Looking at the construction industry then and now, therefore, it is clear to see that innovation is key. As builders, our work involves working under tight deadlines, therefore, searching for equipment that can increase efficiency while at the same time preventing accidents to our crew members. Now meet the scissor lift – this equipment is the new king of working at height solutions.
Scaffolding and ladders were once the only choices we had to make in order to access the high working platforms. Currently, scissor lifts have remained as a key breakthrough as they provide a reliable working platform which can easily be manoeuvred up and down.
In its most fundamental definition, a scissor lift is an aerial work platform. Its name originates from the perpendicular metal supports that protrude as opens upward like the blades of a scissors. As for such lifts, they may be of small or large size and can be installed both indoors and outdoors. Range from very small and even in some cases slim enough to fit through door ways to very heavy duty outdoors models that are capable of lifting tonnes of weight there is a scissor lift for almost every construction application.
The primary benefit of having scissor lifts is an extensive and flat working platform at a considerable height. Scissor lifts are very different from cherry pickers or boom lifts for instance as the basket that is offered is much larger to accommodate for multiple workers and tools. This makes them ideal for task that need more space or heave slave such as fixing of ceiling panel, painting or any electrical job.
We cannot afford to joke with safety in the line of duty, and this is an area scissor lifts really stand out. Contemporary models have accessories such as guards, non-slip decks, as well as emergency shut down buttons. Many also have embedded safety features that immediately halt activities on detecting that operations are conducted on an inclined plane, or in windy environment. Maintaining our focus on safety also ensures our workers’ welfare, and assists in conforming to the very high health and safety standards that characterise the UK operations.
The flexibility of operations being offered by scissor lifts is another reason that people love the equipment. Required to instal Library shelving up to 10 m high? This is where a scissor lift can get you. Working on uneven terrain? Choose a rough-terrain type, probably with all-wheel drive and outriggers for enhanced stability. These machines work practically anywhere from the warehouse to the construction site and anything in between.
It is not only about moving up to the next level – scissor lifts can take productivity to a whole new level on site. The actual working time can be well improved by the lack of time to construct and deconstruct scaffolding or by shifting ladders repeatedly. Repositioning of the workers becomes very easy in case of a scissor lift thus leading to very little down time imposed on operation. This can eventually result in early completion of the respective projects and therefore bring benefits such as cost reduction between the contractors and clients.
However, in our push for green construction practises, it may be important for us to know that most of the modern scissor lifts come with electric functions. These models emit no pollutants at the point of use so are best for interiors or application where environmental rules are strong. They’re also a bit calmer as compared to diesel vehicles hence making them reduce noise pollution within a site – a factor that is gaining more importance these days in the urban society.
However, it requires recognising that scissor lifts aren’t a perfect solution for every application. But one of the best strategies to make sure that the vehicles are operated safely is through training. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued guidance on the handling of MEWPs; this comprises scissor lifts. Before using this equipment, we understand that it is our responsibility as builders to make sure all operators are properly trained and competent.
Maintenance is also a consideration for a specific disease to be addressed through a mobile application. Another importance of frequent check ups is maintaining the efficiency of the scissor lifts. This not only prevent the hazards but also keeps the equipment up to date and saves more money in the longer run giving a good value for the money spent. Some rental companies provide maintenance programmes, which is relatively cheaper for small businesses or organisations that can only occasionally use scissor lifts.
Further development of scissor lift technology may also be observed in the future to improve its performance, efficiency and stability. The global manufactures are still working on how best to enhance these machines for optimality. Advancements within are easier to identify such as the increased adoption of telematics systems that gather data on the use and performance of machinery. It is conceivable that in the not-too-distant future, scissor lifts will be able to operate with a degree of autonomy for them to move around and position themselves at worksites with very little interaction from the operator.
I believe that as builders we have to make sure we are working more intelligently, and not necessarily harder. Scissor lifts can be described in a similar vein as embodying this ideal because scissor lifts deliver safety, efficiency and versatility all in one package. From simple home redecoration up to complex construction projects, this equipment can somehow revolutionise the ways that you do things up the slope.
Therefore, scissor lifts have rightfully found their place among other popular equipment needed for construction work today. They are a step change in working at height, providing advantages that go way beyond mere access to height. This technology can be utilised in order to develop safer places of work, and ultimately attain higher levels of performance, beneficial to our clients.
When it comes to tools such as scissor lifts, great care should be taken to keep abreast with the advancements that are taking place in the construction industry. Whether you are buying one for your organisation or you’re just interested in knowing what is out there for your future project, this is time well spent when learning about scissor lifts. Besides, who knows, maybe in our business, what is really important is to be able to get a lift now and then.