Access platforms are invaluable tools used to reach elevated areas safely, whether for construction, maintenance, or other industrial purposes. They are commonly utilized for tasks such as window cleaning, electrical work, signage installation, and building repairs. Hiring an access platform, rather than purchasing one, can provide businesses and individuals with significant advantages in terms of cost, convenience, and flexibility.
In this article, we will explore the 10 key benefits of hiring access platforms, shedding light on why this solution is increasingly preferred by contractors, businesses, and even DIY enthusiasts.
1. Cost-Effective Solution
One of the primary reasons businesses and individuals opt for access platform hire over purchasing is the cost-effectiveness of renting. Access platforms, such as cherry pickers, scissor lifts, or boom lifts, can be expensive to purchase, especially if they are not used frequently. By hiring an access platform, you avoid the significant upfront cost associated with buying, as well as the ongoing expenses for storage, insurance, and maintenance.
Renting access platforms allows you to only pay for the time you need them, which is often much more affordable than purchasing the equipment outright. This cost flexibility helps businesses with tight budgets or DIY enthusiasts who only need the platform for a single project or short-term use.
Key Takeaways:
- Save money by only paying for what you use.
- Avoid high upfront costs of buying.
- No ongoing costs for maintenance, storage, or insurance.
2. Flexibility in Project Scope
Hiring an access platform provides unmatched flexibility for businesses and individuals. Whether you need an access platform for a few days, a week, or even several months, you can choose a rental period that suits your specific needs. This flexibility is invaluable when the project duration is uncertain or when you require the platform for multiple projects over time.
With various sizes and types of access platforms available, you can rent equipment tailored to the specific needs of your project. For example, if you’re working on a large-scale project, a larger platform may be required, while smaller tasks might require more compact models. Renting allows you to choose the right platform for the job, providing efficiency and cost control.
Key Takeaways:
- Select rental periods based on your project needs.
- Choose from a wide variety of platform sizes and types.
- Adapt rental choices based on changing project demands.
3. No Maintenance or Repair Responsibilities
Another major advantage of hiring access platforms is that you are not responsible for their maintenance or repairs. When you purchase an access platform, you must regularly maintain and repair it to ensure it functions safely and effectively. These maintenance costs can add up over time, especially for heavy-duty equipment that undergoes wear and tear.
When you rent an access platform, the rental company typically takes care of regular servicing and repairs. This ensures that the equipment is always in top condition, minimizing downtime and maximizing safety. In the event that a platform requires repairs or servicing, you can rely on the rental company to provide a replacement or fix the equipment promptly.
Key Takeaways:
- No need to worry about repair or maintenance costs.
- Rental companies ensure equipment is in safe working condition.
- Quick replacement if the equipment experiences issues during the rental period.
4. Access to Latest Technology and Equipment
The access platform market is constantly evolving with newer and more technologically advanced equipment being introduced. When you hire an access platform, you have access to the latest technology and high-performance models that may not be available with older, purchased equipment. Whether it’s increased lifting capacity, improved safety features, or enhanced maneuverability, hiring ensures you always have access to the best tools available.
Newer models of access platforms come with features that can make your job more efficient, such as better fuel efficiency, smoother operation, and enhanced safety protocols like automatic descent systems, improved stabilizers, and emergency descent features.
By renting, you can take advantage of the most up-to-date models without the need to invest in costly upgrades or deal with outdated equipment.
Key Takeaways:
- Access the newest models and technologies.
- Stay ahead of safety and performance standards.
- Avoid the need for costly equipment upgrades.
5. Increased Safety Standards
Safety is one of the most important aspects when using access platforms, especially in high-risk environments like construction or industrial sites. When you hire an access platform, you benefit from using well-maintained equipment that meets current safety regulations and standards. Reputable rental companies are required to regularly inspect and maintain their platforms to ensure they comply with all legal safety requirements.
Furthermore, rental companies often provide operator training to ensure that the platform is used safely and effectively. This reduces the risk of accidents or injuries, as employees or operators are properly trained in the best practices for using the equipment.
Key Takeaways:
- Rental companies maintain platforms to meet safety standards.
- Equipment is inspected regularly for safety compliance.
- Operator training ensures safe usage.
6. No Storage Concerns
Access platforms can be large, requiring significant storage space when not in use. If you were to purchase a platform, you would need to find suitable storage to protect it from the elements and ensure it remains in working order. For many businesses, this presents a logistical challenge.
When you hire an access platform, storage is not an issue. Once you are finished with the equipment, the rental company will collect it from your site. This saves you from needing to rent additional storage space or worrying about where to house the platform between jobs.
Key Takeaways:
- Avoid the need for long-term storage of large equipment.
- No need for additional rental or storage space.
- Platforms are picked up by the rental company after use.
7. Environmental Benefits of Tool Sharing
Renting access platforms instead of purchasing them can have a positive impact on the environment. When multiple companies or individuals share equipment, it reduces the overall number of platforms produced, bought, and discarded. This reduction in manufacturing and consumption helps lower the environmental impact associated with producing and disposing of machinery.
Additionally, modern access platforms are often designed to be more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly, with features like electric-powered lifts that minimize emissions. Renting these platforms allows you to choose eco-friendly options that contribute to your sustainability efforts.
Key Takeaways:
- Renting helps reduce overall equipment production and waste.
- Choose eco-friendly models to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Share resources and reduce consumption in the construction and industrial sectors.
8. Access to Specialized Platforms
Not every project requires the same type of access platform. Whether you need a compact scissor lift, a tall boom lift, or a tracked access platform, hiring allows you to choose from a wide range of specialized equipment suited for your specific project.
For example, if you need to work on uneven terrain or reach high, narrow areas, tracked access platforms or spider lifts may be the ideal choice. These platforms are designed to handle challenging environments, offering greater stability and flexibility compared to conventional lifts.
By renting, you can easily select a platform that is tailored to your needs, without having to purchase several different types of equipment for a variety of tasks.
Key Takeaways:
- Access a variety of specialized access platforms.
- Choose the right platform for challenging tasks and environments.
- Rent equipment based on your project-specific needs.
9. Improved Project Efficiency
When you have the right tools for the job, your efficiency improves. Hiring an access platform allows you to complete jobs faster and with greater precision. Having the ability to work at height with a stable, secure platform means tasks can be completed more efficiently, reducing the amount of time required to finish the job.
For example, in construction and maintenance, access platforms can provide fast, safe access to hard-to-reach places like high ceilings, roofs, or exterior walls. This speeds up tasks like painting, repairs, or installing lighting systems, allowing your workforce to complete tasks more quickly and move on to other projects.
Key Takeaways:
- Using the right platform increases job efficiency.
- Platforms provide stable, fast access to high or hard-to-reach areas.
- Reduce time spent on manual or unsafe access methods like ladders.
10. Scalability for Businesses
For businesses, particularly in construction and industrial sectors, scalability is key to staying competitive. Rental services allow businesses to scale their operations up or down depending on project requirements. You can rent multiple platforms for large projects, or just one platform for smaller jobs, without the financial strain of purchasing a large fleet of machines.
Moreover, renting allows businesses to quickly adapt to project changes. If the scope of the work increases, you can easily hire more equipment to match the new requirements, ensuring that you’re always equipped to meet deadlines and stay within budget.
Key Takeaways:
- Renting allows businesses to scale operations based on project size.
- Flexibility to rent more or fewer platforms as needed.
- Easily adapt to fluctuating demands without the burden of ownership