If you work in a warehouse environment, then you know how difficult it can be to work at height when you don’t have the required equipment. In these instances, it may be a good idea to hire the right machinery for the job. 

Many warehouse operations make frequent use of the scissor lift hire Melbourne companies rely on to get various jobs done. However, there are a few key factors to keep in mind when you’re short-listing potential rental options. 

Understanding the Ins and Outs of Scissor Lift Hire

You want the difficult job functions in your warehouse to go down safely and without any hassles. Sometimes that means hiring equipment you may not already have in your machinery arsenal. One of the more commonly rented machines is the scissor lift. Let’s dive in and take a look at why it’s a firm favourite with project managers. 

1. Understanding What a Scissor Lift Is

Essentially, scissor lifts are small carts that have crisscrossing metal bars with a platform on top. A worker can stand on the top platform and then be lifted to a higher position when the metal bars expand. 

Scissor lifts are considerably safer and more functional than traditional ladders because they’re freestanding and feature an enclosed platform on top. These types of lifts are often an employer’s first choice for the following reasons:

• Can be used in different terrains
• Available in various sizes for all types of work
• Can easily be adjusted to work at varying heights
• Safer than ladders as it’s not leaning against a wall or shelf
• No assembly is required as there is with a scaffold
• Unlike a scaffold, there’s no climbing required

2. Operator Will Need to be Licensed

Before you hire a scissor lift, you will need to establish who will be operating it, because Australian law dictates that any person operating a scissor lift will need to be licensed. Speak to your rental agency about hiring a certified operator. If they supply this service, keep in mind that it will be at an additional cost. 

However, if you’re going to use the scissor lift for a longer period, it might be more economical to have one of your employees trained and certified to operate it. Your operator will require an EWP Operator Ticket (Yellow Card) for heights below 11 meters. For heights above 11 meters, your operator will need a High-Risk Work Licence. The good news is that it only takes 1-2 days to complete the scissor jack certification. 

3. Hire the Right Unit For The Job 

When it comes to the scissor lift or dingo hire Melbourne companies opt for, choosing the right sized unit is crucial. This is because these machines are designed to perform different functions at different heights. 

Furthermore, the type of scissor lifts you can choose from include the following:

• Diesel
• Electric
• Hydraulic
• Rough terrain
• Pneumatic

If you’re not sure which one you need, your rental agent will be able to point you in the right direction. Be specific about the area you work in and job you want to do so that the hiring agent can advise you on the best option to get the job done safely.

4. What Considerations Determine the Type of Scissor Lift Needed?

Several factors will help your rental agent determine which unit is best suited to your warehouse or construction site. Here are some questions they may ask you:

• Will the unit be used inside or outside?
• Is a rough terrain unit needed?
• What is the maximum height that needs to be reached?
• How often will this lift be used?
• To determine the weight capacity required you will need to calculate the weight of the people or equipment that needs to be lifted to or from the height position

5. Understanding the Hiring Process

It’s important to understand the hiring process to avoid any discrepancies and issues when it’s time to pay the bill. Our experts recommend the following tips for first-time equipment renters:

• Only hire machinery from reputable companies with a proven track record
• Check the quality of the machinery—it should be clean and in 100% working order
• Read the fine print of the contract and be sure to obtain clarity on any points that aren’t clear
• Ask about administrative costs and any additional costs that may be added at a later date
• Check the maintenance record to ensure that the machine you are renting is in good, working order

Final Thought

Hiring a scissor lift is more economical than having to purchase one, especially if you don’t have the capital for such a huge investment. Furthermore, there’s not much sense in buying a machine that you won’t be needing every day. Since the rental process is quick and simple, it’s a good idea to make it your go-to option the next time you have work that needs to be done at height! And now you know how to go about this process.