Aerial Work Platforms: Versatile Lifting Equipment for Work At Heights

Aerial Work Platforms

Aerial work platforms, commonly referred to as AWPs, have become a vital piece of equipment for completing work tasks at elevation. From inspections and maintenance to construction and repairs, AWPs allow workers to safely access hard-to-reach areas without the need for ladders or scaffolding. In this article, we will explore the different types of aerial work platforms available, their uses across industries, and safety considerations for operating them.

Boom Lifts

One of the most common types of aerial work platforms is the boom lift. Boom lifts come in many sizes and configurations to suit a variety of job site needs. Smaller boom lifts have platforms that lift workers up to 30 or 40 feet in the air, while larger boom lifts can reach heights of over 100 feet. Boom lifts use hydraulic or electric systems to extend booms or arms out from the vehicle/truck base with an elevated platform at the end for workers. This makes them versatile for tasks like building inspections, window washing, and building maintenance where different heights are required.

Scissor Lifts

Another popular Aerial Work Platforms is the scissor lift. Unlike boom lifts, scissor lifts do not extend outward—instead, they raise vertically using scissor-like mechanisms. This makes them well-suited for indoor environments or applications where overhead clearances are limited. Scissor lifts are available in both self-propelled and manual models, with maximum working heights from just a few feet off the ground up to 70 feet or more. Common uses of scissor lifts include trade show work, construction tasks, and facility maintenance.

Trailer-Mounted Lifts

For jobsites without easy truck access or long-term rental needs, trailer-mounted aerial lifts provide a portable solution. These lifts are mounted on trailers for transportation between locations. Once on site, the lift and platform quickly raise using a hydraulic system mounted on the trailer. Trailer-mounted lifts come in boom, scissor, and vertical types with working heights from around 40 feet up to 110 feet or more. They are commonly used in construction, facilities management, and tree care/logging applications.

Vertical Lifts

Vertical lifts, sometimes called “spider lifts,” raise vertically like scissor lifts but have multiple sets of articulating arms rather than scissor mechanisms. This allows vertical lifts to position platforms in hard-to-reach areas with limited overhead or floor space such as in and around buildings, trees, or structures. They provide 360-degree user movement capabilities and excel in intricate rigging and infrastructure inspection tasks. Vertical lifts can reach heights comparable to traditional scissor lifts.

AWP Safety Considerations

While aerial work platforms provide an indispensable capability for working at heights, they also carry inherent safety risks that must be properly managed. Equipment operation training, fall protection use, and adherence to rated capacity limits are essential. Some additional safety best practices when using AWPs include:

- Inspecting lifts thoroughly before each use and correcting any defects. Never operate malfunctioning equipment.

- Understanding machine load and environmental limits (e.g. wind speeds) to avoid hazardous conditions.

- Wearing fall protection harnesses always secured to authorized anchor points when in an elevated platform.

- Maintaining three points of contact when entering/exiting the platform and wearing slip-resistant footwear.

- Avoiding contact with power lines and following clearance limits near energized equipment.

- Using spotters when maneuvering equipment to prevent collisions with obstacles and protect ground workers.

Industry Applications

Aerial work platforms find use across many industries thanks to their versatility. Here are some of the major sectors that rely on AWPs:

Construction - Boom lifts, scissor lifts, and trailer-mounted lifts are essential equipment at construction sites for tasks like drilling, welding, ceiling grid installation, lighting/signage installation, surveying and more.

Facilities Management - Scissor lifts and small boom lifts allow interior and exterior property maintenance including painting, lighting maintenance, HVAC repairs, and more at commercial buildings and campuses.

Tree Care - Vertical aerial lifts, bucket trucks, and trailer-mounted lifts enable safe pruning, trimming and removal of trees. This reduces risks versus ladder use.

Infrastructure - Inspections, surveys, and repairs of bridges, cell towers, smokestacks and other structures require boom, scissor and spider lifts for close access.

Utilities - Bucket trucks in particular are necessary for electrical line work, pole work, substation maintenance and other energy sector jobs. Aerial lifts provide safe access for tasks.

Municipal - Cities and governments utilize boom lifts and trail cranes for activities such as traffic signal repair, streetlight maintenance, and park/field lighting installation and service.

The widespread adoption of aerial work platforms stems from the unmatched capabilities they provide for working safely at height. With proper operation, maintenance and safety compliance, AWPs empower workers across many job functions with mobility, dexterity and fall protection not afforded by ladders, scaffolds or other traditional means. They continue to evolve alongside technology to affordably meet evolving industry needs.

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About Author:

Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/money-singh-590844163)