15.10.2026

Navigator Lifts files suit against JLG

UK low level lift manufacturer Navigator Lifts says that it has commenced legal proceedings against JLG Power Towers to protect its intellectual property.

Its statement goes on to say: “Navigator Lifts has invested significant time, expertise and resources into developing innovative products for the low-level access industry. That innovation is protected by a portfolio of intellectual property rights, including patents covering key aspects of our distinctive vertical anti-climb guardrail technology.”

“We can now confirm that Navigator Lifts has commenced legal proceedings against JLG Power Towers in relation to alleged infringement of our intellectual property rights.”

“As these proceedings are now before the Court, we will not comment publicly on the detailed merits of the case. What we can say is that Navigator takes the protection of its intellectual property seriously.”

“We actively monitor the market and, where appropriate, will take proportionate steps to protect and enforce our intellectual property rights.”

“We remain focused on what we do best - developing innovative, British built access equipment and continuing to bring new ideas to the industry.”

Vertikal Comment

JLG introduced its vertical guardrail design in 2022 at an event at the Power Towers facility. Metal & Modular unveiled its first lift, the manually elevated Navigator 6.0 at the start of that year, featuring the unique vertical guardrail bars. Followed by the 8ft Navigator 4.5, in 2023.

In early 2025 a new company, Navigator Lifts, was set up to acquire the designs and rights for the two original Navigator lifts. Later that year it launched two new mast type lifts - the 8.6ft Explora and 5.4ft Scout - with working heights of 4.6 and 3.65 metres, respectively with its vertical guardrails - of course.

JLG has a long track record of strongly defending itself against any claims of patent and intellectual infringement, and has in the past seemed willing to outspend the other party and successfully fight off such claims. However, it met its match in 2023 when Niftylift filed a successful lawsuit in the UK against the company, which resulted in some form of settlement. See A Nifty settlement

It will be interesting to see what happens this time. If Navigator Lifts succeeds, it might consider licensing the concept to others, in that it certainly does prevent the common, yet dangerous practice of standing on the mid rail to gain a little extra reach. As such, it is an valauble safety feature.