the glass lift challenge
– GLASS REPLACEMENT, WELLington Region
When a client called and needed to lift 50+ sheets of heavy glass to the 6th level of a building via a narrow stairwell, we had to find a solution. The original plan involved a large team working over two full days - costly, with safety risks, and scheduling constraints.
The Challenge
A VIEW FROM THE TOP OF THE STAIRWELL LOOKING DOWN
Moving over 50 heavy glass sheets to the sixth level of a commercial build is not for the faint hearted. The initial plan called for a large crew working across two full days. That meant ballooning labour costs, heightened safety risks, and a tight schedule that left little room for error.
The Risk
This approach had several areas of risk: occupying the entire stairwell for two days wasn’t ideal for the other stairwell users. In addition, human error and human fatigue would have played a role in the transportation of the glass over the two days work. There is also a risk of falling glass, which has the ramifications of glass shards, objects falling from height, and several other safety factors.
Finally, employing manual labour for several days would have been time consuming, and therefore also expensive.
Our solution
The Result
This project stands as a clear example of how RES Management helps construction teams build smarter. By combining Access Hire expertise with flexible thinking, we enhance performance, support growth, and accelerate project delivery. The outcome is simple. Maximum output with minimum strain.
Looking to solve your own lifting headache? Let us help you rethink what is possible.
what was originally planned as a two day manual lift
was completed in under four hours
It was a classic Access Hire challenge, but with a twist. And a perfect opportunity for RES Management to show what smart Access Hire can really achieve.
the RES approach:
Rather than throw more manpower at the problem, we focused on precision and efficiency. Our team proposed a streamlined lifting method using:
A lightweight aluminium gantry system
An electric winch for controlled vertical movement
A glass sucker bank to ensure safe, steady handling
Think of it like replacing a rugby scrum with a well choreographed ballet. Fewer boots on the ground and far greater control.
We delivered:
Significant labour savings
A safer, controlled lifting environment
Faster project progress with zero compromise on quality
The client saw time saved, cost reduced, and risk lowered. A tidy trifecta.
