How to Choose an Articulated Boom Lift for Projects at Height

Articulated boom lifts are utilised for a wide range of projects that require safe, flexible access at height. Their design allows them to reach over obstacles and into difficult areas, making them ideally suited to construction, maintenance, and installation work. However, choosing the right machine for a project can be challenging. With different working heights, outreach, specifications, and manufacturers available, its important to consider the project requirements, site conditions, and budget before deciding.

Choosing an articulated boom lift suited to the construction site can help the project run safely, efficiently, and smoothly, while ensuring you have the reach and access needed to complete the project. We share how to choose an articulated boom lift and explore some of the key benefits these machines provide.

Factors to Consider when Choosing an Articulated Boom Lift

Choosing an articulated boom lift involves more than identifying a machine that can reach the required height. Different projects have different access requirements, site conditions, and working environments, so the right machine depends on numerous factors. From working height and horizontal reach to ground conditions and available space, considering these project details can help narrow down the options.

Consider the Required Working Height

The maximum working height is an important factor when choosing an articulated boom lift. Boom lifts come in different working heights, so find one that provides sufficient reach for the project. Consider the highest point needed to access and allow some extra height where appropriate, rather than choosing a machine that only just reaches the required level. This provides more flexibility and ensures the platform suits the full scope of the project.

Look at Horizontal Outreach

The boom’s horizontal outreach is key if you can’t access the work area directly from below. Horizontal outreach determines how far the boom can extend from its base, letting you work over obstacles or reach areas away from the machine. Think about the distance between the machine and the work area, as well as any obstructions between them. Choosing sufficient outreach can help position the machine effectively while maintaining access to the area.

Check the Site and Ground Conditions

The conditions at the worksite can influence which articulated boom lift is suitable. Consider the type of ground the machine will operate on, including whether the surface is level, uneven, soft or restricted. Think about any access routes, doorways, gates, or other potential obstacles that could affect how the machine reaches the work area. Checking these details before choosing a boom lift can help ensure it can be safely positioned and operated where it is needed.

Consider the Available Space

The amount of space available on the site is another crucial factor. Articulated boom lifts are available in different sizes, and a larger option may not suit restricted areas or sites with limited access. Measure entrances, access routes, and the area where the machine will be positioned before you choose. Also, consider the boom lift’s dimensions when it is set up and operating. This helps to identify equipment that fits comfortably within the working environment.

Think About the Project Requirements

Think about what you need the articulated boom lift to do. The type of work, how long you need the machine, and how often you’ll use it can all influence your choice. You may need to consider platform capacity, power source and whether the machine will be used indoors or outdoors. Comparing these requirements with the specifications of different models can help choose an articulated boom lift that provides the right combination of reach, capacity and flexibility.

What are the Benefits of Using an Articulated Boom Lift?

Articulated boom lifts provide a practical solution for projects that require safe access to elevated or difficult-to-reach areas. Their design lets operators work at height while reaching around obstacles and accessing areas that may be difficult to reach with other types of access equipment. Depending on the machine chosen, they can also suit a range of indoor and outdoor applications.

• Flexible Access at Height – One of the main benefits of an articulated boom lift is the flexibility it provides when working at height. The boom can be positioned at different angles, allowing operators to reach areas above, beside or around obstacles. This makes articulated boom lifts suitable for projects where a straightforward vertical lift would not provide enough access.

• Reach Over Obstacles – Articulated boom lifts are useful when obstacles make direct access difficult. The jointed boom lets the platform move over structures, equipment, and other obstructions to reach the required work area. This can be beneficial on construction sites, around buildings or during maintenance work where the machine cannot be positioned directly beneath the area being accessed.

• Suitable for Different Work Environments – Depending on the model, articulated boom lifts can be used across a variety of working environments and applications. They are available in different sizes, working heights and specifications, allowing businesses to choose a machine suited to their particular requirements. This makes them useful for tasks such as construction, maintenance, installation, and other work at height.

Hire Articulated Boom Lifts with Tracked Access

Here at Tacked Access, we offer a range of articulated boom lifts to suit different projects and access requirements. Our range includes machines from leading manufacturers such as Hinowa, Teupen and CMC, with different working heights and specifications. Articulated boom lifts are available for both hire and purchase, making them ideal for short-term projects to regular, long-term use. With a range of machines available, find an articulated boom lift based on the required working height, reach, site conditions and other project requirements. If you need more information or aren’t sure which articulated boom lift is needed, contact Tracked Access today and we would be happy to help.