Scissor Lifts

A scissor lift is a versatile elevated work platform with a flat working area supported by criss-crossing metal supports that extend vertically in a scissor-like motion. This design is really stable when elevated, making scissor lifts perfect for jobs which need a spacious working platform.

Electric scissor lifts are powered by batteries, and - with zero emissions, quieter operation and no risk of fuel spills - this makes them great for indoor use. They also typically feature non-marking tires and are available in more compact sizes for navigating tight spaces.

Diesel scissor lifts give you greater power and performance for outdoor use, especially on rough terrain. They usually have larger platforms, higher weight capacities and better gradeability for slopes. While diesel models can handle more challenging conditions, they produce emissions that make them less suitable for enclosed spaces without proper ventilation.

Choosing the right scissor lift comes down to a few key factors. These include required working height; platform capacity needed for workers, tools and materials; work environment (indoor or outdoor); terrain conditions; access constraints; power requirements and project duration.

Our powered access specialists can help you manage these factors to recommend the perfect scissor lift for your specific needs, making sure you get the most efficient and cost-effective option.

Our scissor lift fleet offers working heights ranging from around 6 meters for compact indoor models to over 18 meters for larger outdoor units. Electric scissor lifts typically provide working heights between 6-14 meters, which makes them ideal for indoor maintenance, retail fit-outs, and light construction applications. Our diesel scissor lifts offer working heights from 8-18+ meters, so they're suitable for larger construction projects, external building maintenance, and industrial applications. The platform height (where you stand) is generally 2 meters less than the working height (maximum reach).

Yes, proper training is essential for safe scissor lift operation. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that all scissor lift operators hold recognised certification such as the IPAF Operator License.

While they're mainly designed to be used on level surfaces, certain models are specifically engineered for rough terrain.

Our diesel rough terrain scissor lifts feature robust chassis designs, four-wheel drive systems and enhanced ground clearance to handle moderately uneven surfaces. These models often include auto-leveling outriggers that can compensate for ground irregularities up to certain limits specified by the manufacturer. However, even rough terrain models have operational slope limitations (typically 3-5 degrees), and it's really important to follow manufacturer guidelines. For severely uneven terrain, alternative access equipment like tracked boom lifts might be more suitable.