Cherry Picker Hire Checklist
When it comes to cherry picker hire, there are a number of things to consider to ensure you get the right machine.
Here’s our check list of what you need to know:
Working height
This is an important one, as getting the wrong height platform can cause delays and incur extra costs. Working heights are calculated using the maximum platform height plus two metres.
Outreach
Outreach is an important consideration when clearing obstacles. The maximum outreach of cherry pickers is measured from the centre of the slew ring.
Platform capacity
Always consider the safe working load of the cherry picker you are hiring. Calculate the weight of the operatives, plus any tools materials.
Ground conditions
It may not be one of the first things that spring to mind when thinking about cherry picker hire but taking the time to check the ground conditions of where you’ll be using the platform will save you time and money in the long run. Operating machines on gradients, rough or wet terrain will affect your choice of equipment as some are better suited than others to these conditions. Please discuss the particulars of the ground conditions with us before you hire and we can advise accordingly.
Wind speed
Operating a cherry picker in high winds is dangerous as they can become unstable and there’s the risk of them tipping over. All MEWPs, including cherry pickers, are designed to operate in wind speeds up to a maximum which should be marked on the machine. (Always refer to the machine operator’s manual to confirm maximum safe wind speeds.)
Wind speeds can be checked with an anemometer and it’s very important to remember that wind speed increases with height so may be 50% greater at a height of 20m above ground level.
Surrounding buildings, high-sided vehicles and even aircraft slipstreams can all affect the local wind speed.
Working indoors or outdoors?
Electric powered cherry pickers are recommended for indoor use as they emit zero emissions and are often quieter than diesels. Remember to measure the access to any buildings whilst considering any other restrictions. Let us know if you have any requirements for non-marking tyres or wheel covers.
For cherry pickers that will be used outdoors, remember to check the wind rating, ground conditions and outreach.
Who’s operating?
We provide a range of IPAF training courses for operating cherry pickers. Call 0345 457 0000 or email training@jms.co.uk to book a course.
Alternatively, JMS can provide a fully trained cherry picker operator. Give us a call to find out more.
Site survey / recce
At JMS, we offer a full site survey / recce service. We’ll visit your site to assess the conditions and recommend the most suitable cherry picker for your requirements. This can be arranged before you order so please discuss this with us on 0345 457 0000 or via email on hire@jms.co.uk.
Secondary Guarding
JMS has always had a policy of purchasing platforms for its access hire fleet with the very best and latest in safety specification.
Every cherry picker purchased in recent years has been fitted with Secondary Guarding as standard. These devices, when activated, help to protect cherry picker operators from injury.
An example of secondary guarding is the JLG Skyguard:
Enhanced Control Panel Protection
Skyguard technology, standard on all JLG cherry pickers, has been developed to stop all functions in use at the time when activated.
If the operator comes into contact with the sensor system (the yellow bar shown opposite), the horn sounds and the auto reverse features activates, temporarily reversing the platform to save the operator from being crushed between the platform and obstruction.
The Skyguard technology can be activated from a variety of angles and provides protection without reducing or impeding the work envelope of the cherry picker.
For more information on secondary guarding for cherry pickers, call 0345 457 0000 or email hire@jms.co.uk.
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