Operating a Boom Lift: Everything You Need To Know

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The boom lift is a crucial asset in various industries, offering unparalleled access to elevated and hard-to-reach spaces. It operates with a hydraulic arm extending outward and upward, featuring a secure platform or bucket for operators.

Predominantly employed in construction, warehouse management, and maintenance, boom lifts facilitate efficiently completing high-reach tasks. Understanding how to operate a boom lift unlocks the full potential of this versatile aerial work platform. Further, working with site specialists can help you select the appropriate lifting equipment for your operations.

The guide covers the details of operating boom lifts, exploring their types, components, and safety protocols. As we navigate the essential steps to operate a boom lift, we'll offer tips for increasing operational efficiency, weather considerations, accessories, and attachments available.

Functions of a Boom Lift

Before you try and rent a boom lift, it is crucial to understand its functions. This lifting machinery is often used in roofing, window washing, painting, and other similar jobs. They are articulated platform lifts designed to reach any height on a job site.

It features an extendable crane-like arm powered by hydraulics, reaching heights up to 180 feet (varies by design). Unlike their counterparts, boom lifts offer a secure workspace, ensuring your tasks at elevated altitudes are not just accomplished but done safely.

Safety, Maintenance, and Usage

Whether fixing lights or reaching towering structures, boom lifts are the reliable tools that make these tasks entirely achievable. However, there are several takeaways that you should keep in mind before you decide to rent one or determine how much it costs to rent a boom lift.

• Safety: Operating a boom lift requires more than just a quick tutorial. These machines are hefty and robust, posing potential risks if not handled carefully. Proper training is non-negotiable for operators to navigate the nuances of these heavy lifting machinery. From the weighty chassis to the extendable arms, mishandling can result in serious harm. Safety isn't an option when operating these machines'it's the foundation of efficient boom lift operation.
  
• Maintenance: A well-maintained boom lift is a reliable machine. Routine check-ups become essential for these mechanical equipment. Certified professionals ensure the hydraulic systems and extending arms are in top-notch condition. It's not just about preventing breakdowns. You should aim to avert accidents as well. Proper maintenance ensures the prolonged and efficient operation of these heavy lifting equipment.
  
• Versatility: These articulating machines are best known for their versatility. In construction, maintenance, film, and beyond, these aerial machines play key roles in the success of any project. The extendable arms can get to hard-to-reach spots.

How to Operate a Boom Lift

The following is a general overview of boom lift operations. It is important to note that specific boom lift models may have unique features or requirements, which may not be covered in the instructions below. Always refer to the manufacturer's manual and guidelines for precise instructions tailored to your equipment. Remember to practice safety first, always.

Step 1: Pre-Operation Inspection

Before anything else, conduct a thorough pre-operation inspection. Check for visible damages, leaks, or loose components. Verify the functionality of all controls, ensure proper tire inflation, and inspect the hydraulic system for any anomalies.

Step 2: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Next, gear up! Put on the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including a hard hat, safety harness, and any other equipment mandated by regulations or the specific job requirements.

Step 3: Power-Up and Start-Up Procedures

Turn on the boom lift using the designated controls. Familiarize yourself with the control panel, activating the emergency stop and ensuring all functions respond correctly. Engage the hydraulic system and make certain all movements are smooth.

Step 4: Platform Entry

With the boom lift operational, safely enter the platform using designated access points. Ensure the platform gate is securely latched, providing a secure and enclosed workspace.

Step 5: Control Familiarization

Get acquainted with the control layout. Understand the functions of each lever or joystick, including lift, lower, extend, retract, and slew. Practice controlling the movements in a controlled environment before ascending.

Step 6: Maneuvering the Boom Lift

Operators need to master the maneuvering capabilities of their machines. Start with the basics by moving the boom lift to the desired location using the drive controls. Pay attention to ground conditions, obstacles, and clearance heights. Maintain a slow and steady pace, prioritizing workplace safety above all else.

Step 7: Positioning the Boom Lift

Once the machine is in the target area, position the boom lift for optimal reach. Utilize the extend and retract functions to align the platform precisely with the work area. Ensure stability by leveling the machine on a firm and level surface.

Step 8: Working at Height

As you ascend, monitor your surroundings. Communicate with ground personnel if necessary. Execute the task precisely, utilizing the boom's extendable reach to access difficult spots.

Step 9: Descending and Shutdown Procedures

After the job is done, descend carefully, ensuring a smooth and controlled descent. There is no need to rush. Once on the ground, follow the shutdown procedures provided in the user's manual. In case of an emergency, engage the emergency stop. Power down the boom lift and exit the platform safely.

Step 10: Post-Operation Inspection

Conduct a post-operation inspection. Look for any new damages, leaks, or issues that may have arisen during the operation. Report and address any concerns promptly.

Boom Lift Types

There are several types of boom lifts, each designed for specific applications and environments. Here's a description of some common types:

Articulating Boom Lifts (Knuckle Boom Lifts)

• Description: Articulating boom lifts have multiple joints, allowing the boom to articulate or bend. This flexibility provides greater maneuverability, making them suitable for reaching over obstacles or accessing tight spaces.
• Applications: Ideal for tasks that require up-and-over reach, such as maintenance work on buildings, tree trimming, and intricate construction projects.

Telescopic Boom Lifts (Straight Boom Lifts)

• Description: Telescopic boom lifts have a straight, extendable arm that can reach high elevations in a straight line. They are known for their horizontal reach and are often used when a vertical lift is required without the need to position the lift directly above the work area.
• Applications: Commonly used in construction, industrial maintenance, and tasks that involve reaching high points without obstacles.

Spider Lifts

• Description: Spider lifts, also known as tracked boom lifts, are compact lifts mounted on tracks, offering versatility on uneven or rough terrain. They can navigate through narrow spaces and provide stability on slopes.
• Applications: Valuable for landscaping, tree care, and maintenance tasks in locations with challenging access points.

Trailer-Mounted Boom Lifts

• Description: These boom lifts are mounted on a trailer for easy transport. They are typically smaller in size and more portable than self-propelled models.
• Applications: Suitable for various tasks like maintenance, painting, and light construction where mobility and accessibility are key.

Towable Boom Lifts

• Description: Towable boom lifts are compact and can be easily towed behind a vehicle. They are designed for quick setup and are often used for short-term projects.
• Applications: Suited for tasks such as signage installation, painting, and maintenance projects that require rapid deployment.

Safety Tips When Using a Boom Lift

When you rent a boom lift for your project, it is crucial to ensure the safety of your personnel on-site. Here are a few safety tips that will come in handy:

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• Proper Training: Ensure that all operators receive thorough training on boom lift operation from qualified instructors, covering theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
• Stable Ground: Prioritize placing the boom lift on stable, level ground to mitigate the risk of instability and tipping during operation.
• Weather Conditions: Avoid operating the boom lift in adverse weather conditions such as high winds, storms, or icy surfaces, as these factors can compromise safety.
• Overhead Hazards: Exercise constant vigilance regarding overhead hazards, including power lines, structures, and tree branches, to prevent collisions and ensure a hazard-free work environment.
• Communication: Establish clear communication protocols among team members to facilitate effective coordination and prevent misunderstandings that could compromise safety.
• Battery/Energy Source Safety: Safeguard the power source by ensuring that batteries are adequately charged, and all energy sources are properly maintained to prevent unexpected operational failures.
• Weight Limit: Adhere strictly to the weight limit specifications to prevent overloading, stability, and structural damage to the boom lift.
• Clear Work Area: Keep the work area clear of debris, tools, and other potential tripping hazards, promoting a safe environment for operators and those working nearby.
• Stay on the Platform: Emphasize the importance of remaining on the platform when the lift is in use, avoiding standing or climbing on guardrails to prevent accidents and falls.
• Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and equipment, and have a rescue plan to respond promptly and effectively in case of unforeseen incidents.

National Dispatching: Your Full-Service Equipment Rental Provider

For all your heavy equipment needs, you can trust our team at National Dispatching. We have proudly served contractors, supplying essential worksite machinery since . If you want more insight and information, such as how much it costs to rent a boom lift, contact our specialists today.

Whether you're working indoors or outdoors, your jobsite likely has obstacles. Pre-existing structures or large stacks of building materials can prevent your team from reaching the area your work needs to be done in. If you need a manlift with the flexibility to place your workers exactly where they need to be, it's time to look into an articulating boom lift rental.

Discount Lift Rentals can source and manage the best equipment rentals at the best price, no matter the size of articulating boom lift you need. Consider us your personal rental equipment concierge!

What Is an Articulating Boom Lift? 

When you think of a construction lift, a telehandler or a forklift might come to mind. While those machines excel at lifting materials, an articulating boom lift lifts people.

An articulating boom lift is a specialized manlift which can be used both indoors and outdoors (gas/diesel powered versus electric powered). Equipped with a basket on the end and an elbow in the middle of the arm, these construction lifts provide great maneuverability. In fact, there's no better machine to get your workers up, over, and around obstacles than an articulating boom lift.

Some people also call boom lifts 'cherry pickers;' however, people also call engine hoists this same nickname. Be careful not to get this confused with an engine hoist as we do not supply that kind of rental. An articulating boom lift is a very popular lift rental because it lets your workers get into hard to reach areas. Because they come in different sizes and weight capacities, there are a few things to consider in choosing the articulating boom lift that's best for your project.

Choosing an Articulating Boom Lift

There are a few criteria that determine which articulating boom lift rental is right for your project:

• Work environment. Articulating boom lifts are available in electric and propane for indoor use, diesel and gas for outdoor work, and 'dual fuel' for both inside and outside. With the 'dual fuel' option, you can change from diesel to propane with the flip of a switch!
• Work surface. Gas/diesel lifts must be used for rough terrain, while electric boom lifts with smaller tires and a lower ground clearance are the best option for work on smooth surfaces and indoors.
• Workspace. If you only have a small area in which to work, a small electric lift might be best because it can easily maneuver through tight spaces. Additionally, since you'll need to store the machine during your project, make sure you have enough room to store the lift when it's not in use.
• Timeline. When you rent one of these lifts for a week or even a month, you are getting a discounted rate. There are large discounts off the daily price for weekly and four week rentals.
• Transportation. To avoid any issues with transportation, we do not allow customers to transport any lifts. We will deliver the lift right to your jobsite and pick it up from the same place so you don't have to worry about coordinating this or having a vehicle that would be able to tow this massive equipment. Once the lift is onsite, you will be able to drive the lift around from place to place.

Discount Lift Rentals takes the guesswork out of finding the perfect boom lift rental for your unique project. Just provide us with the details of your project and we'll set you up with the best equipment rental available for the best price.

Which articulating boom lifts are best suited for each type of project?

You need the right tools for the right job'including a boom lift. If you are working indoors with tight spaces, use an electric or propane articulating boom lift. These are especially helpful inside warehouses or factories that already have operational machines and other structures installed.

Conversely, many diesel-powered articulating boom lifts can handle rough terrain like an unpaved lot. Since these tend to be larger machines, more workers and equipment can fit in the basket. When necessary, some helpful features can be included on the lift itself. An example of this would include power to the platform. This means that there is an electrical outlet that will allow the technician to plug in electric equipment such as power drills and other similar tools.

What attachments are available for articulating boom lifts? 

Special jobs require special attachments. When you choose an articulating boom lift, you'll need to consider any attachments you might need'and the weight that those attachments add.

Some specialty construction lifts come with fittings like a glazer kit for windows or a welder for metalwork. These can be pricey and hard to come by, particularly because some yards do not carry them at all. If you need something like these, make sure to call with plenty of lead time so we can source the right lift for your job. Remember that Discount Lift Rentals is your equipment rental concierge. Just let us know if you need attachments for your boom lift rental!

Using an Articulating Boom Lift Safely

Safety is paramount during a construction project. Fortunately, articulating boom lifts are extremely safe. First, the worker inside the basket should be wearing a harness that keeps them secure (which are not included in the rental of the lift). Leaning out of the basket to reach something or going over a bump could be hazardous without the harness.

Second, each articulating boom lift comes equipped with a two system switch control. The operator must simultaneously press a foot switch and engage the controls. This removes the threat of moving any part of the lift accidentally. Third, most construction boom lift manufacturers and construction companies require anyone working in one of these lifts to wear a hardhat at all times. Osha standards should be strictly adhered to in any facility where the lifts are being used.

Additionally, it's important to be careful when driving the boom lift throughout your work area. Many boom lifts can drive over small hills but are equipped with a tilt sensor to ensure the angle isn't too steep. The best practice is to stay on a flat, level surface as much as possible.

Available Articulating Boom Lifts

Articulating boom lifts are available in a range of sizes and weight capacities for the basket the worker will be lifted up in. Most can lift at least 500 pounds and accommodate up to two workers. However, there are also larger boom lift rental options if you need to support closer to 1,000 pounds.

Here's a quick look at some of the most popular articulating boom lift rental options:

• 45' articulating boom lift: 45' platform height, 500-pound platform capacity, 25' horizontal reach, 24' up-and-over height
• 60' articulating boom lift: 60' platform height, 500-pound platform capacity, up to 43'1' horizontal reach, 26'6' up-and-over height
• 80' articulating boom lift: 80' platform height, 500-pound platform capacity, up to 59'5' horizontal reach, 32'1' up-and-over height
• 125' articulating boom lift: up to 1,000-pound platform capacity, 63'2' horizontal reach, 60'6' up-and-over height

Each boom lift has a safety envelope that dictates how much weight the machine can support. The weight capacity of the basket decreases the higher and longer the weight is extended. Discount Lift Rentals is happy to find the right lift for your project'just be sure to provide us with the most accurate information so we can find the safest lift for you.

Discount Lift Rentals Has the Right Manlift for Your Project

You don't have time to waste searching for the best articulating boom lift for the best price. Fortunately, that's our specialty! Discount Lift Rentals is a concierge service dedicated to not only providing customers with great equipment within their budget'but also managing the equipment rental throughout your project.

As a proud family-owned business, we provide upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Contact us today to learn more about how we can set up your next project for success with the perfect boom lift rental!

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