Although we admittedly have a bias towards access equipment such as scissor lifts and boom lifts as the typically safer and more efficient means of working at height, we acknowledge that there are instances where a ladder may be appropriate.
Regarding ladders, they certainly have their place. Ladders have been employed in home repairs, retrieving files, and addressing various quick tasks that require reaching heights. However, it’s essential to recognise that ladders are not suitable for all situations.
In most households, the tallest ladders available reach heights of 15 to 20 feet, with taller ladders generally belonging to construction companies. Some individuals attempt to makeshift extensions for their ladders, resulting in highly unsafe working conditions.
Before completely dismissing the use of ladders, it’s worth noting that ladders do comply with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirements and, for certain tasks, can indeed be the most appropriate method for reaching heights. However, it’s crucial to remember that ladders have weight limitations, which restrict the amount of supplies that can be transported while working at heights.
In contrast, when dealing with tasks that ladders cannot reach or situations where ladders prove impractical, scissor lifts or boom lifts become essential. The advantage of these access equipment options is that they eliminate the risk of falling off a ladder, thus creating a significantly safer and more productive work environment. Scissor lifts can access higher locations, while boom lifts allow operators to work at angles or heights that surpass ground-level obstructions.
Five great reasons to chose access equipment over a ladder
1. OPERATOR SAFETY
When it comes to operator safety, scissor lifts outperform ladders. They come equipped with safety features designed to safeguard operators against workplace accidents, falls, injuries, and even fatalities. The entire work platform of a scissor lift is enclosed by railings, complete with a gated entrance for operators to access and exit the lift. For added fall protection, operators are required to wear safety harnesses when working at heights above 2.4 meters. These harnesses can be easily attached to the scissor lift railings.
2. LIFT HEIGHT & CAPACITY
Scissor lifts offer a range of options in terms of lift height and weight capacity. Various scissor lift platforms can comfortably accommodate 2 to 4 people and provide lift heights spanning from 2 to 18 meters. Operators also have the flexibility to pause the lift at different heights, allowing for seamless work at various levels.
3. PLATFORM SIZE
Compared to ladders, scissor lifts are advantageous due to their spacious work platforms. A larger platform area means that multiple workers can work together along with materials, promoting efficiency. Operators can cover a substantial wall or ceiling section without the need to constantly reposition the scissor lift, a capability that ladders lack.
4. STORAGE, VERSATILITY & OPERATION
Scissor lifts can be conveniently stored in compact worksite areas, making them a practical choice for businesses. This not only saves space but also translates into significant time and labor savings, directly correlating with increased production. Scissor lifts are indispensable tools for industries involved in manufacturing and stocking, and they enhance operational flexibility by adapting to different terrains.
5. ELECTRIC OPTIONS
Electric scissor lifts are environmentally friendly as they do not emit fumes, making them ideal for indoor use. Additionally, scissor lifts with narrow work platforms are suitable for tight indoor spaces. Electric models operate quietly, especially when compared to engine-powered scissor lifts, and most indoor lifts come equipped with non-marking tires to prevent damage to floors.