Yes, a building hoist can be used for both commercial and residential purposes. These hoists are designed to lift materials and workers to various levels of construction sites. In commercial settings, they are often used in the construction of office buildings, shopping centers, and other large-scale projects. In residential construction, they are used for multi-story apartment buildings or private homes. It's important to note that the specific type and capacity of the hoist should be suitable for the scale and requirements of the project to ensure safety and efficiency.