A Guide to Lifting and Handling Equipment

When it comes to managing heavy loads and improving efficiency on-site, lifting and handling equipment plays a pivotal role. Whether you’re working on a large-scale construction project, tackling an interior renovation or moving heavy materials in a warehouse, the right tools can make all the difference.

Professional lifting and handling equipment encompasses an array of devices designed not only to reduce physical strain but to enhance safety and precision, ensuring that projects are completed smoothly and effectively. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the essential types of lifting and handling equipment, their applications, and how to choose the best tools for your needs.

Commonly Used Equipment for Lifting and Handling

There is a wide range of lifting and handling equipment available, each designed for specific purposes. Below are some of the most commonly used types:

Material Lifts: Material lifts are compact, portable devices used to elevate materials such as beams, pipes, or HVAC units to the desired height. These lifts are often used in construction, renovation, or industrial settings where precise placement of heavy items is crucial.

Beam Lifters: Beam lifters are specialised tools for raising and positioning steel or wooden beams. These lifters are equipped with adjustable arms and sturdy bases, making them ideal for structural work like constructing frameworks, bridges, or mezzanines.

Plasterboard Lifters: Designed to hold and elevate plasterboard panels, plasterboard lifters make it easier to position and secure these sheets on ceilings or walls. They eliminate the need for multiple workers, allowing for safer and more efficient installation.

Hoists: Hoists use a pulley system and motor (or manual operation) to lift heavy objects vertically. They can be electric, chain or lever-operated and are often used in workshops, garages and construction sites to handle heavy machinery, engines or materials.

Trolleys: Trolleys, pallet trucks and skates are wheeled platforms or carts used for transporting heavy loads across flat surfaces. They are indispensable in warehouses, retail spaces and construction sites for moving equipment, boxes or building materials.

Slab Lifters: Slab lifters are used to grip and move heavy stone or concrete slabs. They ensure slabs can be transported and placed with precision in landscaping, construction or paving projects.

Bumpa Hoists: The Bumpa Hoist is a versatile conveyor belt system designed to quickly and efficiently transport roof tiles, bricks or other materials to elevated areas. Perfect for roofing and construction projects, this hoist saves time and reduces manual labour by allowing materials to be moved directly to where they’re needed. Its portable and lightweight design makes it easy to set up on-site and adapt to various work environments.

What Projects Require Lifting and Handling?

Lifting and handling equipment plays a vital role in a variety of projects. Here are three common scenarios:

Construction Projects Construction often involves heavy materials like steel beams or prefabricated walls. Tools like material lifts and beam lifters are crucial for accurate placement. Hoists are frequently used to transport materials to higher levels in multi-storey buildings.

Interior Renovation and Installation During renovations, tasks such as installing plasterboard ceilings, setting up HVAC units or fitting beams for loft conversions can be challenging. Plasterboard lifters and material lifts simplify these jobs, ensuring proper alignment with less manual effort.

Landscaping and Hardscaping Moving large stone pavers, concrete slabs or heavy garden features can be tough. Slab lifters and trolleys make these tasks manageable, allowing for precise placement and reducing the risk of damage.

Choose Beaver Tool Hire for Your Lifting and Handling Needs

At Beaver Tool Hire, we’re here to help make your projects easier. With over forty years of experience in the hire industry, we are proud to provide our clients with:

  • An extensive range of professional-grade equipment which is rigorously maintained and safety certified.
  • All PPE, instructions, specifications and manuals necessary to use our equipment safely.
  • Expert advice and guidance on the equipment in our inventory, as well as help with choosing the best tools for each job.
  • Seven hire depots conveniently located throughout West Sussex and Hampshire, including: Chichester, Petersfield, Waterlooville, Portsmouth, Fareham, Winchester and Worthing @ Gardner & Scardifield for your convenience.
  • A friendly and approachable team who are always happy to help with your queries.

Whether you’d like to know more about hiring material lifting and handling equipment for your next project, or you have any queries on the right tools and equipment for a job, reach out to us on 01243 782510.  Our experienced team is always happy to help.

Beaver Tool Hire branches:

Chichester Branch
Phone: 01243 782510
Email: hire@beavertoolhire.co.uk

Petersfield Branch
Phone: 01730 264804
Email: hire@beaverpetersfield.co.uk

Waterlooville Branch
Phone: 023 9225 9325
Email: hire@beaverdenmead.co.uk

Portsmouth Branch
Phone: 023 9266 3599
Email: hire@beaverportsmouth.co.uk

Fareham Branch
Phone: 01329 233731
Email: hire@beaverfareham.co.uk

Winchester Branch
Phone: 01962 790369
Email: hire@beaverwinchester.co.uk

Worthing Hire Desk
Phone: 01903 323331 / 07355 674080
Email: hire@beaverworthing.co.uk