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Archive for January, 2009

What is a Scissor Lift and 10 Benefits of Using Scissor Lifts

January 17, 2009 By: admin Category: Platform Lifts

James Todman asked:


A scissor lift, sometimes known as a table lift, is a work platform used for carrying loads or people. It moves upwards when the criss-crossing supports beneath the platform draw together, pushing the lift upwards. It enables the operator to adapt its height to suit any task.

Scissor lifts can use hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical power to extend in height, and come in various types and sizes. Originally designed as an industrial lift it has now been modified to suit retail and wholesale environments.

There are many benefits of using scissor lifts, including:

1) Scissor lifts can help operators to reach areas that might otherwise be inaccessible.  Larger models can extend to a height of 18.8 metres (62 feet).

2) Scissor lifts are so simple to operate and move that they reduce fatigue in operators, increasing levels of production.

3) Scissor lifts eliminate repetitive strain injury (RSI) by avoiding the need to bend and stretch repeatedly.

4) The weight of the load being lifted is distributed evenly, because of the lift’s vertical scissor motion beneath a flat platform.

5) Different scissor lifts utilise different methods of power, so companies can opt for a hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical model depending on their requirements.

6) Scissor lifts vary in base size, platform size, vertical travel and height. They can carry different capacities from standard to heavy loads, enabling companies to choose the appropriate model according to the working environment.

7) Scissor lifts can either be stationary or mobile, depending on the needs of the company

8) Turntables can be added to scissor lifts to allow the operator to rotate loads. This saves time and minimises the risk of injury from heavy loads.

9) Tilters can be used on scissor lifts to allow the operator to position a product by tilting the platform, sliding goods off.  Operators do not have to risk injury by lifting heavy loads.

10) When not in use and fully retracted, scissor lifts take up little space in a warehouse or office.

For many years industry has benefited tremendously from the use of scissor lifts, resulting in increased production and less strain and injury to employees. Continual innovations mean that there is now a wider choice of features making the scissor lift a very useful piece of equipment.

Today scissor lifts can be seen operating in most warehouses. Mobile models can travel over smooth surfaces or be adapted to tackle the uneven terrain of building sites. It is not unusual to see a scissor lift on a film set as they have proved popular for supporting the cameras. Whatever your requirements there will always be a scissor suitable for your needs.



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Accessibility Options: Stair Lifts, Platform Lifts, and Elevators

January 09, 2009 By: admin Category: Access Lifts

Robert asked:


Traveling from point to another is as easy as a footstep. The elderly, disabled, and even people doing normal chores can take advantage of the benefits of various accessibility options out in the market. It guarantees convenience, safety, and improved traveling experience either indoor or outdoor. Each has its own good points and drawbacks. Some can cater to your most basic accessibility needs while others can offer more than the usual.

Stair Lifts

When going up and down the stairs start to be a difficult and uncomfortable task, stair lifts are the best option. Electric or battery-powered stair lifts are generally cheaper to install compared to other accessibility options. It requires minimal or no additional space at all. The user can even control the speed of the lift with a press of a button. No more ankle, knee or hip ache to worry when traveling the stairs. Various models offer elegant designs, colors, fabrics that can fit straight, spiral or curved stairs. Also, when not in use stair lifts can be folded up easily and efficiently, thus people can still freely travel the stairs. Stair lifts are best recommended for the elderly and disabled who find it hard or almost impossible to take steps on stairs.

Vertical Platform Lifts

People on the wheelchair can have the best of both worlds using a vertical platform lift. It can be mounted straight to a wall or tower-mounted to the staircase. It offers a smooth, stylish and quiet ride. Some have a durable powder coating specifically designed for outdoor purposes. They are the flexible and efficient answer to multi-level structures either inside or outside the home. It can be the best substitute for an elevator providing the same functionality at a very lower cost. When you are not using the lift, the rail system may be used as a suitable handrail. If stairs become a barrier, the best solution is a platform lift.

Elevators

Considered to add significant value to your home, elevators are the most flexible accessibility option that can cater to every individual’s needs. It adds value and at the same time provides convenience to your lifestyle. It requires less space compared to stair lifts and more stylish than platform lifts. Whether you are fixing the laundry, moving furniture, or unloading groceries, elevators are convenient and faster way to do it. Some elevators come with safety features such as interlocks, cable safety devices, alarm, phone, emergency light and more. Its maintenance requirements are also minimal comparable with your furnace or air conditioner. Obviously, with all these features you will have to allot a bigger budget.

There are no more reasons for you or a family member to experience difficulty and pain in moving between floors of your own home. No more chance to miss a reunion or other family celebration just because you can’t take the stairs or being locked up in one portion of the house for the reason that moving freely and independently is just impossible. Technology has made is here to improve the lives of mankind in so many ways.



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Wheelchair Lifts: Opening New Doors

January 02, 2009 By: admin Category: Access Lifts

Robert asked:


If you or someone you love is in a wheelchair or has trouble walking, than it can be very hard to negotiate staircases of any kind. Often, your whole house is handicapped accessible with the exception of the most important part: the front steps. Wheelchair lifts are responsible for guaranteeing that millions of Americans maintain their freedom and independence and retain the ability to enter and exit their home. Wheelchair lifts are very similar to elevators and are often referred to as vertical platform lifts. The term vertical platform lift is actually a very fitting and descriptive name. Wheelchair lifts are in essence a platform that is raised vertically to allow people who cannot climb stairs, or those in wheelchairs, to easily go up and down the stairs. The lift travels the distance from the ground to the top of the stairs vertically at a slow and steady pace.

Wheelchair lifts are capable of lifting over 500 pounds distances of 12 feet or more. 12 feet is actually pretty high for a normal home residence and usually lifts of this distance are found commercially in places such as schools and churches. Many commercial operations will purchase portable units that can be moved without disassembly.

Whether you get a traditional wheelchair lift or one that is portable, it will quickly open up new doors. It can be very hard to not be able to leave your home, or to have to rely on someone to help you down the stairs. These units come with an easy and simple to use keypad, which can be operated by the person using the lift, or by a separate individual.

Quality wheelchair lifts made by a reputable manufacturer will provide many years of service. These units are designed to be weather proof and are very rugged and well built, so they can withstand almost all types of weather conditions. The time is now, regain your independence.



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