Most project managers and contractors do not have enough funds to buy a retractable loading platform for their ongoing projects. Hence, they prefer hiring one as it helps save capital for future use.
A crane loading platform hire gets you the heavy machinery equipped with cables and pulleys for onsite requirements. They are commonly used in construction, mining, and heavy equipment manufacturing. Their primary purpose is to simplify materials handling on multi-storey building sites.
These retractable loading platforms reduce the operation times of the crane. They can be handled by a single operated for safe working loads and are fitted with fixed safety harness points. The use of these machines contributes a lot towards efficiency in material handling.
Now, let’s discuss how to select the right loading platform for your construction use.
Check the Features
The crane loading platform can be installed in a vertical stack directly above one another. It allows the platform’s protruding part to be closed up while allowing access to each floor for loading and unloading of the materials.
The loading platform hire offers convenience, and the money is spent wisely for its installation. It has to be installed in a particular way that will allow the simple push/pull mechanism to extend and retract the platform with ease, that too only by one person.
Must Be in Compliance with the Australian Standards
The SWA (Safe Work Australia) has drafted safety procedures to be followed on a construction site. It deals with the workers’ health and safety and works towards their welfare. When operating with a retractable loading platform, some safety measures have to be considered to prevent onsite mishaps.
These loading platforms protrude from the edge of a structure, causing a potential hazard when operating. Hence, the operators must be provided with an appropriate harness, lifting machinery to carry and drop them, and other necessary equipment to simplify their jobs.
The Weight Carrying Capacity
The moving and lifting of the equipment require proper support during material handling. Usually, the crane loading platform is moved or swung to load and unload the material.
While doing so, there are higher risks or chances of material falling from heights due to the platform’s overloading. Hence, it is crucial to check the weight carrying capacity of the loading platform before hiring one.
Calculate the Total Cost
Hiring crane loading platforms is one of the cost-effective steps. But you have to consider the total cost that will include how long you will be using the loading platform. Industry experts suggest these crane loading platforms save up to $13,500 per deck over a 30-week hire compared to other alternate loading platforms.
You may have to plan before hiring the loading platforms, as these are required in large numbers at all construction sites and multi-storey buildings.
Due to the invention of retractable loading platforms, the jobs on construction sites are performed with ease. In a more informal term, they are also called as drawer-like platforms because they can be easily rolled in and rolled out for loading and unloading purposes.