The aerial lift rental market is expected to soar from $5.5 billion in 2023 to $9.7 billion in 2033.1 Driven by their advancing safety features and designs, scissor lifts represent a healthy slice of this competitive market.
Many modern scissor lifts are equipped with features such as self-leveling platforms, built-in diagnostic systems and GPS tracking for increased efficiency and accuracy. With so much available, how do you choose the right scissor lift?
Here are four key features that are non-negotiable when searching for a scissor lift: durability, serviceability, ease of operation, and safety.
1. Durability
On construction sites and within manufacturing plants, durability is not a luxury; it's a necessity.
With its high strength-to-weight ratio, steel is the material with which industry-leading scissor lifts are constructed. You're not just looking for a steel platform. Steel-reinforced legs, cylinders, base and feet also help ensure that scissor lifts can endure the wear and tear of demanding projects without faltering.
Beyond just the raw material, selecting scissor lifts from proven manufacturers adds an extra layer of assurance. Industry-leading manufacturers have honed their craft over years, implementing consumer and construction fleet feedback at every turn, to deliver products that stand tall under the harshest conditions. (It’s also a positive if your scissor lift manufacturer has proven capabilities manufacturing larger construction equipment.)
If something does go awry, those manufacturers can help solve the problem. A solid warranty backing your scissor lift investment reinforces its durability quotient.
Lastly, make sure the scissor lift has well-protected emergency controls located at the rear. In the event of an emergency, the operator should be able to easily access and use these controls to ensure their safety. A durable scissor lift should have these controls securely positioned to prevent accidental activation and damage.
The average scissor lift can last for 30 years if it is well constructed, regularly inspected and properly maintained. That's the kind of durability you need, particularly within the rental market.
2: Servicability
The best scissor lift is the one you almost never notice. As soon as a lift draws your attention, it's no longer a tool—it's now a problem.
One key aspect of serviceability is the presence of swingout batteries and hydraulic trays. These trays allow users easy access to the pump, motor, batteries, electrical panels and hydraulics—components that require maintenance or replacement—saving valuable time and effort. With a scissor lift that offers hydraulic trays, your technicians (or your rental company’s technicians) can quickly address any issues that arise and get the lift back into operation ASAP.
Efficiency in servicing doesn't only entail accessibility; it also entails compatibility.
Scissor lifts with standardized components streamline the process of finding replacement parts, eliminating the hassle of searching for specialized elements. This results in faster turnaround times, keeping your scissor lifts operational for longer periods.
3: Ease of Operation
Construction tasks are complex enough. Your equipment should simplify, not complicate, them.
The ideal scissor lift lets the operator work comfortably in tight, restrictive spaces. Look for lifts that have intuitive and ergonomic controls, which not only improve operator efficiency but also reduce the risk of mistakes or accidents.
Scissor lifts offering a full-height entry gate exemplify this principle. Operators can conveniently step onto the lift platform, equipped with tools and materials, without the awkward maneuvers often required by partial gates. This streamlined access not only enhances ease of operation but also bolsters productivity by minimizing downtime during equipment setup.
Finally, look for lifts with proportional joystick controls that provide smooth and precise movements. This makes it easier for operators to navigate tight spaces and position the lift exactly where it's needed.
4: Safety
Last, but not least, is the safety of your operators.
User-friendly operation (and comprehensive training) is a must, yet one key safety feature to look for when purchasing or renting a lift is a reliable and secure guardrail system. Sturdy guardrails and toe boards can help prevent falls and accidents. Also check that safety interlocks come standard to ensure the guardrails are in place before the lift can be operated.
You'll also want to look for scissor lifts that have sensors to detect obstacles or obstructions in the lift's path. These sensors automatically stop the lift when they detect an obstacle.
By selecting a scissor lift that prioritizes safety features, you can provide a safe and secure work environment for your operators and workers. This not only protects their well-being but also minimizes the risk of accidents and liabilities for your rental company.
If you’ve already decided that a scissor lift is the right choice for your next project, then consider the JCB S1930E. It’s a compact scissor lift that’s hardworking and built to higher standards by a proven manufacturer.
Learn more at JCB.com and try it for yourself.
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
