If you’re on the hunt for a ‘Mobile Elevating Work Platform’, you’ve likely come across a spectrum of machines offering various advantages. There are often so many to choose from, it is important to choose the right MEWP for the job!
In this article, we’ve explored one of the most common types of platforms – the personnel lift – including identifying the different features. Like push around vertical platforms (PAVs), personnel lifts are used for low level access, but there are slight differences between the two.
An introduction to personnel lifts
A personnel lift is a type of boom lift that extends vertically – though, notably, it typically doesn’t have the same extension as a scissor lift!
That said, this is one of the great strengths of personnel lifts; not only are they extremely agile, but they’re conveniently compact too, which makes them the ideal choice in restricted or indoor environments – especially when completing tasks like picking stock and changing lights.
In many cases, personnel lifts are a more effective alternative to ladders and scaffolding, with the main benefit vs traditional means being their enhanced safety and manoeuvrability.
Want to learn more about finding your perfect platform? Explore our complete guide to choosing the right MEWP for working from height.
How to choose the right personnel lift
We’ve looked at some of the most common types of personnel lift; but what questions should you ask to help you choose the right platform for your project?
What is your working height?
If you need to reach significant height, something like a cherry picker might be the most appropriate type of lift, as it offers good length and reach. In contrast, a scissor lift, for example – though sturdy and stable – may not get you to quite the height you need.
However, if you’re looking to work at low to mid heights, our personnel lifts can elevate you between 4m and 8m.
What job are you undertaking?
When choosing a personnel lift, consider the type of job or task you’re undertaking. For example, if you responsible for inventory counting across multi-level racking, you might consider a personnel lift – while order picking might demand a more robust scissor lift, to manage bulky items or pallets.
In each case, a personnel lift is far safer than ladders and prevent the need to constantly climb up and down as some machines can be driven a height.
Do you need to navigate tight spaces?
Sometimes, precise manoeuvrability is a must, in which case you’ll likely favour a personnel lift that can effectively and easily navigate compact spaces, tight doorways, and busy aisles. Something like a SkyJack SJ16 or Dingli AMWP7-8100L, for example.
What platform capacity do you require?
Certain projects might only require a single user plus light tools, while others may demand a workers to carry stock or materials up and down regularly. The maximum platform load you need should be an early consideration when choosing a personnel lift, to ensure you’re buying or hiring correctly.
What are the key features of personnel lifts?
Considering a personnel lift, but want to know more about the features and benefits? Keep on reading to learn more about this popular MEWP.
Enhanced safety
Personnel lifts are safer than traditional solutions like ladders, thanks to their safety-first design that includes platforms with guardrails, room to carry materials and tools, and increased mobility which reduces overreaching.
Battery powered
Each personnel lift within our impressive range is battery powered, which helps to reduce emissions and noise pollution. This is especially useful when managing a project in a noise-sensitive environment, like an indoor or public space.
Indoor and outdoor
Whether you’re completing a warehouse stock check, stocking shelves or maintaining a manufacturing line, we’ve personnel lifts capable of adapting to a range of applications. Incidentally, while outdoor options are available, like the JLG 1230ES, personnel lifts are primarily designed for indoor use, so if you are planning an outside job, it might be better to look for a scissor lift or cherry picker.
Various safe working loads
Our personnel lifts can safely carry loads ranging from 159kg to approximately 250kg, giving you the flexibility to find a MEWP that can manage both users and materials.
Want to learn more about personnel lifts?
You should hopefully feel a bit more confident comparing and choosing a personnel lift for your next project. But if you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of experts or use our platform finder. Or, for even more insights, head on over to our blog.