What are boom lifts used for?
A boom lift or boom truck is a versatile piece of equipment commonly used in the construction and maintenance industries. It is a type of aerial work platform that can be used to lift workers and materials to elevated heights. Boom lifts can be used for a variety of tasks, including painting, window cleaning, installation or finishing work, electrical work, and construction.
One of the main benefits of a boom lift is its ability to provide safe access to hard-to-reach areas. Unlike ladders or scaffolding, these lifts offer a stable and secure platform for workers to perform their tasks. They also provide more flexibility and mobility than traditional methods, as they can be easily moved around the job site and adjusted to different heights and angles.
Boom lifts are usually equipped with a long boom, so they require some free space to operate. Thus, this type of lifting equipment is more relevant for outdoor work.
To increase efficiency, self-propelled models are equipped with diesel internal combustion engines and special off-road tires. This increases the throughput and power of the lifts. In addition, most models of self-propelled telescopic lifts are equipped with all-wheel drive to improve manoeuvrability.
Use of Tracked Booms
In addition to self-propelled models, mobile boom lifts are on the market. Mobile models are used to lift and move small loads and people. They are characterised by a lower working height – the boom reach is 10-20 metres. In some models, like the DINGLI BT30RT, the reach is up to 30 metres.
Since the boom of a mobile telescopic lift is smaller than that of self-propelled machines, they are often used when working indoors. This is also facilitated by less weight and compact dimensions, meaning such lifts easily pass into narrow spaces and fit into some elevators.
Elavation’s lift fleet now includes compact tracked electric models that are also successfully used indoors. Check out one of these lifts at work!
Safety of boom lifts
Safety is always a top priority when operating a boom lift. Operators should always be properly trained and certified, and follow all safety guidelines and regulations. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, such as hard hats and safety harnesses, and using caution when manoeuvring the lift around obstacles and uneven terrain.
In general, boom lifts are completely safe when used correctly. They are equipped with special articulated supports that prevent the lift from tilting beyond the established measure. Platforms are equipped with railings to protect workers when working at height.
Whether buying or renting a boom lift, it’s important to consider factors such as the height and reach required, weight capacity, and terrain. This will allow you to choose the right model, which will increase both the efficiency of work and its safety.
Common questions about boom lifts
Can a boom lift be used as a crane?
The simple answer is no – a boom lift and a crane are used for different projects. Boom lifts are used to lift workers and tools and work safely at height, whereas cranes are used to lift heavy loads to great heights.
Lifting materials with a boom lift may involve the risk of tipping over and other unsafe situations.
Can you use a boom lift with traffic underneath?
Absolutely not. It is essential to clear the area under the boom and the entire working area of a lift to prevent people from being in this area. In the case of using the equipment in urban areas, the workspace should be restricted with danger signs, warning tape, barriers and a worker telling others to stay away.
