The access industry is vital in supplying tools and machinery to construction and maintenance companies, both big and small. This article looks at the most popular instruments today and how they benefit workers worldwide.
Vehicle Mounted Access Platforms
Vehicle or truck-mounted access solutions are ideal for on-the-road maintenance. They are often used by utility companies to gain access to pylons and other structures. These machines are invaluable for frequent small jobs requiring access to many locations. The operator can simply drive up to the site and begin work.
Trailer Mounted Access Platforms
These access platforms are easily transported due to their in-built trailer and hitching mechanism. A regular vehicle can deliver the platform to the site, allowing the worker to transport the tool to different jobs. Although trailer-mounted media take longer to set up than vehicle-mounted alternatives, they offer the advantage of being more maneuverable. The operator can often fit these through smaller gaps, making them ideal for indoor use. Some manufacturers also provide drive options, so manual pushing and manipulating into position can be avoided.
Self-Propelled Access Platforms
Self-propelled access platforms have inbuilt engines and drive systems. Battery-powered machines are on a rapid increase for environmental protection. This allows the forum to be moved into position; some models are designed to cope with rough terrain and severe gradients up to 50%, unlike trailer mounts, where many need to be manually positioned. Some even come with remote control functionality, allowing the operator to stand clear of the platform while it moves. Of course, this access platform requires a suitable trailer for transportation between sites.
Spider Access Platforms
Spider platforms can be either manual or self-propelled. They are designed to enhance maneuverability with legs that fold in during transport. This allows spider access platforms to fit through more narrow spaces, such as doorways. As a result, this type of platform is often found working indoors on construction and property maintenance jobs.
Scissor Lifts
This platform is helpful during the construction of the warehouse and other buildings. They can reach significant heights in a vertical-only direction. Scissor lifts are perfect for the installation of cladding, signs, and a variety of different uses.
Boom Lifts
This type of platform can be driven at height and often doesn’t require outriggers while the worker is operating the machine. This allows the forum to travel from one spot to another without picking up the device, helping to improve worker efficiency.
Tracked Vs. Wheeled Platforms
Most platforms listed above can be specified with either tracks or wheels. Which one you choose should depend on your needs. Tracked access platforms can tackle some extreme terrain types but are often more expensive. In addition, tracks sometimes work better on delicate surfaces such as interior floors as they spread the load more effectively. Some platforms can be specified with indoor wheels, however. These can help protect flooring without requiring a track to do so.
Summary
The access industry involves many mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP). There are more options to choose from than you might have imagined. With the different options available, there’s a MEWP to suit the most specific requirements.
