Blog
12 August 2025
Why a Site Survey is Essential
When it comes to working at height, safety and efficiency go hand in hand. One of the most crucial — yet sometimes overlooked — steps in booking powered access equipment is conducting a thorough site survey.
Whether you’re hiring a scissor lift, boom lift, or any other type of MEWP (Mobile Elevated Work Platform), a site survey ensures that the right machine is chosen for the job and that it can be operated safely in your specific working environment.
1. Choosing the Right Machine for the Job
Not all powered access machines are created equal. From narrow electric scissor lifts for indoor use to large diesel booms for outdoor construction, every site has unique requirements.
A site survey assesses:
- Working height & outreach needed.
- Load capacity requirements.
- Machine dimensions to ensure it can fit through doors, gates, or tight spaces.
- Whether you need indoor low-emission electric or outdoor diesel-powered models.
- Getting this right avoids costly delays and ensures maximum productivity.
2.Identifying Potential Hazards
A site survey highlights any potential safety risks before the equipment arrives, such as:
- Uneven or unstable ground.
- Overhead obstructions like power lines or beams.
- Restricted access routes.
- Pedestrian or vehicle traffic in the work area.
- Knowing these hazards in advance allows for better planning, risk reduction, and compliance with
- Health & Safety regulations.
3.Ensuring Site Accessibility
Even the perfect machine won’t be much use if it can’t get to where it’s needed. A site survey confirms:
- Entry and exit points are suitable for delivery.
- Ground conditions can support the weight of the machine.
- Any lifts, ramps, or narrow corridors are navigable.
- This prevents wasted hire costs from equipment that arrives but can’t be used.
4.Meeting Legal & Safety Standards
Regulations such as the Work at Height Regulations require employers to assess and manage risks before beginning work. A documented site survey forms part of your safety compliance, showing you’ve taken reasonable steps to protect workers and bystanders.
5.Saving Time and Money
A site survey can feel like an extra step, but in reality, it’s a money-saver. Choosing the wrong machine or facing unexpected hazards can result in downtime, additional hire charges, or even accidents. The small investment of time in a survey pays off in smoother operations and fewer surprises.
Conclusion
A powered access site survey is more than a box-ticking exercise — it’s a proactive step that ensures your work is carried out safely, efficiently, and on schedule.
At GTAccess Ltd, our trained team offers free site surveys to help you choose the right equipment and keep your project moving without delays.
Call us today to arrange your site survey and ensure your powered access hire is a perfect fit for the job.