Universal Aerial Platforms latest news has all the updates on access hire solutions, developments in our business and the cherry picker industry, platform training, with new and used access equipment for hire and sale.
Skyjack SJB TK46 new to fleet |
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| 14/06/2011 | |
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Universal Platforms has added the versatile Skyjack TK 46 to it’s fleet, this is one of the few articulated telescopic boom that gives access below the machine – with a negative down reach of 6.4 metres. They are ideally suited for under-bridge inspection, harbour wall maintenance and ship repair work.
Skyjack’s unique SJB-46TK has a 15.85m work height above elevation and a negative down reach 6.4m below elevation, a 1.5m hydraulic jib shows rotation range of 180° and an 1.83m standard platform with a 272Kg unrestricted capacity. These units are driveable at full height and offer continuous 360° turret rotation.
The SJB-46TK is designed to handle rugged terrain - its energy efficient, high performance drive system is second to none. When you need to solve complex and daunting access challenges, the Skyjack SJB-46TK is the ultimate solution.
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AIF - Putting and end to work at height accidents |
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| 14/06/2011 | |
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Six of the UK’s leading health and safety organisations coming together for the first time ever to discuss and debate how to eradicate falls from height in the workplace. Their conclusion? The need for more cooperation, better coordination, further education and improved long term planning.
Chaired by David Thomas, safety, health and environment director at William Hare Ltd, the panel consisted of Peter Bennett, chairman of the Access Industry Forum (AIF); Joy Jones from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE); Nigel Bryson OBE from the British Safety Council (BSC); Barry Holt from the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management (IIRSM); John Holden from the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), and Roger Bibbings MBE from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).
Key themes to emerge included better leadership; the need to engage the workforce more directly in safety issues; the avoidance of a ‘tick box’ approach to training; improved targeting, especially of small to medium sized firms in the construction sector, but, above all, the necessity to pool and synchronise resources, knowledge and information. Roger Bibbings urged all the organisations taking part in the discussion to work together to help fill the void created by the cuts in the HSE’s budget.
Two other AIF-sponsored discussions also attracted capacity audiences and sparked lively question and answer sessions: ‘Successful planning techniques for working at height’ and ‘Maintaining effective work at height policies in a tough economic climate’.
Comments Peter Bennett for the Forum: “The Holy Grail panel discussion was a ground breaking event which, I am sure, will have positive, long term consequences for the work at height sector in general. The spirit evident in Birmingham augers well for a high degree of cooperation between all the organisations taking part, with a view to reducing the number of deaths and injuries resulting from falls from height.”
Also making a huge and memorable contribution to the 2011 Knowledge Base programme was motivational speaker, Jason Anker. Jason was paralysed from the waist down as the result of an avoidable accident while working at height. Each day he delivered a raw, powerful presentation designed to warn everyone of the life shattering consequences of a fall.
The panel discussions and individual presentations by AIF member organisations IPAF, NASC, PASMA and the Ladder Association, and Jason Anker, will shortly be available to watch again via online video on the Forum’s website www.accessindustryforum.org.uk
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Research from Finland shows Hybrid engines in construction can halve fuel used |
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| 14/06/2011 | |
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Researchers at the Aalto University, Finland have found a way to reduce the amount of fuel consumed by non road mobile equipment by half. This new technology captures energy, which up to now has been lost by the machinery when working, and uses it instead of fuel. The fuel consumption of construction and mining machines, agricultural machines, access equipment and material handling machines is reduced significantly.
− These heavy duty machines are operated for long periods of time, so by the end of the day emissions and fuel consumption have added up. Being able to target them is a significant improvement, says Professor Jussi Suomela, who is in charge of the project at Aalto University’s HybLab research network in Finland.
The researchers have added an electric power transmission system into the machines. The machines then become hybrids with both combustion and electric engines. Similar technology has already proven successful in personal cars; however, hybrid cars only capture energy from wheels during deceleration, whereas work machines create most of the extra energy during work tasks. This energy has not been captured until now.
The researchers at the Finnish Aalto University are now analyzing the work cycles of different types of machinery in order to find out which work tasks allow energy to be captured. Deceleration and lowering a load are typical examples. This technology enables short-term energy storage, making it possible to store energy for later use during a peak in power demand. The electric transmission generates other side benefits such as better controllability, operator comfort, efficiency and more freedom in the machine structure.
The goal is to reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Another benefit of hybridization is that it leads to lower operation costs as well. With electric power transmission, the machines may even be connected to normal wall sockets.
− Electricity from the power grid is very cost-efficient and creates no local emissions. If the machine can be plugged in, that is usually the best option. The future is likely to make fuel cells available, too, says Suomela. And the benefits do not stop here: the machines are even able to release stored electrical energy back into the grid.
HybLab research project and Aalto University’s MIDE research program in Finland are funded by donated money from private companies and communities.
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Universal can see the light |
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| 18/05/2011 | |
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Universal Platforms have powered access for most applications and we have one of the most diverse fleets of truck mounted Bronto’s. Universal was asked to supply our 52m for a high level flood light inspection within a rail yard on the south coast.
Universal Platforms can supply PTS operators and have extensive experience dealing on the rail infrastructure. Our client was happy with the service provided and the job was completed safely and within the set time.
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Our Spider has the Holy touch |
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| 9/05/2011 | |
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Universal Platforms London’s Premier supplier of access platforms has the equipment and expertise to get into the tightest of doorways. We were asked to help with an art exhibition in north London and the Mantis 24 was the perfect machine for the job.
Our expert operator Paul was on hand to negotiate this difficult manoeuvre. Universal Platforms can work within most building and has a number of narrow access machines that can reach up to 38m.
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Job done with the Leonardo |
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| 3/05/2011 | |
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Universal Platforms can supply all types of specialised access for the all the needs of our clients. The Braviuk Leonardo is one of the most flexible personnel lifts in the market place. Our client needs to maintain one of London’s light rail networks, the fact that this machine can go into a standard lift is perfect for the maintenance of their stations. Jacqui Fix our depot manager at Basildon is always on hand with her knowledge and trained and helpful staff to offer the best access solution.
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Universal’s Spider can reach where others try but fail |
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| 13/04/2011 | |
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Here at Universal Platforms we have a 30 year history of being able to get the job done. Working in a large international bank’s atrium in the heart of London is no exception. Our Spider TS24 was the perfect machine for the job. It needed to get through a small doorway and reach up to replace the blinds on the front windows.
Universal’s experienced operator managed to manoeuvre into position and complete the task in good time over a weekend, allowing the bank staff to come in on the Monday morning none the wiser but with working blinds to keep the sun at bay.
If you would like Universal to help you please contact our experienced staff on
0800866587
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Over the Wall |
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| 12/04/2011 | |
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Universal Platforms Hire has a solution for most problems, and this one at a major rail station in London was no exception. The client had a task to get to 4.5 metres down over a class 2 preservation wall to attach a new cable hanging system as part of an important upgrade of the station. After detailed consultation and site survey work we proposed the use of our larger two Bronto 46m and Bronto 52m vehicle mounted platforms, which have the capability to reach down nearly 6 metres. The Bronto 52 and 46 xdt - extra duty telescopic - share many features making them the most versatile in their class. Key features include the telescopic fly booms, rotating cages with fully proportional controls, and the flexibility of one sided, variable jacking allows the Bronto's to be set up in busy streets and confined spaces with the minimum of disruption. The works at the Central London Station were completed during the Bank holidays over Christmas and the New Year and will carry on past Easter of this year. Powered access equipment can be used in many different ways and because Universal has over 30 years experience within the industry we can usually come up with a workable solution. Universal can supply trained operatives and support staff that can work within the Rail industry and we have the internal expertise to work with main contractors and their subcontractors for safe working rail solutions. Fore more information please call our staff on 0800866587 |
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Universal and Facelift Access Have the reach for All Rail Jobs. |
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| 22/10/2010 | |
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A Universal Aerial Platforms Bronto 52m has the reach and flexibility to work on Wimbledon train depot in the taking down and Erection of new high level lights. The job was to take down the old stile lattice type masts and replace with the new type mast that can be maintained from ground level. Our Bronto 52m truck mounted machine has the cage size and reach to work safely and complete the task. We worked closely with the crane operator and our client to take down the old mast in four pieces this was achieved by stropping and then cutting in section to safely remove the lighting mast. Universal and Facelift Access are working with different clients on the rail infrastructure throughout the UK we have a number of PTS trained operatives, Fitters and site surveyors. |
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Narrow access structural conservation work at Lincoln's Inn |
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| 15/04/2010 | |
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Set within the Holborn district of central London, Lincoln's Inn is one of the most architecturally impressive sites in the City. A number of the buildings date back to the 1400's and the site has developed continually, with a great many more structures being added. None is more impressive than the Great Hall, completed in 1843 and opened by Queen Victoria. Universal Aerial Platforms, have in depth experience with the complexities involved on these type of sites, particularly where access to the working location is difficult to achieve, and where great respect must be considered for delicate structures and load baring strengths. Universal's Narrow Access Specialists, worked closely with the sites property maintenance team to understand their exact needs for works to be completed. Due to the limited time available for access to complete the internal work, the FS (falcon spider) 290 narrow access work platform was used. Although gaining entry to the work site required technical precision for this size of machine, the extra height afforded by the Spider 29 enabled maximum reach within the hall, and a minimum number re set up times. In addition to the internal structural inspection work, Universal also supplied a FS (falcon spider) 370 narrow access work platform, to assist with external structural inspections. Both machines were supplied with operator as there knowledge and familiarity with access equipment enabled the architects and surveyors to carry out their duties more efficiently. |
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MEWPS are safer and more productive |
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| 12/04/2010 | |
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New research - commissioned by Crown House Technologies, part of the Laing O'Rourke Group - has confirmed that Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) are safer , even for low-level access. “We were able to provide evidence that MEWPs are safer, more productive and avoid unnecessary strain injury,” says Gerry Mulholland, HSE leader at Crown House Technologies, who initiated this rigorous assessment of work at height policies and procedures within the group. “Lifts make it easier for site management to maintain safe standards as there are fewer options offered and fewer opportunities to make the wrong choice, while their automation reduces accidents The findings were the result of a complete review of the work at height procedures (up to 4.5 metres) for mechanical and electrical installation carried out by the company in 2008. The research began with a series of seven road shows attended by over 170 people across the UK where the workforce was asked, “What do you want to work from?” The general opinion was that MEWPs were best but were too expensive for low level work.” Ladders, podium steps and towers are responsible for 80% of falls from access equipment. Falls from height are the primary cause of serious injury in the construction industry. The review found that just under a fifth of all accidents on site are related to access equipment with over 80 percent related to podiums, mobile scaffold towers, ladders and A-frames. The study also looked at the cost of access-related accident claims as well as equipment repair, loss and damage. Data was collected from a selection of projects, including: Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, Royal Ascot Racecourse Grandstand, Slough Treatment Works, the Arora Hotel at Heathrow and the York Building in London. The results showed that such costs were lower on MEWPs than with equipment such as towers that feature non-captive components. Reviewing the personal injury claims data for a two-and-a-half year period indicated that podium steps accounted for 41 percent of claim costs while MEWPs were 11 percent. Among the main types of access equipment, step ladders and podium steps cost less to rent than scaffold towers or MEWPs. However feedback from regular users suggested that MEWPs were both safer and more Article from vertikal.net |
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The Art of Perfect Installation |
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| 25/03/2010 | |
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A Grade 2 listed building, a 25 metre high domed atrium and a new art installation intended for its ceiling: this was the challenge facing Universal Aerial Platforms in February, as it was called in to assist with the installation of a new artwork by Scottish artist and Turner Prize winner Douglas Gordon at Tate Britain. The job called for some serious access expertise, not only in the assessment of the best way to approach the task and the selection of the right narrow access equipment, but also from the team on the day dealing with an historic building and a valuable artwork. The task was a challenge on two fronts – the difficulty of accessing the Tate’s impressive Octagon space, which forms the centrepiece of the galleries, and the need to ensure the artwork could be installed safely at height. The selection of the right bit of kit was essential, and the team decided on the Spider 24 Narrow Access Platform to provide the right combination of reach and manoeuvrability. An access risk assessment was carried out to ensure there was no risk to both the structure of the building or the artwork.
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Coventry Cathedral's Pristine Screen |
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| 12/05/2008 | |
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Universal Aerial Platforms recently worked with Coventry Cathedral to help clean its famous "West Screen". The Company provided a Spider FS290 which allowed access to all levels of the inside and outside of this huge piece of artwork without disruption. This priceless screen is one of the most impressive features of the Cathedral and was created by New Zealand artist John Hutton in the late 1950's. It took ten years to complete and consists of 90 glass plates each measuring 8ft by 3ft of which 66 depict hand tooled etchings of saints and angels all suspended in a bronze frame from the Cathedrals roof. Advance Cleaning Services, the Specialist Contractor which undertook the clean, know the new Spider to be a sure-footed means of accessing difficult and delicate commissions. The machine itself is used in situations where careful handling and positioning are required. In this case, having to work closely to such a valuable piece of history, the special features of the FS290 (silent, fume-free electric working, narrow [0.8 m] stowed width, lightweight [3750 Kgs] were all attributes essential to overcome the assignments restrictions. |
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Unique Upright SL30s arrive at Universal |
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| 18/02/2008 | |
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Leading powered access rental company Universal Aerial Platforms is expanding its fleet of specialist lifting equipment, after taking delivery of 10 Upright SL30SL machines. Manufactured by UpRight Powered Access, the SL30SL has a unique "speed levelling" system that makes it ideal for rough terrain. The oscillating axle keeps all four wheels on the ground, even when operating on an incline. This means the machine can be used safely in conditions that are impossible for other types of platform - and the working area always remains level. The SL30SL can cope with gradients of up to 35% (or 19 degrees) while still providing a working height of up to 11 metres - and can be driven at full height. The big deck 1.72m x 4.23m platform provides a large and safe working area, with a carrying capacity of 590kg. Steve Mann of Universal said: "The UpRight SL30SL brings an added dimension to our rental fleet. "We know there is demand from our customer base for a versatile machine that can still provide good deck space and working height for operations on rough terrain. "Compared to other standard platform types, we feel the SL30SL provides greatly improved and safer operating conditions in the most difficult site environments." The UpRight SL30SL lifts brings Universal’s total fleet investment during 2007 to over 30 specialist platforms, totalling more than £2 million. |
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Universal Spider at Channel 4 |
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| 12/11/2007 | |
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Universal Aerial Platforms recently worked alongside Mike Smith Studios to help install Channel 4’s impressive new ‘Big 4’ sign, situated on the forecourt of the famous television centres headquarters. The steel sign measures a huge 16.6m in height, has a footprint of around 12.2m, took three months to build and five days to piece together. Initially a crane was used to lift the beams into place and the 22m Spider to position and secure them. The Spider has been used in a number of similar situations where a combination of height, accurate movement and narrow jacking are required and where space and movement aren’t at a premium. |
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Universal on the Move |
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| 11/08/2007 | |
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Universals confidence in the business and hire market continues with the recent delivery of 15 Nifty Heightrider 21m machines from Milton Keynes based supplier Niftylift. The Heightrider is a 4-wheel-drive rough terrain platform which combines serious weight and space saving technology with the latest advances in boom geometry, making the machine one of the most versatile pieces of equipment around. The machine's best selling feature is its light weight being under 6.5 tonnes. This provides low floor point loadings and makes it a popular choice with contractors where built up floor areas beg for lighter weights and maneouverability. Hydraulic controls allow smooth and measured operation, with platform rotation and use of the flyboom allowing operators to position the platform with much greater precision than many of its contemporaries. In addition to its 63ft platform height and generous 13m outreach, whether up and over or below ground level, it still provides plenty of room in the cage for much needed tools andn equipment and is still only 2.25m wide. Universal commented that whilst they continued to invest, Niftylift, were clearly their manufacturer of choice when looking to purchase boom type platforms especially in a market that's so dominated by cheaper foreign suppliers - It also felt good to buy British and buy British well! |
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Universal at St. Paul's |
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| 19/04/2007 | |
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Universal Aerial Platforms recently gave St Paul’s Cathedral a helping hand to survey its North face with the hire of its Mantis 38m TSJ to surveyors Plowman Craven. The Mantis was chosen because of its generous capabilities when working and positioning in restricted areas where there may be slopes, paths, obstacles or weight restrictions which disqualify conventional machines. Narrow Access Manager for Universal Aerial Platforms, Lee Kerr, commented ‘This machine provides indoor and outdoor solutions for complex access situations. For this particular application it was an ideal choice being able to gain access through a narrow gateway and provide working heights of up to 38m whilst working within a confined space.’
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New Web site launched |
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| 19/08/2005 | |
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As part of the on-going re-branding process within Universal the corporate website has received a new look. "The new site has a cleaner feel, slicker navigation and improved functionality" stated Guy Willett, Marketing Manager. New features include enhanced Equipment for Sale, Jobs, News and Feedback pages. " In addition the site has been developed with speed in mind for office, and particularly site staff, who want to glean the information they need with faster download times," added Guy. "We believe this enhanced site will compliment our exceptional sales and hire-staff support, and will offer an outstanding service to our customers." |
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Soaring to new festive heights |
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| 12/08/2005 | |
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In its ninth year the V Festival has become one of the leading music events in the UK. Since its inception Edwin Shirley Staging (ESS) has continued, with its innovative staging solutions, to assist in this success. ESS chose to use Universal Aerial Platforms for its powered access requirements (pictured here is a Genie S85 aiding the completion of the Chelmsford venue's main stage's side hoardings). "Choosing the right powered access, on time and at the right price is key for achieving our goals since it assists in so many parts of the job right from set up to final snagging work" stated Vicki Wiseman, Buyer at ESS. "With Universal's good previous track record with us combined with competitive prices, large fleet and in-house logistics we were confident of a first-rate service" continued Vicki. "The S85 with its fly jib and robust construction and ability to scale well above the apex of even the main stage was the ideal plant which we chose from the spec sheet CD ROM Universal had supplied us with." added Vicki. Strict quality and safety controls are used throughout the site. |
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