Your Position: Home - Lift Tables - 7 questions to ask yourself when selecting a MEWP
Choosing the right MEWP is of the utmost importance and is essential for the safety of the operator and others in the work area, stresses Tony Deatherage, Service Manager at Snorkel Lifts, a popular manufacturer of scissor and boom lifts. You need the right machine for the job.
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He points out that selecting the wrong machine for the job increases the likelihood that the operator may try and make it work, causing an unsafe situation. Furthermore, using the wrong machine could result in damage to the machine and workplace, as injuries or death to the operator.
Anyone purchasing a MEWP needs to identify what type of MEWP is required, Scott Owyen, Director of Training at Genie Lifts advises, and some questions need to be asked to make the right equipment is chosen for the job.
One of the first questions you should ask is: What is the application? This will help you decide which type of machine you need.
Once this determination, there are several other factors to consider.
1. How high do you need to reach? The required work height is an obvious and important selection criterion for MEWPs, says Owyen. In the U.S., actual working height should incorporate 6 feet representing the reach of an average worker standing on the platform with arms stretched overhead. The working height of a 60-foot boom lift, for example, is actually 66 feet.
2. Do you only need to go up or do you need to go up and out? The ability to reach out horizontally is a deciding factor and could indicate the need for a telescopic or articulating boom vs a scissor lift, self-propelled vertical lift, or push-around personnel lift, which have little to no horizontal reach capability outside any extension deck offering.
3. If you do need to reach out, how far out do you need to go? Knowing what you will be lifting and how much it weighs should guide MEWP selection as well. MEWP platform capacities can range from 300 to 1,000 pounds and above. Calculating the total machine load is essential so you can avoid exceeding the rated capacity of the machine.
4. What are potential jobsite obstacles? Fixed obstacles, such as water, ditches, or permanent structures indicate the vertical and horizontal reach needed to access the work at height, explains Owyen. Articulating booms provide special up-and-over capability to position the operators basket around overhead obstacles in constricted work environments. In this situation, the machines chassis size and maneuverability such as its turning radius, proportional controls, and other steering options may also become crucial for jobsite access.
5. What will you be lifting? This capacity calculation should include people, tools, material, and anything else that will be in the platform, so it is important to identify how many people need to be on the platform at the same time. Different MEWPs have different platform sizes and entry points in addition to operator and weight capacity ratings, which need to be taken into consideration.
Snorkels Deatherage also underscores the importance of considering the capacity of the platform or deck and what kind of materials will be handled. Obviously, masonry projects will require a higher platform capacity for materials than a project using wood or glass, for example.
Understanding the experience and training level of the operators themselves is key, Owyen points out. This helps determine whether operator or familiarization training will be needed before work begins.
6. What is the range of motion required? The importance of understanding the worksite is just as important as knowing what you will be lifting, Owyen emphasizes.
The work area that each boom lift can access is determined by the combination of its vertical height and horizontal outreach capabilities commonly referred to as its range of motion or working envelope, he explains. Range of Motion charts feature a picture of the arc-like area in which each boom is able to perform, laid over a graph that makes it easy to determine the units access capabilities.
7. What unusual jobsite conditions need to be factored in? That could include things like accessibility, whether there are any weight restrictions for support surfaces, minimum stowed dimensions for doorway access or terrainability, such as the need to drive on turf or sand, he says. Special considerations could also include noise or emissions requirements.
Consider the MEWPs intended use and the terrain involved, adds Deatherage. If it is a flat or paved surface, a slab scissor lift will probably be the right choice. But if it is an uneven surface, you will want to go with a rough-terrain model.
Beyond all these considerations, lift manufacturers offer special options and accessories to customize different machines for specific applications, such as material handling or secondary guarding.
To assist with selecting the right MEWP for the job, Genie provides guidance in explaining the general performance characteristics of the different types of MEWPs in their MEWP Safe Use Plan.
Training is key to operator and jobsite safety, notes Deatherage. Because of how dangerous working at a height can be, those who will be operating MEWPs need to be properly trained. If not, the use of MEWPs can lead to various accidents, such as falling, collisions, or machine damage.
MEWP operator training is not only a requirement under the ANSI (American National Standards Institute) A 92 standards, Owyen of Genie states, it is critical from a safety standpoint.
Allowing workers to operate MEWPs on the job without any training can result in someone getting hurt, or worse. This is why it is so important to elevate awareness of both the regulations that are in place and the training available that not only satisfies those regulations but also ensures that equipment operators have the knowledge available to operate the MEWP safely.
Some manufacturers even offer high-quality operator training, supervisor training, and train-the-trainer courses for MEWPs.
A MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platform) is a machine designed to lift personnel to elevated areas to carry out work at height safely and efficiently. Previously referred to as an Aerial Work Platform (AWP), there are different models and types available to contractors, each with their own set of benefits.
The simplest way to differentiate between the machines is to look at the machine to see if it has a boom or not. Machines without a boom are usually vertical lifts or scissor lifts. Machines with a boom can be mast lifts, articulating boom lifts, telescopic booms, and truck-mounted lifts.
MEWPs are classified by group and type, Genies Owyen shares. The group is determined by platform location in reference to the tipping line, and type is in reference to travel capabilities.
There are two MEWP Groups: Group A and Group B, he explains. Group A machines have a design that does not allow the main platform to extend beyond the tipping line or, said another way, the platform does not go outside of the drive chassis envelope. A scissor lift is a perfect example of a Group A MEWP.
Conversely, a Group B machine has a design that allows the platform to extend beyond the tipping line. A great example of a Group B machine would be an articulating or telescopic boom.
In terms of MEWP types, there are three different types MEWP Types, says Owyen.
An example of a Type 1, Group A (1A) MEWP would be a manually propelled vertical lift. Trailer-mounted booms are perfect examples of a Type 1, Group B (1B) MEWP. An under-bridge inspection machine is an example of a Type 2 MEWP.
A great example of a Type 3, Group A (3A) MEWP would be an electric or rough terrain scissor lift. Articulated and telescopic booms are Type 3, Group B (3B) MEWPs.
MEWP aerial lifts are an important piece of equipment in any contractors fleet. To avoid added stress and costs for deciding on the lift that does not match the needs of the project or jobsite, know the difference in aerial lift groups and types.
Mobile Elevating Work Platforms: New Models Offer Increased Reach, Enhanced Safety Feature Articles
Aerial lifts are versatile pieces of equipment featuring extendable platforms that allow you to access higher work areas, such as ceilings, roofs, windows and HVAC equipment. Lift prices tend to vary greatly due to the wide variety of specialized features and options available. Deciding on the right lift for your job can be complicated, but MacAllister Rentals is here to help. Read on to learn about the various types of lifts available and advice on which type is best suited for your next job.
Renting a boom or aerial lift equipment can make your job significantly easier. Whether you need an elevated work platform or the ability to reach a tall workspace, theres an aerial lift thats designed for the job. But getting the right aerial lift for your needs can be tricky.
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What is the job site like? How high will you need to reach? How much weight does the aerial lift need to carry? All of these questions can affect your choice of a lift. If you need an elevated workspace that can hold multiple people, a scissor lift is the best choice. And if you need a boom for horizontal jobs, an articulated boom is the lift youre looking for.
Already know which type of lift you need? Click open the style below to view available options:
If youre familiar with aerial lift rentals, finding the right aerial lift for rent is usually easy. But if this is your first time renting an aerial lift, or if you just rent them periodically, you may need help finding the best aerial lift equipment for your project. Weve put together this guide to aerial lifts and what jobs theyre best suited for to help you out. Read on to find out more about what kind of aerial lift is right for the job.
Aerial lifts feature a platform supported by a boom, or a tall, extendable arm used to lift the platform to a greater height. You may also know them as boom lifts, cherry pickers or bucket lifts. Aerial lift rentals are seen on many commercial construction and residential projects, and they come in many sizes and forms.
Some are designed for a specific use, such as atrium lifts. Others are meant solely for elevating a single person with a limited number of tools, and some are built for rough terrain and outside weather. In any case, aerial lifts are flexible pieces of equipment that are a necessity on many modern jobsites.
Some aerial lifts may require specific certifications or qualifications to operate. These requirements depend on your specific job and how the lift will be used.
The necessary certification and training courses may be available at your local college or technical school. Be sure to consider expected usage, any required operator certifications and the availability of specific lifts when making your final rental decision.
Aerial lifts are not specific to one particular industry or job. For instance, manufacturing companies use aerial lifts to reach overhead components, as well as to reach behind large pieces of equipment. General contractors use lifts to reach high areas when making repairs, and construction companies identify aerial lifts as one of the most critical pieces of equipment in their fleet.
Emergency crews use aerial lifts to reach buildings, and HVAC contractors use them for indoor and outdoor applications. In essence, aerial lifts provide reliable access for a range of industries and purposes.
MacAllister Rentals offers aerial lifts that are diesel, gas, liquid propane and battery-powered. Depending on the size and strength of the aerial lift you are considering, some are offered with different power options.
Articulating and straight telescopic boom lifts with a platform height of less than 80 feet are generally available with dual fuel systems that use gas and propane. These lifts, including Skyjacks rough terrain scissor lifts, are a great option for alternative fuel on the jobsite.
The important thing to remember with lifts that are fueled by diesel or gas is that they emit carbon monoxide. These lifts will need to be used in well-ventilated indoor areas or outside.
Some lifts are available in push-around models. Push-around lifts are useful for indoor jobs that are clear of obstacles and debris. These devices are light enough to be pushed by hand, yet sturdy enough to support the weight of a worker and a limited set of tools. Such lifts are available with a variety of platform heights, working heights and ground dimensions. The most common models feature a working height of 30 or 40 feet, and a total stowed height of less than seven feet.
Push-around models usually arent the best choice for outdoor jobsites. The exterior terrain makes the manual movement difficult and can present serious safety hazards. Their relatively light frame means theyre easily damaged by high winds, flying debris and other obstacles.
Some types of aerial lift rentals you can consider for your project include:
Scroll down to learn more about each type of lift.
Scissor lifts are a vertical lift with a platform thats the same size as the base. Theyre used in both indoor and outdoor projects, and are popular because they easily lift both personnel and equipment. Smaller scissor lifts are often used indoors, in parking garages and in urban areas. Larger, rough terrain lifts are used as aerial work platforms in a variety of settings.
Because of their stability and relatively large platform, scissor lifts are usually used as a work platform. Unlike boom lifts, scissor lifts go in only one direction: straight up. Youll need to be able to position the base directly beneath the area you plan to work with.
Depending on the model, expect a scissor lift to extend from ten to sixty feet. However, most scissor lifts have working heights that range from 20 to 40 feet. Scissor lifts tend to have less vertical elevation than other types of aerial lifts.
Despite the lower vertical elevation, scissor lifts do carry more weight than most other types of aerial lifts. Many scissor lifts have an unrestricted weight capacity of approximately 1,000 pounds, and higher restricted weight capacities. The largest, most powerful scissor lifts can hold up to 50 tons of material. These are usually rough terrain hydraulic scissor lifts used in heavy construction.
Best for:
Height: 10 feet to 60 feet
Workspace size: 2 feet to 10 feet wide
Electric scissor lifts are often used as an indoor aerial work platform. Unlike gas-powered lifts, electric or battery-operated lifts dont emit fumes. This makes them healthier for workers and safer for use indoors.
Many indoor electric scissor lifts have a narrow platform that lets workers access tight spaces in warehouses. Its not uncommon to see scissor lifts with a work platform thats two to three times as long as it is wide. If youre looking for an electric scissor lift for indoor use, look specifically for one with non-marking tires. This will prevent damage to indoor floors.
Indoor electric scissor lifts are usually less expensive than larger, outdoor lifts. However, purchasing an indoor lift can cost $24,000 or more. Because of this hefty price tag, its more common to rent scissor lifts only when theyre needed. If you need a scissor lift for a longer-term project, its also possible to rent them by the week or month.
Best for:
Height: Up to 60 feet
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Self Propelled Aerial Lift.
Workspace size: 2 feet to 10 feet
Rough terrain scissor lifts are aerial work platforms designed specifically for outdoor use and uneven surfaces. These exterior scissor lifts are usually powered by a diesel engine. Unlike electric models, these diesel-powered models can emit significant fumes.
Rough terrain scissor lifts usually have four-wheel drive and reinforced tires. This makes it possible to use them on a variety of different surfaces. However, these tires can leave marks, so theyre not suitable for use on finished floors.
Some rough terrain scissor lifts can be driven and used on slopes. If you know that youll have an uneven construction surface, look for one of these models. The ability to operate on sloped surfaces is called gradeability, and usually ranges from 0 to 40 percent.
Rough terrain scissor lifts have work platforms just like the indoor models. However, outdoor scissor lifts usually provide more workspace than the indoor models. Expect work platforms that are from two to four feet wide, and from five to ten feet long. Larger platforms will provide more accessibility for multiple workers.
Exterior scissor lifts usually have a higher weight capacity than indoor models. If you expect to have multiple personnel on the platform, or will need to lift construction materials, look for a scissor lift with a higher weight capacity.
Rough terrain scissor lifts are usually more expensive to purchase or rent than indoor models.
Boom lifts are a remarkably versatile type of aerial lift. All varieties of these lifts have a base, a maneuverable arm and a work platform or attachment on the end of the arm. Thats where the similarities end, though.
The major differences between types of boom lifts can be divided into three major categories:
The most popular types of boom lifts have vertical, knuckle or telescoping booms. The type of boom affects how high the workspace can be extended, whether it can be angled or simply lifted up and down, and the amount of weight that the boom lift can hold.
Most boom lifts have a workspace platform at the end of the boom. The size and type of this workspace is affected by the maximum weight that the boom can hold. However, boom lifts can be outfitted with a variety of different attachments. Lifting hooks, lumber forks and buckets are all common alternatives.
The third major difference between boom types is the power source. Aerial booms can be electric, battery-operated or diesel-powered. There are also towable aerial booms, which are pulled by a truck or van.
Best for:
Height: 30 feet to 100+ feet, depending on model
Workspace size: Base ranges from 3 feet to 10 feet wide; Work platform varies more widely
Electric boom lifts are smaller lifts designed for use in confined spaces. They have an electric or combined electric/battery power source. Because they dont emit fumes, theyre suitable for use in confined spaces. Theyre also a more environmentally friendly option than diesel engines.
Expect these lifts to be somewhat smaller than other models. Despite the more compact size, they have serious lifting power. Platforms or buckets usually extend at least 30 feet in the air. Its common to find models that extend up to 60 feet, but most models have working heights of 30 to 40 feet.
Electric lifts can have a variety of boom types. Mast booms, which extend vertically, are a common option for work platforms. These aerial booms lift a workspace straight up and down. Articulated booms have Z-type booms that allow you to move the workspace from side to side without needing to move the base. These electric boom lifts are often equipped with non-marking tires, so they can be used on a variety of work surfaces including indoors.
Look for electric boom lifts equipped with Jib, JibPlus or similar handling technology if youll need to maneuver in small spaces. This type of technology allows you to maneuver the work platform 180 degrees, making it easier to access areas behind equipment. We carry a number of JLG boom lifts equipped with this technology.
Finally, telescoping booms provide maximum reach. These are used in very high areas where theres limited access. Theyre common in both utility and construction industries. Some of the boom manufacturers we carry, like Genie, offer telescoping booms that extend more than 100 feet. Look for electric-powered telescoping booms for a sustainable alternative to diesel-powered ones.
Best for:
Height: From 10 to 60 feet, depending on model
Size: Usually 4 to 6 feet wide
Towable boom lifts are an ultra-portable option, and that makes them ideal for jobs that require lots of movement. These lifts can be attached to a truck or van and pulled to different jobsites. Theyre often used for outdoor projects where portability is important, like outdoor decorating or utility work. Towable boom lifts are sometimes used in place of cherry pickers, since they serve similar functions.
Towable boom lifts may have diesel engines, or they may be electric. Since the engine is used primarily to control the boom, its relatively low-powered compared to a self-propelled aerial boom. However, electric booms are still a better choice for indoor use, since they dont emit fumes.
Our towable lifts are manufactured by Genie or JLG. These lifts have a compact base with an articulated boom. Many towable lifts have a hydraulic workers platform, and some include outriggers for extra stability. If you need to move a lift regularly, look for a model that sets up quickly, like Genies Drive and Set options.
Theres a high demand for towable booms, which can drive both rental and purchase costs up. Another big influence on price is the maximum height of the lift. Purchasing a Genie towable boom with a 65-foot maximum reach can run upwards of $100K, but rental rates can be much more competitive.
Best for:
Height: Up to 125 feet
Width: Usually 3 to 8 feet wide
Articulated knuckle booms are Z-style aerial lifts that provide maximum flexibility. Theyre usually compared to telescoping, stick or straight booms. These booms provide both vertical and horizontal flexibility, which makes them useful in a wide variety of job sites.
These aerial lifts were designed to access hard-to-reach worksites. The boom can be extended in sections, allowing workers to maneuver up and over obstacles. Theyre popular for work on utility lines and similar situations.
Be aware that the horizontal reach of most articulated booms is significantly less than the vertical reach. Expect horizontal outreaches that are roughly 50 to 75 percent of the vertical reach. For instance, JLGs 800 series of articulated boom lifts has horizontal outreaches of approximately 50 feet. If you need more horizontal reach but want an articulated knuckle boom, consider a model with an S-boom instead of a Z-boom. These models are specifically designed to provide additional horizontal reach while maintaining the stability of other models.
Like telescoping booms, articulated knuckle booms are available for both indoor and outdoor use. Indoor models are usually smaller and narrower than outdoor models. For indoor use, look for an articulated boom with an electric power source and non-marking tires. For outdoor use, look for a diesel-powered or towable articulated boom. If you expect to work on rough terrain, consider an articulated knuckle boom with rough terrain tires or treads.
Best for:
Height: Up to 185 feet
Workspace size: 8+ feet wide
Straight booms, or telescoping booms, are the most common alternative to articulated booms. Theyre sometimes also called stick booms, because they have an arm that moves in a single direction. Since these lifts have a single boom, theyre a little easier to operate than an articulated boom.
Telescoping booms are used to provide maximum elevation. Theyre most commonly used in industrial construction projects, where workers regularly need to reach very high areas. The majority of telescoping booms provide platform heights of 40 to 80 feet. Some models provide significantly more. The Genie S-180 has a platform height of 180 feet, while JLGs SJ offers reaches of up to 185 feet.
To support platforms at these heights, telescoping booms tend to have a much wider base than other types of aerial lifts. Your job site will need to accommodate widths of eight to 10 feet. Rough terrain telescoping booms usually have outriggers for stabilization, which require a bigger work surface.
Expect to see similar rental and purchase prices for telescoping and articulated booms. The prices of both types of lifts are determined primarily by the reach of the machine and its power source. Expect higher prices for booms with more reach, as well as for booms with a diesel power source. Towable telescoping booms are also in high demand.
Best for:
Height: Up to 60 feet
Size: Approximately 3 feet wide; Lengths up to 20 feet
Atrium lifts are a special type of articulated knuckle boom. These extremely narrow, lightweight lifts are ideal for achieving maximum elevation in a small area. They get their name from their popularity indoors, but are used in a wide variety of indoor and urban projects where space is at a premium.
Atrium lifts are extremely light for their reach. They tend to weigh about 5,000 pounds, which makes it possible to use them on second stories or in areas where there are weight concerns.
Most atrium lifts have a Z- or S-type articulated knuckle boom. Expect vertical reaches of 50 to 70 feet, and horizontal outreaches of up to 40 feet. The articulated boom means that the personnel bucket reaches a full 360 degrees.
Because of their very narrow base, most atrium lifts have outriggers to stabilize the base. This means that the actual footprint of the lift while its in use is much bigger than the stowed width. However, the narrow stowed width will allow you to navigate an atrium lift through a standard door before setting it up. If youre considering renting an atrium lift, make sure that the project area can accommodate these outriggers.
Best for:
Height: 15 to 50 feet
Size: 2 to 3 feet wide
Personnel lifts are extremely compact aerial lifts that are usually used indoors. Theyre also called man lifts, one man lifts or push-around lifts. Sometimes, man lifts are used interchangeably with atrium lifts.
These lifts are most useful when space is at a premium. Personnel lifts tend to be just two to three feet wide, and are rarely longer than five feet. Some models have outriggers for stabilization, which extend the footprint of the base just slightly. When stored, these lifts are just five to six feet high.
Personnel lifts have a significantly lower weight limit than most other types of aerial lifts. Expect unrestricted weight limits of just 200 to 400 pounds, which makes them most suitable for lifting a single person. The lift itself is also much lighter than other aerial lifts, with JLGs extremely lightweight AWP25DC weighing just 727 pounds.
Man lifts are used primarily for indoor construction, renovation and maintenance projects. When used for ongoing tasks like maintenance, its more common for an organization to purchase the man lift than it is to rent it. For one-time projects like construction and renovation, rental can be a more affordable choice.
Man lift rentals make it possible to choose from a variety of power sources and terrain styles. Electric lifts are usually slightly heavier, and are used for a variety of indoor projects. Push-around single man aerial lifts are lighter than their electric counterparts. They usually require outriggers for stabilization, but are easy to maneuver around tight corners.
Its important to be aware of the different lift options available so you can pick the best lift for your upcoming project.
Our aerial lift guide will help you navigate the world of aerial lifts. Youll understand more about the different uses of each lift and how to rent lift equipment. Youll also learn about the many heavy-duty lift options that are on the market today.
Once youve found the lift you need, or if you want to review the features of each lift, contact MacAllister Rentals. We can help determine if that lift is best for your project needs.
Ready to rent an aerial lift? View our full range of lifts online, or call us (877) 700- for more help choosing an aerial lift.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of workshops Self Propelled Aerial Lift. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
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