Summary
Scissor lifts are often considered the basic platform on every construction site – but they are highly specialized for precisely what matters on shell construction sites : fast, robust, and uncomplicated. They offer advantages where other access technologies, such as scaffolding , reach their limits:
- Load capacity up to 500 kg and more , ideal for tools, materials and two people
- Height access up to over 34 meters , without complex support
- Electric or hybrid drive , particularly suitable for semi-open or closed halls
Especially during the shell construction phase, the ground, access roads, and weather conditions change daily. Scissor lifts provide a stable constant in the chaos – if chosen correctly.
What are the requirements for the shell construction of stages?
Load capacity and platform size
In shell construction, it's rare for just one person to be at height – often two people work together, carrying toolboxes, cables, pipes, or assembly materials. Scissor lifts offer consistent load-bearing capacity across the entire platform – something not always possible with other work platforms .
In addition, many platforms can be extended sideways using a so-called platform extension – this saves moving and noticeably increases efficiency.
Maneuverability despite size
Not every large platform will fit through every shell. Especially in new buildings with temporary partition walls or restricted access, dimensions must be precisely coordinated. Modern scissor lifts are so compact that they can even fit through shell gates up to 2 m high – a real practical advantage .
Where scissor lifts are particularly strong
Installation work on ceiling and wall
- Light, ventilation, piping, TGA – everything that hangs from the ceiling needs safe access
- Continuous platform without bends or joints ensures continuous work
Installations under time pressure
- Thanks to quick assembly, easy operation and minimal training requirements, scissor lifts are ideal when several trades share space and time slots
- A reliable solution, especially for short-term assignments – for example, when other trades are delayed
Working on sensitive ground
Many people think of rough gravel when they think of a shell construction. But often the ground is already poured or prepared – and a platform with low ground pressure is crucial. Electric scissor lifts with non-marking tires and minimal point loads are clearly advantageous here.
Easy to use – even for changing teams
Forward, backward, up, down – that's often all it takes. Scissor lifts are considered particularly user-friendly because they're intuitive to control. This is a real advantage for changing teams on the construction site: little training time, no complex controls , no surprises.
Even temporary helpers or subcontractors can get up and running quickly (assuming they have been trained) – ideal when construction work requires a quick turnaround and not every operator is a professional. Simplicity here means a quick start, fewer errors, and greater safety .
What is often underestimated – and causes problems later
Permissible floor load
The platform fits through the gate, but the floor won't hold it. There's only one thing to help here: check in advance where the platform will travel and where it will be positioned. This is especially critical in freshly laid screed or basement areas.
Power supply and charging cycles
The battery was empty, the charging stopped —and the entire schedule was delayed. Solution: Organize chargers on-site, use break times for intermediate charging, and keep track of charging cycles.
Indoor emissions
Hybrid devices can also generate emissions – for example, when the platform automatically switches to diesel. This can be a problem in shell buildings with dense structures or when working with screed and finishing work. Purely electric scissor lifts are the safe choice here.
Practical tips: How to get the best out of it
- Plan the stage like a team member – early, not “when it’s time”
- Check dimensions and weights not only on paper , but on site – especially gates, edges, ramps
- Pay attention to the platform equipment : sockets, pull-out, sensors – everything that promotes productivity
- Talk to the rental company about the exact purpose – they often know machines that are better suited than the “standard model”
Conclusion: Scissor lifts are not gap fillers – they are real productivity boosters
What may seem simple at first glance is actually one of the most powerful machines on a construction site . Scissor lifts combine safety, load capacity, and accessibility – and provide speed precisely where other systems slow down. Those who don't just "include" them in their plans, but use them purposefully , save time, reduce risks, and significantly increase efficiency.
Because in the end, what you don’t reach at the top stays at the bottom.
Share:
Spider work platforms and mini cranes on the roof: When they are used
Looking for a roofing platform? Here you'll find out what's important
Our editorial quality standards
The subject content on biberger.de are editorially created, reviewed, and continuously updated. The basis is our daily work with aerial platforms, telehandlers, and industrial trucks – in rental, sales, operational planning, and technical support.
Each article draws on real-world experience and is editorially reviewed for clarity, accuracy, and practical relevance according to expert criteria. Technical statements are regularly compared against current industry standards and best practices.
The aim of our publications is to make reliable specialist knowledge accessible and to offer guidance to users, decision-makers and industry partners. BIBERGER sees itself as an independent information platform for safe, economical and modern height access technology – well-founded, comprehensible and free from advertising influence.