Juanita Pienaar spoke with John Damant, CEO of Bud Rental Services, to explore the latest access equipment entering the market, the technologies redefining safety, and the trends shaping the future of working at height in South Africa.
Smarter machines, greater capability
One of the most notable developments in the access equipment sector is the introduction of next-generation machines designed to deliver greater reach, improved load capacity, and enhanced operational flexibility.
“Our portfolio includes the latest Next-Gen scissor lifts and 3rd generation hybrid lifts, including the new S-85XC FE (28 m, Xtra capacity), which offers 28 metres of reach with extra capacity for heavier loads,” explains Damant.
This evolution in machine capability is not just about reaching higher - it is about doing more at height. Increased platform capacity allows operators to carry additional tools and materials, reducing the need for repeated trips and ultimately improving efficiency on site. For contractors working in sectors where time and productivity are critical, such as construction and industrial maintenance, these gains can translate directly into cost savings.
At the same time, hybrid and electric models are gaining traction, reflecting a broader industry shift towards more sustainable and fuel-efficient solutions. Machines that can operate both indoors and outdoors, with reduced emissions and noise levels, are becoming essential in environments such as warehousing, manufacturing facilities, and hospitality settings.
Technology reshaping safety and efficiency
While machine performance continues to improve, it is the integration of technology that is truly transforming the sector. Telematics, in particular, is emerging as a powerful tool for fleet management and operational oversight.
“Telematics is increasingly being adopted to monitor machine usage and improve fleet efficiency,” says Damant.
Through real-time data collection, telematics systems enable fleet managers to track utilisation rates, monitor maintenance schedules, and identify inefficiencies. This level of visibility not only helps to optimise equipment deployment but also reduces downtime by ensuring that machines are serviced proactively.
In parallel, safety innovations are becoming more sophisticated, addressing some of the most critical risks associated with working at height. Anti-crush systems, for example, are now standard on many modern machines.
“Regarding safety systems, all Genie boom lifts are equipped with the Lift Guard Contact Alarm, an anti-crush system that enhances operator protection,” Damant notes.
These systems are designed to detect contact or pressure against the operator and automatically stop machine movement, significantly reducing the risk of injury. In high-risk environments where operators often work in confined spaces or near overhead structures, such features are becoming indispensable.
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 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.
Efficiency, electrification, and enhanced 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 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 towards higher platform capacities. “Higher platform capacities, such as the XC and J series, are enhancing productivity,” Damant notes.
By enabling operators to carry more equipment and materials, these machines reduce the need for additional lifts, streamlining workflows, and improving overall efficiency.
Battery technology is also playing a crucial role in this evolution. “The adoption of lithium-ion batteries in electric machines, featured in our Next-Gen scissor lifts and hybrids, enables faster, opportunistic charging and reliable operation even in extreme temperatures,” Damant explains.
Lithium-ion technology offers several advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries, including longer lifespan, reduced maintenance, and the ability to charge quickly during short breaks in operation. This makes it particularly well-suited to demanding work environments where downtime must be kept to a minimum.
Raising the standard
As the working at height sector continues to evolve, it is clear that equipment innovation, technological integration, and a stronger focus on safety are raising the standard across the industry.
For contractors, this means greater access to machines that are not only more capable but also safer and more efficient. For equipment providers, it presents an opportunity to lead the way in education, support, and innovation, ensuring that all users, regardless of their experience level, can operate at the highest standards.
“Ultimately, adapting to regulatory and safety requirements starts with us,” Damant concludes.
