Maintenance at a Higher Level
Part 1: Perform a Needs Analysis Before Specifying Personnel Lifts
Part 2: Lift Specification: Weigh Productivity and Cost
Part 3: Modifying Lift Equipment Can Void Warranties
Lift Specification: Weigh Productivity and Cost
By Thomas A. Westerkamp - January 2009
Today’s difficult economic situation means managers must thoroughly weigh the relationship between productivity and cost as it relates to lift equipment. Careful consideration of the safety and ergonomic advantages of aerial lifts can lead to higher productivity, better return relative to the compensation of workers, and lower overall costs.
Positioning the worker to operate comfortably is a major advantage and can result in more work being done with the same or fewer workers. Lifts also can enhance safety because workers do not have to work from a ladder or structural steel or climb on equipment, lessening the attendant risk and required energy.
Also, not having to wrestle heavy loads manually with minimal material-handling assistance means less strain on backs, arms, legs, and joints. As a result, the heightened attention to safety and ergonomics related to aerial lifts turns a strength position into a skill position. Technicians also will be able to give more attention to the mental aspects and quality of the job.
