by Patrick
McCombeAnti-Rust Plastic. The problem is simple:
Tools rust. But toolbox-maker Flambeau claims to have a
solution. Tuff Tainer, Professional, and Brute series
toolboxes, organizers, and bins are made with "Zerust" plastic,
which the company says emits an odorless, harmless vapor that
protects tools from corrosion. A 20-inch Brute Toolbox (model
6520ZR) like the one shown costs about $25.
Flambeau, 800/457-5252,
www.flambeauhardware.com
Armored Guard. Business electronics are among
your most expensive and fragile tools, so it makes sense to
protect them. OtterBox makes heavy-duty plastic cases for
everything from iPods and cellphones to laptops and cameras.
They're waterproof and have a lifetime guarantee. Shown (from
left) are the 1933 Blackberry 8800 case ($50), the 7030 laptop
case ($170), and the 1900 PDA case ($100).
OtterBox, 888/695-8820,
www.otterbox.com
On the Move. There are lots of ways to move
tools around a job site — in a shopping or food-service
cart, on a dolly, even in a little red wagon — but
Milwaukee's Trade Titan is actually made for the job.
Waist-high, it provides a stable work surface on durable
casters capable of supporting 450 pounds apiece. It comes in
two models: the 48-60-5010, with an open bottom ($344); and the
48-60-5015, with a cabinet bottom ($430).
Milwaukee, 800/729-3878,
www.milwaukeetool.com
Job-Site Security
Night Watchman. Dark, unoccupied job sites
and trailers are easy targets for would-be thieves. Level the
playing field with a Rover Portable Security System. The
components install in minutes without damaging underlying
surfaces, making the system particularly suitable for rented
office trailers and other temporary spaces. The basic setup
consists of a 110-volt alarm controller with battery backup, a
weatherproof siren with a flashing light, an infrared detector
with a 25-foot cable, and two key-fob remote controls. Prices
start at $700.
Trailer Dog, 877/632-6364,
www.trailerdog.comCar Track. Keep tabs on your company vehicles
with a Shadow Tracker j2 GPS tracking system. Measuring a mere
2 inches by 3 inches by 1/2 inch, the device — which
includes an antenna and a DEC power cord — works with
software to generate reports describing when and where a
vehicle was being used, where and how long it was stopped, and
whether it exceeded a predetermined speed. Packages cost $295
and up. Advanced Tracking Technologies,
800/279-0035, www.advantrack.com
Follow the Alarm. Most stolen equipment is
never retrieved, which means you have no choice but to shop for
replacements after being ripped off. Plus you'll probably face
higher insurance premiums. However, DeWalt says its Mobilelock
DS500 GPS Locator can increase your chances of getting stuff
back. The unobtrusive alarm attaches magnetically to a job box
or heavy equipment and calls up to three numbers when it's
moved or tampered with. Then — by logging on to a
computer-based account — you or the police can track the
equipment in real time. GPS alarm kits start at $500;
monitoring costs $20 per month. DeWalt,
800/433-9258, www.dewalt.com