The 3 types of aerial lifts you need for safe work at heights on your jobsite

Imagine a construction site without aerial lifts. Accessing hard-to-reach areas, repairing tall buildings, and moving workers up and down would be next to impossible. They may not be the most glamorous construction equipment, but aerial lifts are essential tools on any jobsite…and they can make your work significantly easier.  

With so many types to choose from, it’s important to understand the pros, cons AND safety requirements of each machine. 

The type of aerial equipment your rent will depend on a number of factors and jobsite conditions. Are you operating on a smooth or rough surface? Will the machine be on a slope? Will it be used indoors or outdoors? What kind of power source do you have access to? How much weight does it need to hold?  

If it sounds overwhelming, it doesn’t need to be. With a little planning (and working with your rental provider), choosing the right aerial lift for your job can be pretty straightforward. And remember: whether you’re lifting one worker up 10 feet or 20 workers up 150 feet, safety is always your #1 priority.  

1.Scissor lifts allow workers to safely reach elevated spaces. They don’t go quite as high as a boom lift, but they can lift multiple workers up and down at once. This makes them a more affordable option for projects where you only need to reach moderate heights. There are few different types of scissor lifts, and while they may look similar, it’s important to pick the right one since they can vary in application and fuel type.  

• • Electric scissor lifts are a great alternative to diesel powered lifts as they are quiet and don’t emit fumes, providing a cleaner solution for indoor spaces or those areas without sufficient ventilation. They are also less bulky than their diesel counterparts, making them optimal for smaller spaces.  

• • Diesel scissor lifts are typically larger than electric lifts, which makes them ideal for heavier lifting. They come in a variety of sizes and models, so you can easily find the right equipment for your application. But unlike their electric counterparts, they can emit potentially harmful fumes, and their engines can create more noise pollution.  

• • Rough terrain scissor lifts work well on sloped ground and in challenging weather conditions. Their weight capacity and heavy-duty tires provide a stable platform for workers. Larger models of rough terrain lifts can reach up to 50 feet in height so additional safety mechanics like fall restraints and safety harnesses are crucial. Proper training for these lifts is also a must. Failure to get workers certified to operate a rough terrain scissor lift could result in hefty fines or worse – accidents, injuries, and even fatalities.  

2. Boom lifts provide a secure and stable workspace for elevated heights. Since some models, such as articulating booms, can be maneuvered vertically and horizontally, and rotate 360 degrees, they provide better mobility and greater reach capacity than aerial lifts.   

As with any equipment, operators should always conduct maintenance checks to ensure the machine is in working order. Since telescopic boom lifts can go up to 150 feet in height, it’s important to identify any hazards such as unstable surfaces, holes, drop-offs, overhead obstructions (such as a sloping ceiling or power lines), and ground obstructions such as debris in the work zone. And don’t forget to check the weather – boom lifts should never be used in icy or windy conditions.  

3. Mast lifts have two main advantages over scissor lifts and boom lifts.  

First – they are compact and have great maneuverability – making them easy to operate in narrow spaces like elevators or indoor construction sites where boom lifts can’t be accessed.  

The second advantage is their small platform and easy operation. Since only one person is needed for set up, the machine can be used within minutes. Mast lifts only go directly up and down, which means they must be positioned directly underneath the work area. This makes the machine relatively safe and easy to operate. Just make sure your machine has an automatic braking system to enhance stability during operation. The system is designed to engage when the platform is raised, preventing the lift from moving unintentionally.  

Work with your rental partner to ensure you have the right aerial equipment for the job  

The need for the right equipment is especially crucial when safety is a concern, such as when working at heights. Your rental provider should supply you not only with properly maintained, up-to-date aerial equipment, but training and education on any safety regulations.  

Renting the right equipment can be the difference between meeting a deadline, a budget – or both. Staying ahead of the competition, keeping costs down AND keeping workers safe is an important task…and you need the right rental partner to help get you there.  

Cooper has a wide range of access equipment such as aerial lifts, scissor lifts and boom lifts to give you the extra height to complete the task efficiently and easily. To find out more about aerial equipment, contact our team.