6 things to know before hiring a scissor lift

Whem it comes to a construction project, choosing the right equipment for the job has numerous functional, monetary and safety related benefits.

A scissor lift's true value is in its efficiency to help workers perform at height. Any contractor who needs to raise a construction or maintenance work, plus all of his tools, to a desired height has a few different options from which to choose - and scissor lifts are an ideal choice because they provide all-around utility to meet more than one work site need. This includes accessibility, safety and speed factors that other mechanisms like ladders or scaffolding does not. 

Are you planning to buy or hire a scissor lift soon? These tips will help you make the most of your hire: 

1. The platforms are relatively large. 

Scissor lifts have considerably larger platforms than ladders, which means that they can accommodate a number of workers and all of their equipment with ease. Workers also will be able to save time by reaching a wider expanse of wall or ceiling without having to re-position the unit, which is a real problem with ladders. But make sure you measure out the area you are working in before you hire so you get the right unit that fits the job area.

2. Lifting height and capacity varies depending on the model. 

Scissor lift platforms can hold the weight of two to four men and their tools, and reach from anywhere between 2 to 18 meters high. The lifts can also can be paused at different heights as required, allowing workers to make their way up or down the wall. Check the lift capacity before you hire – you may need 2 machines to complete the job if you have more workers and tools than one machine can carry.

3. Four-wheel drive is a bonus for outdoor use.

It is possible to hire four-wheel drive scissor lifts, which are able to navigate the terrain outside buildings with ease. This will ensure that the machine is up to the task of driving on bitumen, gravel, grass and even mud – wherever you need it to go. A new release of scissor lift has also enabled workers to work on multi-level surfaces for the first time in Australia! These models are generally diesel- or gas-powered to ensure maximum power.

4. Electric power is an option for indoor use.

When the job is indoors, you should opt for scissor lift with an electric battery. This will ensure that no harmful fumes are released inside. There is also the option of using a scissor lift with a narrower platform if working in a tight space. Scissor lifts manufactured for indoor use also are equipped with non-marking tyres to prevent floor damage.

5. Scissor lifts are safer than ladders.

These platforms feature safety apparatus that are designed to protect workers against falling and other accidents. There is a railing around the whole platform with a gated area where workers mount and dismount the lift. In most cases, workers also are required to wear a safety harness that can be clipped to the railing. The cost of work related injury is worth considering.

6. Scissor lifts are free-standing.

A scissor lift is completely free standing, providing the ability to reach a larger area. When using a ladder, on the other hand, especially when trying to reach a high place, it often is resting against the wall, which can restrict your movement.

Learn more

Duralift wants to help make your procurement process easier. If your next project requires raising workers to a specific height, check out this free eBook that compares scaffolding and scissor lifts. 

Download Free eBook: Scaffolding vs Scissor Lifts

This guest post was written by Ellie Chippindall. Ellie is a Business Development Manager at Duralift, a provider of access equipment for hire includes scissor lifts, boom lifts, vertical mast lifts, duct lifts, trailer mounted cherry pickers and fork lifts ready for immediate delivery throughout Melbourne and Australia wide! You can follow Duralift's blog, or contact the Duralift team on 1300 580 580 for any questions you have about work platforms for you next job.