It’s getting closer to when the new ANSI A92 standards for MEWPs are scheduled to become effective, mandating changes in product design, use and operator training.
The 2024 LLEAP Awards shine a spotlight on the most exceptional and innovative products introduced in the industry over the past year. This year’s finalists have made significant strides in enhancing safety, incorporating digital technologies and improving operational efficiency, providing operators, renters, owners and project managers with valuable tools to boost productivity.
Celebrating advancements made between June 1, 2023 and May 31, 2024, the awards focus on new equipment, support products and services available in the North American market. Submissions were categorized into four segments: MEWPs, material handlers, features and components, and aftermarket support products and services. To be eligible, entries had to be brand new, newly introduced from other markets or substantially redesigned existing products.
A distinguished panel of judges — composed of industry experts with extensive experience in aerial platforms and lifting equipment — meticulously reviewed each submission based on product literature, visuals and technical details.
This year, 18 entries from 14 outstanding companies were honored, with Gold and Silver winners announced in each category. Detailed information in the following pages will explore the winning products, highlighting what made them stand out.
We sincerely thank all our judges for sharing their dedication and expertise with Lift & Access. With their help, these awards continue to promote innovation and excellence within our industry.
Congratulations to all the winners!
The LLEAP competition considered four categories of entries:
How entries were judged:
In evaluating each entry, the judges looked for:
Judges
Michael Crouch: President of RMC Consults LLC in Anthem, Arizona. His 46-year career in the equipment-rental industry consists of all aspects of the construction equipment rental industry in the US, Canada and Europe.
Crouch works as a consultant to the investment community on the equipment rental space, adviser to rental companies on financial performance and best practices, and broker for equipment businesses for sale. He has been on both the buyer’s and seller’s side of over 100 sales and acquisitions.
Tony Foster: Equipment Purchaser at Cianbro Equipment in Pittsfield, Maine. Tony Foster has been part of the construction industry for 15 years. He has served in various capacities ranging from field and project engineering to fleet rental management and equipment purchasing.
Foster currently assists Cianbro operations, estimating, manufacturing and external rental customers with the equipment needs. Cianbro Equipment operates in six locations in five states and has a diverse fleet of serval thousand pieces of construction and lifting equipment.
Tony Groat: North American Manager at International Powered Access Federation (IPAF). In this position since 2007, Groat has directed association activities to meet the mission of promoting the safe and effective use of powered access equipment. He is active in a number of organizations related to MEWP standards in North America.
Groat concluded a 31-year career in the equipment rental business in 2006 as the regional vice president for NES Rentals.
Bryan McClure: Owner at Trivent Safety Consulting. Bryan McClure has worked in the construction industry for more than 30 years. He was a second- generation ironworker and owes his livelihood to his father teaching him a strong work ethic and introducing him to the trades at a young age.
During his construction career, McClure has worn many hats including ironworker, foreman, crane operator, superintendent, craft instructor and training manager. Much of his experience was working for a large international steel erection company. It was this company that gave Bryan his first opportunity as an instructor in 2007.
In 2018, McClure started Trivent Safety Consulting with two partners. Trivent has offices in Orlando, Florida, Austin, Texas, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, with the headquarters in Westminster, Colorado. In 2022, Trivent opened its new training center in Wheatridge, Colorado, with an indoor structural steel training tower.
Mike Larson: Editor Emeritus at Crane Hot Line. Mike Larson retired in December of 2023 from Catalyst Communications Network after editing Crane Hot Line magazine for nearly seven years. He previously had edited Lift & Access for more than six years.
His career in writing about cranes, other heavy equipment, construction and engineering spans 45 years. It began with 24 years in marketing communications for a leading manufacturer of cranes, followed by 21 years of editing and writing for industry publications.
Before joining Heartland Communications (now Catalyst Communications Network) in 2011, he had edited Western Builder and Midwest Construction and had written for Engineering News-Record and Constructor magazines. He holds a degree in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
MEWPs
MEC DualReach 85-J Boom, GOLD AWARD
Launched in January 2024, the MEC DualReach 85-J boom mobile elevating lift has a unique ability to seamlessly switch between telescopic and articulated modes. With an impressive maximum working height of 91 feet and a remarkable reach of up to 70 feet in telescopic mode, the DualReach 85-J eliminates the need for multiple machines on jobsites, streamlining operations and boosting efficiency.
Designed with versatility in mind, this boom features a rotating jib with a 180-degree range of motion, allowing operators to navigate around obstacles and access challenging areas with ease. Its spacious platform comfortably accommodates two operators, promoting efficient collaboration while enhancing safety during operations. With a robust lifting capacity of 900 pounds, the 85-J is well-equipped to handle heavy equipment and materials.
Safety is a top priority and the DualReach 85-J comes with advanced features such as an overload sensor to prevent operation beyond capacity and a self-leveling platform that ensures stability on uneven terrain. These features significantly reduce the risk of accidents and enhance overall operational safety.
Compact and easy to transport, the DualReach 85-J is built for durability, ensuring reliable performance even in demanding conditions. Its sturdy construction minimizes downtime and increases productivity, making it a valuable asset for rental dealers and end users alike.
The MEC DualReach 85-J boom represents a paradigm shift in how jobsites operate. By providing the flexibility to adapt to various work-at-height needs without the hassle of managing multiple machines, it significantly enhances productivity, especially in dynamic environments.
Judge’s Comment: This is a new and unique approach to working at height that greatly expands the utility of a single machine by incorporating features of both straight mast booms and articulated booms.
PalazzaniTSJ 82, SILVER AWARD
The TSJ 82 is a versatile spider lift and crane designed for exceptional performance in both indoor and outdoor settings. It features compact dimensions, a lightweight design and a telescopic boom with an articulated jib, along with an optional 1,100-pound hydraulic winch.
Available in bi-energy and hybrid models, the TSJ 82 offers a 14.7 kW diesel engine paired with a 1.1 kW electric motor, or a hybrid version with a 10.6 kW diesel engine and a powerful 48V lithium battery. Its adjustable tracks can narrow from 4 feet 3 inches to 3 feet 3 inches, making it ideal for confined spaces and uneven terrain.
With a maximum working height of 82 feet and an outreach of 45 feet 8 inches, the TSJ 82 excels in aerial agility without tail swing. Its nonmarking track drive system protects floors, ensuring safe indoor use.
What sets the TSJ 82 apart is its ability to easily transform from a spider lift to a spider crane, allowing operators to lift and position materials with a maximum capacity of 1,100 pounds. This dual functionality is perfect for construction, maintenance and tree-trimming tasks, offering significant cost savings by reducing the need for multiple machines. The TSJ 82 is a highly adaptable solution for a variety of applications, enhancing productivity and efficiency on any jobsite.
Judge’s Comment: Being easily convertible from lift to crane makes this a strong candidate for any rental yard.
Material Handlers
Xtreme Manufacturing XR50100-G, GOLD AWARD
The ETrackzilla XR50100-G is a groundbreaking mega-telehandler designed in partnership with Xtreme Manufacturing. Known as “Trackzilla” it’s one of the largest forklifts in the world, capable of lifting an impressive 50,000 pounds to a staggering height of 100 feet. This machine sets new industry standards for both height and lift capacity, making it an essential asset for the most challenging construction projects.
Trackzilla is engineered for versatility and durability, ready to tackle the complexities of large-scale operations. Its robust design allows it to perform efficiently in demanding environments, from high-rise constructions to massive infrastructure developments. This telehandler is particularly suited for the nation’s largest construction sites, providing unmatched support for tasks that require both strength and precision.
Recently, Trackzilla made a significant journey from Innovatech headquarters in Utah to a major electric vehicle manufacturing plant near Savannah, Georgia. Its deployment at this site showcases its capability to handle substantial materials and equipment, enhancing productivity and safety on one of the most ambitious construction projects in the country.
Whether lifting heavy loads, navigating tight spaces, or reaching impressive heights, ETrackzilla is designed to meet the evolving demands of modern construction, ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and effectively.
Judge’s Comment: This is one of the coolest, most innovative pieces of equipment I have seen in years!
Magni RTH 10.37, SILVER AWARD
The Magni RTH 10.37 is a state-of-the-art rotating telehandler designed for diverse construction applications, from concrete to steelwork. With an impressive lifting height of 120 feet 5 inches and a maximum capacity of 22,700 pounds, this telehandler ensures seamless handling of heavy loads, even at maximum height with a capacity of 17,600 pounds.
Safety is a top priority, featuring advanced systems like the digital Load Moment Indicator (LMI) for precise load management and load-limiting technology to prevent unsafe operations. The RTH 10.37 also functions as a versatile 3-in-1 solution, compatible with various attachments, allowing it to operate as a telehandler, rough-terrain crane or aerial work platform.
Its patented outrigger system provides stability in challenging terrains, while intuitive automatic leveling enhances safety and reduces setup time. The full-color touchscreen display offers easy access to machine management software, featuring real-time dynamic load charts for optimal visibility.
Designed for operator comfort, the spacious cab includes HVAC, air filtration and ergonomic features, ensuring a conducive work environment.
Judge’s Comment: With a patented outrigger system and automatic leveling, this 3-in-1 solution optimizes operational efficiency.
Features and Components
DICA LevelRight Adjustable Pads, GOLD AWARD
LevelRight is an innovative solution designed for operators of boom trucks, cranes, concrete pumps, jacking applications and other equipment that requires a level setup with outriggers. Unlike standard wedges, LevelRight pads rotate to adapt to unlevel surfaces in multiple planes, ensuring optimal stability.
Constructed from SafetyTech material and featuring DICA’s SafetyTexturing on both the top and bottom surfaces, LevelRight provides enhanced grip and safety. The adjustable pad can be used independently or placed between the outrigger pad and outrigger float to guarantee a flat and level surface beneath the equipment’s outriggers.
Equipped with a built-in bubble level, LevelRight gives operators instant confirmation of a level setup. It allows for angle adjustments from 0 to 10 degrees and can be adjusted in two planes. With a generous 24-inch diameter, it accommodates up to a 20-inch square or 24-inch round outrigger float and boasts a rated capacity of 350,000 pounds.
LevelRight addresses the common challenge of setting up on uneven terrain, eliminating the difficulties associated with standard wedges. By using this purposefully designed product, operators can ensure a safe and level setup every time, enhancing both efficiency and safety on the jobsite.
Judge’s Comment: Making outrigger pads exciting is a challenge that has been met! DICA focuses on providing adequate ground bearing for equipment, making this important task easier to achieve correctly.
JLG ClearSky Smart Fleet, SILVER AWARD
The next-generation IoT system, JLG ClearSky Smart Fleet, transforms daily operations with 25 unique features, including analyzers, telematics and productivity applications, all integrated into a single connectivity beacon on JLG machines. This innovative technology offers seamless interaction through a user-friendly mobile app, web portal or advanced API, providing equipment owners and operators with actionable, on-demand insights.
The all-new ClearSky Smart Fleet app allows users to manage data and machine interactions, even offline. Key features include a “Find My Machine” function that enables users to easily locate equipment with audible and visual cues. The app also provides machine status indications, allowing operators to wirelessly check critical information such as diagnostic trouble codes and fuel levels through color-coded beacons. Additionally, the digital analyzer allows for wireless diagnostics, replacing traditional handheld devices, while digitized information ensures instant access to parts and technical manuals.
The ClearSky Smart Fleet web portal enhances fleet management capabilities with powerful tools for immediate visibility. The dynamic dashboard offers customizable data displays for actionable insights, while users can quickly access specific schematics and technical information. The portal also features export functionality, enabling users to generate reports as PDFs or Excel files. With a unified login, equipment owners can manage fleet issues and order parts all under one sign-on.
Judge’s Comment: Unique digital cues, fleet visibility and powerful data make this an efficient fleet management tool.
Aftermarket Support Products & Services
CM Labs Intellia Instructor, GOLD AWARD
In October 2023, CM Labs Simulations launched its innovative software platform, Intellia Instructor, which assists in managing and tracking simulation training programs for heavy equipment operators. This comprehensive solution is the first of its kind, allowing instructors to customize learning paths and monitor multiple simulators and trainees simultaneously.
Intellia Instructor provides detailed insights on trainee performance through advanced reporting, enabling organizations to scale their simulation training and streamline administrative tasks. Instructors can adapt training to specific needs, set custom scoring thresholds and monitor student progress from a tablet or computer. The platform also allows for the introduction of dynamic weather conditions and real-world distractions during exercises, better preparing trainees for jobsite challenges.
On-demand reporting identifies skills gaps and supports ongoing operator development with data reflecting quality, performance and safety indicators. The system incorporates an extensive library of heavy equipment simulator training packs, delivering realistic simulations that prevent the development of negative habits in novice operators.
With Intellia Instructor, training organizations can transition from a one-instructor-to-one-simulator setup to a more efficient one-to-many model, enhancing safety, productivity and skill retention.
Judge’s Comment: The only solution that allows instructors to customize learning paths and monitor multiple simulators and trainees at once.
OTR Engineered Solutions LIFTBOSS A/T Tires, SILVER AWARD
The LIFTBOSS A/T, or “all terrain,” is an innovative non-directional tire engineered for today’s popular telehandler sizes. Introduced at The ARA Show 2024, this tire is designed to maximize traction in both forward and reverse, making it especially suited for the back-and-forth operations common on jobsites.
Equipped with self-cleaning mud breakers, the LIFTBOSS A/T effectively ejects dirt and mud during operation, ensuring optimal traction on various surfaces. The tread design incorporates sipes that shed water efficiently, enhancing grip on slick finished concrete. Additionally, the special center lug design improves off-road stability and extends wear life, providing reliability in challenging conditions.
Featuring a low-profile construction, the tire enhances lateral stability and sidewall protection while requiring less foam fill. This leads to better performance and competitive pricing due to material cost savings.
Developed from OTR’s proven tire technology, the LIFTBOSS A/T builds on a successful legacy, having inspired designs that previously delivered zero defects in a shipment of 50,000 tires to an OEM.
Judge’s Comment: Equipment traction relies on four-wheel drive and other functionality, with tires being a critical part of overall mobility. Kudos to OTR for focusing on the common forward and reverse movements of equipment to maximize traction while also providing additional benefits and lower costs through a low-profile design.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
