Whether you are project managing a construction development, tackling inventory at a warehouse or looking to get some work done at height around your residential property, having the right access equipment is essential to completing tasks safely and within efficient timeframes.
If you are unsure about which types of access equipment will work best for the task at hand, we can help. Here, we have put together a quick guide to help you understand the different types of access equipment available and what will be the most suitable option for the work at hand.
When you are using access equipment, it’s important to ensure that everyone who goes up, comes back down again safely, so be certain that the hire firm you choose provides appropriate training, information and safety gear.
Read on to discover where to hire a scissor lift, how to utilise a knuckle boom and when you might hire mast lift machinery.
What is a Knuckle Boom Lift?
If you are looking for versatility and you need enhanced manoeuvrability for hard-to-reach places, then the knuckle boom could be the best option. These aerial platforms are configured a little differently than a straight boom lift that simply elevates your platform. Knuckle Booms feature multiple sections which are connected by articulating joints. This allows operators to work the angles to access tight spaces and reach around obstacles whilst maintaining optimal safety on a steady platform.
There are a few elements to look for when you are looking to hire a Knuckle Boom lift. Use a reputable supplier and ask about emergency stop and isolating functions, guardrail stability, and protected fuel lines. Also, check if your Knuckle Boom will include automated out-of-level safety alarms. Knuckle Booms are ideal for maintenance and repair work in confined spaces and are widely used in construction, industrial and commercial applications.
Need to Hire a Scissor Lift?
Scissor Lifts can generally handle a bit more load capacity than a Knuckle Boom; operators who need a stable platform with a good-sized work area are likely to hire Scissor Lift options. These lifts are named for the hydraulic motion that extends and retracts in a scissor-like motion. Best for tasks that don’t need you to manoeuvre around obstacles, your hire Scissor Lift works on a straight vertical access approach. You can choose electric Scissor Lifts, which are best used on a level surface, including factories and maintenance workshops or you might opt to hire Scissor Lifts that are especially designed for rough terrain.
This type of lift is a great option on construction sites, where you need a heavy lifting capacity, a spacious, stable platform and an alternative to bulky and time consuming scaffold installation. You should check the load bearing capacity, ask about suitability for the type of terrain you are working with and also chat to your supplier about diesel versus electric options for Scissor Lift hire.
Need to Hire a Mast Lift?
You might choose to hire a mast lift ahead of other access equipment options if you want to work in a particularly narrow space. These are great for stacking, shifting and packing inventory inside a warehouse and they work well inside event showrooms, indoor stadiums and auditoriums, and they are widely preferred by professionals like technicians and arborists. While they have a smaller platform than your standard Scissor Lift, they are fantastic for use in confined areas with a tight turning circle and compact footprint.
When you hire Mast Lifts you should enquire about controlled emergency lowering systems to enhance worker safety in event of an accident or incident. You should also check that the Mast Lift you are hiring has an automatic braking mechanism that will activate should there be a power cut or other situation where you may not be able to action your brakes manually.
Ask for Expert Advice
If you are ready to take your access up a level, it pays to connect with a reputable firm with a great track record. At Castle Access, we can set you up with an account if you need to start a long or medium-term relationship, or we can help you out with short-term and one-off hires. If you need a Knuckle Boom, to hire Mast Lift equipment or you want to hire a Scissor Lift, we can help.
Our access machinery options come with a range of add-ons, so get in touch to chat through the specifics, and we will get you sorted with safe, well-maintained hire options that will get the job done efficiently at height.
Contact the Castle Access Hire Team Today
We offer free consultations, competitive pricing and a flexible approach to all your access equipment hires. We are Auckland’s specialists and we are ready to ensure you get the right information and training before you start work, so you will be guaranteed exceptional outcomes.
Get in touch now, or browse our options here on the site.
