Scissor Lift Hire

The range of platforms and the specialist terminology employed can be baffling to anyone considering platform hire. In short, there are three fundamental platform types,

defined by the lift type – scissor, mast and boom. When considering scissor lift hire, it is important to understand how the technologies differ in construction and performance.

The Basics Of Scissor Lifts

Scissor lifts have distinctive construction. Their lifting mechanism comprises interleaved and linked folding members arranged in a criss-cross structure. By closing together the lowermost components, the entire arrangement is made to rise vertically. Conversely, by moving the lowermost components apart, the structure is caused to descend. Clearly the only dimension of movement is up and down and you should bear this in mind when making your scissor lift hire selection. This is compensated for somewhat in some models by augmenting the work platform with extending or sliding sections. These features give some sideways access flexibility.

All scissor lifts incorporate wheeled motion for site movement and repositioning, except of course for those which are vehicle-mounted. In the latter, movement is achieved by repositioning the vehicle itself.

Large scissor lifts intended for heavy duty site work feature tracked mobility systems driven by diesel engines (gas in the USA). Smaller units may be operated electrically or by diesel power. Lightweight scissor lifts, for example those best suited to indoor use in warehouses, factories and so on, are hand-propelled.

Is A Scissor Lift Right For Your Needs?

Compared with mast and boom lifts, scissor lifts have larger platforms or work cages, improving safety, comfort and efficiency for the platform operative. The stability and rugged handling of scissor lifts is also highly desirable. Environmental factors such as wind are better tolerated, too.

For users who have occasional requirements or whose needs change according to the task at hand, scissor lift hire offers the most inexpensive and flexible solution. It is considerably less costly than outright purchase.

Scissor Lift Hire – The Winning Formula

Not only does scissor lift hire provide the most cost-effective access solution, the customer also benefits from the reassurance that that the product has been correctly maintained and safety-checked by suitably qualified technicians. The supplier is also a great source of technical advice and training.

Scissor lift hire means working at height and consequently the safety of users is paramount. Of course, user comfort and work efficiency must also be considered. Correct platform selection is critical to suit each particular application. With scissor lift hire, a huge range of products is available to suit every application from warehouse management to heavy site construction. Platform heights in the range 3m to over 30m are catered for. Bear in mind that working reach is up to 2m higher and that some manufacturers quote the work platform height whilst others specify the height to the top of the handrail. The supplier’s experience and knowledge will help even a novice user to make a properly informed choice of equipment.

Scissor Lift Safety

It is essential to be aware of the relevant regulations and safety issues when considering platform hire. All personnel using the platform must have received the safety training applicable in their territory.