Understanding The Basics: What Are Construction Lifts

Understanding The Basics: What Are Construction Lifts

Meta Description: Learn about the different types of construction lifts, including boom lifts, scissor lifts, and forklifts, and their uses on work sites to access high areas safely and efficiently.

This article provides an overview of the different types of construction lifts available for rental. Whether you need to access high areas for repairs, maintenance, or construction, the right lift equipment can help you work safely and efficiently.

We will explore the main categories of construction lifts, their key features, and typical applications. The goal is to help you understand your options and choose a lift that matches your job requirements.

Key Takeaways

• Different construction lifts, including boom lifts, scissor lifts, forklifts, and cherry pickers, are each suited for specific job needs.
• Factors like height, weight capacity, indoor/outdoor use, and space determine the best lift type for a project.
• Operator safety is critical; proper inspection, training, fall protection, and load limits prevent lifting equipment accidents.

Understanding the Different Types of Construction Lifts

When working at height, safety should always be the top priority. Using the correct construction lift helps ensure tasks can be completed without putting workers at risk. Several options are available, each with advantages depending on the project’s unique needs.

What is a Construction Lift?

A construction lift refers to powered mobile machinery used to elevate personnel or equipment to various heights at a work site. Also known as aerial lifts or man lifts, they provide access to areas that would otherwise be difficult or dangerous to reach without the proper equipment. Construction lifts allow jobs to be performed safely and efficiently.

Main Categories of Construction Lifts

There are two main categories of construction lifts:

• Scissor lifts – These lifts have an aerial platform supported by crisscrossing metal supports that move the workspace straight up and down. Common types are electric scissor lifts for indoor use and diesel or rough terrain scissor lifts for outdoor applications.
• Boom lifts – These lifts feature an extendable arm or “boom” with an attached bucket or platform. Articulating boom lifts have multiple joints for flexibility, while telescopic boom lifts have a straight-arm design. Cherry pickers are an articulating boom lift mounted on a truck bed.

Within each category, lifts can vary in power source, height, weight capacity, and other specifications depending on the job requirements. Proper lift selection ensures workers have the right tool for the task.

Scissor Lifts

Scissor lifts are a versatile aerial work platform commonly used in construction. With their ability to safely lift workers to elevated heights, scissor lifts are suitable for indoor and outdoor applications. There are three main types of scissor lifts that contractors regularly rely on:

Electric Scissor Lifts

Electric scissor lifts are powered by batteries, making them well-suited for indoor environments where fumes and noise from fuel engines need to be avoided. Electric scissor lifts are preferable for enclosed industrial facilities and commercial buildings as they produce zero emissions. These lifts typically have a hydraulic lifting mechanism for smooth operation.

Diesel Scissor Lifts

Powered by diesel fuel, diesel scissor lifts can handle heavier workloads and greater heights than electric models. Diesel scissor lifts feature larger platforms to accommodate more workers and equipment. Their lifting capacity and durability make them well-equipped for demanding outdoor construction tasks. However, diesel fumes and engine noise are disadvantages of this type for indoor settings.

Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts

For challenging job sites with uneven terrain, rough terrain scissor lifts are specially designed with features like heavy-duty tires and enhanced stability controls. Their flotation tires allow them to traverse rugged grounds without getting bogged down.

Safety is a top priority, so rough terrain scissor lifts incorporate protective guardrails and rollover prevention systems. Their durable build quality and off-road mobility are helpful in various applications that involve lifting workers to perform tasks like construction, repairing infrastructure like telecommunication lines, and maintenance.

Boom Lifts

Boom lifts are versatile aerial work platforms that allow workers to access elevated workspaces safely. With extendable boom arms, they provide excellent reach capabilities.

Articulating Boom Lifts

Articulating boom lifts feature arms that can bend and rotate at multiple joints. This allows the platform to maneuver smoothly around obstacles, providing access even in confined spaces. The joints enable the arm to bend in various directions, lifting workers so they can perform tasks in otherwise hard-to-reach areas. Typical applications include electrical and piping repairs, exterior cleaning jobs, and maintenance projects that require positioning the worker near walls or overhangs.

Telescoping Boom Lifts

Telescoping boom lifts utilize a straight, extendable boom arm rather than an articulating arm. This style is well-suited for applications like electrical repairs, tree trimming, and other jobs requiring maximum vertical reach.

The arm can telescope smoothly to raise workers to the necessary height. Both electric and gas-powered models are available, making this type suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Electric models operate quietly for indoor maintenance tasks, while gas-powered lifts withstand outdoor conditions on construction sites.

Choosing the Right Construction Lift

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right type of construction lift for a particular job. The lift chosen should be suited to the unique needs and conditions of the worksite.

Considerations for Different Jobsites and Conditions

• The terrain and ground conditions where the lift will be used are important. Rough and uneven ground may require a lift with larger tires for stability, such as a rough terrain scissor lift. Soft or delicate ground could mean opting for a lift with lower pressure.
• Indoor or outdoor work determines lift features like engine type. Electric lifts are best for indoor use due to their quiet operation and lack of emissions. Gas/diesel engines suit outdoor job sites.
• Space restrictions in tight work areas favor scissor lifts that raise straight up and down, while boom lifts work well where horizontal reach is needed.
• The number of workers and the weight of the lifted equipment helps determine the lift’s capacity. Larger platforms suit teams, while more minor lifts transport individuals.

Matching Lift Capabilities to the Task

• Thanks to their extended reach, aerial lifts with telescopic booms excel at specialized tasks like electrical repairs and tree trimming,
• Articulating boom lifts are well-suited to maneuver in tight spaces around obstacles due to their flexible jointed arm.
• Cherry pickers mounted on truck beds provide high elevation for maintenance, utility line access, and installation/remodeling work.
• Scissor lifts carry teams and equipment to heights when whole groups must reach one workspace simultaneously.
• Telescopic forklifts efficiently transport large items long distances, even in tight spaces, by combining lifting and horizontal reach.

Choosing the right lift involves assessing terrain, power needs, space restrictions, and lift capabilities to complete the required tasks safely and efficiently. Considering all aspects ensures the lift selected is a good functional match.

Operating Construction Lifts Safely

Safely operating construction lifts is of utmost importance on job sites. Proper inspection, maintenance, and safety procedures go a long way in preventing accidents and injuries.

Inspection and Maintenance

Regular inspection and maintenance of construction lifts like boom lifts, articulating boom lifts, telescopic boom lifts, and scissor lifts ensures they are in good working condition. Before each use, checking for fluid leaks and loose or missing parts is essential. Following manufacturer guidelines for scheduled maintenance keeps the equipment functioning optimally. Replacing worn parts prevents safety issues.

Safety Procedures for Different Lift Types

Safety procedures vary depending on the type of construction lift being used. Boom lifts require anchoring the lift when the boom is extended. Telescopic boom lifts need the arm fully retracted while driving. Articulating boom lifts call for caution while maneuvering around obstacles. Scissor lifts must be positioned directly under the work area for stable operation. Fall protection is essential for all lift types.

Operator Training Requirements

Proper training is mandatory for safely operating aerial lifts, telescopic boom lifts, and construction lifts. Classroom sessions cover machine inspections, safety rules, emergency procedures, and practical exercises.

Hands-on training develops skills like controlling lift functions, setting up perimeter guards, and platform loading. Certification ensures operators understand the characteristics and limitations of their lift type. Refresher courses keep skills sharp over time. Untrained operators risk endangering themselves and their coworkers.