Powered access provides a way to reach difficult areas within construction sites or buildings, allowing workers to do their jobs safely. This is especially important for those working at height. If you have been wondering what powered access is, this guide explores the main types and what they may be used for.
Scissor Lifts
A scissor lift is the ideal machine if you require a large platform to stand on. It uses a concertina-like action to raise the platform to the desired level, which can be as much as five metres high. There are two main types of scissor lifts – one for working on flat, smooth ground, while the other is designed to provide stability on uneven ground.
Telescopic Masts
As the name suggests, these types of lifts use a telescopic mast to lift a worker into position. It features a small platform that is suited to manoeuvring into tight or awkward spaces.
Boom Lifts
There are several different types of boom lifts, which are also known as cherry pickers. They employ a platform on the end of an extendable arm that can be moved up and down or side-to-side, depending on requirements. Boom lifts reach heights of around 12 metres, while some larger models can go even higher. Their manoeuvrability makes them a versatile choice for a range of applications.
Staying Safe When Working at Height
Safety is essential when working at heights. According to HSE, falls from height account for the most serious injuries and fatalities in the workplace. Compared to using ladders, powered access lifts are much safer and their use means that businesses comply with the relevant safety regulations.
If you would like to learn more about safe working at height using powered access, an IPAF course is recommended. You can find out more about the types of courses available from an accredited training provider such as globalflt.com/services/ipaf/ There’s no doubt that powered access lifts provide workers with safer ways to carry out tasks at height. Thanks to their design, there is a lift for nearly every purpose, benefiting both construction workers and the industry alike.