Hastings Deering - Machine Security a Step Ahead

Machine Security a Step Ahead

7/01/2009

Hastings Deering is leading the way in addressing machine theft and the associated costs by introducing DataDotDNA Technology to the heavy industry sector. From August 2008, all new machines will incorporate the innovative “VIN Dot” spray application in what is a first for Australian Cat® dealers.

The “VIN Dot” spray technology has been described as “world’s best practice for vehicle identification” and has been introduced as a standard security feature for manufacturers/distributors including Porsche, BMW, Subaru and Ford Performance Vehicles. More than 500,000 Australian vehicles are now protected by DataDotDNA. Once applied, the clear lacquer contains the unique vehicle identifiers which are invisible to the naked eye, demonstrating the system which has revolutionised attitudes on security marking.

Construction Sales Manager Bruce Becker said the technology adds value for customers and will be available on attachments and new machines.

“Although not a big issue in the heavy industry sector yet, stealing and rebirthing is a big concern in the motor industry and with the introduction of DataDotDNA technology, police have been more successful with the recovery and identification of stolen vehicles,” he said.

“We are future proofing. Each machine fitted with DataDotDNA will be listed on police files so enabling identification through analysis more easily when recovered from a theft.”

Mr Becker said the spray is applied on machines in areas that make it impossible for removal even through sand blasting or pressure cleaning.

“There is a problem in this industry with theft of smaller machines and machine attachments,” he said, “Using DataDotDNA on machines and tools will make it easy for parts to be recovered and tracked back to the original machine.”

Mr Becker said industry groups Civil Contractors Federation (CCF) and the Construction and Mining Equipment Industry Group (CMEIG) as well as police departments Australia wide, have backed having DataDotDNA fitted to heavy industry machines due to the increased incidence of theft across the industry.

Hastings Deering has become the industry benchmark for this initiative to be followed throughout Australia and anticipates the technology will go a long way to assisting customers in protecting their equipment.