Since its formation in 2002, B Gallagher Construction has always placed safety at the heart of its business. Operating throughout Yorkshire and the surrounding regions, the Leeds-based company has developed a reputation for quality workmanship, reliability and delivering projects on time, in an economical and safe fashion. Understanding the inherent risks of operating site dumpers, the Gallagher team only invests in the most safety-critical equipment available on the market. With a number of fleet units in need of replacement, the company evaluated several cabbed options but was disappointed by the ‘aftermarket’ appearance and the huge expense. Having purchased Mecalac ROPS dumpers in the past, the Gallagher team was eager to find out what the market leader had to offer. With its fully integrated cab, ground-up design and focus on safety, Mecalac’s recently launched MDX cabbed site dumper range exceeded expectations. The Gallagher team purchased two of the 9MDX variant from Yorkshire-based Chippindale Plant Limited, a leading Mecalac distributor with unparalleled experience in the construction sector. The 9MDX is widely regarded as the most innovative and capable nine-tonne payload cabbed dumper on the market. As part of Mecalac’s commitment to safety, every MDX unit is fitted with Mecalac Shield as standard. A comprehensive safety package developed in close partnership with operators and site managers, Mecalac Shield represents a transformative leap in design and engineering – setting standards for compact safety equipment. The Mecalac Shield safety pack includes the following technologies: Start and drive interlock – This immobilises the engine if basic checks haven’t been completed. When an operator sits down, the seatbelt must then be engaged before the engine can start. This also stops drivers from being able to sit on a plugged-in seatbelt. Handbrake warning – This new feature immobilises the engine if the handbrake is applied and either forward or reverse drive is selected. The operator must select neutral and release the handbrake to proceed. Speedometer / camera – As part of Mecalac’s redesigned centre console, a digital speedometer and front facing camera now come as standard. Fuel loss warning – A fuel loss warning sensor is now included on all Mecalac site dumper models. Stop-Start Control™ – This new feature automatically stops the engine when an operator leaves their chair. This innovative technology means that, when loading materials, site managers will no longer have to worry about equipment being left running. Idle shut-off – To save fuel further and prevent accidental movement, idle shut-off capability automatically cuts the engine if a site dumper hasn’t moved for more than 15 minutes but the operator has remained on the machine. Park brake test – This complements Mecalac’s handbrake warning functionality. The operator must conduct a comprehensive test to ensure the system is safe to drive. In addition to Mecalac Shield, B Gallagher Construction opted to add rear-facing cameras and front screen guards to their new units. To guarantee continuity with the wider fleet, each model was also fitted with aftermarket data tags and immobilisers. “We are really impressed with the performance and safety credentials of our new Mecalac cabbed site dumpers,” commented Brendan Gallagher, managing director at B Gallagher Construction. “They feature the latest technology and set the standards in both site and operator safety. “We received great service and support from our local dealer Chippindale Plant, securing some of the first nine-tonne forward-tip MDX units in the UK. We are already making great use of them at worksites in Barnsley and Wakefield, supporting earthmoving applications in road, sewer and groundwork operations.” Paul Macpherson, UK sales and marketing director at Mecalac Construction Equipment UK, added: “We aim to continuously develop and improve our offering, incorporating the latest innovations to provide companies like B Gallagher Construction with equipment they can rely on to get the job done and keep their employees safe. The MDX range is truly industry-leading and has been designed to maximise safety and productivity.” For more information about B Gallagher Construction, click here. For more information about Chippindale Plant, visit www.chippindale-plant.co.uk.