Cherry pickers, also known as boom lifts, are extremely versatile and essential when accessing high and hard-to-reach areas. Whether you’re in construction, maintenance, or even filmmaking, understanding the different cherry picker uses can help you choose the right equipment for your project.
This blog will explore the various uses of cherry pickers and why you may need one for your next project.
What Is a Cherry Picker Used For?
A cherry picker is a type of aerial work platform that provides temporary access to work in high places. From warehousing to industrial cleaning, cherry pickers serve multiple industries with their ability to safely lift workers and tools to elevated areas.
According to the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), the global market for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), which includes cherry pickers, was worth over $15 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6% from 2023 to 2028. This statistic underscores the reliance on these machines, across various sectors, to keep people as safe as possible when working at height.
Cherry Picker Uses in Construction
Construction sites are a common environment for using cherry pickers. Whether it’s for installing windows or air conditioning, cherry pickers offer the height and mobility needed to perform tasks safely and efficiently. Their versatility allows workers to access difficult-to-reach spots without the need for scaffolding, saving both time and money.
If you want to understand the differences between scaffolding and cherry pickers to help you choose the correct equipment for your job, head to our blog, Cherry Pickers vs. Scaffolding, for more information.
Maintenance and Repairs
Maintenance tasks such as building repairs, industrial cleaning, and streetlight maintenance are prime examples of what a boom lift is used for. Instead of relying on ladders or less stable platforms, workers can use a cherry picker to reach heights securely. This is especially important for tasks that require precision, such as repairing electrical wiring or inspecting building facades.
Film and Media Production
In the film and media industry, cherry pickers are frequently used to achieve aerial shots or to light large areas. Directors and cinematographers often use boom lifts to position cameras and lights at great heights, providing unique angles and lighting setups that would otherwise be impossible. You may even see booms being used to film live sports events.
Want to know which of your favourite movie scenes were created by using a cherry picker? Head to our blog, Famous Scenes Made Possible by Scissor Lifts and Cherry Pickers.
Event Management
Event managers use cherry pickers for tasks like setting up lighting rigs and artwork, installing banners and signage. Their ability to be easily manoeuvred makes them ideal for indoor and outdoor events, ensuring that all aspects of the setup can be completed efficiently and safely.
Warehousing and Logistics
In the warehousing industry, cherry pickers can be used for a variety of tasks, for example, picking goods from high shelves, performing maintenance and cleaning work or even installing new shelving units, if appropriate for the task. Their ability to lift personnel and materials makes them an invaluable tool in large storage facilities.
It is common for warehouses and logistics businesses to own cherry pickers for routine work rather than hire them: this can offer significant savings, up to 70% in some instances. If you work in these industries, or in manufacturing, head over to our access platform buying and contract hire pages for more information.
Why Do I Need a Cherry Picker?
If you’re wondering why you need a cherry picker, the answer lies in its ability to improve your work’s safety, efficiency, and precision when working at height. According to a study by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from a height account for 36% of 138 worker deaths between 2023-2024 and remain the leading cause of fatal injury to workers.
A cherry picker, and powered access in general, can significantly reduce this risk of falls, providing a stable platform for working at height. But of course, the right powered access platform training is required to make sure the machine is not misused, otherwise the risk of accidents and injuries is potentially higher.
From construction and maintenance to media production and event management, the uses of cherry pickers are as varied as they are essential. Understanding what cherry pickers are used for can help you choose the right equipment for your needs, ensuring both efficiency and safety on the job.
If you’re considering a cherry picker for your next project, explore our comprehensive guide on choosing the right cherry picker.
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Whether you’re conducting repairs, or setting up a large event, a cherry picker can be the key to elevating your project. Contact us today to find the perfect cherry picker for your next project. We run a 98% trouble free hire service, so you can trust us to deliver reliable lifters on time.