Do you have work that needs to be done at height? If so, it may be time to consider the many benefits of hiring a scissor lift. Not sure what this machine is and how it will benefit your job and the safety of your workers? Keep reading to find out.
Business owners and project managers in various industries make use of the scissor lift hire Melbourne rental agencies have on offer. In addition to having a wide range of options to choose from, some rental agencies also have special weekend rates that make hiring these versatile machines more affordable.
Scissor Lifts Explained
Before we share everything you need to know before hiring your first scissor lift, it’s essential to understand what this machine is and what it can do. Essentially, a scissor lift is a motorised vehicle that has a railed platform on top, allowing workers to be lifted from the ground to a high area where work needs to be done.
The name “scissor lift” comes from the crisscrossing metal supports that stretch as the platform is raised. The scissor design not only offers more support to people or goods in the platform but can also freely rotate with respect to one another.
That means the platform can move around. This is especially helpful in a warehousing scenario where you have goods stacked on shelves on opposite sides of a row. Scissor lifts are safer than ladders, and since they are quite compact, they can easily be used in narrow spaces. They are also far more efficient and far less time-consuming than building scaffolds. Additionally, modern scissor lifts come in both electric and diesel-powered models, with electric versions being quieter and ideal for indoor use. Some models also feature non-marking tires, making them suitable for sensitive flooring.
Factors to Keep in Mind
You may already be considering hiring a scissor lift, but you’re not sure if it’s the right machine for the job at hand. Fortunately, we’ve compiled a few handy pointers that help you determine whether a scissor lift is the best piece of equipment you need.
1. Know the Height You’re Working At
There are many different models of scissor lifts available, which means you’ll easily find a model with the reach you need. However, most scissor lifts can reach a maximum height of about 16 meters (between 10 and 60 feet).
While sizes also differ, the most commonly used models vary between 6m and 8m. It’s essential to know exactly how high you need your employees to work so that your rental agent can recommend the most suitable model.
2. Scissor Lifts Vary From Cherry Pickers
If you’re hiring a scissor lift for the first time, you may almost be forgiven for thinking it’s the same thing as a cherry picker. Also referred to as boom lifts, cherry pickers are also machines that raise employees to heights.
However, there are a few key differences to consider to help you choose the right machine.
- Supports are different: Cherry pickers do not have distinctive scissor-shaped metal supports. Instead, they make use of a hydraulic lifting system on a single telescopic arm.
- Outreach option: Scissor lifts move vertically, taking you to the platform you need to work on. Cherry pickers, on the other hand, have what’s called outreach, meaning they can also take you above the platform you need to work on. This is why a cherry picker is better for working on a faulty street light, but a scissor lift is more functional in a warehouse environment where you’re working between shelves.
- Stability: Scissor lifts offer more stability and can easily lift multiple workers with tools to the desired height.
Some experts suggest that one is not better than the other, it simply depends on the type of job that needs to be done. If you’re working in a small space and want a machine that’s easy to use, your rental agent will recommend a scissor lift.
3. Safety Gear is Still a Must
Despite being a safe machine to use, it’s still essential to wear the right safety gear when using the machine. Australian Work Safety Guidelines require employees to use a harness, fall arrestor, inertia reel, and safety clips.
It’s also required to use a spotter every time the machine is in use. This is a person who stands near the machine and keeps an eye out for other people or obstacles that may contribute to an accident or unsafe situation. The spotter can call out to anyone who may not know that the machine is in operation.
They can also activate an emergency lowering mechanism in case of emergency. These people need to be trained to operate the scissor lift should it be necessary. All scissor lift operators need to have An EWP licence. (elevated work platform at or above 11m)
Final Thoughts
It’s not uncommon for companies to hire scissor lifts to make it easier and safer for their employees to work at high levels. With the wide range of models available, you’re guaranteed to find the best scissor lift no matter what type of job you need to do. Discuss your needs with your local rental agency to ensure you get the perfect model and instantly take the stress out of working at heights!
