What is a boom lift used for?
Boom lifts are aerial platforms that raise workers and tools to hard-to-reach spots for construction, maintenance, facade work, and electrical installations—reaching over obstacles or at angles away from the machine's base.
What is the difference between articulating and telescopic boom lifts?
Articulating (knuckle) booms: multiple jointed sections that bend, reaching over or around obstacles. Telescopic (straight) booms: extend in a straight line for maximum height and outreach. Articulating gives flexibility; telescopic gives raw reach.
How high can a boom lift reach?
The most commonly used units typically offer working heights ranging from 15 to 45 metres, while specialised heavy-duty models are designed for more demanding applications and can exceed 60 metres in working height.
Can boom lifts be used outdoors in wind?
The typical operating limit is around 12.5 m/s (45 km/h), although this may vary by equipment model. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications and equipment placard before operating in windy conditions.
What can the platform carry?
Typically ranging from 200 to 450 kg, depending on the model and configuration, these platforms provide sufficient load capacity for one to three people along with essential tools, equipment, and materials, making them suitable for a wide range of elevated access and maintenance applications.
Is a licence required to operate a boom lift?
Yes. A valid Aerial Work Platform (AWP) certification or equivalent operator qualification is required to operate these machines safely on commercial and industrial sites, ensuring operators are properly trained to handle the equipment.
Which is better—diesel or electric boom lifts?
Diesel: Ideal for outdoor and rough-terrain applications, offering greater power and reach. Electric: Quieter and emission-free, making it better suited for indoor and noise-sensitive environments.
Should I choose a boom lift or scissor lift?
Boom lifts: reach over obstacles or work at angles away from the machine. Scissor lifts: straight vertical access with a larger platform. Boom lifts offer reach flexibility; scissor lifts offer capacity.
What safety features are standard?
Key safety features include harness anchor points, emergency lowering controls, tilt sensors, load-sensing systems, and guardrails, all designed to help prevent falls, tip-overs, and unsafe operation.
Can boom lifts work on uneven ground?
Rough-terrain models are equipped with outriggers and advanced levelling systems, allowing them to operate safely and reliably across uneven or challenging surfaces. Standard models are generally designed for use on firm, stable, and level ground where ground conditions are more controlled.
Does the weight of a boom lift matter?
Absolutely. Boom lifts can weigh from 4 to 15+ tonnes, making floor load ratings and ground-bearing capacity important considerations. This is especially critical when operating on soft or uneven ground, elevated floors, or indoor structures.
How are boom lifts typically rented?
Available by day, week, or month, offering flexible rental options for short-term projects, maintenance activities, and one-off tasks without the need for a long-term equipment purchase.
How often should boom lifts be inspected?
Daily pre-use checks are essential, with periodic inspections and annual thorough examinations carried out as required by local regulations. MHS provides certified and regularly inspected equipment to support safe and reliable operation.
Can boom lifts handle materials as well as personnel?
Many models include jibs or material trays for carrying tools and materials alongside personnel. Always ensure the combined load remains within the equipment’s rated capacity for safe operation.
What harness requirements apply?
A full-body harness with a short lanyard should be attached to a designated anchor point, especially when operating articulating boom lifts, where sudden platform movements can increase the risk of falls.









