09.09.2011

Blade goes interactive

UK-based Blade Access Specialists has launched a web based interactive truck mounted lift rental programme for both clients and its own site/job surveyors.

The programme holds an extensive database on individual truck mounted lifts from most manufacturers with complete specifications and performance information.

“We have run a pilot trial with a handful of selected clients for the past four weeks and it has proved to be very successful,” said Blade’s Mark Bell. “Over the coming months, we intend to drip feed the introduction of this feature to our existing clients so the integration of the SMS can be carefully implemented, managed and controlled.”

Once logged in, Blade’s job surveyors – now equipped with iPads - or clients - have the ability to record electronically all the site survey results via a Smartphone. They will also be able to cross reference detailed site measurements to the online database. All the information collected during the site survey is stored and linked directly to the company's hire system, allowing it to be recalled at any time in the future.

The system will also prompt the surveyor for any missing information ensuring every detail of the survey is recorded and nothing is missed.
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Blade has added QR codes on its truck platforms. Scan the QR Code above to see how it works. (You will need to download a free QR code reader app if it is not already installed on your smartphone).

The system also allows the uploading of site pictures to provide a visual image for use with job planning. This feature also allows site specific drawings and berthing plans to be produced at a later date. These drawings can then be incorporated in to site specific Method Statements and Risk Assessments if required.

The programme, developed by Blade’s open market sister company, bladedigital, also has a smart phone app for clients - giving them to access the truck mount platform database wherever they may be.

"We have found that although there will always be a need for a surveyor to attend more challenging sites where genuine expertise must play its part, many sites which we do attend can easily be surveyed by our clients when they are initially quoting their jobs. Not only does this reduce our operational carbon foot print but it also reduces our fixed costs which in-turn allows us to make our services more financially competitive without reducing company profits. Our professional operators can now be briefed prior to every hire in a more efficient and informative manor ensuring every detail of the original site survey is communicated to them before they leave the depot,” said Bell.

Another feature for smartphone users is the ability to scan a QR Code located on the side of every Blade Access truck mounted platform.

“We discovered that our operators were being continually asked by other contractors about the details of the platform. By scanning the QR Code on the platform all the details the client requires is at their fingertips, including working envelopes, stowed dimensions and all other critical information," adds Bell.