It's always good to help a local Isle of Wight business prepare for a new project, and this time I was working with
Steve and Ian from Biltmore Signs, delivering their Novice Scissor Lift (MEWP) training ahead of an upcoming contract on the mainland.
With working at height potentially forming part of their signage work, getting the right training in place before heading off to the job is a sensible move.
And as you can see from the photos, they certainly weren't afraid of a bit of height!
A Little About Biltmore Signs
Biltmore Signs is part of the
Biltmore Group, a long-established Isle of Wight business founded back in 1972.
Alongside Biltmore Printers and Biltmore Billboards, the signage side of the business provides a wide range of services, including site boards, vehicle signwriting, advertising banners, shop fascias, window graphics, etching and solar films.
They're not just about printing signs either. Biltmore Signs specialises in bespoke signage solutions, combining quality materials and modern manufacturing equipment to meet customers' individual requirements.
It's always a pleasure to support another established Island business, particularly when they're preparing to take their expertise further afield.
Getting Ready for the Mainland
For Steve and Ian, the training was all about gaining the knowledge and practical skills needed to operate a scissor lift safely.
We used a
self-propelled scissor lift supplied by Sydenhams Hire, giving them the opportunity to become familiar with the controls and operating characteristics of this type of Mobile Elevating Work Platform.
As this was a novice course, we covered the essentials from the ground up, including:
- Pre-use inspections and safety checks.
- Understanding the controls and machine limitations.
- Safe positioning and operation.
- Identifying overhead hazards and obstructions.
- Working safely at height.
- Emergency procedures and lowering controls.
The practical training took place around an industrial building, providing useful examples of the challenges operators can encounter when working close to structures and at elevated heights.
It's not simply about getting the platform up in the air. It's about understanding the equipment, recognising the hazards and knowing how to work safely.
Why Scissor Lift Training Matters for Signage Work
Scissor lifts can be particularly useful for businesses involved in sign installation, maintenance and other tasks requiring access to elevated areas.
However, operating a MEWP comes with responsibilities.
Operators need to understand ground conditions, machine stability, safe working loads and the importance of planning the job before raising the platform.
For signage businesses, that might mean working alongside buildings, near rooflines or in areas where other people and vehicles could be moving around.
Proper training helps operators recognise these risks and make informed decisions about how to carry out their work safely.
Practical Training That Prepares You for the Job
At
Wight Training Services, I believe training should be practical, straightforward and relevant to the work operators will actually be doing.
By delivering training on-site, using suitable equipment and realistic working conditions, operators can build their confidence while learning the correct procedures from the outset.
Whether it's a first-time operator preparing for a new contract or an experienced operator needing a refresher, the aim is always the same –
safe, confident and competent operation.
Good Luck on the Mainland, Steve and Ian!
A big thank you to Steve and Ian from Biltmore Signs for their efforts throughout the novice scissor lift training.
It's great to see a local business investing in the skills and safety of its team before taking on a new project.
Best of luck with the upcoming mainland contract, both!
Tim Benton
Wight Training Services
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