Welcome to AWS Nationwide’s comprehensive guide to boom lift hire! Whether you’re a seasoned site manager on a construction site or a project manager in the shopfitting and interior industry, our guide will detail everything you need to know about boom lift hire, helping you select the right type of boom lift to maximise efficiency for your project.

A guide to understanding Boom Lifts

What are Boom Lifts?

Boom lifts, also known as cherry pickers, are the highest-reaching elevated work platforms. They are versatile pieces of equipment that allow operators to be raised and moved horizontal and vertically to complete various work applications, both internally and outdoors. These lifts include a platform or bucket that is attached to its hydraulic arm, allowing for flexibility of movement when working at height.

What are the types of boom lifts available?

1. Telescopic Boom Lifts: These feature straight, extendable arms, ideal for reaching high areas with precision.
2. Articulating Boom Lifts: Electric, Diesel and Bi-fuel options are available for this range. This versatile range of Boom Lifts have you covered for whatever power source you require. Electric models tend to be more suited to indoor applications, whereas Diesel and Bi-Energy are more suited to outdoor projects.

What do I need before hiring a Boom Lift?

Assess the working at height requirements for your project.

Before hiring one of our Boom Lifts, it’s essential to assess your specific project requirements carefully before selecting a machine.

Before hiring, please consider factors such as:

• Height requirements: Determine the maximum height you need to reach on the job site.
• Terrain conditions: Evaluate whether the terrain is rough or uneven, as it may impact the type of boom lift you need. As mentioned above, different models are more suited to different types of work.
• Weight capacity: Calculate the combined weight of workers, materials and tools being used in the project to ensure it falls within the lift’s capacity limits.

Hire duration and budget!

Once you have identified the correct machine for your project, you should also consider the weekly hire cost, hire duration, fuel and transport costs to suit your budget.

Safety Guidelines for Boom Lift Operation

Operator training and certification (IPAF)

You will also need to ensure that your workforce has the correct experience and training to operate the equipment safely.

AWS Nationwide’s sister company, Webb’s Training, has a range of IPAF Operator and Demonstrator courses available at training centres, or on site, nationally.

Clearing obstructions.

Before your hired boom lift is delivered, make sure to clear the work area of any obstacles or hazards that may impede safe operation.

Assess your terrain.

You should also assess the terrain the lift will be operating on for stability to ensure it can support the weight of the boom lift, workers, or materials without risk of tipping over.

Maximise efficiency and productivity.

Think about positioning.

Position your hired boom lift strategically to allow for maximum reach and accessibility to your project’s work area.

Time management

As always, every project’s success comes down to efficient time management measures. You should look to implement efficient work processes and time management measures to increase productivity during your hire.

To summarise…

Boom lift hire offers a convenient and cost-effective way for your workforce to access work applications safely at height. By following these guidelines, you can navigate the hire process effectively and select the best working-at-height solution for your