Choosing the Right Lift Type

The first step in the process is making sure you have the correct type of lift for the job. While most crews are familiar with the big three — boom lifts, scissor lifts, and telehandlers — there are important subcategories to consider.

• Articulating Boom Lifts – Ideal for working around obstacles and in tight spaces where straight-line reach isn’t possible.
• Telescopic Boom Lifts – Perfect for covering long horizontal distances with stability and precision.
• Electric Scissor Lifts – Suited for indoor or clean-air projects where noise and emissions need to be minimal.
• Rough-Terrain Scissor Lifts – Built for outdoor work on uneven, muddy, or gravel surfaces.

Starting with the right lift type means every other decision — from attachments to power systems — will fit the needs of your job site.

Maximizing Efficiency with Attachments and Accessories

Even the best lift can become more productive with the right attachments. These tools are designed to integrate with the lift platform and make specific jobs faster, easier, and safer.

Popular options include:

• Material Lifting Hooks – Perfect for raising smaller loads, tools, or parts without moving the entire lift.
• Pipe Racks – A must-have for mechanical, plumbing, and electrical contractors working with long runs.
• Platform Extensions – Add valuable workspace or reach without repositioning, reducing downtime.
• Glazier Kits – Specialized rigs for safely handling glass panels and other fragile materials at height.

Using the right accessories isn’t just about convenience — it’s about boosting productivity and maintaining safetywhile reducing wear on your crew.

Using Specialized Power Options like SkyPower®

Some jobs demand more than just a lift — they require continuous power at height. This is where SkyPower®, available on many Genie boom lifts, becomes a game-changer.

SkyPower® provides a dedicated 110V power line right to the platform, eliminating the need for long, hazard-prone extension cords. This not only makes tool use safer but also speeds up operations by reducing setup time. The system can be paired with air lines and welding options, giving multi-trade crews the flexibility they need without extra equipment cluttering the site (Genie Industries).

For projects that involve grinding, drilling, or running lighting systems at height, SkyPower® can turn a standard lift into a full-service elevated work platform.

Staying Safe and Compliant

No matter how many upgrades or accessories you add, safety should remain the top priority. OSHA aerial lift standards (OSHA 1926.453) require that:

• The lift is rated for the combined weight of workers, tools, and materials.
• Attachments are manufacturer-approved for the lift model.
• Operators are trained on both the base lift and any additional features or accessories.

Following these rules isn’t just about avoiding fines — it’s about protecting your crew and keeping the project on track.

How Downstream Helps You Get the Right Setup

At Downstream, we take the guesswork out of lift configuration. We stock a wide range of boom lifts, scissor lifts, and telehandlers with manufacturer-approved accessories like pipe racks, platform extensions, and SkyPower® systems.

Our rental team doesn’t just match you with a machine — we ensure every lift goes out job-ready with the right features, so you can start work without delays. Whether you need a standard lift for a clean warehouse install or a fully outfitted machine for a busy outdoor construction site, we’ve got you covered.

You can browse our aerial lift rentals here: https://trydownstream.com

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right lift goes beyond height and load capacity — it’s about making sure every piece of the puzzle fitsyour specific job requirements. By taking the time to pick the correct lift type, adding productivity-enhancing attachments, and considering specialized options like SkyPower®, you can significantly improve efficiency and safety on the job site.

A lift that’s properly configured on day one means fewer delays, smoother operations, and better results for your crew and your client.

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