key factors for choosing safe and effective aerial work platform

Aerial Work Platforms (AWPs) provide a safe, versatile, and efficient solution for tasks requiring vertical or horizontal access. Selecting the right AWP and developing safe, cost-effective work plans depend on thorough scene analysis. 

1. Core Work Requirements

• Height & Reach:

Maximum working height (from platform base to work surface).

Maximum horizontal outreach (critical for boom lifts).

Work envelope (ensure no dead zones; refer to equipment’s reach diagram).

• Capacity:

Number of workers on the platform.

Total weight (workers, tools, equipment, materials, including dynamic loads).

Need to place or lift heavy items

• Task Nature:

Specific activities (e.g., installation, repair, cleaning, inspection, welding, spraying, material handling, or decoration).

Stability needs (high for precision tasks; lower for general tasks like cleaning).

Maneuverability (frequent repositioning or obstacle navigation required).

Platform size (adequate for workers, tools, and tasks).

2. Environmental Considerations

• Indoor:

Ceiling height and doorway dimensions.

Floor load capacity and type (e.g., non-marking tires for delicate surfaces).

Ventilation needs or explosive atmosphere (special certifications required).

• Outdoor:

Terrain type (e.g., concrete, dirt, grass) and ground conditions (hardness, levelness, slope).

Weather impacts (wind, rain, snow, temperature extremes).

Overhead hazards (e.g., power lines).

3. Space and Ground Constraints

• Space Limitations:

Aisle width, height restrictions (e.g., doors, low-clearance areas).

Obstacles (e.g., machinery, pipes, structures, vegetation).

Crowded areas or concurrent operations requiring coordination.

• Ground Conditions:

Load-bearing capacity (supports AWP + load weight).

Surface type (e.g., asphalt, tile, grass; protection needed).

Levelness and maximum allowable slope (stabilization or leveling required).

4. Environmental Hazards

Presence of chemicals, dust, moisture, or extreme temperatures (requires specific protection ratings).

High winds (evaluate wind resistance for safe operation).

Electrical hazards (insulated boom or minimum safe distance needed).

5. Frequency & Duration

• Usage Pattern:

Occasional or frequent/long-term use (Informs rent vs. buy decisions and equipment durability needs).

• Task Duration:

Length of individual tasks (affects battery life or fuel requirements).