Aerial platforms describe a group of different machines that include elevated work platforms, aerial lifts, and mobile elevating work platforms. Aerial work platforms may also be referred to as scissor lifts or cherry pickers. Generally, these platforms are used for a wide range of construction and maintenance purposes and operated by a wide range of experts.
OSHA requirements
No matter where or how an aerial work platform is used, operators should complete certification by OSHA. The training ensures that all employees are very competent in operating different types of aerial work machines properly and are well prepared to prevent falls and accidents involving the platforms. Here are some uses and applications of aerial work platforms that you need to know.
Construction and building maintenance
There are different types of aerial work platforms used in construction and they include articulating boom lifts, aerial lifts, and telescopic boom lifts. Aerial work platforms are made for reaching heights that other construction and maintenance machines cannot. Articulating boom lifts are used on buildings and structures that have hard-to-reach areas while telescopic aerial lifts have a maximum reach capacity.
On the other hand, articulating boom lifts have boom arms that reach around the structure to access things like cooling and heat units, piping, ductwork and more.
From the installation and repair of ductwork, installing features at height or accessing high up wiring, telescopic boom lifts are the right machines you should get from your aerial platforms company for use.
When it comes to working on construction sites, aerial work platforms operators must be highly certified and trained. Being hit by overhead structures and electrocuted by power lines are some of the top causes of accidents involved when working with aerial lifts.
Safety inspections
Have you ever thought about how people get up to fix a large bridge or aeroplane? Aerial lifts are the best pieces of equipment to transport inspectors, engineers, and other safety professionals to where they should be. Even OSHA utilizes aerial lifts when it comes to regular inspections at production centres, warehouses and other places. OSHA also uses scissor lifts, aerial lift platforms and other pieces of equipment during accident investigations. Whether it is a large aeroplane, bridge or other inspection projects, aerial work platforms are commonly used across the country.
Repair and washing windows
Aerial work platforms are used to clean the windows at the top of tall buildings. Those tall skyscrapers need someone to clean the windows. Aerial lifts are often used to hoist cleaners numerous floors above the street. From smaller scissor lifts to boom lifts, aerial work platforms help clean windows of tall buildings.
Aerial platforms such as articulating boom lifts, aerial lifts, and telescopic boom lifts are very effective for reaching otherwise inaccessible heights. They are designed with a bucket or basket on the end of the boom arm. They can hold workers and tools needed to repair, clean, and install windows. Scissor lifts can be used to repair and wash low to medium-height windows since they have large platforms for multiple workers.
