15 Things You Never Knew About Aerial Lifts and Scissor Lifts

Aerial lifts and scissor lifts are essential tools in various industries, from construction and maintenance to event staging and more. W

While many are familiar with their basic functions, there are numerous fascinating and lesser-known facts about these versatile machines.?

In this article, we will talk about 15 surprising aspects of aerial and scissor lifts to provide a comprehensive overview of their history, types, operation, and safety features.

1. Origins and Inventors

The invention of the aerial work platform is often credited to John L. Grove, an American inventor and industrialist. Grove's inspiration to create a safer working platform stemmed from witnessing a tragic accident at the Hoover Dam, where two workers were electrocuted while on scaffolding. However, the first aerial lift model was introduced by a company called Selma Manlift in 1966, predating Grove’s models.

2. Tallest Aerial Lift

The world's tallest aerial lift, created by Elliott Equipment, boasts a working height of 215 feet, a side reach of 80 feet, and a platform capacity of up to 1,200 pounds. This lift, known as the E160/215, surpasses the height of the JLG 1850SJ, which stands at 185 feet. (source)

3. Types of Aerial Lifts

Aerial work platforms are designed to elevate workers and equipment to high work sites, with various types suited for specific tasks:

Cherry Pickers: These boom-supported platforms are mounted on vehicles. Originally for picking fruit, they are now essential for tasks like repairing electrical lines and streetlights due to their mobility and reach. It extends both horizontally and vertically.

Personnel Lifts: Also known as mechanical ladders, these lifts are for single-person use, and ideal for indoor maintenance such as changing light bulbs, painting, or accessing high shelves. They offer a safer, more stable alternative to traditional ladders with features like guardrails and secure platforms.

Articulating Boom Lifts: Known as knuckle booms, these have multiple sections that bend and move independently allowing manoeuvrability around obstacles. The boom moves vertically, and horizontally, and rotates 360 degrees What makes them perfect for complex environments like construction sites.

Telescopic Boom Lifts: Also called stick booms, these have a single extendable arm reaching up to 100 feet. They provide stable, straightforward vertical reach, ideal for tasks requiring height, such as window washing on tall buildings or high-rise construction work.

Towable Boom Lifts: These portable lifts can be towed behind vehicles, offering versatility and ease of transport for various tasks.

Scissor Lifts: Featuring a criss-cross metal structure, these lifts elevate vertically, providing stable platforms for heavy-duty tasks like loading and unloading materials or maintenance work.

4. Versatility in Drive and Tread Options

Aerial lifts can be equipped with either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive systems, and their tyres can vary in tread type to suit different terrains. Some models even feature bulldozer-like tracks for operation on soft or sandy soils.

5. Power Sources

Traditional aerial lifts typically use gasoline, diesel, or propane. However, newer models increasingly utilize lithium batteries, offering a more environmentally friendly and quieter alternative, particularly suitable for indoor operations.

6. Rental vs. Purchase

Aerial lifts are available for both rental and purchase. Renting can be cost-effective for short-term use, while purchasing is ideal for long-term needs, allowing businesses to maximise their return on investment through proper maintenance.

7. Cost Range

The cost of an aerial lift varies widely, ranging from $5,000 to $80,000, depending on the make and model. It's advisable to shop around to find a lift that meets specific needs and budget constraints.

8. Safety Equipment

When operating an aerial lift, workers must wear a body belt with a lanyard attached to the boom or basket. This is crucial for preventing falls and ensuring operator safety.

9. Indoor and Outdoor Applications

Aerial lifts are versatile tools used in various environments. Scissor lifts are ideal for construction sites, while telescopic boom lifts are preferred for electrical work. They are also employed to trim tall trees, set up event stages, and perform other specialized tasks.

10. OSHA Certification

To legally operate an aerial lift, workers must complete an OSHA-approved safety training program. This certification ensures operators understand the fundamentals, safety standards, and potential hazards associated with aerial lift operations. Businesses risk significant fines and penalties if found non-compliant.

11. Innovative Maneuverability

The self-propelled IAWP-7.3 industrial aerial work platform is designed to manoeuvre efficiently in tight spaces, offering a safer and more efficient alternative to ladders and scaffolding.

12. Terrain Adaptability

Different models of aerial lifts are designed for specific terrains. Rough terrain scissor lifts, for instance, are equipped with powerful engines and robust structures to navigate and operate efficiently on uneven outdoor surfaces.

13. Technological Advancements

Modern aerial lifts incorporate advanced technologies such as pneumatic, hydraulic, and mechanical systems using screws or rack-and-pinion mechanisms to enhance their performance and reliability.

14. Environmental Considerations

Electric scissor lifts are increasingly popular for indoor use due to their minimal environmental impact and quieter operation. These lifts produce no exhaust emissions, making them suitable for enclosed spaces.

15. Comprehensive Safety Practices

Safety is paramount when operating aerial lifts. Operators must conduct thorough pre-operation inspections, including checking fluid levels, hydraulic systems, and control mechanisms. The surrounding work area should be inspected for hazards such as unstable surfaces and overhead obstructions. Additionally, operators should never override safety features, exceed weight limits, or use the platform's edge improperly.

Conclusion

Aerial and scissor lifts are indispensable tools in many industries, offering unmatched versatility and safety for working at heights. Understanding the various types, applications, and safety considerations is crucial for maximising their effectiveness and ensuring safe operation. By adhering to proper training and certification requirements, businesses can enhance productivity while maintaining a safe working environment.