On National Battery Day, we reflect on the use of battery powered equipment in the construction and demolition industry. One of the industries that gets the most spotlight on the use of batteries is the automotive industry, with its focus on zero emissions. In fact, if you watched the 2022 Super Bowl, you may have noticed the amount of car ads about electric vehicles. Mainly the BMW ad starring Arnold Schwarzenegger & Selma Hayek as Zeus & Hera. The shift to battery powered equipment is happening more and more every day.
However, one industry that doesn't get as much attention is the construction/ demolition industry. When you think of heavy construction equipment, you often think of gritty, oily, diesel or propane burning machines that create a deep mechanical roar. They’re powerful and have played a key role in the development of our country. That said, we can always do better, & the construction/ demolition industry is beginning their improvement through the transition to battery powered equipment. For years, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been strict on emissions standards for nonroad diesel engines like those used in construction. Moreover, the construction industry is estimated to contribute 38% to CO2 emissions globally. Switching to electric construction equipment would be a major step to reducing our carbon footprint. That said, environmental concerns are not the only driving force in the transition to battery-powered equipment. Safety is one of the main focuses
ZERO EMISSIONS
While zero emissions are great for the environment, this also allows for indoor use, which helps ensure the safety demolition experts. The emissions produced by diesel powered equipment are dangerous to the health of workers. In particular, carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal. Zero emissions must be a goal for the future of the construction industry & demolition industry.
DECREASE MANUAL LABOR
Without electric powered equipment, demolition crews require more laborers in order to decrease the time it takes to complete a job that a machine could do with only one operator per machine, in less time. Electric powered equipment decreases labor cost, which is highly beneficial for contractors today in the labor shortage we are experiencing.
REDUCE NOISE POLLUTION
Granted that, protecting ourselves from loud noises is not at the forefront of many people’s minds currently, but the reality is that it is a necessary precaution. Sounds over 80 decibels for a long periods of time can begin to damage your hearing. Sounds greater than 80 decibels experience a higher rate of damage to a person's hearing. Hearing loss is currently irreparable. Once it’s gone, it’s never coming back. To put this in perspective, Gas powered lawn mowers produce 80-85 decibels. Construction equipment can produce anywhere from 80 decibels to 120 decibels. Luckily, Electric powered equipment produces sounds around 70-75 decibels (with some even producing less). Protecting your hearing isn’t some overly cautious measure. Imagine your life without being able to hear. Imagine knowing the risk, and one of your workers begins to lose their hearing. Currently, 14% of construction workers have difficulty hearing, in an industry that is still mainly using diesel powered equipment. Safety should be a driving force in the switch to battery powered machines.
CHEAPER OPERATING COST
If nothing else…battery powered equipment is cheaper, with Cratos Equipment's machines operating cost being as low as a few dollars a day. It’s no secret as to why the transition to battery usage is growing, & Cratos Equipment is playing our part with our fleet of all electric construction industry and the demolition equipment.
