Working at height presents unique challenges, from maintaining safety to ensuring efficiency. Whether you’re involved in construction, maintenance, or event setup, using the right equipment is crucial. One of the best solutions for height work is hiring a cherry picker, also known as a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP).
In this blog, Cherry Picker Fast will explore why this is a safe and efficient choice to hire for when operating at height. From their versatility to the safety advantages they offer, discover why they’re a must-have for your next project.
What is a Cherry Picker?
A cherry picker is a hydraulic lift platform mounted on a truck, van, or trailer. Designed to provide access to hard-to-reach areas, these machines are commonly used in various industries, including construction, maintenance, and film production.
Key Features of a Cherry Picker
- Extendable Boom: Allows vertical and horizontal movement to reach challenging locations.
- Stabilisation Systems: Provides a secure base to prevent tipping or wobbling during operation.
- Compact Design: Many cherry pickers are designed to fit into tight spaces, making them suitable for urban areas.
Why Choose Cherry Picker Hire Over Purchase?
Hiring a cherry picker offers several advantages over buying, particularly for businesses or individuals with short-term needs.
1. Cost-Effectiveness
- Purchasing a cherry picker involves a significant upfront cost, plus ongoing expenses for maintenance, storage, and insurance.
- Hiring allows you to access the latest equipment without the financial commitment of ownership.
2. Access to Modern Equipment
- Rental companies, such as Cherry Picker Fast, often provide well-maintained, up-to-date machinery with the latest safety features.
- This ensures compliance with industry standards and reduces the risk of equipment failure.
3. Flexibility
- Different projects may require different types of cherry pickers, such as articulated booms or scissor lifts. Hiring allows you to select the right model for each job.
- You can adjust the hire period to match your project timeline, whether it’s a day, a week, or longer.
Safety Benefits of Cherry Picker Hire
Safety is paramount when working at height, and cherry pickers are designed with this in mind. Here’s how they improve safety on the job:
1. Stability and Support
- Cherry pickers feature stabilisers and outriggers to create a secure base, reducing the risk of accidents.
- The enclosed platform ensures operators remain securely harnessed, minimising the chance of falls.
2. Reduced Manual Handling
- Traditional methods like ladders or scaffolding require significant physical effort to set up and use. Cherry pickers eliminate the need for manual climbing, reducing fatigue and the likelihood of slips or falls.
3. Enhanced Visibility
- Operators in cherry pickers have a clear, elevated view of their work area, improving precision and reducing the risk of errors.
4. Compliance with Safety Regulations
- Hiring from a reputable provider ensures the equipment is regularly inspected and meets current safety standards, giving you peace of mind.
How Cherry Pickers Boost Efficiency
Efficiency is just as important as safety in height work, and cherry pickers excel in this area too.
1. Faster Setup and Operation
- Unlike scaffolding, which can take hours or even days to set up, cherry pickers are ready to use within minutes.
- Their mobility allows operators to move quickly between tasks, saving valuable time.
2. Versatility Across Tasks
- Cherry pickers are suitable for a wide range of applications, from repairing roofs to pruning trees or installing signage.
- Their ability to reach both vertical and horizontal areas makes them ideal for complex jobs.
3. Precision and Control
- Modern cherry pickers feature advanced controls that allow precise positioning, ensuring tasks are completed accurately the first time.
- This reduces the need for rework, saving both time and resources.
Common Uses for Cherry Pickers
Cherry pickers are incredibly versatile, making them a valuable tool across various industries. Here are some of the most common applications:
1. Construction and Maintenance
- Painting or repairing building exteriors.
- Cleaning windows on tall structures.
- Inspecting roofs or gutters.
2. Event Setup
- Installing lights or decorations for outdoor events.
- Setting up temporary stages or backdrops.
3. Utility Work
- Repairing or installing overhead power lines.
- Trimming trees to prevent interference with utility cables.
4. Media and Film Production
- Providing elevated camera angles for shoots.
- Setting up lighting rigs or sound equipment.
Types of Cherry Pickers Available for Hire
Different tasks require different types of cherry pickers. Here’s a quick overview of the most common models:
1. Articulated Boom Lifts
- Features a segmented arm that can bend and pivot, allowing access to hard-to-reach areas.
- Ideal for jobs requiring both height and manoeuvrability.
2. Scissor Lifts
- Moves vertically and is perfect for jobs requiring stable platforms, such as indoor maintenance or warehouse work.
- Typically, it has a larger platform for multiple workers or equipment.
3. Telescopic Boom Lifts
- Provides a straight arm for maximum reach, making it suitable for high-rise work.
- Offers excellent stability for tasks requiring height.
4. Trailer-Mounted Cherry Pickers
- Lightweight and portable, these cherry pickers can be easily transported to various sites.
- Ideal for short-term or mobile projects.
Tips for Safe Cherry Picker Operation
While cherry pickers are designed with safety in mind, proper usage is essential to avoid accidents. Follow these tips to ensure safe operation:
- Undergo Training
Ensure all operators are properly trained and certified to use cherry pickers. - Inspect Equipment Before Use
Check for any visible damage or malfunctioning parts before starting work. - Use Harnesses and PPE
Always wear a safety harness and other personal protective equipment (PPE) while operating the cherry picker. - Follow Weight Limits
Adhere to the weight capacity specified for the equipment to prevent instability. - Be Mindful of Weather Conditions
Avoid using cherry pickers in high winds or heavy rain, as these conditions can compromise safety.
Why Hire from a Reputable Provider?
Hiring a cherry picker from a trusted company ensures you receive high-quality, well-maintained equipment. Look for providers that offer:
- Comprehensive maintenance and safety checks.
- A range of cherry picker models to suit different needs.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Expert advice on selecting the right equipment for your project.
Cherry picker hire is essential for anyone needing a safe and efficient solution for height work. From reducing manual effort to ensuring compliance with safety regulations, these versatile machines make even the most challenging tasks more manageable. Whether you’re working on a construction site, setting up an event, or trimming trees, hiring a cherry picker ensures you have the right equipment to get the job done quickly and safely.
If you’re ready to streamline your height work, explore Cherry Picker Fast’s cherry picker hire today. With options to suit every project and budget, we’re here to help you work smarter, not harder.