How do one-man lifts work?

aerial work platform

Manlifts are aerial work platforms (AWPs) designed to lift a worker and their equipment safely inside or outside of a building. Based on size, appearance, and use, they differ from other aerial lifts, such as boom lifts. Manlifts go by several names in the industry, including manlifts, personal lifts, and personnel lifts. Single man lifts come in various types that can be used in elevators and confined spaces. When you need to perform work on a ceiling, for instance, a vertical aerial work platform is ideal because it is small, easy to operate, and ideal for working on a vertical surface. Cleaning activities are particularly well suited to single man lifts. Vertical aerial work platforms can be operated sideways as well as up and down, allowing you to reach very comfortably. This is also supported by the oscillating cage on the single man lift.

Three types of manlifts are available: self-propelled, push-around, and belt-driven. They all differ in size and specialty. It can be confusing to understand the differences between manlift types. The features they share are similar, but they all have different uses.

  • Self-Propelled Manlifts – One of the smallest of the group is the self-propelled manlift. An operator and set of tools can be lifted 15 to 20 feet in the air using the compact lift. As a result of its size, it is easy to maneuver through doorways. Despite reaching ladder heights, self-propelled manlifts have a more solid foundation. For indoor projects where moderate height increases are needed, the collapsible frame works best.
  • Push-Around Manlifts – The push-around manlifts are slightly larger than self-propelled models. One worker can reach up to 50 feet, which allows him or her to navigate around an HVAC system or between rafters. It can even be used by photographers for bird’s-eye views above crowds. One or two people can easily maneuver the lift through doorways and down walkways thanks to the collapsible frame and hydraulic wheels. A push-around man lift will not tip over due to its lightweight (200 to 400 pounds) and vertical reach thanks to retractable outrigger legs.
  • Belt Manlifts – Among the group, the largest is the belt manlift, also called a compact crawler lift. Outdoor construction sites benefit most from the heavy-duty lift. Due to its retractable legs and tank-like drive tracks, the atrium can securely sit on unstable surfaces such as dirt, sand, and mud. A fully extended neck can reach heights of over 34 feet and rotate 360 degrees. It is possible to maneuver around obstacles like trees and power lines with the jib joint. Atrium manlifts can run on electricity or gasoline, as well as diesel fuel.

Why should you rent a man lift from Rentalex? Our experienced rental team is available to provide you with professional advice. We can help you with your construction project quickly by contacting us at (813)971-9990. Our company can also provide other types of aerial platforms including boomlifts and scissor lifts.