Buying an access platform can be a massive boost to businesses that work at height – both in terms of efficiency and safety – but it is a big investment so it is important to make the right choices before you buy.
Buying an access platform is the safest and quickest way to lift people and equipment to significant heights and hard to reach places. The ability to operate safely in different spaces and environments means they are suitable for a wide range of industries that work at height including construction, utilities, landscaping and maintenance firms.
There are a number of benefits to buying an access platform:
– They are the fastest and safest solution to lift people and equipment up to hard to reach places
– The investment will pay for itself over time by saving on rental costs
– They are faster than traditional climbing methods such as ladders or scaffolding
– There is a strong market for pre-owned access equipment
Whether you are buying new or used powered access platforms, here are some important things to consider before you buy:
Buying an access platform is not cheap to buy so you want a strong return on your investment. Set a budget and consider how it could save money such as increasing your business capacity. However, there are additional costs to ownership including insurance, storage and maintenance.
Some suppliers can offer finance plans for customers to spread the cost of the access equipment over an agreed time period. There are accredited lending schemes with payment options including hire purchase, leases and contact hire.
Spend time researching the right platform for your business need to ensure your investment is worthwhile. Consider the necessary height reach, how much weight the access equipment will lift, and transporting the machine to each job. Choosing the right type of powered access platform is essential for safety on the job and can save time and money as well.
Servicing and maintenance at regular intervals – every six months for most powered access platforms – is a legal requirement to comply with health and safety regulations. Always buy powered access platforms from a reputable supplier. Access equipment should have a full service history record. Make sure the work is done by a qualified inspector or alternatively an engineer.
The operation of powered access platforms is governed by UK legislation to minimise the risk of serious or fatal falls from height. Every operator must receive full training in inspecting as well as using the equipment. Operators will also train to spot hazards and coping with a rescue situation must also be covered in training. Regular servicing and maintenance are also legal requirements.
Whether you are buying a new or used powered access platform, take time to research reputable suppliers. It is the supplier who will advise you on the best make and model to suit your needs. In the long term it will not only save money but also improve training and health and safety standards. This could even lead to new and repeat business.