Aerial Work Platforms

Aerial Work Platforms - Professional Access Equipment

Action Handling Equipment Ltd is your trusted UK Source for professional aerial work platforms, providing safe and efficient access solutions for construction, maintenance, and industrial applications. With over 50 years of experience in material handling equipment, we deliver quality aerial lifts that meet the highest safety standards.

What Are Aerial Work Platforms?

Aerial work platforms (AWPs), also known as mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), are mechanical devices designed to provide temporary access to elevated work areas. These versatile machines elevate personnel and equipment to otherwise inaccessible heights, offering a safer and often more efficient alternative to traditional ladders and scaffolding. They are designed to lift limited weights — usually less than a tonne — and are usually capable of being set up and operated by a single person.

Types of Aerial Work Platforms

Available Scissor Lifts

A scissor lift is frequently used for indoor work. The lift has a set of supports in a crisscross pattern and offers limited reach in comparison to telescopic and articulated boom lifts. These platforms move vertically and are ideal for:

• Indoor maintenance work
• Painting and decorating projects
• Warehouse operations
• General construction tasks

Articulated Boom Lifts

Articulated boom lifts feature extended arms that allow workers to reach up and over obstacles. The boom lift uses a turntable base to swivel around 360 degrees. Perfect for:

• Building maintenance and repair
• Piping installation
• Tree trimming services
• Working around obstacles

Telescopic Boom Lifts

For workers who require maximum reach at heights, a telescopic boom lift is ideal. This type of AWP is a terrific option for window washers, electricians, and other workers who need to access areas that are directly above or parallel to them. Commonly used for:

• Window cleaning operations
• Electrical installations
• High-reach maintenance
• Construction projects

Cherry Pickers

Traditional aerial platforms that resemble cherry pickers, offering vehicle-mounted access solutions for utility work, telecommunications, and emergency services.

Key Safety Features of Our Aerial Work Platforms

Fall Protection Systems

OSHA requires aerial lift operators who work at elevated heights to wear full body harnesses attached to lanyards that are connected to the boom or basket. Our AWPs feature:

• Integrated anchor points for fall protection
• Safety harness attachment systems
• Emergency lowering mechanisms
• Overload protection sensors

Stability and Control Systems

AWPs often come equipped with a variety of tilt sensors. The most commonly activated sensor is an overweight sensor that will not allow the platform to raise if the maximum operating weight is exceeded. Additional safety features include:

• Outrigger stabilisation systems
• Ground level emergency controls
• Automatic self-checking systems
• Non-conductive materials for electrical safety

Emergency Safety Features

As with most dangerous mechanical devices, all AWPs are fitted with an emergency stop button which may be activated by a user in the event of a malfunction or danger. Our platforms include:

• Emergency stop buttons at platform and base
• Manual lowering systems
• Power failure backup controls
• Visual and audible warning systems

Industries Served by Our Aerial Work Platforms

Construction and Building Maintenance

For those working in building maintenance, AWPs prevent workers from needing to carry all of their equipment themselves; the lift can support both them and their tools, enabling:

• Facade maintenance and repair
• Window installation and cleaning
• HVAC system maintenance
• Structural inspections

Warehousing and Logistics

AWPs are one of the easiest ways for employees to evaluate or retrieve inventory that is stored on the higher shelves of your warehouse facility, which means better inventory management, faster processing. Applications include:

• High-level stock retrieval
• Warehouse lighting maintenance
• Security camera installation
• Inventory management systems

Telecommunications Aerial work platforms are also fantastic at increasing the speed and efficiency of telecommunication asset maintenance. With an AWP, workers have the advantage of being closer to the affected lines without compromising their safety.

OSHA Compliance and Training Requirements

Mandatory Training Standards

OSHA regulations clearly state that only trained personnel are permitted to operate aerial lifts. According to 29 CFR 1910.67(c)(2)(ii), this is a fundamental requirement. Training must be provided:

• When operators are first assigned to use aerial lifts
• When using different types of equipment
• Following unsafe operation observations
• As part of regular refresher programs

Safety Protocol Requirements

A Pre-Operational Inspection shall be performed on each Aerial Work Platform for each shift it is operated. Essential safety protocols include:

• Daily pre-operational inspections
• Proper fall protection usage
• Maintaining safe distances from power lines
• Following weight capacity limits

Choosing the Right Aerial Work Platform

Height and Reach Requirements

Consider your maximum working height and horizontal reach needs. Different AWP types offer varying capabilities:

• Scissor lifts: Vertical reach up to 20+ feet
• Articulated booms: Up and over reach capabilities
• Telescopic booms: Maximum vertical and horizontal reach
• Compact lifts: Access through standard doorways

Terrain and Environment

Evaluate your work environment:

• Indoor vs. outdoor applications
• Level vs. rough terrain requirements
• Space restrictions and access points
• Power source availability (electric vs. diesel)

Load Capacity and Platform Size

Aerial work platforms have a specific weight capacity, and it's important to not exceed this capacity. Consider:

• Number of operators and equipment weight
• Platform size requirements
• Tool and material storage needs
• Safety equipment additional weight

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