7 Tips to Plan Ahead and Succeed
The new financial year has started and with expectations being high, best practice would be to plan ahead and secure the best results with the least headaches.
Now is the best time to review, plan and prioritise your personal and business goals. Time does not stand still, and we continue to juggle many things but when we sit back and review everything becomes clearer. Invest a few hours and plan ahead. Here are some things to think about
Review your finances
Start by reviewing your financial statements from the last year. Look for things like:
- Where you spent your money?
- Where can you potentially save (E.g. Outsource or in-house)?
- Was it worth the investment?
- How can it be done more efficient?
- What are your options?
Consider whether you can buy your most frequently used items in bulk, negotiate with your suppliers, or reward employees with monetary or non-monetary incentives.
Save time
Free up more of your time so you can better focus on growing yourself, business and staff. Some strategies to achieve this include:
- Set deadlines for important tasks
- Creating templates for your frequently documents and tasks
- Automate as much as you can without compromising on performance
- Organise yourself and your work area
Embrace technology
Like making friend for the first time it takes effort. Technology is your friend if you want to get to know it. Technologies can help you manage and grow much more easily and quickly.
Refresh your vision of success
Take a good look at your personal or business situation.
- Have you achieved your goals?
- Have you or your work responsibility gained some growth or new achievements?
- Have you any outstanding opportunities that you can capitalise on?
Dedicate a day by yourself, or with your business team, and map out:
- The successes and shortcomings of the year, your short and long-term goals for the year,
- Opportunities and potential prospects.
Don’t rush this process. Explore any creative avenue that could help your situation and record it comprehensively with deadlines and use it as a guide for the coming months.
Assess your customer and work relations
People are what make the business world go around, so increasing our focus on people is arguably one of the first things we should do to improve our business situation.
- How can we strengthen our current relations?
- Perhaps a new promotional or loyalty program,
- A reward for renewed membership or improved productivity
- Recognition for initiative, achieving milestones or goals
Change for the better
We all have opportunities for improvement that require change. We know we need to change to make life better, but we choose to stay in our comfort where we feel safe. But how safe is it really?
Focus and make it a habit to change. It takes 30 days to do something before it becomes a habit. Set your personal change strategy and be consistent and disciplined to achieve the benefits of doing something better. Things like:
- Time management – Prioritise, delegate, organise, scheduled diary, multi-task and plan
- Communication – positive, clear, and concise verbal, written and body communication
- Strategic – Planned, actioned, uncomplicated, consistent, holistic, simple and measured
- Mindset – Positive, motivating, leadership, inspiring, problem solving, accountable and resilient
- Learning – Technology, Leadership, skills, mentoring, innovation, openness and receptive
Set your plan and your schedule
Greatest minds don’t work alone. Brainstorm your ideas with involved colleagues and management. Document goals that you want to achieve and set timeframes and milestones to track and measure.
Create a simple plan and set a schedule so you can work proactively without the pressure of running late or missing deadlines and have everything fall on your shoulders in one go.
Don’t procrastinate, get it done and move on!
Don’t wait till summer to organise your scheduled maintenance of your Heavy Vehicle fleets Air-conditioning or cabin filtration systems. Summer is when you need it most!
- Get your annual scheduled maintenance before summer
- Order you critical spares and keep stock before you break down
- Delegate and ask Lyons to send you a list of critical spares for your heavy vehicle
- Upgrade your air-con or filtration system, if it has seen better days before summer
- Repair or replace before you need it, not when you need it.
For scheduling and the best advice in air conditioning and filtration with over 35 years’ experience across mining, construction, transport and light vehicles throughout WA, there is no better choice than Lyons.
Call us now on (08) 9259 7777 or email enquiries@lyons.com.au and speak to one of our experts to make sure your prepared for success.
Are you at Risk from Airborne Contaminants?
Dust contaminants in mining & construction
Airborne contaminants can be inhaled as particles suspended in the air. Many dusts associated with mining and construction contain substances that have little health effect when reasonably well controlled. Other dust particles can contain hazardous materials and can have life changing effects.
One of the most common dusts encountered on mine sites is crystalline silica, which is a mineral found in many natural and construction materials. The particles are so small that they stay airborne long after larger particles have settled to the ground and are easily inhaled deep into the lungs.
Dust can contain harmful contaminants
Several varieties of asbestiform minerals may be encountered during exploration activities for iron ore, base metals, gold and subsequent mining. High-energy processes such as cutting, sawing, grinding, drilling, polishing, scabbling and crushing can create unacceptable dust exposures if not controlled.
Some metals that are mined or present as processing reagents are potentially toxic if inhaled or ingested, such as lead, arsenic and mercury. Hazardous gases and mists such as sulphur dioxide, hydrogen sulphide, hydrogen cyanide and ammonia can also be generated in process plants and refineries. Fibrous minerals such as crocidolite, chrysotile and grunerite can be encountered during exploration and mining.
Diesel engines can emit exhaust gases. The potential short- and long-term health effects from exposure to diesel emissions are well documented.
Legionella pneumophila is a bacterial organism found in cooling towers, air conditioners and other water systems. In rare cases, the inhalation of contaminated aerosols may cause Legionnaires’ disease, which is a form of pneumonia and can be fatal.
Welding and cutting operations are common on mine sites and generate metal and other fumes.
Abrasive blasting used in mining and manufacturing to clean equipment can generate considerable dust. Open-air abrasive blasting should be done away from working areas with appropriate dust control measures.
Exposure standards
Atmospheric contaminants levels in the mines, construction and workplace must be maintained below the exposure standards. Where no specific exposure standard has been assigned and the substance is both of inherently low toxicity and free from toxic impurities, exposure to dusts should be maintained below 10 mg/m3, measured as inhalable dust (8 hour time weight average – TWA).
Dust suppression solutions
How to manage airborne contaminants
Control measures include:
- Wet downs areas that generate dust
- Wear suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) with a clean air supply
- Fit drills with a water injection or dust extraction system or both
- Use dust extraction systems and position the dust discharge ducting to not blow back on the operators or others working in the vicinity
Cabin Filtration and Pressuriser
- Control dust at the source by using a dust suppression system
- Operating equipment with a well-sealed air-conditioned cabin
- Fit equipment cabins with suitable filtration systems to maintain positive air pressure and clean airflow
- Regularly replace filters in filtration devices and systems to prevent dust build-up
- Prevent dust ingress and test regularly with smoke candles or air detection systems
For the best advice in air conditioning and filtration with over 35 years’ experience in servicing industries throughout Australia and the world, there is no one you can trust like Lyons.
Call us now on (08) 9259 7777 or email enquiries@lyons.com.au and speak to one of our experts to make sure you keep safe all year round.
Why Choose Sy-Klone Cabin Filtration Technology
Cabin filtration has become a growing concern with the welfare of personnel being a priority. The exposure of hazardous contaminants, allergens and air born carcinogens can have a major impact
Dust contaminants and Silica are hazards
to the individual, company and industry. A renewed health focus especially in mining and construction is seen as an imperative standard to protect the health of operators who are working and exposed to respirable dust in above and below ground situations.
The trend is towards ever finer filtration. In recent years, the demand for high efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA filters) has risen. These products allow the retention of more than 99.99% of all particles.
Particles that are smaller than 2.5 micrometers like silica dust can have extreme health consequences. The mucous membranes of the nose and throat or nasal hairs can capture only some of these particles. They are particularly harmful to health because they can trigger inflammations in the lungs and transport toxic substances. Such particles are deposited mainly in the lower respiratory tracts and the lungs. They are considered a cause of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases as well as asthma. They are also believed to have a carcinogenic effect.
Silicosis is a lung disease caused by breathing in tiny bits of silica, a mineral that is part of sand, rock, and mineral ores such as quartz. It mostly affects workers exposed to silica dust in occupations such mining, glass manufacturing, and foundry work. Over time, exposure to silica particles causes scarring in the lungs, which can harm your ability to breathe.
Lyons expertise in the area of cabin and HVAC filtration ensures a fit for purpose solution. Sy-Klone’s self-cleaning filtration system are arguably considered the best value for money filtration
Cabin Pressurisers have become the norm in mining
systems available to the mining and construction industries. This is backed up by some of the largest and most experienced multinational mining companies specifying Sy-Klone for all their heavy mobile equipment.
The main benefits of Sy-Klone technology are:
- Self-cleaning and maintenance free filtration system*
- Minimised filter costs
- Increase uptime
- Extended filter life of up to double that of others
- High grade filtration including HEPA (XLR removes 99.99% of ISO fine test dust)
- Uncomplicated installation method by a qualified installer (Lyons)
- Filtration protection options for personnel, engine and HVAC system
Sy-Klone offers solutions for multiple applications
Sy-Klone’s applications, including heavy equipment, mining, agriculture, fire and rescue, military, construction, demolition, and forestry. It complies with international filtration and manufacturing standards that consistently meet or exceed industry requirements.
The RESPA range of Sy-Klone is the most advanced Cab Air Quality System available, delivering pre-cleaner, filter, and pressuriser in one compact, customisable unit. This innovation offers the highest quality of filtration.
Sy-Klone protects the engine as well as the occupants
Lyons and Sy-Klone are serious about air quality in operator enclosures and engines. MERV 16*/F9 filter (minimum level of filtration recommended by NIOSH for mining operations) uses unique “Nano Technology” with “self-cleaning” filter media which dramatically extends the filter life.
The HEPA filter is manufactured to the highest quality standard. Not only does your operator breathe easier, but HVAC systems stay clean and healthy as well.
| System Type | RESPA Model | Powered | Engine | MERV 16* | HEPA | Odor/HEPA | Gas/HEPA |
| Fresh Air Precleaning & Filtration | RESPA-CF2 | • | • | • | • | •** | |
| Recirculated Air Filtration | RESPA-CFX | • | • | • | |||
| RESPA-FFX2 | • | • | |||||
| Engine Precleaning & Filtration | XLR Powered Pre-cleaner | • | • | ||||
| * References to MERV16 are specific to the filter media. ** Gas/HEPA filter for use with Extended Length RESPA-CF2 only. | |||||||
Lyons have teamed up with Sy-Klone to provide you the best advice for your mobile and static fleet filtration and HVAC system requirements. With over 35 years’ experience in servicing industries throughout Australia and the world, Lyons is the only name to know, to ensure the solution you seek is the right one.
Call us now on (08) 9259 7777 or email enquiries@lyons.com.au and speak to one of our experts to make sure you keep safe, comfortable and productive all year round.
How Air-Con Maintenance Can Save Mining Millions
For those in the mining game, especially in remote locations where the weather is extreme, having your air-conditioning fail is a major issue.
Preventative filter Maintenance saves millions for mining.
It stops work, affects safety and creates all sorts of headaches costing mining millions in down time, productivity and idle resources. Yet it can be prevented by minor yet essential maintenance.
An air conditioner’s filters, coils, condensers and evaporators require regular maintenance for the unit to function effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service. Neglecting necessary maintenance ensures a steady decline in air conditioning performance while energy use and cost of repairs steadily increases.
Basic maintenance requires a qualified technician to:
- Check for correct amount of refrigerant
- Test for refrigerant leaks using a leak detector
- Capture any refrigerant that must be evacuated from the system
- Check for and seal duct leakage in central systems
- Measure airflow through the evaporator coil
- Inspect electric terminals, clean and tighten connections
- Oil motors and check belts for tightness and wear
- Check the accuracy of the thermostat
- Clean or replace filters
The most important maintenance task that will ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner or pressuriser is to routinely replace or clean its filters.
Clogged, dirty filters:
- Block normal airflow and allows contaminants to affect the system and the occupant
- Significantly reduces a system’s efficiency
- Damage and reduce life of evaporator coil and impair the coil’s absorbing capacity
- Limit the efficiency of the air-conditioning requiring more energy and fuel
The benefits of clean filters:
- Energy and fuel saving by 5% – 15%
Filtration and purification ensures safety and longevity of equipment
- Better cooling and performance
- Cleaner air improving protection from allergens, contaminants and breathing problems
- Protects and extends the life of your evaporator coils and other parts
- Less service and breakdown
- Less down time on machinery and equipment
- Savings on less replacement parts and resources
- Minimises risk of fire, short circuits and malfunctions
An air conditioner filter can come in the form of aluminium mesh, foam, woven polypropylene, non-woven polyester or non-woven polyester with activated carbon. Filters are available in a variety of types and efficiencies.
It is recommended to clean or replace your air conditioning system’s filter on a regular basis. Filters may need more frequent attention if the air conditioner is in constant use or subjected to dusty conditions.
Lyons is of the largest suppliers and installers of OEM and custom filters for air-conditioning, filtration and pressurisers in mining, transport and construction. Our team of specialised auto electricians and air-conditioning technicians are inducted, approved, and preferred on most major sites. Call us now on (08) 9259 7777 or email enquiries@lyons.com.au and speak to one of our experts today.
Surprisingly, Is Evaporative or Refrigerated Cooler?
Evaporative and refrigerated air conditioning systems both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Below we explore the pros and cons and offer a solution that will make your summer for years to come.
Evaporative Cooling Benefits
- An evaporative cooling system only needs electricity for its fan and water pump. Therefore, the air-conditioning unit uses less power than most cooling systems.
- An evap unit uses a more natural process to keep your truck and cabin cool, all it requires is a full tank of water
Evaporative Cooling Limitations
- Evaporative units are not ideal for humid areas and can be influenced by rainy periods.
Popular Evaporative Air-conditioner for Cabin or Bunk
- Their coolers require more than most alternative air-conditioning
- They have basic air filtration systems and so many airborne contaminants are not captured
- Cabins can become musty due to high moisture levels in fabric
- A window needs to be left open to allow for the free flow of air in and out of the cabin
- Require water tank to be topped up after an overnight use, which can be a scarce commodity in some parts of Australia.
Refrigerated Cooling Benefits
- A refrigerated cooling system will keep you cool and comfortable in all weather conditions
- Refrigerated air-conditioners allows you to assign different temperatures to suit you.
- The cooling system removes humidity from the area
- Refrigerated system has a very effective filtration system
Refrigerated System Limitations:
- A robust system like a refrigerated cooler requires more energy to function. However, there are Lithium powered air-conditioning options that has all the benefit of both worlds.
- The refrigerated cooling’s outdoor unit like the ICEPACK can be noisy. DC Lithium powered refrigerated air-conditioning units overcome this
Should you get an evaporative or refrigerated cooling system?
If you were after a versatile system that can keep you comfortable in all of Australia’s climate conditions, then the recommendation would be a refrigerated cooling unit.
If you want the advantages of both Evaporative and Refrigerated for cabin cooling, then Lyons Piccolo Lithium Battery powered splitter bunk air-conditioning unit is the answer.
The Piccolo innovation has truck cabin or bunk cooling benefits beyond most systems on the market:
- A fraction up front cost than other systems
Piccolo Lithium battery Bunk or Cabin Air conditioner best suited for transport trucks
- Lithium powered system, saving you money on fuel on ongoing running costs
- Eco-Friendly unit that’s energy efficient
- Quiet and peaceful for a better night sleep
- Inbuilt option to run on 240v. Plug in and save
- Compact components requiring less effort to find room to install
- Less maintenance with the option of doing it yourself
- Tried and tested system used in standalone and fleet trucking industry
Having an expert who can help make the right decision can be invaluable. Lyons is the “Largest Independent Automotive & Electrical Wholesaler and Installer”, specialising in air-conditioning, filtration and pressurisers.
Call us now on (08) 9259 7777 or email enquiries@lyons.com.au and speak to one of our experts to make sure you keep safe and comfortable this summer.
Hello world!
Welcome to WordPress. This is your first post. Edit or delete it, then start writing!
5 Mine Blowing Strategies to Stay CoolNovember 22, 2019 - 2:50 pm
Cool Tips for Mobile Fleet AC Preventive MaintenanceJanuary 11, 2019 - 9:14 am
What is this new refrigerant R1234yf and when will it impact your company?September 7, 2017 - 11:25 pm
Electric compressors – the future of mobile machine air conditioning?September 7, 2017 - 11:16 pm
Diesel Particulate Matter and why we need to avoid itOctober 28, 2016 - 3:49 am