Why it's a good idea to perform regular maintenance on mobile platforms.
Escalators fulfil a very similar role to the popular scaffolding used for work at height. 
With platforms, we can reach places in locations where it is impossible or difficult to erect conventional scaffolding. Platforms consist of a body, a lifting crane and a working platform. The crane, mounted on the body, lifts the working platform to the desired height, which enables us to reach places that are difficult to access. This also saves time and resources.
Aerial platforms are equipment subject to technical supervision. In order to be able to operate mobile platforms, it is necessary to have the relevant authorisations, to keep technical records of the equipment and to regularly inspect and repair the platforms.
Inspection and repair of mobile platforms may only be carried out by maintenance technicians who have entitlements Office of Technical Inspection. The authorisations can be obtained on dedicated courses. The topics covered are based on the Authority's examination requirements. Both the experience and the appropriate approach of the instructors to the trainees make it possible to learn even for people with no experience.
Service and periodic inspections of mobile platforms
As we already know, mobile platforms are subject to technical supervision. Like other equipment that is used for working at height, it must be regularly inspected and maintained. This will allow us to keep the equipment in a good technical condition and minimise the risk of failure. This will also increase the efficiency and productivity of the equipment. It is important to check the condition of mobile platforms on a regular basis, rather than waiting until they break down.
When should we service mobile platforms?
Regular inspection and repair of equipment is to ensure the safety of both the mobile platform operator and those in the vicinity. It is very important that equipment that is used for working at height is in full working order . It is crucial to comply with the inspection intervals for platforms, which are set by law. There are many companies on the market that offer repair and maintenance services for mobile platforms. It is possible to carry out maintenance services at a location that suits the client.
The occurrence of a malfunction or breakdown in a piece of equipment that prevents it from continuing to operate requires a repair order and a post-accident test. This is carried out at the request of the operator. During the test, the UDT inspector thoroughly checks the condition of the equipment. The purpose of the inspection is to determine the technical condition of the equipment and the causes of its failure. The scope of the inspection is agreed on an individual basis.
What are the most common failures of mobile platforms?
Servicing and repairing mobile platforms is essential in the event of a breakdown or malfunction that prevents the equipment from continuing to operate safely.
The most common accidents that occur when operating mobile platforms are:
- Electric shocks
- Excessive loading
- Falls from a height
- Collisions with structures or structural elements
The above-mentioned accidents are usually the result of several causes of improper use of the equipment. These include, inter alia, the use of platforms without complying with the regulations Health and Safety, in particular to the provisions that relate to the lack of adequate personal protective equipment and the inadequate raising of the working height of platforms.
Factors that increase the risk of an accident can also include adverse weather conditions such as excessive rainfall, gusty winds or reduced air clarity.
Service for mobile platforms
Maintenance activities, the purpose of which is to maintain or restore the equipment to a condition that allows it to continue to be used, include various maintenance and repair activities.
The service of mobile platforms can include, among other things, repairs to support structures, electrical and hydraulic systems, regeneration and overhaul of motors or repairs to lifting systems.
It is important to remember that the repair of equipment should be carried out by professionals. We will be assured that the work carried out by such people will ensure that we can continue to use the platforms safely.
