WORKING AT HEIGHTS
who may not use access equipment regularly. “Our goal is to educate smaller contractors, who may not use MEWPs regularly but face the same operational risks, to ensure they meet these standards,” Damant explains. “Ultimately, adapting to regulatory and safety requirements starts with us.” Broad-based demand across industries The demand for access equipment in South Africa is being driven by a diverse range of industries, each with its own set of requirements and challenges. “The industries currently driving demand for access equipment include construction, mining, warehousing, manufacturing, hospitality, and aviation, with construction remaining a consistent leader,” says Damant. In construction, the need for reliable and versatile equipment is constant, particularly as projects become more complex and timelines more compressed. In mining, access equipment plays a critical role in maintenance and infrastructure development, often in harsh and remote environments. Warehousing and manufacturing facilities, on the other hand, are increasingly turning to electric and hybrid machines that can operate efficiently indoors without producing emissions. Meanwhile, sectors such as hospitality and aviation require equipment that combines precision, safety, and minimal disruption to ongoing operations. This broad-based demand underscores the importance of having a diverse equipment portfolio that can cater to different applications. It also highlights the growing need for machines that can adapt to multiple environments, offering both flexibility and performance. Looking ahead, several key trends are expected to shape the future of working at height equipment in South Africa. Chief among these is the continued push towards greater fuel efficiency and electrification. “We expect more fuel-efficient Efficiency, electrification, and enhanced performance machines, such as electric and hybrid models like our DC and FE variants, to become increasingly prevalent,” says Damant. These machines not only reduce operating costs but also align with global sustainability goals, making them an attractive option for companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint. Another important trend is the move
This broad-based demand underscores the importance of having a diverse equipment portfolio that can cater to different applications.
A shift in contractor behaviour As equipment becomes more advanced, contractors are also changing how they approach safety and compliance. The days of treating safety as an afterthought are rapidly fading, replaced by a more integrated and proactive mindset. “We are finding that contractors across all sectors are increasingly integrating safety requirements when using Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) on site,” says Damant. “This includes accredited training, compliance with MEWP operating conditions, and pre- inspection of site conditions.” This shift is being driven not only by regulatory pressure but also by a growing recognition of the operational and financial risks associated with non- compliance. Proper training ensures that operators understand both the capabilities
and limitations of the equipment, while thorough site inspections help to identify potential hazards before work begins. Maintenance practices are also becoming more rigorous. “At Concord Access Solutions, our Reman facility ensures that machines get a second lease on life through maintenance and rework. Equipment is regularly inspected according to service intervals, including brake checks and load test validation,” Damant adds. These measures are essential for ensuring that machines perform reliably under demanding conditions. For rental companies and contractors alike, maintaining high standards of equipment integrity is key to minimising downtime and avoiding costly incidents. However, challenges remain - particularly among smaller contractors
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