If your next project will require working at height, having the best access equipment can make all the difference. The right equipment can improve safety and boost productivity. 

In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about access equipment hire, from a review of your project requirements to the different types of lifts available. We’ll also help you select the best equipment for your needs and highlight how our expert support at Onsite Rentals can simplify your hiring process. 

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to confidently make the best choice for your next project.

Choosing the Right Access Equipment for Your Project

The right equipment can save time, improve safety, and increase productivity. Here are a few key questions to guide your decision:

Indoor or Outdoor Work?

• Indoor Projects: 
  For interior work, opt for compact, manoeuvrable equipment. Electric-powered units are particularly suitable due to their zero-emission operation.
  
  
• Outdoor Projects: 
  Exterior projects require equipment capable of navigating uneven terrain and withstanding weather conditions. All-terrain scissor lifts, and telescopic boom lifts are designed to perform on challenging surfaces and achieve substantial heights.
  

Height Requirements:

Work out the maximum height needed for your operations. Consider the appropriate equipment type. For example, scissor lifts excel in vertical ascension, while telescopic boom lifts offer extended reach capabilities.

Weight Capacities:

Your calculations must include the total weight of personnel, tools, and materials to be elevated.

Space Constraints:

In confined work environments, the size of the equipment becomes a factor. Knuckle boom lifts offer superior manoeuvrability around obstacles, while vertical lifts and compact scissor lifts are designed for narrow spaces.

Types of Access Equipment
Here is an overview of some of the equipment options:

• Scissor Lifts:
  
  Ideal For: Space-restricted areas. Scissor lifts provide stable platforms with purely vertical movement.
  Where to Use: Scissor lifts are best for indoor applications such as warehouse maintenance or lighting installations. Outdoor variants, such as 4WD models, are built to work on rough terrain and exterior operations.
  
  
• Knuckle Boom Lifts:
  
  Ideal For: Moving around obstacles and accessing challenging positions. The articulating arm design allows for complex positioning and reach.
  Where to Use:  Ideal for tree maintenance, machinery access, or structural work. They are often used in the maintenance, construction, and electrical sectors.
  
  
• Telescopic Boom Lifts:
  
  Ideal For: Direct, high-altitude reach. These lifts are particularly suitable for outdoor projects requiring significant height access.
  Where to Use: Building inspections, large-scale construction projects, and elevated outdoor installations. Built for challenging terrains, they provide access to heights beyond the capabilities of other equipment types.

Practical Tips for Selecting Access Equipment Hire

Location, power supply and safety factors are critical. Here are some considerations to help you select the best access equipment for your next project:

Terrain 

• 4WD Scissor Lift Hire: Suitable for outdoor projects with challenging surfaces such as gravel, mud, or uneven terrain.
  
• All Terrain Scissor Lift Hire: Ideal for varying surface types. These machines adapt to elevation changes and maintain platform stability, making them suitable for complex outdoor work environments.

Power Source

• Indoor Work: Electric lifts are preferable due to their quiet operation and zero emissions, making them suitable for enclosed spaces.
  
• Outdoor Work: Diesel-powered lifts are recommended for outdoor projects requiring extended operation and increased power. They withstand harsh conditions and support larger-scale tasks.
  
• Hybrid Options: Some equipment offers dual power sources, combining electric and diesel capabilities. These units provide versatility for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Safety First 

• Safety Features: Always opt for equipment with integrated safety mechanisms such as fall protection systems, emergency stop functions, and anti-tipping stabilisers.
  
• Weight Capacity: Ensure the lift’s maximum load capacity accommodates workers and tools.
  
• Platform Security: Confirm the work platform has guardrails and reliable locking mechanisms. 

Lift Height 

• Scissor Lifts: Effective for vertical access at moderate heights.
  
• Boom Lifts: Suitable for reaching higher and navigating obstacles. Options include knuckle or telescopic boom lifts based on required manoeuvrability.
  

Vertical Lifts: Ideal for indoor use where a compact footprint is necessary while still providing elevated access.

Access Equipment with Expert Support

At Onsite Rentals, we provide access equipment hire solutions tailored to your specific project needs. Our wide range of equipment allows us to accommodate various project needs.

Our team of experts offers personalised recommendations based on a review of your project requirements:

• We evaluate project location, terrain, and height requirements to select the most appropriate equipment.
  
• We provide detailed comparisons between different lift types, such as 4WD scissor lifts and vertical lifts, to help you make decisions.
  
• We help you to select electric, diesel, or hybrid options based on project location and environmental considerations.

Our hire services are cost-effective, with safety as a top priority.

• Flexible Pricing: Our rental rates accommodate various budget ranges while maintaining equipment quality.
• Our Maintenance Protocol: We conduct regular equipment inspections and maintenance to ensure operational safety and reliability.
• Ongoing Support: Our team is always available throughout the hire period to answer any queries and provide assistance as needed.