Platform Lifts: How to Make the Right Choice

Written by: Steven Bryan

All employees need a lift once in a while, especially when they have to reach a higher altitude to get their job done. In those situations, platform lifts can give your staff the extra boost they need to get the job done right.

Different types and styles

Also known as manlifts, these versatile people movers are available in a variety of styles and models, which include: Personnel lift. For construction work that takes place in an area such as an airplane hangar, these platform lifts bring workers directly to the product, not the other way around. This increases efficiency, productivity, and provides your staff with a safe work environment, even when they are working several stories above the ground. Elevated work platform. Instead of using scaffolding or a ladder, your employees can work safely on an elevated platform. With safety bars surrounding the platform, these are great for performing high-level repairs and maintenance, especially longer projects that require ongoing access to the elevated area.

Scissor lift. Like opening a pair of scissors, this lift vertically raises a platform up to where the work needs to be done. In many cases, the operator on the enclosed platform can drive the entire scissor lift exactly where it needs to go. Often preferred for portability, as some stowed scissor lifts can be small enough to fit through typical interior doors.

An alternative to platform lift is the boom lift. Boom lifts can lift a worker to those hard-to-reach places. They're excellent for painting, maintaining elevated light fixtures, or working on air conditioning ducts, as they can reach out and around from their bases, while platform lifts only go straight up and down.

Most lifts are pneumatically or hydraulically powered and contain electrical outlets for tools and equipment, making them convenient for whatever work you need to do.

Shopping around for platform lifts

Just like finding the right person for the job, you do need to ask the right questions when dealing with a sales representative:

• Where will you be using the lift (warehouse, airplane hanger, grain silo)?
• When using the platform, what tasks will your staff be performing (painting, repairs)?
• How many people need to be on the lift at the same time?
• Will the platform lift be used in areas that contain hazardous chemicals?
• Do you need to take it into extreme temperatures, such as a deep freeze?
• Are used and refurbished lifts available?
• If your need is temporary, can you rent or lease a platform lift?

BuyerZone can help you find multiple dealers in your area – free. Just answer a few basic questions about what you need from your platform lift and we'll connect you to qualified dealers who will provide competitive bids.