Man versus machine and loses

The University of Sheffield has recently completed a detailed business case examining the feasibility of mechanised sweeping. Steve Long manages Portering Services for the Universities' residential areas.

Demonstration of a Nilfisk RS501 diesel road sweeper led to detailed time trials comparing the manual labour requirements for specific areas against the mechanised option.

Trials proved that an area cleaned manually by one man in one hour took just four minutes with the RS501 sweeper.

Additionally the machine produced a better finish; there was no evidence for example of a recent grass cutting.

The cost of the sweeper and service was equivalent to the cost of one man.The machine however, carried out the work of three productive heads with the additional benefits of grass cutting collection and the onboard pressure washer.

"It was previously impossible to clean the many remote waste bins and litter compounds on site," comments Long."The sheer size of our new residential complex presented us with the logistical problem of maintaining the standard of cleanliness expected.

"This machine and its 200 bar onboard pressure washer now allows us to comply with the exacting standards that we need to meet.Additionally efficient chewing gum removal is also of real benefit. And the level of pre and post sales support has been superb."