Safer Working at Extreme Height: Why an All-Terrain Cherry Picker Beats Ladders

Groundwork rarely takes place on a flat, clean surface. Workers might be cutting back trees on a slope, clearing ivy near a fence line, or repairing lighting in a park after heavy rain. In those situations, ladders can feel like the quickest option, but they can also be the riskiest. Ladders, whilst portable and convenient, come with a host of potential dangers for those working at height. That’s why a sturdy all-terrain cherry picker is the perfect combination of safety and reliability, so groundsmen can work on rugged terrain knowing they’re being kept safe. Let’s explore why hiring an all-terrain cherry picker is the top choice for groundskeepers looking to improve safety, efficiency and save money in the long run.

Why Ladders aren’t Always Practical

Ladders have a place, but grounds work brings extra problems that ladders are not designed to solve or are a practical solution:

• Unpredictable ground – Soft soil, wet grass, roots, gravel and slopes all affect stability.
• Frequent repositioning – Working at height usually means moving equipment frequently.
• Carrying tools at height – Heavy equipment can affect balance and grip.
• Fatigue – repeated climbing and holding awkward working positions increases mistakes.

On busy sites, there’s also the added risk of people walking through the work area, bumping a ladder, or getting too close.

What an All-Terrain Cherry Picker Does Differently

An all-terrain cherry picker is built to handle the things that make grounds projects risky.

A Stable Working Platform on Uneven Ground

Tracked spider lifts are designed for challenging terrain, including grass, slopes and uneven ground, and they stabilise using outriggers. This means working in a protected area rather than balancing on a ladder.

Access through Tight Gaps without Dismantling the Site

A big issue for groundskeepers is simply getting to the work area, especially in back gardens, narrow paths, gated estates and landscaped areas. Cherry pickers are compact and can fit through tight gaps with ease, making access much easier.

Lower Ground Pressure and Less Disruption

Spider lifts distribute their weight evenly, which can reduce damage on softer surfaces and make access easier where wheeled machines struggle. It also helps protect finished landscaping when access is limited. 

Projects Where a Cherry Picker is the Safer Choice

An all-terrain cherry picker is best suited to outdoor work, such as:

• Tree pruning, crown lifting, and clearance cuts.
• Hedge reductions and shaping at height.
• Removing deadwood or storm-damaged branches.
• Cutting back ivy or climbing plants on buildings and structures.
• Installing or maintaining park and estate lighting.
• Signage, banners, seasonal decorations, and CCTV access.
• Gutter checks and roofline inspections around facilities.

It’s also useful when ground conditions change, like winter rain making the turf soft, or summer work needing access without tearing up lawns.

How to Plan Safer Working at Height 

A cherry picker improves safety, but the project still needs planning. Keep it practical and consistent:

Check Access First

Sometimes gates and hedges can block access. Check all access routes to the site, and measure paths and turning points. Whilst cherry pickers are designed to access tight spaces, having accurate site measurements helps the team at Tracked Access pick the right equipment for the project and prevent any delays on delivery day.

Confirm Working Height and Reach

Look at the worksite and figure out where workers might need outreach over hedges, roofs, conservatories, or planted areas. A quick description of the target and obstacles helps the hire provider recommend the right boom type and height for the project.

Pick a Safe Setup Area

Choose a stable location for the outriggers and ensure there is enough space for the platform to operate without hitting branches, walls, or overhead structures. Add an exclusion zone to keep pedestrians and team members safe.

Watch the Usual Hazards

Hazards such as overhead cables, drains, loose debris, and high winds can pose a risk to teams. Keep an eye on changing conditions and keep the operator updated at all times. If hiring a cherry picker with an operator, an experienced member of our team will be there at all times to ensure everyone’s safety.

Hire Options That Make Sense for Grounds Teams

Many ground crews simply want the project done safely and efficiently, without adding extra training burden to the team.

Self-Drive Hire

This can work for teams that already have trained operators and for straightforward projects. All the appropriate paperwork still needs to be completed, as well as safe-use checks, and a sensible plan for rescue and supervision.

Hire With an Operator

Many times, hiring machinery with a trained operator is more convenient. A trained operator understands the machine’s limits, proper positioning, and safe operation on tricky terrain, reducing the risk of costly mistakes and delays. Tracked Access offers hire with operator services, including support and guidance on choosing the right machine. 

Cherry Pickers: A Safer, More Practical Choice Than Ladders

For groundskeepers, safety is not just about a harness or a checklist. It’s about choosing equipment that suits real sites: uneven ground, narrow access, obstacles, and tools in hand. In many cases, an all-terrain cherry picker provides a stable platform, better control, and fewer risky shortcuts than ladders ever can. They’re an ideal choice for groundskeepers who value the safety of their team. If you’re planning cherry picker hire and want a dependable option across Kent, Tracked Access supplies all-terrain narrow track cherry pickers, with the option to hire with an operator if that’s more convenient. Call our team today to talk through your site access, required height, and timeline, and they’ll match you with the right solution for safer working at height.