Not all construction sites are created equal – and neither are the machines you use to work at height. Choosing the wrong access platform isn’t just a hassle; it slows everything down, costs more than it should, and can make the job way riskier than it needs to be.
So how exactly do you choose the right access equipment for your project? Let’s take a look…
First: Know What You’re Up Against
Before you even look at a platform, take a hard look at the job site. What are you working on – a multi-storey build, a cramped indoor fit-out, a muddy field somewhere in the middle of nowhere? How high do you need to go? What’s being lifted – just people, or gear too?
Check the ground conditions. Is it solid and flat, or uneven and soft? Tight access? Low clearance? These are the kinds of details that’ll steer you toward one machine or another. Spider lifts for awkward terrain. Scissor lifts for simple up-and-down indoor stuff. Booms for trickier reaches. No guessing – just a proper match for the job.
Don’t Skimp on Safety
This one should go without saying, but too many people still treat it like an afterthought. Whatever platform you choose, make sure it ticks all the safety boxes – guardrails, emergency lowering, anti-slip floors, all of it. If you’re hiring, check the machine’s inspection log. If you’re buying, check what backup and support come with it.
And don’t just hand over the keys. Make sure the people using it are trained, certified, and actually know what they’re doing. It’s no use having a top-notch lift if someone’s swinging it around blind.
To Hire or To Buy? Depends What You’re Doing
If it’s a one-off job or short-term use, hiring makes sense. You get what you need, use it, and hand it back – no maintenance, no storage, no commitment. But if access gear is something you’re reaching for every other week, owning one starts to make more sense financially.
Think about frequency, project types, and downtime. The upfront cost of buying might sting, but the long-term savings can make it worth it if you’re using it regularly.
Fortunately, companies like the UK’s CPSLift offer both options.
Suppliers Matter More Than You Think
A good machine is only part of the equation. A good supplier is the other half. You want someone who knows their kit, actually listens to what you need, and doesn’t just push the most expensive model your way.
They should offer support, servicing, and a bit of guidance when your job throws you a curveball. It’s about more than the sale – it’s about keeping your site moving and your crew safe. If they can’t answer questions or get you what you need in a pinch, keep looking.
The Takeaway
Choosing the right access platform isn’t about following a checklist. It’s about asking the right questions, being realistic about your site conditions, and working with people who actually understand what’s at stake.
Get it right, and the job runs smoother. Get it wrong, and you’re dealing with delays, safety issues, and a lot of wasted time.
Don’t just go for what’s available. Go for what actually works. It’ll pay off – guaranteed.