SkyJacks’ new tight space hoisting solution
Introducing safer, more efficient hoisting in tight spaces (Image source: SkyJacks)
SkyJacks has expanded its access portfolio with the GEDA 300 Z Boiler Hoist designed for tight, confined operations
A solution specifically designed for tight spaces, the new hoist allows for maintenance work in high-value industrial environments such as silos, blast furnaces, co-generation plants and boilers, where service and engineering teams often face access challenges.
Sometimes, access is limited to a 45-cm manhole, which means traditional lifting equipment cannot work effectively — this forces teams to rely on manual handling methods that consume time and require physical effort.
“The reality is that many maintenance teams are working in environments that were never designed for modern equipment,” said Darryn Jacobs, managing director at SkyJacks. “The GEDA 300 Z changes that completely. It enables contractors to introduce efficient lifting capabilities into spaces that were previously hard to reach, without sacrificing safety or performance.”
Industries like energy, mining and manufacturing often perform maintenance in vertical structures, where materials, tools and components must be moved safely between different levels.
In these situations, a lack of effective lifting systems can slow down operations, a delay that increases downtime during vital maintenance shutdowns.
Manual handling not only hampers productivity but also raises safety risks and worker fatigue, complicating the ability for teams to meet tight deadlines.
The GEDA 300 Z Boiler Hoist tackles these problems with an innovative modular design.
Each component is lightweight and compact enough to fit through narrow openings, including 45-cm manholes, which allows teams to bring the system into confined spaces more readily.
Once inside, two people can assemble the unit in about 40 minutes, creating a fully functional hoisting system where traditional equipment cannot operate.
“With the ability to lift materials quickly and safely, teams can focus on what truly matters,” said Jacobs. “You’re getting rid of the bottlenecks that usually slow down projects, which ultimately means faster turnaround times and less downtime for the whole operation.”
The GEDA 300 Z has a lifting capacity of up to 300 kg and can reach heights of up to 100 metres, making it suitable for various maintenance and refurbishment tasks.
Its strong construction ensures durability in tough industrial environments, while its compact size is perfect for tight spaces where larger systems cannot operate.
Safety is another benefit, according to Jacobs.
“Safety is crucial in these settings,” he said. “What’s important is that you don’t have to compromise efficiency to achieve it. The GEDA 300 Z is built to provide both, giving operators confidence that their teams and equipment are secure at all times.”
He said industries that will benefit the most from adding the GEDA 300 Z to their maintenance strategies include power generation, mining, manufacturing, petrochemical operations, as well as industrial construction.
In these fields, where maintenance in confined spaces is common, enhancing material handling while cutting down on downtime can significantly boost overall performance.
“The launch of the GEDA 300 Z is about more than just a piece of equipment,” said Jacobs. “It’s about providing our clients with a smarter, safer, and more efficient way to handle maintenance in some of the most challenging environments. When you can reduce downtime, improve safety, and streamline operations at the same time, that’s where true value is created.”
Read more:
Smarter lifting in South Africa's C&I solar industry
