Working at height brings a unique set of challenges, especially when you’re dealing with deadlines, unpredictable weather, or tight access points. Before locking in any hire, taking time to double-check a few practical details can save you stress down the line—and prevent costly delays. Whether it’s a quick job or an ongoing project, choosing the right scissor lift and knowing how to prepare the site can make everything run smoother.
Know Your Ground Conditions Early
One of the most common issues on-site is assuming the terrain will suit any lift. Flat, indoor floors? Great—most electric scissor lifts will do the trick. But outdoor ground that’s uneven or soft? That’s a different story. For that kind of surface, you’ll need a model built with rough terrain tyres or outriggers for added stability. Ignoring this can put both the project and your team at risk. If you’re unsure, a quick soil compaction check or a conversation with site managers can help clarify things fast.
Don’t Forget About Access And Storage
It’s easy to focus on what a lift can do while it’s in use, but what about when it’s not? Make sure you’ve got a clear access path for delivery, enough space for manoeuvring once it arrives, and somewhere safe to store it when not in use. Larger units can take up serious space and may need extra clearance for loading and unloading. Planning this ahead of time avoids last-minute surprises that throw off your schedule.
Training Isn’t Optional
Plenty of people think operating a scissor lift is intuitive—and in some ways, it is. But that doesn’t mean everyone’s automatically qualified. Australian safety regulations are strict, and rightly so. Make sure anyone using the lift has the right license or has been properly supervised under permitted guidelines. Even experienced tradies benefit from a refresher if they haven’t used a lift in a while. This is especially true when switching between indoor and outdoor models, where controls or stability can differ.
Double-Check Weight Limits And Work Height
It sounds basic, but it’s a step that often gets rushed. Look at how many people will be using the lift at once, what kind of tools they’ll be carrying, and how high they need to reach. It’s easy to underestimate the total weight, especially with heavy gear involved. Overloading a lift isn’t just unsafe—it can also damage the equipment and stall your project while you sort out a replacement. Always go slightly above your expected needs instead of cutting it close.
Keep An Eye On Hire Terms
Every equipment hire comes with its own fine print. Are there penalties for early return or last-minute cancellations? What happens if the weather turns and you need to pause the project? Some providers offer flexible terms for these kinds of situations, while others don’t. Understanding the terms upfront gives you more control and reduces the chances of unexpected fees. It also helps to ask about emergency support or on-site breakdown services—just in case.
For tradies and site managers in Perth who need gear they can trust, scissor lift hire options through Fusion Equipment Hire offer a straightforward, no-fuss solution for getting elevated jobs done safely and efficiently.
Why fall prevention is still overlooked is another topic worth reading if you want to understand how small oversights on worksites can lead to big problems, especially when it comes to height-related risks.
Choosing the right equipment isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about making sure your team can get the job done without setbacks. A bit of planning upfront, a clear understanding of your site’s needs, and checking off those practical details will always pay off once work begins.