Comparing Different Types of Machines to Hire Access Platforms in the UK

When the need arises for safe and properly functioning equipment for working at height, hire access platforms**** in the U.K. becomes one of the best options. These platforms are designed to help workers carry out tasks at elevated levels safely and smoothly. Therefore, access platforms reduce risk and enhance productivity from construction jobs to maintenance projects. If you plan to hire access platforms in the U.K., it is important for you to understand the different types of machines available for hire and which will best meet your project requirements.

Types of Access Platforms Available in the U.K.

There are many generic classifications of access platforms, directed toward more specific applications. The most common types of access platforms you can choose from when you hire access platforms in the U.K. are below:

Scissor Lifts

• Scissor lifts are often used for inside and outside work.
• They give a stable vertical lift and are used for jobs like electrical installation, paint spraying, or maintenance.
• They are available in diesel or electric versions, with the latter ideally suited for indoor projects because of the low noise and zero emissions.

Boom Lifts

• Boom lifts are very versatile machines, allowing both vertical and horizontal reach.
• They can be used mostly in outdoor projects that require application to harder-to-reach areas.
• Articulating boom lifts can reach over obstacles, whereas telescopic boom lifts yield maximum height and outreach.

Cherry Pickers

• Cherry pickers can be controlled and are quite handy.
• They are generally used for building maintenance, tree trimming, and the installation of signs.
• They enable mobility on the job site, which allows them to be driven with the operator inside the basket.

Truck-Mounted Platforms

• These platforms are mounted onto a truck, making them mobile and easy to set up.
• They are relevant in short-term jobs where the working location varies from one job to another in a single day.
• Local councils and utility companies often use them for street and overhead line maintenance.

Push-Around Lifts

• Push-around lifts are small-sized and lightweight machines intended for indoor work.
• They are the best types of lifts in warehouses, retail spaces, or places that have limited space.
• Their pop ability makes them cost-effective for small projects.

Key Factors to Consider Before Making A Final Choice on A Platform

Make sure to evaluate your needs before hiring the access platforms in the U.K. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Height Requirement: What is the maximum working height necessary?
• Working Environment: Consider whether to use electric models for indoor projects and diesel machines for outdoor applications.
• Accessibility: If obstacles restrict site access or the terrain is uneven, articulated or tracked platforms might be a better choice.
• Duration of Use: Considering long-term projects, a scissor or boom lift might prove to be a cost-effective solution. But, where short visits to different sites are involved, truck-mounted platforms are preferable.
• Safety Regulations: Check if the platform meets the U.K. safety standards and confirm that operators have received the necessary training, such as IPAF certification.

Benefits of Hiring Access Platforms

• Cost-Effective: Hiring eliminates the high upfront cost required in buying equipment.
• Flexibility: An opportunity to select the right machine for each project.
• No Maintenance: All servicing and inspection aspects will be taken care of by the rental company.
• Great Availability: All-day access to a wide variety of modern machines that can perform different tasks.

Industries That Gain From Access Platforms

The following are the industrial sectors where the hire of access platforms becomes paramount in the U.K.

• Construction: For building exteriors and interiors.
• Warehousing: For stock management activities and installation overhead.
• Facilities Management: For cleaning, repairs, and maintenance of anything at height.
• Telecommunications: For the installation and repair of communication lines.
• Event Management: For the setup of stages and installation of lights.

Conclusion

Hiring the right access platforms will ensure a safe, efficient, and cost-effective project. Be it scissor lifts, boom lifts, cherry pickers, or truck-mounted platforms, you can always find one that will meet your needs. From there, make sure to research your working environment in-depth, your height requirements, and your budget before making your choice. If you want to hire access platforms in the U.K., one of the companies you can trust, AFI-Rentals, has a whole range of machinery and expert support and maintenance backing it up.

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