A Guide to Boom Lift Hire

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A significant challenge in industrial settings is lifting workers to enable them to work at heights. A boom lift is an elevator designed to address this challenge. The boom lift is a type of aerial work platform consisting of a hydraulic arm and a platform. The arm is designed such that it can bend and swing to avoid obstacles. 

If you require a boom lift for a short period, then you should consider hiring rather than buying. Below are tips to guide you when hiring a boom lift.   

Nature of your work

There are different kinds of boom lifts available in the market. You need to be sure that the boom lift you hire is suitable for the intended works. Below are questions to help you decide which boom lift you require.

  • How high does the boom lift need to go?
  •  How wide do you need the platform?
  • What kind of obstacles are present on-site?  
  • Do you want an electric or diesel powered boom lift? 

Trained operator

You must have a trained person operating the boom lift. In Australia, operators must have a licence to operate boom lifts over 11 metres high. Allowing untrained personnel to operate the machine could lead to accidents. Besides, there should be a clear line of communication between the operator and the workers on the platform. 

Inspect the boom

Before hiring the boom lift, inspect it to ensure that it is fully functional. In Australia, elevating work platforms such as boom lifts are inspected every 90 days. As such, ask for a recent inspection report to validate that the boom lift is safe to use. 

Availability of the boom lift

There are many companies offering boom lift hire. The company you hire the boom lift from should be reputable as you want quality service. Ensure that the boom lift is available for the period you will need it. Inquire on the terms of hire. For instance, who will settle repair and maintenance costs for the period you will be using the lift?

Another critical consideration is the cost of hiring the boom lift. Visit a few companies and ask for a quote after viewing the boom lift. Ask if they will bring the boom lift to your location or you will have to cater for the transport costs. Boom lifts are designed to bypass obstacles when accessing high areas. When hiring boom lifts, ensure you have a trained operator, ask for an inspection report, inquire on the lift's availability and ensure it is affordable. 

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17 October 2018

Investing in New Industrial Equipment

Hello, my name is Richard and I own a medium-sized industrial unit in Sydney, Australia. I only started the business a few months ago, so I am not a professional in any sense of the word. Before I could set the business going, I had to kit out the new factory with equipment. I didn't have a clue where to source the best equipment or how to get the best deal. Thankfully, my brother-in-law is worked in manufacturing for many years. He came along with me when we viewed the equipment and got me the very best stuff. I decided to start this blog to help others who are just starting out.