3 Questions To Address When Renting A Scissor Lift For Your Maintenance Projects

Are you planning a residential maintenance project that requires you to work at significant heights? You should rent a scissor lift for the job. Scissor lifts are aerial work platforms (AWPs) that allow users to access sites above the ground. You can use the equipment to access the roof, interior and exterior walls, large windows, and even trees. Scissor lifts are safer than ladders as they reduce the risk of falling. As you hire the equipment, address the following questions to ensure you rent the right scissor lift for your project.

Is Your Project Located Indoors or Outdoors?

There are different scissor lift configurations for indoor and outdoor projects. Before renting the equipment, decide whether you want a scissor lift for indoor or outdoor use. There are two reasons you need to establish this. 

First, the location of your project will determine the best fuel source for the AWP. For example, electric-powered scissor lifts are ideal for indoor use, as they do not have any emissions. Conversely, diesel-powered scissor lifts are used outdoors due to their emissions.

Second, AWPs are designed for different terrains. The ones used inside buildings have softer tires to avoid damaging or leaving tire marks on indoor flooring. Scissor lifts made for outdoor use have heavy-duty tires that allow them to move easily on hard surfaces such as concrete and asphalt. There are four-wheel-drive AWPs you can use on grass, mud, and hard-terrain.

What Is the Maximum Load Requirement?

When hiring a scissor lift, determine the load requirements for the project. Do you intend to carry any heavy tools or equipment on the platform? If so, you need an AWP that can handle the weight. Scissor lifts come in various capacities, with the heaviest ones boasting a capacity of around 1,000 pounds. 

However, the bigger the equipment, the more you will pay to rent it. Therefore, to save money, rent the equipment whose capacity matches the maximum weight of your load. Remember to account for your weight and other persons who will use the equipment during the project.

Do You Need an Operator's License?

Most states require individuals to hold an operator's license before handling a scissor lift. You can enroll in an OSHA-approved certification program to obtain the license. The program covers the fundamentals of operating the AWP, load management tips, equipment inspections, and ways to reduce hazards when working on the platform. 

However, if your project is urgent, choose a wet hire package. The rental company will rent the equipment together with a licensed operator. Working with an experienced operator can reduce work at height risks and speed up your project.

Talk to your rental company about the above things when hiring a scissor lift for your residential project.

About Me

Improving My Workplace

When I started working in my dad's workshop, I could tell that a few of the safety protocols were out of date. In addition to working with older equipment, some of the guys didn't take safety as seriously as they should have. I talked with my dad, and he decided to upgrade a few of the pieces of industrial equipment. It was amazing to see the difference that new machinery made. Within a few days, accident rates were down and employee morale was up. This website is all about installing new equipment that can help your employees to stay safer.

Latest Posts

7 February 2024
When it comes to industries that deal with abrasive and corrosive materials, such as mining, construction, and wastewater treatment, slurry pumps play

15 December 2023
Commercial lighting refers to lighting systems designed for commercial spaces such as offices, retail stores, restaurants, and other business environm

27 October 2023
In the world of manufacturing, there are endless options when it comes to materials, techniques, and processes. However, the use of rubber has become

Search