Should you use a scissor lift or a boom lift?

Are you unsure whether to hire a scissor lift or a boom lift?

If so, here are a few questions to help you decide which would be best for your project.

Both types of lift have plenty of benefits, but the best lift for you will depend largely on the area you’ll be working in and the type of work that you need to carry out.

  1. Do you have access to the space directly below the area you need to work?

If so, then a scissor lift is definitely an option. However, if you can’t access the space below, then a boom lift is the way forward. A boom lift has a hydraulic arm that enables an extended reach over and around objects and obstacles.

  1. Do you need to use equipment at a height?

If so, a larger platform, such as those offered by scissor lifts, will enable you to keep your equipment, paint, or tools close to hand.

  1. Will more than one person need to access the aerial site?

Again, if more than one person needs to work at height at a time, scissor lifts offer a wider platform that will provide substantial advantages over the smaller basket of a boom lift. Having said that, it is possible to hire boom lifts with a cage large enough for two workers at any one time.

  1. Is cost an issue?

Scissor lifts tend to be more cost effective than a boom lift, so if you’re working to a tight budget, a scissor lift could be the answer.

  1. What heights do you need to reach?

If you need to reach heights that exceed 50 feet, a boom lift will be the better option to give you access to the heights you need. Boom lifts can reach more than 130 feet, whereas scissor lifts tend to be limited to a reach of 50 feet or lower.

Hopefully, going through these questions and considering your answers will have helped you to decide whether you need a scissor lift or a boom lift. However, if you are still scratching your head, the helpful team at Mr Plant Hire are on hand to advise you.

Mr Plant Hire has a wide range of powered access equipment available for hire, so give us a call on 020 8351 3434 to hire plant equipment or get specialist advice today.

June 5, 2019