Working at height is a daily requirement across facilities management, manufacturing, warehousing, healthcare, and retail, yet many organisations still rely on traditional ladders for quick, everyday tasks. The problem? Ladders remain one of the biggest contributors to low-level falls, overreaching accidents, and preventable workplace injuries.

Modern businesses are now looking for equipment that improves safety, efficiency, and compliance without slowing down operations. That is where the HLS Hugo Lift, a compact low-level MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platform), stands out.

Read on to discover what a MEWP is, how the Hugo Lift works, and why it is becoming the preferred alternative to ladders for safe, efficient work at height.

What is a MEWP? And where does the Hugo Lift fit in?

In the simplest terms possible, a MEWP is a Mobile Elevating Work Platform. But perhaps the term requires a bit more explanation. Essentially a MEWP is a platform, usually powered, designed to help a person or people to carry out work at height in safe manner. MEWPs include scissor lifts, boom lifts and low-level MEWP platforms used for everyday maintenance and access tasks. 

The Hugo Lift is a compact, push-around low-level access platform that replaces ladders for everyday tasks up to 4.2m working height. Its lightweight frame, enclosed platform, and intuitive controls make it one of the safest and most reliable ladder alternatives on the market.

Key safety features of the Hugo Lift

1. Platform interlock technology

The Hugo Lift includes automatic platform gate interlocks, ensuring the gates stay securely closed whenever the platform is elevated. This prevents accidental openings and significantly reduces fall risks.

2. Auto-elevation braking

If an operator forgets to apply the foot brake, the Hugo Lift automatically activates the platform brake as soon as elevation begins. This ensures the lift is securely locked in place and removes a common human-error risk.

3. Foot brake & floor-level sensing

Operators can lock the unit instantly with the foot brake. Combined with floor-level sensing, Hugo ensures the platform remains level and secure, something ladders cannot guarantee.

4. Non-slip mat & guardrails

The non-slip black mat on the ground-level shelf provides secure storage for tools and equipment, supporting up to 50kg. It is perfect for holding toolboxes, reducing the need for multiple trips and helping operators keep everything they need close by. Combined with Hugo’s enclosed guardrails, this feature contributes to safer, more efficient working at height.

These features collectively make Hugo one of the safest low-level access solutions available today.

Efficiency benefits: How Hugo improves productivity

1. Single-person operation

Unlike ladders often requiring two people for safe positioning, the Hugo Lift is designed for solo use, freeing additional team members for other tasks.

2. Quick setup and easy movement

Hugo’s compact and lightweight design allows operators to move it through narrow aisles, doorways, and even passenger lifts. Setup takes seconds, not minutes.

3. Height-adjustable 50kg cargo shelf

The cargo shelf allows operators to store tools and materials within reach, eliminating repetitive climbing, one of the primary causes of ladder injuries and wasted time.

4. Reduced fatigue, more output

A stable platform reduces fatigue and boosts confidence, enabling faster, safer task completion across maintenance and inspection routines.

Across the workday, these enhancements translate into significant productivity gains for any business performing frequent work at height.

Industries that benefit most from the Hugo Lift

🏢 Facilities Management

FM teams perform a huge range of recurring tasks at height, often in tight or high-traffic environments. The Hugo Lift offers a stable and reliable alternative to ladders for:

Common tasks:

• Replacing light bulbs and ceiling tiles

• Cleaning internal windows 

• Accessing HVAC units, vents, and sensors

• Signage installation and removal

• Inspecting fire alarms and emergency lighting

• Decorating and general building upkeep

Its compact size and easy manoeuvrability make it ideal for commercial offices, schools, public buildings, and leisure centres.

🏭 Manufacturing & production

Manufacturing plants require fast, safe access for routine and maintenance. Hugo can navigate narrow aisles, production lines, and machinery layouts with ease.

Common tasks:

• Accessing overhead machinery and automation systems

• Line-side maintenance and inspections

• Clearing blockages on conveyors

• Servicing of equipment

• Cleaning or maintaining lighting in busy production areas

Its enclosed platform significantly reduces risks in food and drink factories, FMCG sites, automotive plants, and general manufacturing.

🏥 Healthcare Environments

Hospitals and healthcare facilities require equipment that is safe, quiet, clean and easily moved through restricted areas.

Common tasks:

• Servicing lighting in wards and corridors

• Accessing ductwork and air filtration units

• Maintenance in lift lobbies and plant rooms

• Installing or adjusting signage and patient information boards

Hugo fits through standard doorways, corridors, and passenger lifts, making it ideal for estates and facilities teams.

🛒 Retail & Public Spaces

Retail environments rely heavily on frequent tasks at height, often when customers are present. The Hugo Lift provides access for:

Common tasks:

• Stock picking and shelf replenishment

• Changing promotional signage and point-of-sale displays (POS)

• Accessing overhead storage or stockroom racking

• Cleaning signage and lighting

• Seasonal display installation

• Maintenance in libraries, museums, and visitor spaces

Its small footprint and clean design make it suitable for department stores, showrooms, and public venues.

🚚 Warehousing & Logistics

Warehouse teams often use ladders in operational areas, which increases risk, especially around vehicles and pedestrian routes. Hugo provides controlled, stable access for:

Common tasks:

• Picking from low-level racking

• Inspecting warehouse lighting and sensors

• Maintaining dock doors and loading bay equipment

• Inventory counting and cycle checks

• Installing aisle markers and safety signage

With zero-turn manoeuvrability, Hugo excels in narrow aisles and fast-moving environments.

Hugo Lift vs. Traditional Ladders

• Safety

Ladders are responsible for thousands of injuries every year. Hugo eliminates common ladder hazards with its enclosed platform, interlock technology, and auto-braking.

• Efficiency

Hugo enables faster, smoother workflows with fewer interruptions and far less operator fatigue.

• Versatility

Its compact footprint, simple operation, and adjustable cargo shelf make it suitable for almost any indoor environment.

• Ease of Use

Hugo’s intuitive design requires minimal training and fits seamlessly into existing maintenance routines.

Across every category, Hugo outperforms ladders, making it the leading safer alternative to ladders for modern workplaces.

Conclusion: Upgrade your work at height safety with the HLS Hugo Lift

The HLS Hugo Lift is transforming how businesses manage work at height by offering a safer, more efficient, and more versatile alternative to traditional ladders and steps. With its advanced safety features, productivity benefits, and suitability across multiple industries, Hugo is the ideal solution for teams committed to reducing risk and improving daily operations.

At HLS, we do not just provide safer equipment,  we support your entire work-at-height strategy.
We offer:

• IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) Accredited Training, including IPAF PAV (Push Around Vertical) courses

• Hire options for short-term requirements

• Long-term contract rental packages

• Direct purchase of the HLS Hugo Lift and other MEWP platforms

Whether you are upgrading from ladders, improving compliance, or modernising your access equipment, we are here to help you work safer, smarter, and more confidently.