Hire and Rental News - April/May 2015

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ACCESS IN ACTION • APRIL/MAY 2015 36
The Smart PAL Card contains a data chip
that can be read by card reader devices
fitted to machines. Card reader devices
can in turn be set up to accept certain
data which will allow the machine to be
operated. They can be programmed so a
machine will only start if the cardholder
(operator) is trained in the relevant
machine category.
Work safe and smart at height
IPAF’s Smart PAL Card (Powered Access Licence) is improving safety by controlling
access to MEWPs and thus eliminating unauthorised use.
The data stored on the card, such as the
operator name, number and categories
trained in, is also printed on it, which
means the Smart PAL Card can still
be used as a standard version. It is not
compulsory to fit card readers on machines
and the PAL Card is a recognised
qualification on many job sites. Smartcard
technology simply brings more options and
opens up possibilities.
The Smart PAL Card creates a unique
relationship between the operator
and the mobile elevating work
platforms (MEWPs). Depending on
the hardware and software system
being used together with the Smart
PAL Card, the information contained
on the system around this operator/
MEWP relationship can be used to
identify whether or not the operator
has previous training and experience
on a particular make, model or type
of machine and therefore whether
training and familiarisation is required
prior to use. Managers and supervisors can
ensure if the operator’s licence has expired
and not been renewed, the Smart PAL Card
will not unlock the MEWP.
The Smart PAL Card is increasingly
being used together with access control
telematics by companies such as AFI,
Genie, HSS and Nationwide to manage the
use of MEWPs.
Companies incur heavy costs due to
unauthorised use of equipment. A majority
of breakdowns occur when machines are
operated by inexperienced personnel.
Operators come with different skill levels;
some are qualified, but others are not.
Smartcard technology helps protect both
end-users and the platforms they are
operating. PAL Cards can help managers
keep their MEWP operations smart, and
help keep operators and equipment safe.
More details at
Sales specialist, Kurt took up the position
in early January and assumes the position
formerly held by Brian Clifford, who has
been promoted within Terex Utilities.
Brad Lawrence, General Manager, Terex
AWP Australia said: “Kurt has had some
16 years experience in the commercial,
industrial and construction sectors of the
AWP and rental equipment industry.
“In addition to his corporate experience,
Kurt also owned a rental equipment
company for five years, which means he
Terex AWP extends management team
Terex Aerial Work Platforms (AWP) has boosted its management team with the appointment
of Kurt Kinder as its new Regional Sales Manager for Queensland and PNG, while Malcolm
McIntosh has accepted a role as Quality, Training and Technical Support Manager.
well understands our customers’ needs
and how best to meet them.”
Malcolm McIntosh joined the Genie
team in February from Sargent Rental &
Maintenance where he was the firm’s
Chief of Maintenance, Operations in
Australia. In this role, Malcolm was
responsible for all service and quality
issues according to Mitch Ely, National
Operations Manager, Terex AWP.
“Malcolm will be rolling out the revised
plans for our technical department and will
manage our training, quality assurance and
technical support services,” Mitch said.
“He’ll be focused on overseeing the
Smart PAL Cards have the potential to make machine
access and use safer and more secure
Malcolm McIntosh
Kurt Kinder
Incident reporting at EWPA State
meetings continues to be a valuable
source of information for members.
The EWPA is constantly looking to
promote best standards and safe
ACCESS in ACTION
operation of EWPs. Learning from these
incidents and sharing the information
helps the industry remain informed and
highlights any areas that need to be
addressed.
Safety and Incident Reporting a new initiative
transparency of our business in Australia
and the Asia Pacific.” Malcolm is leading
a team of four technical experts based in
Perth and Brisbane. Visit: