As one of the major cities in Europe, London has a thriving construction and renovation industry, with various businesses and contractors working on different infrastructure projects. Many of these projects require vertical access, which is where scissor lift hire London comes in.
A scissor lift is an indispensable construction equipment that provides a raised platform for workers to carry out tasks at great heights safely and efficiently. Instead of buying, which can be quite costly and inefficient, many contractors and DIY experts prefer to hire from a reliable equipment rental company instead.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through what this entails for a contractor or business owner looking to get a scissor lift hire in London. We’ll discuss some of the key benefits of doing this and the key considerations to ensure you get the best results from this process.
Why Scissor Lift Hire in London?
Before delving into the specifics of hiring scissor lifts in London, it’s essential to understand why these versatile machines are worth considering. A scissor lift is one of the most versatile and efficient access equipment, offering a wide range of benefits.
First, scissor lifts are designed to provide vertical access, which makes them effective for construction and renovation tasks such as painting, construction, maintenance tasks, installation, and so on. This versatile machine can access a wide range of heights and is equipped with safety features such as guardrails and harness attachment points that keep workers safe.
Another main benefit of this machine is its manoeuvrability. Many scissor lifts are compact and they tend to have wheels or track which makes it easier to move them into the desired position. You can also vary the height, providing vertical access to various heights. These lifts offer a stable platform, allowing operators to work comfortably and confidently, even at great heights.
Key Considerations When Hiring a Scissor Lift in London
Now that we’re clear about the benefits of using scissor lifts for your projects, you should know that there are some key considerations to keep in mind when you’re looking to hire one. They include:
Consider the Type of Project
Every project has a unique set of requirements in terms of height, terrain, space, number of workers, and the type of tasks you intend to carry out. Before you set out to hire a scissor lift, you need to determine all of these key requirements and pick the right lift for the task at the end.
This ensures that the scissor lift you choose aligns fully with your project’s needs.
Height and Platform Size
Determine the maximum height you’re likely to work and pick a scissor lift that can deliver the reach you desire. As you will discover, scissors lifts come in a wide range of sizes, each one with different height capabilities. You’ll want to choose one that offers the necessary reach without overextending your budget.
Similarly, the horizontal reach is vital as well, and that depends on the size of the scissor lift platform. This is particularly important if you have multiple workers with different equipment that will be using the lift.
Power Source
Scissor lifts can be powered by electricity or diesel engines. One major factor that determines which of these to choose is the availability of power sources at your construction site. You also have to determine the nature of the work to be done and the peculiarities of the site. For instance, while electric lifts are typically preferred for indoor use, diesel-powered lifts work better in outdoor and rough terrain projects.
Budget
Determine how much you’re willing to spend on scissor lift hire. Note that prices tend to vary based on the type of lift, duration of hire, and additional features. You can get multiple quotes from reputable rental companies in London to find the best local deal.
Delivery and Pickup
Finally, you should consider how the scissor lift will be transported to your project site. Some rental companies offer pickup and delivery services for an extra cost, while some don’t. Inquire about this before you decide on who to work with.
Benefits of Scissor Lift Hire in London
Generally, renting a scissor lift is a cost-effective alternative to purchasing one outright. This is particularly true if you have short-term or sporadic needs for this equipment. Even an established construction company will not need vertical access on every project they do. Hiring when it’s needed helps you save costs and allows you to choose the scissor lift for every project. This ensures that you have the most suitable equipment for every task.
Rental companies in London typically handle maintenance and repairs for scissor lifts so you won’t have to worry about the cost of upkeep or deal with the stress. You also get to leverage their local expertise to find the right scissor lift for your project and understand the specific local trends or regulations guiding hiring and operating a scissor lift.
Understanding the Peculiarities of Scissor Lift Hire in London
Like every industry, the construction industry in London has a few local nuances that differ from other locations in the UK and across Europe. Knowing what to watch out for in terms of these local peculiarities is one of the key aspects of hiring a scissor lift in the city.
Traffic and Road Restrictions
London’s traffic and road restrictions can affect the delivery and transportation of scissor lifts to and from your work site. Find out more about these specific transportation restrictions and plan accordingly. You can work with your rental company to learn more about these restrictions and ensure a smooth process.
Environmental Considerations
In the City of London, there’s a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. Be aware of emissions standards and noise restrictions when hiring construction equipment. This is particularly important for diesel-powered scissor lifts.
Safety Regulations
London has stringent safety regulations, and you must adhere to them. Ensure that operators are trained and certified to operate scissor lifts safely.
Permits
You may need special permits for scissor lift operations and other aspects of your project. This depends on your location and the specific nature of your project. Check with local authorities and the rental company you’re working with to secure the necessary permits before processing.
Conclusion
Hiring a scissor lift in London can greatly enhance your ability to tackle projects at various heights efficiently and safely. Of course, you have to consider your project requirements, budget, and local peculiarities of vertical access in London. Work with reputable rental companies like easyToolhire, and you’ll find it easier to navigate the vertical world of London with confidence and ensure successful outcomes on all your projects.
