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MEWPS ARE THE ANSWER WHEN CLIMBING IS NOT POSSIBLE AND CAN PUT AN ARBORIST IN A GREAT BUSINESS POSITION
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re you an arborist looking to move up to the next level? If so, it could well be time to look at whether owning a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) is the way forward. Promax Access is a leading provider of MEWPs for the arborist community and the Barnsley-based business is owned by Shaun Day. He set up the firm more than 2 years ago, importing high-quality MEWPs that are manufactured in Italy. Buying a MEWP is likely to be a considerable investment for an arborist and they will need to weigh up carefully what the benefits will be and buy from someone who knows the market. Shaun comments: “We understand the needs of arborists they are around of our customers – and it’s often when they start taking on bigger jobs or regular contracts that a MEWP becomes necessary. There are going to be times when climbing is
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unsafe or impossible. “Using a MEWP can protect staff from injury and allow some who may have existing conditions to work for longer – climbing just isn’t feasible for many older arborists. Some clients may also say a MEWP is essential from a safety perspective and there is HSE guidance on this.” There are numerous factors to consider. The most obvious is size and Shaun says while models start from 2m, most arborists will choose one at to 22m to ensure they can reach sufficient height. Meanwhile, if the arborist takes on work near power lines, they may need an insulated model. Promax Access’s MEWPs are narrow enough to offer good access such as into back gardens and have a tracked chassis for challenging terrain. Most arborists will opt for a spiderlift model that can be towed on a standard trailer. Other considerations include how the MEWP will be funded the majority opt for finance, which Promax Access can arrange. “A monthly charge is easily manageable and many of our W owners find their earnings will increase significantly and will more than cover this. There are also cases where an arborist sub lets their W to other firms, which may be a useful sideline. On whether to buy new or second hand, Shaun says new models tend to be selected, because there are more to choose from.
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But, even if buying used, the arborist can be assured the model will be thoroughly checked out for safety. “Our focus is all about quality and we know of many MEWPs still in service some 2 years after purchase. ut regular servicing is a must, and we offer this six-monthly under the LOLER regime. Arborists can register for this and we will remind them when their service is due.” Arborists must also ensure employees have appropriate training before any MEWP goes into service and this is readily available from providers throughout the UK. A further issue is security – these are valuable pieces of kit, but Shaun explains that fortunately, theft is extremely rare as trackers can be fitted and they can also be disabled from use remotely. Promax Access has remained open during the lockdown and is dealing with exceptional demand from arborists, who it seems are now ready to elevate their businesses via a MEWP. Find out more at: www.promaxaccess.com
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13/04/2021 08:45