Got a challenge for you contracting and construction gurus. I need help in finding some apparatus that matches the below description:

THE PROBLEM: How to safely reach heights of 20-25' to change light bulbs in suspended fixtures in a church sanctuary. The apparatus will be erected in and among church pews.

The apparatus used must be free standing, yet stable for custodian use. This implies a stable lateral and horizontal base, and assembled base profile large enough to accommodate custodian climbing to the work area without the assembly tipping of falling.

No supporting or bracing pieces can be anchored lower down than 4' on the risers. This so the tops of pews will be laterally cleared.

Must have a means/path for climbing to the work area.

Portability swivel wheels mandatory, with brakes.

Lightweight yet strong. Assume 300lb custodian use.

We can't be the only church in the world that's faced this problem. However, we don't have the corporate knowledge now of how this has been done over the years in our church. Where do I go to find what we need?

I would start with a local contractor rental place. They would have the knowledge and equipment to use.

Try here and you will see why I say RENT. Total cost is around $10,000. Go to this site and put in item number 3PU10 in the search box.

Grainger

That's what a local contractor did for my building. I have an open floor plan so all he did was rent scaffolding. I think you are going to have a problem if you have to work around pews.

One recommendation I have, don't just replace the burnt out lights. Re-lamp the all at one time. That way when your done, you won't see a burnt out light for a while.

PS, welcome to our POOL. Hope we can be of help.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Walks On Water,

Thanks much for the Grainger tip. I took a look at that straddle extension thing, and immediately phoned them and asked them to send me complete specs, description, etc. It just may do the job.

The two problems with renting is that of having to straddle pews. Regular scaffolding isn't suited for that because of the cross braces.

And, scaffolding may not be available at all times. Matter of fact we went months when you couldn't rent any at all because all the contractors were using it repairing hurricane damage in our area.

The straddle device looks like it may be what we need.

We also have frequent outside need to get up high on the second story.