Choosing the Right Access Equipment
What type of access equipment do I need for my job?
The right machine depends on your required working height, horizontal outreach, ground conditions, site access and the type of work being carried out. Scissor lifts are generally suited to vertical access, while cherry pickers and boom lifts are useful when additional outreach is required.
What is the difference between a scissor lift and a cherry picker?
Scissor lifts travel primarily vertically and provide a larger working platform, making them useful for jobs directly above the machine. Cherry pickers use an extending or articulating boom, allowing operators to reach upwards and across obstacles.
How do I know what working height I need?
Consider the height of the actual work area rather than simply the height of the building. You should also consider where the machine can be positioned and whether horizontal outreach is required to reach the work area.
What access equipment is best for working indoors?
Electric scissor lifts are commonly used for indoor maintenance, warehouse and fit out work. Compact boom lifts can also be suitable where obstacles prevent the machine from being positioned directly below the work area.
What access equipment can I use on rough or uneven ground?
Rough terrain scissor lifts and boom lifts are available for more demanding outdoor environments. The ground still needs to be assessed to ensure it can safely support the equipment.
Scissor Lift Hire FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What are scissor lifts used for?
Scissor lifts are commonly used for warehouse maintenance, electrical installations, high ceilings, ductwork, decorating, construction, shop fitting and other jobs requiring vertical access.
Can scissor lifts be used outside?
Yes. Certain scissor lifts are designed for outdoor use, including rough terrain models. The correct machine should be selected based on ground conditions, gradients, working height and the environment.
Can a scissor lift fit through a doorway?
Some compact scissor lifts are designed for restricted indoor access and can fit through relatively narrow entrances. However, machine dimensions vary, so all doorways, gates and corridors should be measured before hiring.
How many people can go on a scissor lift?
This depends on the individual machine. Every scissor lift has a maximum platform capacity and permitted number of occupants. The combined weight of workers, tools and materials must remain within these limits.
Are electric scissor lifts suitable for warehouse work?
Yes. Electric scissor lifts are commonly used in warehouses and commercial buildings for lighting, racking, maintenance and installation work where vertical access is required.
Cherry Picker & Boom Lift FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cherry pickers used for?
Cherry pickers are used for a wide range of work at height, including roofing, guttering, building maintenance, signage, CCTV installation, exterior cleaning, cladding and certain tree work.
How high can a cherry picker reach?
Cherry pickers are available with a wide range of working heights. The right machine should be chosen based on both the vertical height and horizontal outreach required for the job.
Can a cherry picker reach over a building or extension?
Certain articulating boom lifts provide up and over access, allowing operators to reach work areas behind walls, extensions and other obstacles. The required outreach needs to be considered when choosing the machine.
Can cherry pickers be used for roof repairs?
Yes. Cherry pickers are commonly used for roof inspections, repairs, guttering and other short term maintenance work where powered access is appropriate for the site and task.
Can I use a cherry picker for gutter cleaning?
Cherry pickers can provide access to high level gutters and rooflines for cleaning and maintenance. The required machine will depend on the height of the property and available positioning space.
Hiring Powered Access Equipment FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I hire powered access equipment for just one day?
Short term hire may be available depending on the equipment, location and availability. Speak to Apollo Platforms with your required dates and job details to discuss the most suitable hire option.
Can you deliver equipment directly to my site?
Yes. Apollo Platforms can arrange delivery of powered access equipment directly to your site, helping ensure the required machine is available when you need it.
How far in advance should I book powered access?
Booking as early as possible gives you the best chance of securing the machine you need for your required dates. For urgent requirements, contact Apollo Platforms to check current availability.
What information do I need when hiring a cherry picker or scissor lift?
It helps to know your required working height, site location, ground conditions, access restrictions, intended use and hire dates. For boom lifts, you should also consider the horizontal outreach required.
What happens if I don't know which machine I need?
You don't need to know the exact model before getting in touch. Explain the job, required height and site conditions to Apollo Platforms and the team can help identify an appropriate access platform.