The 5 Benefits of Real-Time Deflection Monitoring in Snow Removal

Snow removal is essential to winter operations and maintenance for municipal fleet managers. Failure to promptly clear a street or public parking area can lead to significant liability issues. When all snowplows and equipment are equipped with real-time GPS tracking, fleet managers can track which streets have been cleared. This information can help reduce liability issues.

Real-Time Deflection Monitoring

In many situations, snow removal is done by private contractors who sign seasonal contracts with properties such as commercial and multi-family residential complexes. Having real-time GPS tracking technology installed on the vehicles and equipment that service these properties is a great way to monitor the measurement of roof snow load. Deflection monitoring is also a great way to track the long-term deflection of bridges and other structures. For instance, if the deflection of a particular bridge increases over time, it could indicate an issue that needs to be addressed by the owner or operator. This could result from deterioration or a change in load conditions, such as increased temperatures, which can cause the structure to flex more easily.

Deflection Alerts

The benefits of real-time deflection monitoring range from improved safety to better customer service. Not only does this technology let you know when the worst weather is brewing, but it also lets you plan accordingly. For example, you can set alert thresholds to ensure your employees get the maximum warning before leaving the job site. Additionally, you can set up a dashboard that displays the most relevant data when you need it.

You can even set up multiple locations and view real-time data from them in one dashboard. This allows you to make informed decisions about snow removal to keep your customers happy and your bottom line in the black.

Real-Time Reporting

Whether you’re a snow removal company, a municipal fleet manager, or want to keep track of your service vehicles on the road, real-time reporting is a must. It can help you determine which roads need to be plowed first and when, which routes are causing delays or deflections, and how much time is being spent at each job. With this information, you can better plan for a snowstorm, ensuring all routes are covered, and your vehicles aren’t overloaded. This can reduce downtime and improve customer satisfaction.

Reduced Downtime

A fleet of snow removal vehicles is a large undertaking, so keeping it safe and on schedule can be challenging. Many software available can help make the operation more seamless and practical. Aside from keeping your vehicles on the road, several sensors can help you monitor various metrics, from fuel consumption to engine temperature. A savvy fleet manager will use these features to boost productivity, decrease costs and enhance the overall customer experience. For larger operators, implementing a snow-specific strategy can reduce cost per service unit and better utilize your equipment. The secret to maximizing a snow-focused strategy’s effectiveness is understanding what works best for you and your customers.

Saving Money

If you’re in charge of managing the snow removal process at your property, it can be a drain on your budget. Hiring a professional company to do the job can save you a lot of time. Another benefit of hiring a commercial snow removal company is that they can identify issues before they become a problem for your business or home. These could include damaged or icy walkways that could put customers and visitors at risk. A professional team can save money by doing the work more quickly and efficiently than you could. This is especially true if you have a tight budget and are willing to commit to a contract with them for the entire winter season. This way, you won’t have to worry about rate increases due to high demand in the future.