Spider Lift 101: Extending To Full Height The Right Way
Making elevated access simple, spider lifts are a class apart when it comes to performance and ease of operation. With them, reaching the highest point of any jobsite is just as easy as pushing a button. Especially if you use Platform Basket spider lifts.
Platform Basket Canada manufactures and supplies state-of-the-art spider lifts in Ontario that can extend as high as 54m. An impressive feat, if you ask us!
However, to work at the elevation safely, you need to strike the perfect balance of preparation, awareness, and precision.
In this blog, we will show you how you can make the most of our platform’s exceptional reach and unmatched stability in a safe and efficient manner.
How to Work Safely at Our Spider Lift’s Maximum Height
Before you extend the boom of our spider lift, you should lay the groundwork for safe operations. The following tips will help you maintain operator and machine stability and security during elevated work.
Inspect the lift head-to-toe
This has to happen right before you begin lift operation. Walk around the platform and visually inspect it for any unusual signs. This could be damage, wear and tear or loose components. While you are at it, check the hydraulic system for leaks as well. You must also test the control panel and examine the tracks and wheels of the platform for damage or excessive wear.
The next thing you should do is check the reach and load capacity of your machine. Verify it against the requirements of the job you are about to perform and ensure it is up to the task. Make sure you only use compatible accessories and baskets.
Set the lift up on stable ground
Starting on levelled ground is key to reaching heights safely. Deploy all outriggers fully and use the automatic self-levelling system of our lifts to have a stable base. We recommend not setting up your platform on soft ground as it can cause balance issues. To avoid the lift from sinking into the ground, you can use outrigger pads. They will distribute its weight evenly.
That said, Platform Basket Canada’s spider boom lifts are built to tackle challenging environments. With adaptive stabilization systems built in, you can use our machines on sloping or irregular terrains. Just be sure to assess the ground conditions before you start.
Strike the right balance
No matter which model you get, each spider lift comes with its own rated load chart. Use this chart as a guide to understand how much weight your platform can tackle at specific heights. Refer to it for safe outreach angles as well. The goal should be to never exceed specified limits – especially at full extension – as that can have an adverse impact on the machine’s stability.
When you are in the basket and working at a height, make sure you never reach too far either. To maintain balance, either extend the boom or move the platform slowly and deliberately to where you want to be. This is easy as our lifts feature an intuitive control system that allows you to make smooth and precise movements without any jerks or abrupt shifts.
Extend gradually
Incremental extensions will give you greater control while maintaining stability. In fact, while you are going up, you should pause the extension every now and then to see if there is movement, sway or vibration below. You should also be in constant contact with your ground team so they can help you stay aware of your surroundings and prevent anyone from entering the spider boom lift exclusion zone. Lastly, sudden joystick movements are best avoided. Retract slowly and carefully.
Conclusion
Barring verified certification, extending and retracting spider lifts requires a certain level of tact, discipline, and attention. With the right set-up, extension techniques, and environmental awareness, you can reach its maximum height safely and confidently.
Looking for stable spider lifts? Platform Basket Canada provides aerial lifts with exceptional reach and stability in Mississauga, Ontario. Contact us to get platforms that make extension a safe, smooth, and intuitive process.
FAQs
What’s the ideal frequency for spider lift sensor calibration?
We recommend calibrating safety sensors anytime the fault indicator shoots an alert. If it does not, periodic inspection and calibration are critical.
What’s a safe wind speed range for spider lift operation?
Spider lifts can be operated in wind conditions of up to 45 kmph. Wind speeds higher than that can increase tipover risks and are best avoided.
Can spider lifts be operated on uneven grounds?
Platform Basket Canada’s spider lifts certainly can be. All you have to do is deploy the outriggers and use the machine’s auto-leveling system to achieve stability.
