Signs can be unwieldy and heavy, making them a challenge to get into position and to fasten safely. Thankfully, you can purchase scissor lifts for sale to get the job done much more efficiently.
However, even with this equipment at hand, there are some things you should know.
Assess The Sign’s Weight And Balance
Before you do any lifting, determine the weight and balance of the sign. Large or heavy signs can be extremely difficult to raise in one piece. You might want to raise them in sections.
If a sign is unevenly weighted, make sure it’s secured in a way that prevents tipping or swinging while being mounted. This could also destabilise the scissor lift if not carefully planned.
Use Suction Cups Or Grips
If your sign has a smooth surface – as most do – then use suction cup lifters to position the sign safely and precisely without it slipping.
Mark Out The Mounting Points Beforehand
Before you raise the scissor lift, use a laser level, chalk line, or pre-installed brackets to ensure that the sign will be correctly aligned. If you do this before lifting the sign, you can reduce the amount of time and effort spent trying to adjust the sign at height, which can be dangerous.
Consider The Wind Load And Swinging
Even in light winds, signs can act like sails. To prevent the wind from blowing you over and causing an accident, use straps or ropes to control movement while positioning the sign. If possible, angle the sign into the wind when raising it so that the wind passes around it rather than against its flat surface.
Use Temporary Supports
When lifting a large and heavy sign into place, use strong clamps, braces, or other temporary fixings to hold the sign in place while you proceed to attach the rest of it permanently. This will make the job go a lot smoother and make the whole process safer.
Make Sure You Use The Right Fasteners
Whether you’re mounting the sign on brick, metal, or wood, ensure that you have the right kinds of anchors, screws, bolts, or chains before lifting the sign up. Changing fixings at height can be difficult and unsafe.
If you have a sign-lifting job to complete, then Sterling Access has scissor lifts for sale and for hire. Contact us now to find out more about our extensive range of mobile access equipment.