Boom Lifts: Everything You Need to Know

A boom lift, also known as a cherry picker or man lift, is a type of aerial work platform that provides temporary access to inaccessible areas, often at height. It operates with a hydraulic arm that extends outward and upward, with a platform or bucket at the end for the operator. Boom lifts are commonly used in construction, warehouse management, maintenance, and other industries that require high-reach tasks.

Featured Partner for Equipment Parts

Learn More

on EquipmentShares's website

Shop OEM and Aftermarket Parts

Sorted by Manufacturer

Fast Shipping and Customer Service

A boom lift, also known as a cherry picker or man lift, is a critical piece of equipment in construction and maintenance due to its functionality and safety features. It’s primarily used to safely lift workers to elevated, hard-to-reach areas, reducing the risk of accidents that ladders or scaffolding might pose. A boom lift promotes efficiency as it can smoothly maneuver and reach heights with versatility and precision, preventing delays in tasks such as painting, cleaning, repairing, or installing fixtures.

Without the boom lift’s lifting and reaching capabilities, certain jobs would be impossible to complete or take considerably more time and effort. Therefore, the boom lift is significant in various industries and is often vital for ensuring project success and safety.

See Also: Mini Excavators: Type, Importance, How to Use

Operating a boom lift requires careful attention to safety to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of operators and others in the vicinity. Here are some safety tips for operating a boom lift:

See Also: When Will We See Autonomous Truck on Construction Sites

A boom lift, a key construction and maintenance equipment piece, is critical in various tasks requiring high-reach applications. It is designed to help workers safely reach elevated and hard-to-reach areas, thus enhancing efficiency and productivity.

A boom lift is typically used for construction, window cleaning, painting, installation, tree trimming, and many other tasks involving high areas. Not only does it maximize safety by reducing the risk of falls, but it also expedites the job by providing a stable platform to work from. The boom lift is more than just a high-reach device. It’s an essential tool that optimizes operational efficiency by enabling tasks to be completed quickly and effectively on a large scale.

One particular advantage is its versatility and flexibility, maneuvering in various directions – up, down, and sideways. Bigger versions of this equipment can extend to great heights, with some models reaching up to 185 feet. It’s important to note that using this equipment requires proper training to ensure the safety of operators and those in the immediate vicinity.

Featured Partner for Equipment Parts

Learn More

on EquipmentShares's website

Shop OEM and Aftermarket Parts

Sorted by Manufacturer

Fast Shipping and Customer Service

See Also: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM): Meaning. Examples, and More

Featured Partner for Equipment Parts

Learn More

on EquipmentShares's website

Shop OEM and Aftermarket Parts

Sorted by Manufacturer

Fast Shipping and Customer Service

A: A boom lift, also known as a cherry picker or man lift, is a type of aerial work platform that allows workers to reach high or inaccessible areas. It has a platform or bucket at the end of a hydraulic lifting system attached to a grounded base.

Check out boom lift parts from our featured partner – EquipmentShare!

A: The reach of a boom lift greatly depends on the specific model, but they can typically reach heights anywhere from 30 feet to 180 feet.

A: A scissor lift can only move vertically and is limited to working directly overhead, whereas a boom lift can extend in all directions, providing more flexibility and reach.

A: Only trained and certified professionals can operate a boom lift due to safety precautions. Operator certification usually involves both classroom and hands-on training.

A: Operators should always wear a harness, ensure the lift is on stable ground before ascending, keep the work area clear of people and obstacles, and never exceed the weight limit.

A: Yes, boom lifts can be used indoors, provided there is sufficient space. However, certain boom lifts may require ventilation due to emissions.

A: Boom lifts are commonly used in construction, maintenance, warehouse stocking, painting, tree work, and any tasks that require reaching high or inaccessible areas.

A: It depends on the specific requirements of your project – the height, reach, indoor/outdoor setting and weight limit would determine the type of boom lift required.

A: Boom lifts come in both electric and diesel models. Electric ones are quieter and better for the environment and are typically used indoors, while diesel models are used for construction where more power might be needed.

Image Credit: EquipmentShare; Thank you!

Brad is the editor overseeing contributed content at ReadWrite.com. He previously worked as an editor at PayPal and Crunchbase. You can reach him at brad at readwrite.com.