Scissor Lifts vs. Scaffolding

One of the questions we often hear at Hugg & Hall is “Do you have scaffolding for rent?” For safety reasons, we don’t rent scaffolding, but scissor lifts are a great alternative. When we mention scissor lifts, the next question is usually, “What can scissor lifts do that scaffolding can’t?” We’re here to set the record straight. 

While scaffolding has historically been one of the safest ways to work in hard-to-reach places, there are now safer options: scissor lifts and other MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms). Here are some myths and truths about scissor lift safety and maneuverability.

• New features like all-terrain wheels and self-leveling allow them greater range than ever before.
• Smaller scissor lifts can even fit through standard doorways when not extended.

• When adjusting a scissor lift, it only takes a few minutes to lower it and move it. Scaffolding has to be dismantled and reassembled when it’s moved.
• Scissor lifts cut down on labor time and operating costs, making them worth their upfront cost to rent. 

• In June of 2020, new ANSI standards were put in place to improve the safety of scissor lifts.
• Operators have a higher risk of falling from scaffolding.  
• Scaffolding has a higher risk of collapsing if not assembled properly.  

When considering all the factors, especially safety, scissor lifts are the superior choice for your project. At Hugg & Hall, we value our customers’ safety, and that’s part of the reason we choose to rent out scissor lifts.

For information about using and maintaining scissor lifts, rentals, or for operator training, visit our website! 

Scissor lifts vs. scaffolding

Choosing the best tire for your equipment is vital! Rubber tires are way more versatile than you might realize, and the best tire option will differ based on your situation. For equipment that requires rubber tires, you have three choices. 

Air-filled tires

Pros: 

• They have better shock absorption than foam-filled and solid tires
• They’re cheaper than solid tires
• They’re ready-to-use, unlike foam-filled tires
• They offer the best protection for rims and bearings

Cons: 

• They’re more likely to get damaged than foam-filled and solid tires, which can slow down a worksite 
• They can be finicky and it may be difficult to maintain the right pressure

When to use air-filled tires: 

• For jobs when tire damage is highly unlikely
• For highway transportation 

Foam-filled tires

Pros: 

• They save you from downtime due to punctures
• They retain approximately 65% of the shock absorption of pneumatic tires, making them softer than solid rubber tires when they’re new
• They have more tread options than solid tires

Cons: 

• They can become stiffer as they age, resulting in a more uncomfortable ride
• They don’t have the same rebound effect as air-filled tires, which can damage rims and bearings over time
• They have to be cut off the rim of the tire 
• They have less traction than air-filled tires 
• They have less sidewall protection than solid tires
• They require 48 hours to cure before they can be used

When to use foam-filled tires: 

• For equipment that requires larger tires 
• For jobs on rough terrain

Solid tires

Pros: 

• They never require inflation
• They are designed to last roughly three times longer than air-filled tires because they’re made from special rubber compounds
• They’re durable and have superior sidewall protection 
• They can reduce downtime associated with punctures
• They’re much easier to replace than foam-filled tires

Cons:

• They can be more expensive upfront, especially when the price of rubber is high
• They have less shock absorption than air-filled tires
• They’re heavier than air-filled tires

When to use solid tires: 

• For equipment that need a stable base and can handle more weight, like forklifts and scissor lifts
• For jobs where tire damage is highly likely the best tire for your equipment will vary according to your needs.

If you have questions about different tire options, you can contact our parts department by visiting our website! 

Do you know what to do if someone gets heatstroke? While we’ve had a brief break from the heat, temperatures are rising once again. Here are some signs you need to look out for and tips on how to combat it. 

What are the causes?

The possibility of heatstroke is dependent on the heat index. The heat index is dependent on heat and humidity. We enter the “danger zone” for sunstroke at a heat index of 90 degrees, and the possibility for heatstroke occurs at any heat index above 105 degrees. 

How can I prevent heatstroke?

There are other risk factors for heatstroke beyond just the temperature. These can include the presence of external heat sources, workload or physical activity, and the use of PPE or protective gear. Reduce the possibility of heatstroke by following these steps. 

• Slow down and limit strenuous activities, or reschedule them to the coolest time of the day
• Dress for summer: lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight 
• Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty
• Spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned environments
• Avoid sunburn: sunburn makes it harder for your body to dissipate heat 

What are the symptoms? 

It’s important to learn the symptoms of sunstroke and heatstroke. These can include: 

• Confused, blurred speech
• Dizziness
• Painful muscle spasms
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Red, hot, dry skin (heatstroke)
• Heavy sweating (sunstroke)
• Body temperature of 104 degrees or higher (heatstroke) 
• Rapid breathing or fast heart rate
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness 

What should I do if someone has heatstroke?

If you suspect someone is a victim of heatstroke, don’t panic! Call 911 and stay with the person until medical help arrives. 

• Move the person to a shady, cooler area
• Remove the person’s outer clothing 
• Cool quickly with cold water by placing cold, wet towels or clothes on the person’s skin, especially on the head, neck, armpits, and groin 
• Fan the air around the person and move them to an air-conditioned environment if possible
• Encourage the person to drink slightly salted fluids (such as sports drinks) if possible

Need to keep your area cool? We can help! Contact our Utility Services Department for all your portable AC needs.

For more information, visit the National Weather Service or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).