Some jobs in the construction, building, and industrial
industries are done more effectively when they’re done mechanically. A common
example of this is anything that should be done at height. While there’s always
the option of doing things manually, this isn’t always the most effective or
safest solution.
This is why many industrial, construction, and warehousing
companies are opting for the boom lift hire Melbourne locals are using to have lifting jobs go down without a
hitch. Will you be hiring a boom lift for the first time? If so, read on as we
explore the benefits of ditching the manual lifting options.
Boom Lift Explained
Boom lifts are compact machines that boast a platform that’s
been attached to a long hydraulic arm, which rests on a four-wheeled base.
These machines are designed to raise an employee and tools (if necessary) from
the ground up to the platform or space where they need to work.
As with other machinery types, there are a few different
models to choose from, and they typically fall into two different categories.
These are:
- Articulating: Boom lifts in this category are often also
called knuckle booms. Articulating booms feature a pivoting joint that allows
the lower base to move around in different directions. These types of boom
lifts allow people to move around or over obstacles. Since these machines are
small and compact, they can easily manoeuvre around narrow spaces. A flexible
arm can bend at different points, making it a firm favourite for getting all
kinds of jobs done.
- Telescopic: The second boom type isn’t as versatile as the
articulating variant. It features a telescopic mast that enables the boom to
move outward and upward. This boom is typically used for reaching up and down,
which can be restricting for some job tasks.
Reduce the Stress of Lifting Jobs
Many Australian project managers prefer to opt for a knuckle
boom as there’s always the versatility of the boom being able to move in
different directions. We’ve compiled a few of the ways your project will benefit
from hiring a knuckle boom.
1. Suitable for Indoor and Outdoor Tasks
The most significant benefit of using a knuckle boom lift is
that this compact machine can be used equally well in both indoor and outdoor
settings. This has to do with its compactability and lightweight structure.
Most models also boast non-marking tyres, which make them ideal for soft
warehouse floors as well as rough outdoor terrains.
Modern knuckle models like the 10.2M also feature a platform
height of 10.2m (34 ft) and an average working height of 40ft (12.2m). This
means that your team will easily be able to navigate around outdoor job sites
and indoor factory floors with the same amount of ease.
2. Ideally Suited for Work in Tiny Spaces
Workspaces come in all shapes and sizes. Some are large,
where various machines can easily move around. Other job sites are narrow or
hard to reach, making it difficult for equipment to navigate. This is often the
reason why teams opt for manual lifting.
Fortunately, knuckle booms boast a narrow base, allowing
them to fit into the smallest spaces. A
huge plus here is that boom arms and baskets can reach over the narrow space to
where the job is being done. Always review the different knuckle boom models
available to find the ideal size for the space you have.
3. Can be Operated Without a Licence
Many machinery types require operators to be specially
licensed before they can work. This usually requires project managers to have
someone from their teams trained, which can be time-consuming and costly.
The good news is that boom lifts can be operated without any
specific licensing. This is because these versatile machines fall into the EWP
(elevated work platform) and no special operation licence is required for work done under 11m from the
ground.
To keep your employees safe, it’s essential to ensure the
right safety gear is worn or used at all times. Since this gear can easily be
hired with the boom lift, getting access to it is as easy as adding it to your
rental list. Here’s a list of the most common gear to invest in:
- Safety harness
- Fall arrestor
- Inertia reel
- Safety clips
In addition to not requiring a licence, boom lifts can
easily be hired from as little as $250 per day, or $1200 per week. Keep in mind
that factors such as model type and rental duration could affect these costs.
Final Thoughts
When you need to hire a boom lift, it’s always a good idea
to opt for the knuckle boom as this will allow your team to easily get work
done in all directions. With this boom type, there’s no need to keep moving the
machine to get work done.
A rotating base platform simplifies the process, making it
safe and easy to work where you need to, when you need to. Speak to your local
rental agent for the best knuckle boom lift model for the job at hand.
