The use of mobile platforms 

Mobile lifts are machines that are used for storage, installation or construction work. Lifts used on construction sites consist of a working platform, boom and chassis. The use of lifts does not require special site preparation and can perform a number of functions.  

On construction sites, they are responsible for the efficient and safe transfer of materials and workers to workstations. Including, to considerable heights, which would be much more difficult without their use, as they replace traditional scaffolding, the erection of which requires more time input. Using lifts helps to save time and money.   

telescopic material handlers on site

Permit to operate mobile platforms 

To work with mobile platforms, you need the right qualifications and authorisations from the UDT, which can be obtained through training courses for mobile platform operators, culminating in an examination before the UDT commission.  

Entitlements are divided by the type of device: 

Type of mobile platform: Period of validity of entitlements: 
stationary 10 years; 
mobile 5 years; 
hanging 10 years; 
masthead 10 years; 
on railway vehicles 10 years. 

Types of mobile platforms 

By their construction, mobile platforms are divided into: pendant, mast, telescopic, scissor, articulated, loading and telescopic-articulated.  

Some of the most popular include. suspended access platforms placed on suspension cables. They are installed for a specific period of time. They consist of a platform, ropes, winch and support structure. On construction sites, for example, they are used for object maintenance. 

boom lift operator with safety helmet

Mobile mobile platforms are divided into: 

  • Freewheelers - have their own 2 or 4-wheel drive and wheeled or tracked chassis. They are powered by diesel or electricity; 
  • self-propelled - these are mounted on a car chassis and can travel on the road; 
  • mobile - are mounted on a trailer and can travel on the road as special trailers. 

Mast platforms are constructed of a platform, mast (they can be single or double mast), chassis (in the form of a trolley for towing) and drive mechanism. The mast is often constructed of a trussed structure. 

AERIAL WORK PLATFORMS 

However, despite the many types of platforms, in the construction industry the most commonly used lifts are aerial work platformswhich are mounted on the vehicles. In this way, we ensure stability and safety.  

Aerial work platforms are made up of a telescopic arm that sits on a vehicle chassis and a basket placed at the end of this arm.  

These platforms are the most popular model of mobile platforms in the construction industry, as they stand out for their versatility and versatile applications - both indoors and outdoors. The units guarantee maximum user comfort and safety when working at height.  

We can divide aerial work platforms into two types - articulated and telescopic. By being able to choose the type of lift, we are able to match the features and technical parameters well with the type of construction work to be carried out.   

Telescopic basket lifts are available in single, double or multiple member form. The members in elevators slide one into the other and extend. This type of lift requires the device to be positioned at the work site.   

However, articulated basket lifts are machines that have a large working range, allowing a wide range of manoeuvres to be carried out. They also have the ability to reach places where access is difficult - this type of lift does not need to be set up at the work site.  

SCISSOR LIFTS 

basket platform on a construction site

These are characterised in their design by crossed arms and, with guard rails, a platform that only lifts vertically. On construction sites, they are mostly used for finishing work, i.e. painting objects, building maintenance or the assembly of small parts.  

Advantages and disadvantages of mobile platforms 

The use of lifts is a very good and convenient option on construction sites. Regardless of the work site, they can be used both indoors and in open spaces with difficult conditions - unstable and/or uneven ground.  

One of the biggest disadvantages of lifts is their high purchase price, which is often an unprofitable investment for smaller companies. An alternative is to rent lifts - either short-term or long-term.  

Questions and answers

What does training for aerial work platform operators include?

The mobile platform operator course usually includes theory and practical instruction. The training programme covers, among other things, health and safety, the responsibilities of the operator, the construction of the platform and how to deal with malfunctions. It is necessary to pass the UDT examination in order to obtain the operator's licence.

Which lift has the largest working range?

The articulated aerial work platform has a greater working range. This is due, among other things, to the ability to transport over a wide range - horizontally and vertically. They often allow work in places that are difficult to access.

What are the uses of mobile platforms?

Escalators are often used on construction sites. They are used to move loads and people to great heights when, for example, painting objects, assembling structures or maintenance.