Working in the construction, warehousing, or even civil works industries means you may be required to perform work at heights. While there’s always the option of using ladders and scaffolds, many project managers and business owners are looking for more effective and safe methods to reduce potential height injuries.
One of the more effective ways of achieving this involves using the scissor lift hire Melbourne industries are using. Not only does the rental aspect give you access to the best machine for the job, but the actual machine ensures that work at height can be done quickly, safely, and more effectively.
Knowing the Ins and Outs of Scissor Lift Usage
The work in many industries has become significantly more convenient, courtesy of modern and flexible machine rental procedures. It’s now easier than ever to hire the best machine for the job at hand. Renting a scissor lift has become a common practice for many businesses. If you’re getting ready to hire one of these versatile units, here’s what you need to know.
1: Understanding What a Scissor Lift Is
Essentially, a scissor lift is a motorised vehicle that features a platform with rails and can be raised straight up to the area where the work must be done. The term “scissor lift” comes from the crisscrossing metal supports that stretch up as the platform is raised. These scissor lifts are the features that distinguish this machine from other machines that may perform a similar function.
These machines are designed to reach high-up areas to perform work in those spaces. As with many other heavy machinery, scissor lifts vary in size. Smaller units, like the ones that are only four feet wide, are often used inside warehouses. Using a scissor lift eliminates having to use a very long (and often unsafe) ladder or scaffolding for work in high spaces.
2: Know the Maximum Height
For the most part, scissor lifts can easily reach maximum heights of 10 to 60 feet, which translates to about 16 meters. The height achieved typically depends on the model and size of the scissor lift being used. In Australia, the most common sizes that construction companies hire are those with 6m and 8m lifts.
3: How Does a Scissor Lift Differ From a Boom Lift?
If you’ve previously worked with a boom lift, you may be wondering how this differs from using a scissor lift. Typically, a scissor lift only moves vertically where whereas a boom lift has an outreach, allowing it to work above the area.
So, to simplify, a scissor lift would take you TO a platform and a boom lift would take you ABOVE the platform. Identifying which type you’ll need will depend on the job you need done. Boom lift hire is also an option at many companies hiring out scissor lifts. Keep in mind that boom lifts are often referred to as cherry pickers and don’t feature the distinctive scissor-shaped metal supports.
4: Check for Regulations Regarding the Use of Additional Safety Equipment
It’s essential to check with your hiring agent about the specific safety gear that your team may be required to wear when working with a scissor lift. This gear is commonly referred to as “fall protection” and may vary between states.
In most states, however, fall protection is deemed necessary for work at heights above 1.8m or 6ft off the ground. Common types of additional safety equipment and gear to use can include any of the following:
- Safety harness
- Fall arrestor
- Inertia reel
- Safety clips
5: Understanding the Licence Requirements
Using any form of mobile machinery always comes with the question of licensing for operation. According to WorkSafe, it’s a legal requirement for any machinery operating at a distance of 11m above the ground to have a high-risk work licence for EWPs (elevated work platforms). This means all scissor lifts and booms falling into the 6m or 10m category won’t need a licence.
It’s important to point out that larger models will require the operators to have the necessary training and certifications. You’ll also be required to have a spotter on the ground where the machine is being operated.
6: Be Aware of the Role of a Spotter
Some machinery may require the use of a spotter. Australian Safety Standards require that spotters are in place every time a scissor lift is in operation. Typically, a spotter is a person who watches the operation of the scissor lift and checks that there isn’t an emergency.
In the event of an emergency, the spotter must activate the emergency lowering mechanism. A spotter must therefore also be trained and certified to operate the scissor lift should it become necessary.
Final Thoughts
Working at height doesn’t have to be risky or take longer than usual while you wait for scaffolding to be set up. The most effective solution involves enlisting a reputable machine rental company. Rely on them to advise you on the best model possible to get the job done in the shortest time possible!
