Building a mezzanine goods lift in a warehouse, factory, workshop or retail area is a good way to make better use of space or avoid the need to extend the premises. One of the key considerations is how to handle items between multiple floors. For many, the question is “should I use a goods lift or a forklift truck?” After considering all of the options the answer may well be one of the compact and easy to use goods lifts that are becoming increasingly used in the marketplace.
At first, the idea of using a lift truck makes sense, especially if there is one already on site and the requirement is intermittent because there is little or no added expense. They can handle a variety of items to more or less any position required. Despite these potential advantages, there are drawbacks. Read our Top 6 reasons why a Goods Lift is the superior option.
Transferring items from boxes or cartons onto a pallet or stillage simply to allow handling between two floors is uneconomic and inefficient.
Even when loads are palletised the lift truck is likely to have been selected for a specific job and might not be available when required. In any case, if the handling requirement is more intense the disruption to ongoing operations would be prohibitive and a lift truck is probably not the right option. The biggest advantage of a MezzLift is that the lift will always be available when needed so there is never any disruption to ongoing operations. This means that handling can take place when needed rather than waiting for the lift truck and trained operator.
The lift can be positioned where required for the most productive and efficient work. Its performance can be matched to the handling requirement, for example through the provision of platforms or cradles designed specifically for the shape and size of the load. It can be equipped with appropriate cages, interlocks and other features that help ensure safety.
Most companies are trying to reduce the number of truck, and other vehicle movements as part of their wider health and safety strategy. A goods lift reduces the need for such movements and risk.
One of the biggest advantages of a lift like the Mezz Lift is that it does not require the same level of safety certification as people-carrying lifts. However, like any other piece of lifting equipment, it is covered by the normal LOLER and PUWER regulations which means it must undergo a statutory thorough inspection at least once a year. These regulations are designed to ensure safety but are not as onerous as those covering lifts designed for people carrying or, indeed, the operation of lift trucks.
Taking into consideration the greater reliability of a goods lift, the fact that operatives do not require a qualification to use the lift and the minimal maintenance cost goods lift offer better value over the lifetime of the product.
