To ensure that you can be 100% confident, we’ve put together this handy guide of all the key technical terms on this site. This way you know you’re making the right choices when it comes to hiring from ACS Access.

If you have any queries, with terms on this list or anything else, please do not hesitate to get in touch! We’ll be more than happy to help you.

1. Access Platform

A.K.A: Aerial Platform or Boom Lift or Cherry Picker or Lift Platform or Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) or Work Platform.

All are a mechanical device that uses a movable platform, to provide temporary access to areas above ground level, for one or more individuals. More commonly referred to as a Cherry Picker or Boom Lift.

2. All Wheel Drive;

An advanced drive system, that can switch between 2 and 4 wheel drive. This ensures the best operating performance in all environments.

3. Articulating Boom;

A MEWP with more than one boom connected via a knuckle. All Niftylifts have articulating booms and offer the advantage of up and over access to applications.

4. Bi-Energy Power;

The combination of two or more power sources on a machine, that the operator can select and switch between. This offers increased machine utilisation due to greater flexibility. For example a Diesel-electric machine can be used both indoors and outdoors as it is zero emission in electric mode.

5. Boom;

Either A) hydraulically powered movable arm, to which the cage is attached, or B) a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP)

6. Cage;

The mobile enclosure in which the operator stands: also referred to as the platform.

7. Hybrid Power;

A power option that simultaneously combines the use of battery and engine power, automatically optimising power output versus energy usage. The engine size needed to power the machines is reduced compared with an equivalent engine only or Bi-Energy powered machine, which reduces fuel consumption, pollution and running costs.

8. International Powered Access Federation (IPAF);

A not-for-profit organisation that promotes the safe and effective use of powered access worldwide. It represents and protects the interests of manufacturers, distributors, users, rental and training companies.

9. Links;

A riser mechanism that provides vertical lift to the telescope booms.  This feature provides up and over capability to clear low level obstacles, using only one machine control.

10. Telescopic Boom;

A boom which can be extended hydraulically to increase its overall length. It increases the amount of low-level outreach available to the operator compared to a fixed upper boom.

Contact ACS Access for cherry picker hire today!

At ACS Access, we regularly support clients in a vast range of industries by supplying them with truck mounted powered access platforms. If you would like to explore the range of cherry pickers that we offer, check out our powered access fleet today.

Alternatively if you would like to talk over your options with a dedicated member of the ACS Access team, you can do so by giving us a call on
01254 693 131.

Can’t speak to us over the phone right now? No problem, you can also get in touch with us by completing our quick and simple online contact form.

Choose a leading access equipment supplier.

The post Lift Hire Terminology: Explained appeared first on ACS ACCESS.

What is the Working at Height Regulations Act 2005?

The purpose of the Work at Height Act 2005 is to reduce death and injury for those working at height. Working at height comes with risk and requires specialist equipment and planning in order to ensure workers safety as well as the wider publics.

The Work at Height Act 2005, enshrines work at height regulations in law and both employers as well as those who control work at height, must comply with the legislation by making sure the regulations are adhered to. In conjunction with this, employees are expected to be made aware of and understand elements of the protocols themselves.

Avoid, Prevent, Minimise

As part of the Work at Height Regulations Act – HSE have a ‘hierarchy of controls’ to be followed when working at height.

1. Avoid

Can work at height be avoided all together? HSE advise assessing whether you can circumvent working at height by using extendable tools or lowering objects to the ground so the work can be carried out without a height risk.

2. Prevent

If you’re unable to avoid working at height, the next step is to prevent a fall from occurring. It is possible to prevent a fall by working in areas that have already been established as “safe” – HSE explain that a non-fragile roof with permanent rails, would satisfy the criteria. In some circumstances it could be appropriate to use MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms) to safely carry out work at height tasks in the workplace. Moreover, the use of safety equipment such as a harness, can also prevent those working at height from falling.

3. Minimise

If the risk that a person could fall remains you should minimise the distance and/or consequences of the fall by using collective protection and/or personal protection. Collective protection such as safety nets and soft-landing systems, can be installed in close proximity to where the work is being conducted. Personal protection could include a fall arrest system or industrial rope access.

Key Work at Height Regulations

• Risk assessments must be carried out for all work at height tasks, this can be done individually or collectively. Any risks identified must be managed by the relevant party to either eliminate or minimise them.
• It is vital all work at height duties be meticulously planned in advance, taking into account factors such as environmental conditions, occupational safety and the sourcing of equipment and materials as well emergency plans and procedures. 
• The employer is responsible for ensuring work at height tasks are carried out by ‘competent employees.’ A competent employee is a person with knowledge and skills as well as the experience to safely conduct work at height. If an employee is being trained, you must ensure that they are supervised by a competent person throughout their training.
• Whether equipment is personal or collective, it must be supplied by the employer and the employer must ensure it is used correctly. Collective equipment which protects multiple people is to be prioritised over personal protective equipment. As an example – a guard rail is more important than a safety harness which can only be used by one person.

Working at Height FAQ’s

We’ve accumulated a variety of most frequently asked questions about working at height, check out the answers below.

Who is Responsible for Checking Your Work at Height Equipment Before it is Used?

The employer is responsible for checking any equipment prior to it being used, according to Regulation 12 of the Working at Heights Act 2005. As a result of this, if equipment isn’t tested and reviewed on a regular basis, the employer is liable.

Can I refuse to work at height?

If your employer asks you to work at height and you believe this would be unsafe, a person is protected by law to be able to challenge this request.

What is the Minimum Height Considered as Working at Height?

Work that takes place above ground level is considered “working at height”, therefore there is no specific height at which someone is considered to be “working at height”.

What is the Maximum Height You Can Work at Without Fall Protection?

Protective equipment is to be used if there is any risk of a person falling and injuring themselves or worse. Unlike the 1974 act, the 2005 act removed the ‘6ft rule’ and it is now considered that protective equipment is necessary if there is a risk of falling at any height.

How Our Fleet Can Fortify Your Safety Whilst Working at Height

ACS Access are dedicated to ensuring your work at height is hassle free and above all, safe. Our fleet of Mobile Elevating Platforms are regularly inspected to comply with current HSE guidelines.

Find out more about how our fleet can meet your requirements to work at height safely. Take a look at our fleet of truck mounted platforms for hire.

Reach out for your quote today.

The post Your Guide to Working at Height appeared first on ACS ACCESS.

Falls from height are the key cause of fatal accidents in the workplace. Access equipment helps to keep workers safe while they perform their particular job roles.

There are many different types of access equipment. The best method to use depends on various factors, such as height, floor space, the task at hand, whether there are any environmental restrictions, and the availability of trained supervisors.

Below, we provide an access equipment list that further details the uses and benefits of each type of access equipment.

Edge Protection Systems

Edge protection systems are commonly used when there is a risk of falling from rooftops. They typically surround the edges of raised walkways and provide a robust barrier, preventing falls from height as a result of slips and trips. The systems must meet the strict requirements of UK health and safety legislation.

Folding Work Platforms

This type of platform is also known as a ‘working platform’. It is the portability of these systems that makes them popular with tradespeople like painters and decorators. Many of these platforms fold for easy storage. Folding work platforms are relatively safe for most users but caution still needs to be observed to prevent minor injuries.

Podium Platforms

Podium platforms provide access to heights and offer increased levels of safety compared to standard step ladders. They are typically used for changing light bulbs and fixtures, painting walls, plastering at height, and other general purpose maintenance. Most feature a sturdy step-based tower to prevent falls.

Mobile Access Towers

This type of access tower has casters for increased mobility. Available in a variety of heights, mobile access towers, also called scaffold towers, are used for when a podium platform is insufficient for the height of the project. They are commonly used by painters and maintenance personnel who need safe access to heights.

Powered Access Platforms

Powered access platforms is a generic term for a range of mechanical platforms, such as cherry pickers, scissor lifts, boom lifts, and similar. Most powered access platforms require certification before use. They also require regular training and supervision. At least one fully trained supervisor should be on-site during use.

Ladders

Perhaps the simplest and most famous of all access equipment, ladders provide fast and easy access to heights. While ladders are simple to use and effective, they are not always the safest option for particular tasks. This is why other forms of access equipment like podium platforms and access towers are safer alternatives.

Personal Access

Personal access equipment is used by individuals to reach heights where there is a risk of falling. Examples include passenger hoists and suspension equipment. Common applications of personal access equipment include harnesses and hoists for window cleaning, inspection of roofing, and as extra safety precautions.

Material Movement

In situations where materials need to be moved to challenging areas, material movement access equipment can help. Most often, material movement equipment is designed to move materials to and from heights, such as rooftops. Examples of these systems include cranes, goods hoists, lift trucks, gin wheels, and lorry loaders.

Visit ACS Access for specialist access equipment

Visit ACS Access for a comprehensive range of market-leading access equipment for all types and sizes of projects. We have 35+ years experience in the field and provide access equipment for hire for all industries.

Get in touch with our friendly, knowledgeable team for further information and to discuss your requirements.

The post What Are All The Different Access Equipment Types? appeared first on ACS ACCESS.

The post Factors to consider when hiring a cherry picker appeared first on ACS ACCESS.

Benefits of long-term contract rental

Choosing to rent access vehicles on a long-term basis has many benefits. Below, we outline some of the key advantages of contract rental over short-term hire and ownership:

Safety

• The first benefit is safety. Having a specialist manage your cherry picker reduces the chance of accidental injury and subsequent claims.

No maintenance costs

• You avoid having to undertake vehicle servicing yourself. And you avoid paying for third-party maintenance services.

LOLER certification

• Gain a guaranteed ‘thorough examination’, as accredited by the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment (LOLER) body.

Plug gaps in operational capability

• Long-term rental of boom lifts ensures you can keep working without any down-time.

Regular servicing

• You get dedicated customer support and gain cover for wear and tear of the vehicle (provided the platform is used as intended).

A great economical option

• You do not have to pay a large outlay cost for equipment. Month-to-month payments make contract rental affordable.

The problems with access vehicle ownership

Although you may consider access vehicle ownership, this is often not the best option. For one thing, you need to consider all the safety aspects of cherry picker ownership: regular inspections, conducting maintenance, and the costs this can involve.

It is also worth mentioning that the initial outlay to purchase an access vehicle is extremely expensive. In nearly all cases, this can run into many thousands of pounds, far exceeding the cost of most standard vehicles.

Popular boom lift rental products

Ascendant 22m

The Ascendant 22m is a versatile and dependable access vehicle with a reach height of 22m and maximum lift capacity of 7,500kg. It has a platform height of 3.5m, horizontal outreach of 17m, and cage rotation of 160°.

Ruthmann TK310

Ruthmann TK310 is a suitable option if you require increased cage rotation since it offers up to 450° motion. This model has a maximum lift capacity of 200kg and a horizontal outreach of 17.90m. It weighs approximately 7.5 tonnes.

Ruthmann T630

The T630 from Ruthmann provides a tall reach height of 63m, making it a reliable choice for less accessible tasks. The access platform has a lift capacity of 600kg and a horizontal outreach of 39m. The cage rotation has up to 180° motion.

Visit ACS Access for access vehicle contract rental

At ACS Access, we provide long-term contract rental of high-quality truck mounted access platforms and boom lifts. Our professional team has great experience in the industry and can suggest suitable cherry pickers for a wide range of tasks. Visit our website and get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

The post Contract rental for access vehicles appeared first on ACS ACCESS.

Judging the level of danger

It is important to first assess the level of danger. This is key to determining the safe wind speed for working at height. An anemometer will help to determine how strong the wind speed is. Anemometers are generally considered to be the most reliable and accurate way to measure wind speed. So never ignore the reading.

Wind speed limit for working at height

MEWPs that are designed for outdoor use and meet the BS EN280:2001+A2:2009 guidelines will have the maximum wind speed designation clearly labelled. Often the cherry picker wind speed limit will be a maximum of 28 mph. Some specialist equipment can withstand higher wind speeds. But for the most part, 28 mph is the maximum. Indoor cherry pickers will not have a maximum limit and should not be used outdoors. It is worth noting that wind speed increases with height. So 28 mph on the ground may be 50% more at the top of the cherry picker.

Beware of gaps between buildings

Gaps between buildings are a potential safety hazard for operators of cherry pickers. Tall buildings can create a ‘wind tunnel’ effect, increasing the speed and intensity of the wind. This can destabilise the cherry picker and cause other safety concerns. It is important to avoid gaps between buildings during windy weather, especially if equipment needs to be installed. Any equipment with a flat surface can be easily dislodged by the wind, causing damage to property, workers, and the public. So conduct a full risk assessment and wind speed test. If in doubt, postpone the job.

Wind chill is another factor to be aware of

While wind speed is a key danger point, wind chill is another factor to be aware of when working with cherry pickers. A ground temperature of 15 degrees may seem perfectly reasonable. But at height, the wind chill can feel significantly cooler. Cold extremes combined with high wind speeds can disorientate workers, cause confusion, and increase the potential for danger. As a result, it is important to take into account wind chill alongside wind speed when conducting a risk assessment. The Health and Safety Executive has more in-depth guidance for companies.

Contact ACS Access for specialist access equipment

At ACS Access, we have great experience in providing access equipment for different industries. Our hire truck mounted platforms are suitable for a variety of tasks, such as window cleaning, wind turbine maintenance, building inspections, and more.

Our dedicated staff have a wealth of knowledge in judging site safety at height in windy conditions. For more information, please get in touch with us.

The post How to Judge Site Safety in Windy Conditions appeared first on ACS ACCESS.

Cost considerations

The first consideration is cost. Renting a cherry picker is relatively inexpensive and provides good value for money. This is because cherry pickers offer the best of both worlds: access to the area for aerial inspection, and the human element for instant repairs and other on-site work.

Quality drones equipped with high-definition video equipment have many uses, but they can be costly to buy and maintain. There is also the labour aspect to consider. Training may be required to operate the drone, additional software might need to be installed, and extra personnel hired to perform image processing and editing. 

The key consideration is value for money. Think: is a cherry picker more practical, economical, and viable? Or does my project need the type of imaging drones can provide. Then consider the further points below.

Efficiency of operation

The efficiency of operation is important to consider. You need to think about the limitations of drones. Bad weather can lead to poor visibility, severely limiting the means of operation and quality of imaging possible.

Drones are also more likely to crash into obstacles at height, especially without extensive training. This can restrict access, delay the aerial inspection project, and also cause danger. Cherry pickers do not have the problems associated with drones.

Means of access

There are limitations where drones can be deployed. This is especially the case in areas where there is a danger to life or airspace restrictions by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Once on-site, drones cannot remove debris, perform maintenance tasks, or install technical equipment.

Similarly, there will be situations when photography or video from a drone is simply not suitable for the task. When performing aerial inspections, there are many times when a human needs to inspect a problem close up. In fact, it may be the case that the problem is hidden beneath a cover, which requires removal before inspection. In these cases, a cherry picker is the obvious choice.

Book Your Aerial Inspection With ACS Access

This article has highlighted the key considerations to think about when choosing a drone or cherry picker for aerial inspections. In summary, it really depends on the type of aerial inspection and what you want to achieve. If the human factor is important for maintenance and repair work, a cherry picker is nearly always the best and most affordable choice. But drones have some uses and provide good post inspection analysis. For more information, please visit ACS Access for aerial inspection services and cherry picker rental.

The post Aerial Inspections: Choosing between a cherry picker or drone appeared first on ACS ACCESS.

Despite the price, Scaffolding only gives you a couple extra meters of height when working on properties. To cover the front of a block of flats completely, this can cost as much as £1200. 

At ACS Access we understand that sometimes there is no other option other than using scaffolding, but in many instances most of your maintenance work could be fulfilled by a cherry picker which can save you a lot of money over the year.

In our latest blog post we compare the two options, and explain why opting for a cherry picker may just be the more cost-effective and efficient option for your circumstances.

What benefits does Scaffolding have?

If you believe that your job needs something in-between a ladder and a cherry picker, then maybe considering a free-standing scaffolding tower is the right choice. If you think that your work will only take between an hour to a couple of days, but you don’t need the flexibility of a cherry picker, then a scaffold tower is probably your best bet.

Getting all of the home maintenance done as quickly as possible is vital when you want to sit back and enjoy true relaxation at your leisure. You must remember that arranging the right equipment is time consuming at first, but it can save your household a lot of hassle in the long run.

What benefits does a cherry picker have?

A highly popular option for working at-height is to hire a cherry picker with the experts here at ACS Access. We know every task you face has different requirements, that’s why the flexibility and overall reach of our cherry pickers provide you faster workflow and safely.

If you’re required to carry heavy and obscure equipment, then the bucket of our cherry pickers will provide you with everything you need to bring supplies with you to the working area without having to worry about lumbering them around with you.

Additionally, we offer a wide selection of cherry pickers with varying extensions and they can be easily re-positioned without returning to the ground, like you would have to with a Scaffolding or a ladder. The useful stability and reach of cherry pickers consistently prove their helpful use of reaching to high-up areas that you may struggle to access with scaffolding.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with our huge range of cherry picker options, that are all specially designed for long-term use in many different environments

Our truck mounted platforms can be used in outdoor spaces such as buildings, football stadiums and industrial areas whereas our compact electric vehicles are excellent for indoor use. Additionally, our cherry pickers can be used for a range of external cleaning tasks such as cleaning gutters, installing gas flues and tree surgery.

At ACS Access, we regularly support clients in a vast range of industries by supplying them with our leading powered access platforms. If you would like to explore the range of cherry pickers that we offer, check out our powered access fleet today.

Contact ACS Access for cherry picker hire today!

If you would like to talk over your options with a dedicated member of the ACS Access team, you can do so by giving us a call on 01254 693 131.

Can’t speak to us over the phone right now? No problem, you can also get in touch with us by completing our quick and simple online contact form.

The post Scaffolding or Cherry picker – which is better to use? appeared first on ACS ACCESS.

That’s why we’ve introduced the Bronto Skylift; a truck-mounted aerial platform to help you work safely and efficiently.

So, in our latest blog post, we want to introduce you to the Bronto Skylift S 56 XR and provide you with all the essential information you need to know.

Carry out safe and efficient access with a Bronto Skylift

The Bronto Skylift S 56 XR is an easy and precise control system, that allows you to carry out your required job, no matter what the height is.

Reaching higher and further, you can perform multiple tasks using one versatile platform; reducing operational costs and increasing productivity.

The Bronto Compass remote diagnostics will let you focus on the job at hand, with automatic levelling and variable jacking.

The reduced weight of the versatile platform also enables a reliable outreach of up to 40 meters, designed for easy manoeuvring regardless of the external circumstances. It’s maximum working height reaches 56m, whilst the up and over extends to 16m.

Ideal for industrial access, the maximum cage load permits 700kg with an extendable 600kg and a typical chassis of GVW26 t.

With high uptime, you will be set up in no time to execute your job securely, delivering efficient and profitable work as well as a safe return.

Bronto Skylift S 56 XR optional equipment

Equipped with various accessories, the Bronto Skylift will keep you geared up for your job completion, with a vast selection of optional equipment configurable to suit your operations.

The optional equipment includes:

• Extendable working cage with hydraulic extension up to 3.7 meters
• CW-400, detachable winch in the working cage 400 kg and winch arm slewing +/- 45 degrees (only for materials).
• BW-1100 boom winch mounted in the end of the 1st boom (mechanical structure, electricity and winch).
• 1100 kg material capacity
• Ultrasonic collision guard with 4 sensors
• B-RCC rotating camera cage
• Element lifting system. 1pc capacity 150 kg.
• Lighting rig, capacity 300 kg
• B-WRC Wireless Remote Control
• A 6,5 kVA (230 V / 400 V/ 50Hz) hydraulically driven generator.
• Bronto Loadman portable device for measuring the bearing capacity of ground
• Electric motor drive for the hydraulics
• Round ground pads

So, no matter what your job height is, let the Bronto Skylift take care of your industrial access.

Hire the Bronto Skylift S 56 XR with ACS Access today!

At ACS Access, we provide a fleet of leading access equipment ideal for a variety of industries, providing you with an effective solution to meet the needs of the job at hand. Discover our range of truck mounted access fleet available for hire and find the right solution for you.

If you have any questions regarding our services, our team would be happy to help.

Give us a call on 01254 693 131 or if you can’t speak to us over the phone right now, get in touch with us by completing our quick and simple online contact form.

The post Introducing our new Bronto Skylift S 56 XR appeared first on ACS ACCESS.