickies Flame Resistant Clothing from WorkriteWorkrite Uniform, a leading manufacturer andprovider of flame-resistant apparel, announces thelaunch of its Dickies FR clothing line, a selection ofpopular Dickiespant, shirt andjacket styles madefrom flameresistantfabrics.These productsmark the firstcollaboration ofWorkrite Uniformand Dickies, bothpart of theWilliamson-DickieMfg. Co., the world’s leading workwear manufacturer.Workrite Uniform will manufacture the new line. Theline consists of five-pocket jeans, carpenter jeans, workshirts and hooded duck jacketsIdentical in pattern and fit to longtime Dickiesfavorites, the line features Indura and Indura Ultra Softfabrics, comfortable cotton blend and 100-percentcotton denim flame-resistant fabrics made by Westex.The Dickies FR line will include traditional workwearfeatures such as the hammer loop and tool pocket on thecarpenter jean and a hard hat-sized hood on the duckjacket. Dickies FR is a streamlined set of core styleswithin the overall Workrite line.Online: www.workrite.comAugust 2007 | Utility Contractor 51

INDUSTRY CALENDARAugust 200717 — Golf Tournament,NUCA of Oregon & Southwest Washington,(503) 742-887721 — Sporting Clays,Central and Southwest Virginia UtilityContractors Association, (540) 857-952522 — NUCA at the Iowa Speedway,Newton, Iowa, NUCA of Iowa, (515) 278-870019 — CFUTCA Membership Social,Rusty’s Seafood and Oyster Bar, CapeCanaveral, Florida, Central Florida Utility &Transportation Contractors Association,(321) 632-740019-22 — 2007 NUCA Leadership Conference,Washington Duke Inn and Golf Course,Durham, North Carolina, North CarolinaUtility Contractors Association (host chapter),(919) 845-7733October 20073-5 — NUCA Fall Board Meeting,Westin Buckhead Atlanta, Atlanta, Ga.,National Utility Contractor’s Association,(703) 358-93009—Annual Auction/Barbecue,Longwood Community Center, Longwood,Florida, Mid Florida Utilities & TransportationContractors Association Inc., (407) 831-6010September 20078—NUCA of Arizona Fall Golf Tournament,NUCA of Arizona, (602) 953-766514 — Fall Golf Tournament,Mission Inn Golf & Tennis Resort, Howey-intheHills, Fla., Mid Florida Utilities &Transportation Contractors Association, Inc.,(407) 831-601013 — CFUTCA’s Sporting Clay Shoot –“Dove Classic,”Port Malabar Rifle & Pistol Club, Palm Bay,Fla., Central Florida Utility and TransportationContractors Association,(321) 632-740013-17 — WEFTEC 2007 AnnualConference & Expo,San Diego, WEF, (800) 666-020617 — Membership Meeting,Central Florida Utility and TransportationContractors Association, (321) 632-740018 — General Meeting,NUCA of Oregon & Southwest Washington,(503)742-887718-19 — Trenchless Roadshow,New Orleans, Benjamin Media Inc., (330)467-7588, www.trenchlessroadshow.com16-18 — International Construction &Utility Equipment Exposition (ICUEE)2007-The Demo Expo,Kentucky Exposition Center, Louisville, Ky.,ICUEE, (800) 867-606018 — General Membership Meeting,Utility Contractors Association of NorthFlorida, (904) 296-123052 Utility Contractor | August 2007

THE PIPELINEMichael Latas &Associates, Inc.Executive Search ConsultantsServing the construction industry nationallyThe leader in executive search serving the construction and A/E/P industries exclusively since1975. Your premier source for executive, managerial and professional-level needs. We aremembers of and support 16 national trade associations including NUCA. Strictly confidential.“Your 1 st Choice For Choice People”Tel: (800) 280-7811 • Fax: (314) 993-0632website: www.Latas.com • e-mail: latas@latas.comInterested in seeing YOURad in the next issue ofUtility Contractormagazine?Contact Ryan Sneltzer atBenjamin Media, Inc. for details(330) 467-7588 • rsneltzer@benjaminmedia.comAugust 2007 | Utility Contractor 53

ADVERTISERS’ INDEXAtlas Copco Constructionwww.cpsonstructiontoolsusa.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Calculated Industrieswww.calculated.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Caterpillarwww.CAT.COM/LEGACY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Cerda Industries, Inc.www.cerdaindustries.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27Cherne Industrieswww.cherneind.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25CNAwww.CNA.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31Ditch Witchwww.DitchWitch.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Efficiency Productionwww.usatrenchboxbuilder.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23Exaktime - The JobClock Systemwww.jobclocks.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Fastland Construction Softwarewww.fastlanesoftware.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53Griffin Dewateringwww.griffinpump.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Hammerheadwww.hammerheadmole.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53Harco Fittingswww.harcofittings.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53Hitachi Construction/John Deerewww.hitachiconstruction.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Interstate Truck Rentalwww.goitr.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53John Deerewww.JohnDeere.com/Blowhard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Kenco Corporationwww.kenco.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53Kiotiwww.KIOTI.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15McLaughlin Group, Inc.www.mightymole.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23Michael Latas & Associateswww.latas.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53Moffatt Enterprises541-548-1144 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43NUCA — Membershipwww.nuca.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39NUCA — Trainingwww.nuca.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29NUCA — EXPO '08www.nuca.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40, 41Reliner/Duranwww.reliner.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43Stein Books Adwww.trenchlessonline/bookstore.htm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49Taylor Made Plasticswww.thepipeplug.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53Topcon Positioning Systemswww.topconpositioning.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Trenchless Road Show330-467-7588 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55Vermeer Mfg.www.vermeer.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Wells Fargo800-236-7514 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5654 Utility Contractor | August 2007