Come up with the goods

Upfront investment can be high because of structural changes that may be required in the building as well as the capital cost of the equipment itself. Most standard goods lifts will require a floor pit to be dug out to accommodate essential parts of the mechanism and to allow the platform to recede and allow level access. This can be a problem if the building is leased, and takes time and money, although it can be justified if the lift will be in use for a considerable period. However, it may not offer sufficient flexibility for some firms, says Penny Hydraulics, if they believe they may need to move premises in future. Another potential issue with a standard goods lift is safety certification and compliance. The typical size of these lifts and the way they are used often means that they are capable of, and often used for, carrying people at the same time as the load. This means that the lift must be inspected and tested more frequently and to a much higher standard than other types of lift. An alternative, says the company, is a simpler goods lift, such as the Mezz Lift. Robust and designed for industrial applications, it does not require a floor pit because it has a relatively thin platform allowing easy access and its hydraulic control equipment is typically mounted to the side of the installation. It can, if required, be relocated easily and with little or no work to the building infrastructure. The Mezz Lift can also be installed outside the building. Design can be customised for each application, with bespoke platforms available to fit an existing opening. There are few restrictions on lifting height which means it can be installed, or extended, for multi-floor applications. Maximum working load is up to 500kg class which covers most industrial loads. Penny Hydraulics also points out that lifts like this do not require the same level of safety certification as people-carrying lifts, though they must still undergo thorough inspection every year to comply with LOLER and PUWER regulations