No matter what the task, Nationwide has such a wide selection of boom lifts in its hire fleet that the company contends that there is sure to be a model to satisfy just about every height and reach application. With currently more than 60 different models to choose from, and a countrywide network of over 50 depots, these highly versatile, multi task units are daily tackling access challenges in just about every conceivable industrial and business sector.

Much of the their popularity can be attributed to their versatility. In addition to providing the essential vertical lift, they also offer outreach capability, which enables the boom's work platform to reach over obstacles, gaining access to areas that would be inaccessible to equipment where the operation is limited to vertical elevation.

The Nationwide offering includes both telescopic and articulated models, with diesel, electric and bi-powered options being available. Units range from compact, narrow machines with a width of just 0.81 metres, which are particularly useful where access or working space is restricted - with a working height of 8.1 metres and an outreach of 2.6 metres, up to the industry-leading 40 metre platform height and 24.4 metre outreach Genie S-125 boom.

The S-125 - the latest addition to the Nationwide fleet - offers a turning radius and degree of manoeuvrability that is unsurpassed by any boom in the 24 metre plus class, thanks to an innovative four-wheel steer feature that includes front, rear, crab and coordinated steering functions. By activating a selection button, the control panel automatically adjusts the wheel position to match the selected mode, while the operator continues driving.

Another particularly popular model is the M600J, the only 18 metre maximum platform height multi-powered boom currently available anywhere in the world. It is equipped with an onboard generator for quick charging and has four-wheel drive for added off slab performance. The M600J's tyres are also non-marking, ensuring its suitability for both internal and external use.

Also worth a special mention are the SkyJack 46TK and 66TK models that feature an innovative telescopic knuckle function. This allows the boom to telescope outwards, travel downwards using the knuckle, and then move under the working area using a 360 degree rotating jib, so they are ideal for under bridge work and dockside maintenance.

All of Nationwide's boom platforms are operator controlled via a panel located on the work platform, and many are able to rotate a full 360 degrees. Fully qualified operators can be supplied by the company, plus Nationwide runs fast-track one to three day training schemes that are recognised by the CITB [Construction Industry Training Board] and the IPAF [International Powered Access Federation]. The company also offers Power Guard, an insurance package that offers either Gold or Platinum protection while the Nationwide equipment is on hire.

Nationwide is part of the publicly-quoted Lavendon Group Plc and is headquartered in Lutterworth, Leicestershire. Its hire fleet is twice the size of its nearest UK competitor and all of the company's depots comply with Nationwide's ISO 9002 accreditation. The Group is also a major player in the European powered access market, trading under the name Zooom in Germany, France, Spain, Austria and Switzerland.

Full details on the company's entire line-up of boom lifts, scissor lifts and truck mounts, machine sales, training and Power Guard can be found at www.nationwideaccess.com

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December 2001 Nat1.002a