In 2016 we used traditional steel fruit picking ladders for the last time ...
As part of our occupational health and safety policies we have moved away from fruit picking using the older traditional steel ladders. Now all picking is performed by skilled operators using hydraulic power ladders. These machines are also known as 'cherry pickers'
Each machine has a 3 metre elevated boom with an enclosed platform for the operator to stand in as they are harvesting. The risk of falls from heights is reduced considerably, workers are able to be more productive and the work is less physically demanding.
These machines are also used for fruit tree pruning in the winter months and thinning of crops prior to harvest.
Fruit picking is generally faster and more productive as the bag holds far more than a traditional picking bag - the operator is not making as many trips from the tree to to the bin.
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