Life tables play a large role in the safety and efficiency of many jobs across the world. Using lift tables provide many benefits, including enhanced safety, reduced worker injuries, ease of use, and more.
If you are looking to purchase a hydraulic lift table that meets your specific needs, there are a few key things to look for when selecting a lift table manufacturer.
Cost-Efficiency of the Product
When looking at potential manufacturers, it is a good idea to compare pricing. In the grand scheme of things, good quality parts and materials will always be the better choice for your money. Investing in a heavy-duty lift table can provide you with large amounts of cost-saving benefits. Investing in higher-quality items decreases the need for replacements, repairs, or constant upkeep on the lift tables. Lower-cost purchases often cost more in the long run.
It is recommended to closely evaluate the complete cost of ownership of the lift table when reviewing purchase options.
Quality of the Lift Table Manufacturer
To ensure expertise, it is recommended to look for a company that has been manufacturing lift tables for a long time. Companies that have successfully been doing business for many years will have the knowledge and expertise in building tables that are built to last.
The longevity of their business will show that they are committed to the work and customer satisfaction. A business that has many years of experience will often be able to answer all of your questions and will be able to help you with your specific needs.
Range of Product Offerings
There are many benefits to both standard and custom manufacturing, which depend on your specific needs. Manufacturers who have been in business for many years will likely have a large catalog of products to choose from. However, sometimes a standard product is not the most beneficial or efficient for your business.
When you have to attempt to make a standard product work when it isn’t the best fit for your business, it may cost you more in the long run from replacements and repairs.
The best manufacturers, with the correct engineering staff and manufacturing facility, have the ability to create a custom design that will function based on your specific needs for the product. Working with a company that offers custom design can provide many benefits in the long run.
Customer Service and Consultation
Understanding customer needs and wants is a very important aspect of manufacturing the best product. The top purchase decisions are made together between a customer and the lift table manufacturer because this ensures the customer’s needs are being heard, listened to, and met.
Fully discussing needs is also beneficial when deciding if customization is needed and getting proper advice from the manufacturer.
A manufacturing company with an expert sales team and experienced customer consultants can understand your questions, have knowledge about the challenges, and can provide you with a product that will be ideal for your business.
Turn to Lange Lift for Dependable Lift Tables
Lange Lift professionals have decades of experience as industry-leading lift table manufacturers. Our team knows that lift tables play a crucial role in the efficiency and safety of your workplace. Our team has the knowledge and expertise to help you find the right solution for your business.
Contact Lange Lift today for more information on lift tables and to find the perfect fit for you.
It’s important that you choose the right equipment for your material handling system. There are a lot of different things to consider. The most important thing is that your decision is the most cost effective for your specific business.
Here’s a List of Questions to Consider:
1. What is the size of the load?
This includes the weight, height, width, and depth of the load. You must also consider what type of material it’s made from and what center of gravity the load has.
2. How will the lift be loaded?
Whether it’s rolled, slid, or lifted on and off can affect your choice. You need to make note of all the ways you load lifts in your business and get a lift that can handle all that work.
3. What size platform will you need?
Make sure the platform or table of the material handling equipment is large enough to fit any load you could have. However, make sure it’s not too much bigger than your largest load, otherwise, you may be overpaying.
4. How high will the lift need to be raised?
You need a lift strong enough to support your largest load at the highest height with ease. Overworking your equipment is an easy way to break it quickly, so make sure you get a heavy-duty lift if needed.
5. How low will the lift need to be lowered?
This is important because most pit-mounted units have specific requirements.
6. What kind of power supply will be needed?
Some lifts are manually operated by pedals, while others are automatically powered by batteries and electricity. Most hydraulic lifts can be customized to fit any of your needs. Additionally, many lifts can be air-powered, which is ideal for painting booths where electricity is prohibited.
7. How will it be controlled?
This can include handheld remotes, foot operated pedals or wall mounted controls.
Need an Experts Opinion on Material Handling Equipment?
Lange-Lift has a team of experts who know exactly what you need. Choosing the right material handling equipment is important to save money, keep workers safe, and ensure your operations carry on efficiently. Don’t leave it up to a guess. Contact us today with any questions, and we can recommend the perfect machine for you!
4 Tips Before Buying the Perfect Lift Table for You
A lift table is a table equipped with a hydraulic system for raising/lowering products of equipment. Lift tables also have various ergonomic benefits because it reduces the constant need to bend and twist around to see what you’re working on. For some specific information on ergonomics, check out these tips to improve ergonomics in the workplace.
There are many things to consider when buying a lift table. This blog will walk you through the various considerations so you know you’re getting exactly what you need.
Here are 4 tips for buying a lift table!
1. Lift Table Capacity
Each lift table has a specific load capacity. Some can handle more weight, others less. You need to consider what it is you’ll be putting on this lift table and how heavy it is. Too heavy, and you might be compromising the longevity and functionality of the lift. Too light, and you might just be overpaying for a lift designed to handle harder work.
2. Height
Each lift table also has a maximum lift height, as well as a minimum height for engaged/unengaged. You need to figure out the average height you’ll be working at and find a lift that can work a bit higher than that. This is because if you are constantly working on a table lifted close to its maximum height you can really decimate the lifespan. In addition, you’ll want to consider your workstation and how much space you can afford to give up. A lift can be stored relatively easily if you just span ahead and find the right spot for it.
3. Lift Table Mobility
Another thing to consider when purchasing a new lift table is mobility. Many people purchase lift tables meant for fixed positions. This means that the table is permanently in the same spot for most of its lifespan. Other people may not just have one specific spot or job for the table. In this case, a portable lift table may make more sense. Many tables on the market have wheels and are lightweight enough to be moved by hand.
4. Load Positioning
The final consideration before buying a table is load positioning. Many tables have the ability to change the position of the load for ergonomic purposes. Among of these features includes the ability to tilt or rotate the item on the table so you yourself don’t have to maneuver around it. It can make a very big difference in daily productivity to get a table equipped with one or both of these features.
Overall, buying a new table can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Following these tips can help you narrow your search down to the point where it’s not much of a search at all. If these considerations don’t narrow your search enough, you may want to consider a customized or modified lift from us at Lange-Lift. Contact us today with any questions you may have about buying a new lift table!
5 Tips to Improve Workplace Ergonomics
Ergonomics involve studying the design of a workspace to optimize it for comfort, efficiency, safety, and productivity. These five tips will improve your workplace’s ergonomics and help prevent workplace injuries.
1. Stretch Often
Stretching is one of the easiest, quickest, and cheapest ways to prevent injury in the workplace. Not only does stretching in the morning increase your flexibility, range of motion, and blood flow to muscles, it also improves your posture and performance in physical activities. All of these are beneficial in an industrial setting for decreasing the risk of injury and improving overall workplace ergonomics. Additionally, stretching regularly has shown to raise energy levels and calm the mind.
2. Get an Anti-Fatigue Mat
Do your back a favor and get yourself an anti-fatigue mat. These mats are made to reduce pain and fatigue caused by standing or walking on hard surfaces all day (like concrete, wood, and cement) by providing cushioning between your feet and the hard floor. For example, this anti-fatigue mat is made of PVC foam to increase comfort.
Mats are relatively cheap and make a big difference in day-to-day ergonomics. You’ll thank yourself for getting one later.
3. Have a Height-Adjustable Work Station
A height-adjustable workstation makes a huge difference in comfort and productivity. Adjustable tables and chairs allow workers to remain comfortable no matter what the task is.
If a worker is uncomfortable and has to constantly bend or reach for something, then efficiency is compromised. Being able to adjust the height of your table or chair while you work on a project means you never have to strain while working. That means you stay safer and more productive all day long.
4. Make Sure There’s Good Lighting
Good lighting decreases the risk of injury in the workplace from certain common issues, like strained eyes and long-term vision problems. Additionally, a bright workplace means it’s easier to see things around you, which means fewer accidents. Additionally, windows and skylights allow natural light into the workspace, allowing better vision without the overhead costs of electricity.
The less you have to worry about vision, the more you can focus on the job right in front of you.
5. Have a Portable Work Station
Similar to height-adjustable workstations, portable workstations offer similar benefits in the workplace. In addition to moving up or down, it’s important to be able to rotate your table or move around the table yourself. A high-quality work chair with wheels allows you to circle around your project to see it from all angles. Conversely, rotating tabletops like these give you a complete, 360-degree view of your work.
Basically, the more adjustments you can make to keep yourself comfortable and safe, the more productive and efficient you will be.
For the most ergonomic lift tables in the business, contact Lange-Lift. We offer a large selection of manual, battery, electric, and air lift tables. Need a unique lift table for a specialized task? Customize your own table from the ground up. Whatever your need, Lange-Lift is committed to offering the best product to make sure your workplace is safe and productive.
4 Tips To Keep Your Lift Working in the Winter
It can be a pain to work outside in the winter, but that doesn’t mean your lift equipment should suffer. Your custom lifts should work in all weather conditions. All it takes to make that happen is a little more awareness and preparation.
Here are a few tips to make sure your lift table is ready for this winter.
1. Check Fluid Levels Often
Before it gets too cold, be sure you are using the proper lubrication for your specific type of lift. Friction from sediments and debris from snow and ice can cause damage to your lift, which can compromise it.
Having a properly lubricated lift means the parts will glide freely and smoothly. It also acts as a shield from outside particles that can cause jams and buildups. Just remember to check your product manual to make sure you’re using the proper lubricant.
2. Store Your Lift Properly
You should always store your lift inside when it isn’t being used. Also, never leave your lift out overnight, especially in winter weather. Harsh weather can slowly hurt your lift until it just breaks. At that point, it’s usually too late to fix.
Storing your lift inside ensures that any ice will be long gone by the next time you plan to use it. This is especially important for battery powered lifts, because cold batteries perform slower and lose their charge faster. Best practice is to store all batteries on the charger in a warm environment.
3. Let Your Lift Warm Up Before You Use It
It’s best to let your lift warm up a while before using it. Turning a cold lift on and operating it right away can be dangerous, and it can damage your lift.
Much like you’d warm up your legs before a run or your car before a long commute, you should also let your lift get a little warm before using it. This is so all the fluids and electrical wiring have a chance to prepare for the work ahead.
4. Prepare an Emergency Backup Lift
Much like the weather, operating machinery can be unpredictable. Even if you take every precaution and every step to ensure your equipment is dependable, there are some instances where events are out of our control.
Case in point: Cold weather can cause the wiring to short circuit or cause the battery to die in half the time as usual. These kinds of speed bumps can, however, be partially predicted. We know it’s possible it could happen, but we can’t say when. The best solution is to have a backup lift or battery on hand so that you can be prepared for when it happens.
Contact Your Local Lift Experts
If you have any questions about Lange Lifts or which lift is best for you needs, contact us today. We offer custom lifts that are suitable for unique jobs and as backup lifts in the winter.
Heaviest Objects Ever Lifted By One Person
Lange Lifts have world-renowned lifting capabilities. In fact, anybody can lift tons of weight with the push of a button if they have a Lange Lift. But not everyone can lift as much weight as these people did on their own.
Here are some of the heaviest things ever lifted by a person.
Heaviest Deadlift Ever
Hafþór Björnsson broke is own world record at the 2018 Arnold Strongman Classic by deadlifting an amazing 1,041 pounds from the ground. Björnsson is 6’9″ tall and weighs just under 400 pounds. Check out his world record deadlift here.
He also has been recorded carrying a 30-foot, 1,433 pound log for five steps and hauling two refrigerators a distance of 20 meters in under 20 seconds. And he plays The Mountain in HBO’s award-winning series Games of Thrones. Obviously, he’s a pretty impressive guy!
Heaviest Stone Ever Lifted
Brian Shaw currently holds the world record for the heaviest stone lift ever. He picked a 555-pound stone up and over a 4-foot tall platform in 2016 at the Arnold Strongman Classic.
Fun fact: Concrete is not actually dense enough to weigh 555 pounds and still be regulation size. So, what did they do to increase the weight? They drilled holes in the stone and poured iron inside. Wow!
Heaviest Farmer’s Walk Ever
Laurence Shahlae is the current Farmer’s Walk Guinness World Record holder. He carried over 330 pounds in each hand a distance of 20 meters in under 7 seconds. That takes serious grip and lifting strength.
This took place in 2004 at the Strongman World Championship, over a decade ago, and no one has been able to break this lifting world record yet.
Get Help When Lifting Your Heaviest Equipment
Unless you’re one of these extraordinary people, if you have giant stones and equipment that need moving, you need help. And, with lifting equipment that can lift thousands of pounds, Lange Lift can help you. Contact us today to learn more about Lange Lift custom lifts and what they can do for you.
5 Safety Rules You Should Follow When Using a Hydraulic Hoist
A hydraulic hoist is handy for lifting heavy loads. However, with that much power comes danger. One wrong move and you could end up losing a finger.
To make sure that your finger count remains at 10, be sure to follow these five hydraulic lift safety tips.
1. Don’t Get Complacent
Of the hundreds of cases of injuries reported in the manufacturing industry every year, a number of them could have been avoided if the operator had been following the safety protocols already in place.
Hydraulic lifts become a hazard only when operators become complacent when using them. They’re too comfortable, so they cut corners or put their hands where they shouldn’t be just to save time. Whenever operating such a machine, always keep in mind just how powerful it is and how much damage it could do if you’re not careful.
2. Use Barriers
It should be common sense, but people need to stay out of the area where a hydraulic lift is working. Unfortunately, some people will disregard that rule or not pay attention, leading them to inadvertently walk into a danger zone.
For that reason, barriers must be put in place so that nobody accidentally puts themselves at risk. This will vary depending on the location of the machine and what you use it for, but there are two basic types of barriers:
Gates
For large pieces of machinery, locked gates should be put around the machinery so that people cannot walk into a danger zone without realizing it.
Light Curtains
This safety feature can be placed around the most dangerous parts of machines. If your hand crosses them, they shut the machine down instantly, saving you from injury.
3. Keep Machines Maintained
When machines start malfunctioning, they can become dangerous. They may then require more manpower or special nudges to get the job done. However, that makes it easy to put yourself in danger.
Any time there is an unusual movement or sound, the machine should be inspected to try to find the source of the problem. Regular maintenance should also be scheduled to catch small problems before they get bigger.
4. Lock Down During Maintenance
If maintenance is being done on a hydraulic hoist, then it needs to be completely locked down. That means using a lock with a single key that you keep on your person. Lock the power supply up so that it can’t be accidentally turned on while the machine is being repaired or cleaned.
5. Monitor Hydraulic Hoist Usage
Monitoring who can use the hydraulic lift will help you make sure that only those who are properly trained and qualified are using it. Those who have not been trained should not have access.
While not every employee will need to know how to operate the hydraulic hoist, everyone who works there should receive ongoing training to be aware of the safety concerns involving this machinery.
Learn More
Now you know how to stay safe while working with a hydraulic lift. If you want to learn more about these machines and how they can help you with your business, contact us today.
5 Pieces of Equipment You Need for the Perfect Garage Setup
Do you like fixing up cars? Whether it’s a hobby or a full-fledged business plan, mechanic skills go hand in hand with a great garage setup. If you’re a mechanic or car enthusiast, you know that the right tools are important to get the job done.
Looking to invest in some gadgets for your garage or shop? Check out these must-have garage tools so you can be prepared for any repair or maintenance challenge that comes your way.
Air Compressor
A high-capacity air compressor is essential for some of a mechanic’s tools of the trade. Pneumatic hand tools like sanders, pressure washers, impact wrenches, and more require compressed air to function.
Consider not only the capacity of your air compressor but also how ergonomic it is. Having the ability to move your compressor around the shop easily will add to the versatility and usefulness of your purchase.
Engine Hoist
If you plan on rebuilding or replacing engines, a hoist is a must. Many models fold away when not in use, and some can roll the engine out away from the engine bay for easier access during repairs and maintenance.
When not being used for engines, hoists can have many other purposes as well. For instance, moving heavy parts out of truck beds, and relocating bulky equipment around the shop. Obviously, having a hoist can save your back and make big tasks much easier.
Lift Table
Lift tables are important ergonomic and multi-purpose surfaces that can adjust to the height or weight of many large car parts. A heavy-duty steel lift table can function as a welding station, machining station, assembly area, parts transport, and more.
A lift table ensures you can work on the same project from any position. With custom tables available, you can choose a design that best suits the needs of your garage too.
Instead of taking up space with several different workstations, consider using a lift table as a mobile station around the shop. Lifts with wheels can move to your area and save floor space, allowing you to make dynamic use of your garage layout.
Vehicle Lift
Being able to get underneath a car for diagnostics and inspection is essential for a mechanic. Vehicle lifts not only make the undercarriage of a car more accessible, they also make working on the underside of any vehicle safer and more efficient than jacks or other alternatives.
Parts Washer
Whether you’re getting your classic car ready for a car show or just need to de-grease some tools or automotive parts, a parts washer is invaluable.
Keep bushings, carbs, bearings, and other necessities from being greasy and gunked up so you can work efficiently and cleanly. These handy basins come with a pump and spigot built in, and many fit right on your worktop.
A Garage Setup Built to Last
Investing in good, high-quality equipment and tools will save you money and time in the long run. Set yourself up for success with durable and long-lasting tools and equipment for your workspace. This will ensure each extra dollar can go toward future investments for your perfect garage setup.
If you’re looking for top quality lifts and lift tables, Lange Lift can help. As a family-owned business, we pride ourselves on cutting-edge design and manufacturing to suit your needs. Contact us today!
Top 5 Benefits of Improving Ergonomics in the Workplace
Around 1 million people take time off work every year because of musculoskeletal injuries. Unfortunately, many of these injuries could have been avoided with the use of ergonomics in the workplace.
By providing ergonomic solutions, employers can limit the number of workplace injuries that occur. But that’s not the only reason to use ergonomic solutions in your work environment. There are many benefits of using ergonomic equipment and protocols.
Keep reading to learn the top five.
1. Reduce Workers Compensation Payouts
One of the ways an ergonomic workplace can help your business is by reducing the amount that you have to pay in workers compensation. By preventing injuries, you can avoid these unnecessary costs.
Work-related injuries have indirect costs that come with them as well. These can often be higher than the actual compensation payout.
2. Lower Insurance Costs
The more often your employees need to use their insurance to cover work-related injuries, the more everybody will end up paying for insurance. You can save your company and employees some money by switching to a more ergonomic environment where injuries don’t occur as often.
Here’s a great example of how this works:
A small manufacturing company is currently spending $75,000 annually on direct and indirect insurance costs. They invest in an ergonomic lift that costs $5,000 and reduces claims by 10%.
In the first year, the company saves around $15,000. The lift has already paid for itself and saved them an additional $10,000. Over the next five years, they’ll save an additional $75,000, which is more than enough to replace all of their equipment with more ergonomic options.
3. Increase Employee Engagement
Lower insurance costs aren’t the only way that ergonomics can help employers save money. An ergonomic environment can help employers and business owners make money in several ways.
First of all, when your employees see that you care about them, they will become more engaged in your company. Engaged employees care about your business and will work harder to help the company succeed. You may see employees arriving on time consistently, staying later without complaint, and offering ideas to help your business improve.
4. Boost Employee Morale
Being in pain makes for a miserable work experience. So, if you want to instantly improve the morale of your employees, start implementing ergonomics. As they physically feel better, their emotional state will improve as well.
This can help your business in unexpected ways. Happy employees speak positively about your company, which helps with your brand image. It can also help draw in new prospects as they hear great things about the way you treat your employees.
5. Improve Productivity
There are two ways ergonomics can improve productivity in the workplace. On a day-to-day basis, decreased pain will help employees do their jobs more quickly and efficiently. They’ll also need to take fewer breaks.
Productivity is also reduced when people need to take time off. This can also be prevented with ergonomic systems in place. When everybody is healthy and able to work, your company can continue to function like a well-oiled machine.
As you already know, the more productive your business is, the more money you’re able to make. You may be surprised at how quickly an investment in ergonomic equipment can pay for itself.
Want to Learn More About Ergonomics in the Workplace?
Now you know how ergonomics in the workplace can help you save money by lowering costs and helping your employees. To learn more, check out our blog. Or, if you’re ready to invest in ergonomic equipment for your workplace, see our many product offerings.
5 Questions to Ask Before Purchasing a Small Lift Table
Are you in the market for a small lift table? If you are, you’re probably deciding which lift you should buy.
Small lift tables take up minimal space but you’ll want to make sure the table you choose has the capacity you need. Some small tables can lift more than 1000 pounds, while others cannot.
If you’re having trouble finding a lift table that can perform the way you need it to, you may need to go with a custom lift table.
Whatever you’re looking for in a lift, there are several things you should consider before purchasing. Read on for five questions you should ask yourself before making a decision.
1. What Type of Small Lift Table Suits My Needs?
Several types of lift tables exist, and you’ll want to determine which is best for you. To do this you’ll need to consider how the table will operate.
If you’ll be working in an environment without access to power outlets, look into battery-powered lifts. Choose the power options and other functions that work for what you need.
2. How Much Weight Do I Need Lifted?
Weight requirements should always be considered when looking at small lift tables. Think of what you’ll be lifting. Whether its goods or people, you’ll need to have the right weight-lifting power.
If you aren’t sure of the weight you’ll be lifting, at least make sure the lift platform is large enough to meet your size requirements.
3. What Do I Need the Lift Table For?
When comparing lifts, consider the intended purpose of your purchase. If you only need to lift small parts from time to time, your needs will be very different from someone lifting constantly.
As you look at various lifts, ask yourself if they are feasible or if you need something else (you can always contact our expert team for help!). And, if you’ll be working in a freezer, make sure the lift has the correct fluids to work properly in that environment.
4. What Safety Features Are Required?
If you’ll be using your lift table in an industrial area, make sure you know what safety features are required in your workplace.
If you’ll be using the lift in your own workspace, consider what features you want in place. Lift tables help prevent common workplace injuries on their own, but additional safety features are never a bad idea.
5. Does the Lift Have the Working Capacity I Need?
This question is especially important if you’re wanting to purchase a small lift table. Determine what your needs are, then compare tables against those requirements.
If the lift will be used for large amounts of time each day, make sure it has the ability and power to do so without wearing down too quickly. And if you need the lift to be portable, make sure you choose one that offers that capability.
Focus On Your Needs
Whatever your needs are, keeping these questions in mind will help you choose the right lift table for your shop. Take all aspects of use and ability into consideration before making a purchase.
While many lifts will be tempting because of low prices, don’t react too quickly. Doing so may land you with a lift that doesn’t meet your needs.
To discuss your specific lift table needs, contact us today.