When it comes to hiring access equipment, safety should always come first. Whether you’re a tradie painting a two-storey house, a warehouse operator needing extra reach, or a builder on a commercial site, the equipment you hire must meet both your job requirements and Australian safety standards. Rushing the hire process or skipping key checks can create unnecessary risks, not only for the operator but also for everyone else on site. A clear safety checklist helps you hire with confidence, knowing that you’ve covered all the bases before that lift, boom, or scissor goes to work.
The first step is to make sure the equipment itself is compliant and well-maintained. Reputable hire companies will have maintenance logs, service stickers, and up-to-date inspection reports for every machine. Before signing the paperwork, ask for proof of the machine’s last service date and whether it has passed its six-monthly inspection under Australian Standards. Visible damage, fluid leaks, or worn tyres are red flags that the machine may not be in top condition. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the hire company can’t provide documentation – your safety depends on it.
Another critical check is whether you, or the person operating the equipment, hold the correct licence or training. In Australia, boom lifts over 11 metres require a High Risk Work Licence (WP class). Even for smaller scissor lifts or vertical lifts that don’t legally need a licence, proper training in safe use is essential. Many hire companies can provide access to operator familiarisation or can recommend accredited training providers. Never assume that “anyone can drive it” – operator error is one of the most common causes of access equipment accidents.
Site conditions should also be considered before you finalise the hire. Think about the ground surface where the lift will be used – is it level, stable, and able to support the machine’s weight? For indoor work, you’ll want non-marking tyres to protect floors, while outdoor work might require rough-terrain scissor lifts with stabilisers. Checking overhead hazards like power lines, beams, or trees is equally important. A quick site risk assessment will help you select the right machine and avoid dangerous surprises.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is another key part of the checklist. Harnesses with lanyards are often required when operating boom lifts, while hard hats, safety boots, and hi-vis gear are standard on most worksites. Make sure you know what PPE is required for the job and have it on hand before the equipment arrives. Many hire companies also offer harness hire alongside the lift itself, making it easier to stay compliant.
Finally, always clarify the support and emergency procedures offered by the hire company. Do they provide a 24/7 breakdown service? Is there a clear process for reporting issues or requesting a replacement machine? Knowing you have backup gives you peace of mind and ensures that any unexpected problems won’t compromise safety or cause costly project delays.
By following this simple safety checklist before hiring access equipment, you’ll reduce risks, stay compliant with regulations, and protect both your team and your project. At ScissorHire.com, we make it easy to compare equipment options from trusted providers across Australia, helping you find the right lift for the job – safely and quickly.