A scissor lift is a very useful piece of equipment and one of the must-have in every warehouse or construction site. It provides a steady rising platform with a safe enclosure. This equipment has already helped workers to accomplish lots of tasks required at high elevations, such as close inspections to cable wiring.

On the other hand, scissor lifts in construction are used to elevate either workers or necessary construction materials to high areas. Construction lifts come with different types of scissor lifts, depending on their purpose. Even if the scissor lift can only reach a shorter height and can only move up and down, this equipment can easily lift multiple people at once. This type of equipment is a more logical and affordable option, especially for construction projects where height is not a concern.

However, one should take note that before acquiring a scissor lift, they must already have well-trained and certified scissor lift operators. Otherwise, the company needs to look for an Academy for Scissor Lifts training for all of their operators and ensure that they all get the required certifications before allowing them to operate the equipment.

Moreover, scissor lifts vary in size, purpose, as well as fuel type. Below we have listed the five main types of scissor lifts currently being sold in the market.

Hydraulic scissor lifts

Hydraulic scissor lifts, as its name implies, are either operated by hand or powered by an engine-driven hydraulic system. The pressure is applied to hydraulic oil in the machine, which in turn, helps the scissor lift to move the platform either up or down. While the hydraulic scissor lift is quite easy to use and operate, it is still highly advisable that operators get certification from a certified Academy for Scissor Lifts training. It is to ensure that scissor lift is used and maintained properly, especially during low-temperature seasons. The reason is that during the cold season, the hydraulic oil in the machine becomes more viscous. It makes the machine operate much slower, thus affecting productivity. Furthermore, hydraulic scissor lifts are usable both indoors and outdoors, making them highly useful either on warehouses, construction sites or on similar infrastructure projects.

Diesel scissor lifts

Diesel scissor lifts, on the other hand, are popular and the most commonly used on construction sites. Their popular cross-braced design allows the equipment to reach a height of up to 30 feet and with some new models which can reach as high as 60 feet. However, since the equipment is diesel-powered, it emits fumes into the environment and is quite noisy during its operation. Because of those reasons, diesel scissor lifts are only used for outdoor construction sites since wide ventilation is present, which could also easily dissipate the engine’s noise. Diesel scissor lifts are also quite powerful, allowing the equipment to have a much larger aerial platform compared to other types of scissor lifts.

Electric scissor lifts

Electric scissor lifts are also popular aerial platform equipment. They can be an excellent alternative to burning fuel like diesel scissor lifts. Since electric scissor lifts are powered by electricity, it offers a silent drive mechanism. And since these machines do not emit fumes as well as noise, it offers a perfect solution for indoor spaces since they don’t have sufficient ventilation. Electric scissor lifts are also less bulky compared to their diesel counterparts, making them also highly useful in small spaces. Moreover, Electric scissor lifts use non-marking tires to prevent damaging the floor.

Rough terrain scissor lifts

Also, as its name implies, rough terrain scissor lifts are exclusively designed for outdoor terrain. These scissor lifts are usually equipped with heavy-duty tires, safety mechanisms, and high weight capacity. They are perfect when working in an area with uneven surfaces and slopes. They are also useful for work sites that take place in inclement weather. Rough terrain scissor lifts can reach up to 50 feet and widths up to 10 feet. These machines are either powered by gas, diesel, dual fuel, or liquid propane.

Pneumatic scissor lifts

Pneumatic scissor lifts are quite different from rest. It uses air pressure to power their lifting mechanism. Compared to diesel and rough terrain lifts, Pneumatic scissor lifts do not emit hazardous fumes into the environment. And pretty much like the electric scissor lifts, it is also a perfect and more sustainable option for warehouses who wish to lessen their carbon footprint. How does the pneumatic scissor lift work? It simply vacuums and compresses atmospheric air. However, this also makes the pneumatic scissor lift less powerful than rough terrain or diesel lift.

May 24, 2018 by Incredible Planet Staff

Storage Rental: Top 4 Features to Look For

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If you have an overflow of possessions, supplies, tools or equipment, but have limited space, then storage rental is definitely a valuable service to look into. Whether you are a homeowner, an entrepreneur or a contractor, this added space can keep your furniture, valuables and other items safe and secure for as long as you want or need.

However, not all storage units and facilities are created equal.

In Australia, for instance, there are storage rental companies that offer premium security while others simply use CCTV cameras. Although the former may ask for an added fee, you have the peace of mind that your stored belongings are well-protected. Remember that burglars also update their knowledge and skill as security tech advances. Thus, they will likely find it quite easy to get their hands on your precious things if the storage facility is protected only by CCTV cameras.

With that said, it is crucial for you to meticulously choose which among the storage rental companies in Campbelltown to work with. To help you, here are the top four features to look for.

1. State-of-the-art security

As mentioned earlier, security is a top concern when it comes to storage. Most people pass on using storage units because they fear that their belongings might be stolen at the facility. But with security tech innovations, many reputable service providers now also boast high-tech security systems.

Work with a storage rental company that has 24-hour video surveillance, individual locks and door alarms, proper lighting, fenced perimeters, and passcode-protected gates. Make sure that your things will always be under a watchful eye of security personnel. This way, they can easily notify authorities once suspicious activities are identified.

All these security measures will prevent unwanted visitors from having access to your things, thus preventing theft.

2. Superb customer service

You have to choose a storage facility with staff members that are willing to assist you anytime. If, for instance, you need to retrieve something from the storage unit after hours, they should be able to cater to your request.

Moreover, they should be proactive about your storage and moving needs. Experienced removalists are aware of the needs of their clients. Thus, if they notice that you have forgotten to invest in professional packing services or to hire a moving truck, they will inform you about this and even provide you with excellent solutions. After all, they are considered your best partners in easing the storage and removal process.

3. AFRA accreditation

AFRA stands for Australian Furniture Removers Association, a governing body that regulates the removals industry. An AFRA-accredited removal company means that their staff is properly trained to handle your furniture properly and that the trucks, forklifts, and other equipment they are using are compliant with safety standards.

This also guarantees that all standard operating criteria are met by the removalists, helping to ensure that all your items are well-protected and your move will be smooth and stress-free.

And because the removal company’s facilities and equipment are regularly inspected as per AFRA’s guidelines, you will have the peace of mind that all your belongings are kept safe and won’t disappear without explanation.

4. High-quality moving vehicles

Unless you want to opt for on-site storage units, you must also check the moving trucks of the company you wish to work with. Make sure they are well-maintained to prevent breakdowns while your items are in transit. And don’t forget to check the eligibility and track record of the driver as well.

Finding the best storage rental company isn’t always a quick and easy process, especially since there are plenty of service providers in Australia today. But being aware of what to look for in a storage facility will help narrow down your options and help make the move easier.

So before deciding which storage rental company to choose, make sure to check if they offer premium security, excellent customer service, AFRA accreditation, and well-maintained moving trucks. Once you’ve narrowed down your list to two or more service providers that meet such criteria, zoom in on the one that you feel most comfortable working with and that offers their services at a reasonable price.

AUTHOR BIO

Kim Hill works on Marketing at Adams & Rofe Removals and Storage and has been a dynamic figure in the removal industry for over 30 years. For relocating families, individuals or offices around Sydney or all over Australia, Kim will develop the perfect removal plan to take the stress out of your next move.