The access industry is vital in supplying tools and machinery to construction and maintenance companies, both big and small. This article looks at the most popular instruments today and how they benefit workers worldwide.

Vehicle-mounted Access Platforms

Vehicle or truck-mounted access solutions are ideal for on-the-road maintenance. They are often used by utility companies to gain access to pylons and other structures. These machines are invaluable for frequent small jobs requiring access to many locations. The operator can simply drive up to the site and begin work.


Trailer Mounted Access Platforms

These access platforms are easily transported due to their in-built trailer and hitching mechanism. A regular vehicle can deliver the platform to the site, allowing the worker to transport the tool to different jobs. Although trailer-mounted media take longer to set up than vehicle-mounted alternatives, they offer the advantage of being more maneuverable. The operator can often fit these through smaller gaps, making them ideal for indoor use. Some manufacturers also provide drive options, so manual pushing and manipulating into position can be avoided.

Self-Propelled Access Platforms

Self-propelled access platforms have inbuilt engines and drive systems. Battery-powered machines are rapidly increasing for environmental protection. This allows the forum to be moved into position; some models are designed to cope with rough terrain and severe gradients up to 50%, unlike trailer mounts, where many need to be manually positioned. Some even come with remote control functionality, allowing the operator to stand clear of the platform while it moves. Of course, this access platform requires a suitable trailer for transportation between sites.

Spider Access Platforms

Spider platforms can be either manual or self-propelled. They are designed to enhance maneuverability with legs that fold in during transport. This allows spider access platforms to fit through more narrow spaces, such as doorways. As a result, this type of platform is often found working indoors on construction and property maintenance jobs.

Scissor Lifts

This platform is helpful during the construction of the warehouse and other buildings. Scissor lifts can reach significant heights in a vertical-only direction. They are perfect for the installation of cladding and signs and have a variety of uses.

Boom Lifts


This platform type can be driven at height and often doesn’t require outriggers while the worker operates the machine. This allows the forum to travel from one spot to another without picking up the device, helping to improve worker efficiency.

Tracked Vs. Wheeled Platforms

Most platforms listed above can be specified with either tracks or wheels. Which one you choose should depend on your needs. Tracked access platforms can tackle extreme terrain types but are often more expensive. In addition, tracks sometimes work better on delicate surfaces such as interior floors as they spread the load more effectively. Some platforms can be specified with indoor wheels, however. These can help protect flooring without requiring a track to do so.

Companies that sell cherry pickers

Uphire

Offers diesel or electric machines with heights from 45–180 feet, and includes a full manufacturer's warranty

Mega Hire Sydney

Offers a 12-meter trailer mounted cherry picker for $350 per day or $1,190 per week, plus delivery to greater Sydney for $150 each way 

Companies that hire cherry pickers out

Universal Mobile Tower Hire
Offers cherry picker hire Sydney services with over 20 years of industry experience, and can advise on technical and mechanical aspects.

Australian Boom & Scissor Lift

Offers cherry picker hire in nearly 50 different models, including small, eco-friendly, and large and high models, plus free on-site inspections.

Mobile Access Tower

Offers cherry picker hire, as well as boom lift, scissor lift, and other EWP equipment hire, plus 24/7 support and service, and free site inspections 

Summary

The access industry involves many mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP). There are more options to choose from than you might have imagined. With the different options available, there’s a MEWP to suit the most specific requirements.