What Is Powered Access & When Should Contractors Hire It
In today’s construction industry, contractors are under more pressure than ever to deliver projects on time, on budget, and without compromising safety. Working at height adds a whole new layer of complexity — and strict health and safety rules mean mistakes aren’t an option.
That’s where powered access comes in. From scissor lifts to cherry pickers, powered access lets contractors reach heights safely while staying flexible and mobile on site. Whether you’re installing cladding, maintaining roofs, or handling M&E systems, knowing when and how to use powered access can make a real difference to efficiency, safety, and project delivery.
In this WHC Hire guide, we’ll share exactly what powered access is, the advantages it brings to your operation, key considerations before hiring, and the situations where it can save time and money on your projects.
What Is Powered Access?
Powered access refers to specialised machinery designed to safely lift people, tools, and materials to elevated work areas. For contractors, these machines provide a mobile, stable workspace, enabling fast and efficient work at height. Most powered access equipment is driven by a motor and hydraulic lifting system, which can be operated both from the platform and the ground for added safety.
Examples of powered access include:
Scissor Lifts – Ideal for vertical ascent, suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.
Cherry Pickers / Boom Lifts – Platforms offering both vertical and horizontal reach, perfect for tricky or hard-to-access areas.
Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) – Industry-standard machinery used across a wide range of construction tasks.
At WHC Hire Services, we offer a wide range of access equipment hire from leading manufacturers such as Niftylift and JCB, alongside our award-winning plant and tool hire service.
What Are The Advantages of Using Powered Access For Contractors
Opting to use powered access for your construction or maintenance project has several safety, operational and financial benefits. These include:
Increased Safety
Powered access equipment is designed with safety at its core. For contractors, this means your team can work confidently at height without relying on unstable ladders or time-consuming scaffolding.
Each machine provides a stable, enclosed platform fitted with guard rails and harness points to reduce the risk of falls. Additionally, both tipping and crushing safety systems are installed to reduce the risks of toppling or striking other workers during operation.
Speed & Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of powered access is the speed it brings to a project. Unlike scaffolding, which can take hours to assemble and dismantle, powered access can be set up in minutes. This means your team can get straight to work and keep projects moving without unnecessary delays.
Because machines can be easily moved and removed from site each day, contractors gain flexibility as well as efficiency. With less downtime and quicker access to working heights, powered access helps contractors complete tasks faster and keep projects on schedule.
Flexibility
Every project is different, which is why powered access offers such a big advantage to contractors. With a wide range of machines available, you can choose the exact platform that suits the job.
For example, scissor lifts provide reliable vertical access for indoor tasks like M&E installations or fit-outs, while boom lifts allow operators to work around obstacles and reach awkward positions outdoors. By hiring powered access, contractors can select the most suitable machine for each project, ensuring tasks are carried out safely, efficiently, and without compromise.
Cost Efficiency
Hiring powered access is often far more cost-effective than installing scaffolding, especially for short-term or one-off projects. Instead of paying for time-consuming scaffold erection and dismantling, contractors can simply hire the right machine for the duration of the job.
Another big saving comes from avoiding ownership costs. When you hire, you don’t need to worry about ongoing maintenance, servicing, or compliance testing. All powered access equipment must be inspected and certified under LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) and PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations) — but this responsibility sits with the hire provider, not the contractor.
For contractors, that means fewer overheads, less admin, and more focus on getting the job done.
Versatility
Powered access can be adapted for a wide range of tasks across construction, maintenance, and logistics. Its ability to suit a variety of environments makes it a smart choice for contractors who work across various sectors.
For example, boom lifts provide the horizontal outreach needed for roofing projects and tree work. Meanwhile, scissor lifts are often used in warehouses and logistics centres for racking installation, stock management, and ongoing maintenance.
This versatility allows contractors to tackle multiple applications with the same category of equipment, reducing downtime and improving overall efficiency.
What Contractors Need To Consider When Hiring Powered Access
To avoid any costly mistakes or unwanted downtime, contractors must consider the following before hiring powered access:
Projects Requirements
Ensure that the powered access equipment has the height, reach and is suitable for the site surface you are working on. Some access platforms also enable you to use power tools from them directly, which can be highly advantageous for some applications.
Site Constraints
When selecting powered access equipment for your project, always account for site limitations that could impact your choice. Factors such as narrow passageways, uneven terrain, restricted ventilation, or entrance dimensions can all determine which machine is most suitable.
Operating Licenses
It is vital that you have a competent or trained operator on site when using powered access equipment. Without proper training or experience, your organisation could face serious financial penalties or even prosecution if an accident occurs.
Choosing A Hire Provider
Choosing the right powered access hire supplier is essential for any operation. By selecting a supplier that provides well-maintained, fully tested equipment, contractors can uphold site safety standards and ensure a more efficient project.
Cost Considerations
Hiring or purchasing access equipment comes with a cost. For contractors who need it regularly, purchasing may be worthwhile. For less frequent use, hiring provides a more cost-effective and flexible solution.
By assessing these factors upfront, you can ensure you select the right access equipment for your project. Overlooking them could result in unwanted downtime and unnecessary hassle.
What Regulations Must You Comply With
When working at height, professional contractors must comply with the Working at Height Regulations 2005, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER), and the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. (LOLER)
These regulations require operators to receive appropriate training and certification, use properly maintained and regularly inspected equipment, and carry out thorough risk assessments to manage hazards effectively.
For contractors, understanding the differences between these regulations is essential to ensure operations remain fully compliant.
Working at Height Regulations 2005
When operating access equipment, individuals and contractors are legally required to show competency or demonstrate completion of appropriate training before using a working platform. Within the industry, holding an IPAF certification is widely regarded as standard, as it enhances operator knowledge and helps minimise health and safety risks.
PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998)
PUWER governs the provision and use of work equipment, ensuring it is suitable for its intended purpose. This applies to all access equipment, which must be in good condition, regularly inspected by a qualified individual, with records properly maintained. Thorough examinations are required every six months for equipment lifting people, and annually for equipment lifting materials.
LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998)
LOLER requires all lifting equipment to be thoroughly examined before it is used for the first time. Following this, access equipment lifting people must be inspected every six months, while equipment lifting materials or machinery should be checked annually. These inspections must be carried out by a qualified person, who records and submits all findings to the employer.
Why Hire Powered Access Rather Than Purchase?
For most contractors, hiring powered access offers significant advantages over purchasing. Here are some key benefits:
Financial Flexibility
Hiring avoids tying up large amounts of capital in a single asset that may not be used regularly. You only pay for the equipment when you need it.
No Maintenance
All powered access equipment requires maintenance, testing, and repairs. When you hire, these costs and the associated downtime are covered by the supplier, saving you time and money.
Flexible Machine Selection
It’s rare that a contractor only needs one type of access equipment. Hiring allows you to switch between machines to suit the specific requirements of each project.
Fast Access to Machinery
Purchasing new equipment can take weeks to arrive. Hiring often allows access to machinery the same day, a huge advantage for contractors working to tight deadlines.
For many contractors, hiring powered access provides greater flexibility, affordability, and less stress when managing multiple sites simultaneously.
Do You Need a Licence to Hire Powered Access?
In the UK, you are not required to hold a licence to hire powered access equipment. However, it is essential to be competent in using the machinery. Most professional contractors ensure their teams are trained or use experienced operators when working with hired access equipment. For scissor lifts, cherry pickers, or boom lifts, an IPAF certification is an industry standard to demonstrate compliance.
Common Types of Powered Access Equipment to Hire
Most contractors will be familiar with the main types of powered access equipment, such as:
Scissor Lifts
Ideal for vertical work where operators need a stable platform, often indoors. Some designs even include 110V power outlets to operate tools safely at height.
Cherry Pickers / Boom Lifts
Suitable for both vertical and horizontal applications, especially on uneven ground. These machines use adjustable “spider legs” to level themselves, allowing safe lifting and working at height.
How to Hire Powered Access Equipment
Hiring access equipment is quick and straightforward when you know the process. Here’s a step-by-step guide for contractors to secure powered access equipment in a heartbeat:
1. Assess Project Needs
Determine the height reach, surface conditions, and specific tasks you’ll be performing. This helps identify the most suitable access equipment for your project.
2. Request a Quote
Contact your preferred hire supplier with your project requirements to confirm they can fulfil your request.
3. Arrange Delivery
Set up a cash or trade account with your provider to arrange delivery. This usually requires submitting relevant details and copies of your hire insurance.
4. Prepare for Delivery
Ensure your site is ready to receive the equipment. Some access machines can be towed, which can be a logistical advantage for certain projects.
5. Training & Operation
Confirm that operators are competent and, where necessary, hold the required certifications. If not, hire a qualified operator to ensure safe use.
6. Off Hire
Once your project is complete, return the equipment to your hire provider or arrange collection.
Working with an experienced access equipment hire company ensures projects requiring work at height run smoothly and with minimal disruption, allowing contractors to focus on getting the job done efficiently.
Conclusion
For contractors, powered access equipment is essential for safe, efficient, and timely work at height, offering significant operational benefits. Unlike owning equipment, hiring provides substantial financial advantages, especially when the machinery is not needed on a permanent basis.
Looking for a reliable supplier? Explore the full range of access hire equipment at WHC Hire Services. From scissor lifts to cherry pickers, we can help you get the right equipment quickly, so your team can get the job done efficiently.