7 Applications of electric scissor lifts

Electric scissor lifts are a type of mobile elevated work platform that use an electric motor to power the lifting mechanism. These lifts are designed to provide workers with a safe, stable and elevated platform for performing tasks at height. In this guide, we look at the top 10 applications of electric scissor lifts, as well as the key features of the machinery and how they compare to hydraulic and diesel-powered lifts.

What are the key features of an electric scissor lift?

• Scissor mechanism – this is the crisscrossing pattern of arms that form a scissor shape. When the lift is activated, these arms extend or retract to raise and lower the platform.
• Electric power – unlike their hydraulic or diesel-powered counterparts, electric scissor lifts are powered by rechargeable batteries, making them ideal for indoor use or in places where diesel emissions are a concern.
• Platform – this has guardrails on the sides for safety and can typically hold one or more workers, depending on the model.
• Controls – these are usually located both on the platform and at ground level.
• Mobility – many electric scissor lifts have wheels so they can easily be transported to different locations.

Browse our range of Manitou electric scissor lift platforms here.

Below we look at the top 10 applications of electric scissor lifts.

1. Construction and building maintenance

Electric scissor lifts are compact, easy to operate and ideal for tight spaces, high ceilings and multi-story buildings. This makes them ideal for construction and building maintenance applications, including drywall installation, paint and coating, window installation, façade maintenance installing signage, HVAC installation and repair and exterior wall and roof work. They are vital in construction and maintenance for ensuring safety and efficiency when working at height, eliminating many of the risks associated with ladders and scaffolding.

2. Warehouse and distribution centres

Because of their ability to safely and efficiently provide access to high shelving, racks and storage areas, electric scissor lifts are essential tools in warehouses and distribution centres. They improve productivity, reduce worker fatigue and increase safety. Electric scissor lifts can be used by warehouse workers to safely restock shelves and racks, perform inventory checks and stock audits, pick orders from elevated shelves, clean high ceilings, lights and fixtures and to load and unload from high racks without the need for forklift trucks or manually moving heavy and bulky packages.

3. Facilities maintenance and cleaning

Workers in commercial buildings like manufacturing facilities, hospitals, schools and shopping centres need easy and safe access to high and hard-to-reach areas in order to carry out cleaning, repairs and maintenance. Electric scissor lifts are the solution to this, and provide a safe and stable platform for cleaning or maintaining high ceilings, reaching lighting fixtures, accessing HVAC systems and providing access to windows on high-rise buildings and façades and exterior walls.

Electric scissor lifts can also be used for emergency situations where access to elevated areas is needed quickly – for example, to maintain or repair emergency lighting in a hospital’s high-ceilinged corridors, which is a legal requirement. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires that adequate emergency lighting must be provided in all buildings to ensure the safe evacuation of individuals in case of a fire or other emergencies. Electric scissor lifts can keep you safe and compliant.

4. Event setup and staging

Large venues and facilities that host exhibitions, conferences, concerts, trade shows and other large-scale events benefit from using electric scissor lifts. They help event organisers, contractors and maintenance teams access high or awkward-to-reach areas, whether it’s installing decorations, setting up lighting or preparing audio-visual equipment,

If you have a concert venue, for example, an electric scissor lift can be used to safely install overhead stage lights. For a major trade show at your exhibition centre, you might use an electric scissor lift to adjust the lights above exhibitors’ booths to enhance product visibility and improve your event’s ambience. You can also hang banners and promotional materials with ease using a scissor lift.

Before your event starts, your technicians might use an electric scissor lift to access and test audio-visual equipment, ensuing that projectors, screens and speakers are all properly aligned and functional.

5. Electric and telecommunication work

Setting up mobile towers, antennas, satellite dishes and communication equipment is made possible by using electric scissor lifts. They’re widely used in the telecoms industry for the installation, maintenance and repair of infrastructure, as precision and safety is vital.

With the growing demand for high-speed internet, electric scissor lifts are also used to access the high points where fiber optic cables need to be installed, reducing installation time, improving visibility and ensuring the safety of workers.

6. Film and television production

Electric scissor lofts are useful for setting up equipment, managing lighting, adjusting cameras and even performing special effects in film and TV settings. They offer filmmakers a safe and efficient solution for working at height, without relying on scaffolding or ladders. For cinematic shots requiring camera movement or specific angles, for example, electric scissor lifts offer the flexibility to place cameras at various heights and adjust their positions with precision. Electric scissor lifts also help sound engineers position microphones, speakers, and other acoustic elements in high locations.

7. Solar panel installation and maintenance

The installation of solar panels, whether on residential homes, commercial buildings, or large solar farms, often involves working at significant heights. Electric scissor lifts provide an efficient and safe way for workers to position and install panels, as well as to carry out related tasks like wiring, securing mounts, and testing the system.

The benefits of electric scissor lifts

Electric scissor lifts offer a number of benefits, particularly in terms of environmental impact, operational efficiency and suitability for specific work environments.

Environmental impact

They produce zero emissions during operation, making them an environmentally-friendly choice, especially in indoor or urban areas where air quality and pollution are concerns.

Noise reduction

Electric scissor lifts are much quieter compared to diesel-powered lifts and are ideal for use in indoor environments where noise from diesel engines would be disruptive.

Lower operating costs

These machines typically have lower-operating costs compared to diesel-powered lifts and fewer mechanical components, meaning less wear and tear.

Accessibility to tight spaces

Electric scissor lofts are typically compact and very manoeuvrable, which is important when working in tight spaces, narrow aisles or crowded environments.

Electric scissor lifts provide a number of benefits across a wide range of industries and applications, from event management and construction, to the telecoms industry and facilities maintenance and cleaning. As an approved dealer, we are here to provide expert guidance, support, and access to the latest Manitou equipment. Contact us today to learn more, discuss your specific requirements, and discover how a Manitou electric scissor lifts handler can transform your site!