Effectiveness of working at height
Mobile platforms, both self-propelled and suspended, are practical devices for working at height, replacing traditional scaffolding. They are characterised by greater efficiency and a wider range of applications both in the construction industry and in other service industries. Due to their versatility and functionality, they are increasingly being chosen for tasks requiring work at height. It is worth learning more about their specific features and advantages.
Booms and lifts - how do they work and who can operate them?
Mobile platforms, also known as stepladders or jacks, are machines that enable safe work at height. Unlike scaffolding, their working platform is integral to the structure, eliminating the need for additional assembly. These mobile machines are commonly used for a wide variety of jobs and their maximum working height is sufficient for most tasks. Platforms vary according to type and purpose, but their basic components are:
- body with control system,
- crane or boom,
- working platform with safety barriers.
Operating the platforms requires appropriate skills, including manual dexterity and spatial imagination, as well as knowledge of safety rules. Due to the risks arising from improper use, these devices should only be operated by qualified operators with the appropriate qualifications. Additional height qualifications are also sometimes required.
Division of mobile platforms
Aerial work platforms are versatile pieces of equipment and their variety makes it easy to select the right equipment for a specific job. This makes it possible to carry out tasks at height quickly and efficiently. The Office of Technical Inspection (UDT) classifies platforms into two main groups - mobile platforms (I P) including, among others, self-propelled platforms mounted on self-propelled chassis and towed mobile platforms, and suspended, mast and stationary mobile platforms. The most common types movable platforms by type of boom are:
- telescopic,
- articulated,
- scissors,
- articulated-telescopic.
Telescopic lifts are characterised by their long boom and high working height, allowing them to reach hard-to-reach areas at great heights. Articulated lifts feature a breakable mast that allows both vertical and horizontal movement, adding to their versatility. Scissor lifts only operate vertically and are equipped with two levers, making them ideal for working in confined spaces. Articulated-telescopic lifts, on the other hand, combine the features of both mechanisms, offering even greater flexibility and adaptability to different working conditions. The last important classification of self-propelled mobile platforms is by type of drive. Here a distinction is made between combustion powered platforms, electric platforms and manual platforms.
Versatile use in a variety of industries
The use of mobile platforms is extremely versatile. They serve as an alternative to traditional scaffolding, but also in many less obvious situations where working reach is important. Amongst other things, platforms are used for work on high-voltage power lines, installation of advertisements, construction work, fruit picking, window cleaning at height, painting and facade cleaning, and fire-fighting operations. Mobile platforms, whether self-propelled or stationary, have many advantages over traditional scaffolding. They are quick and easy to set up, making them a more cost-effective solution for short-term tasks. Their main advantages include lower costs, as the construction of traditional scaffolding is unnecessary. They are also extremely versatile - they work well for both working with people and transporting loads to great heights. In addition, they enable rapid movement from one place to another, which increases their efficiency. Mobile platforms work well both outdoors and indoors. Their working platforms are spacious enough that they can often accommodate more than one worker, increasing productivity.
Requirements to obtain a rating for mobile platforms
In order to operate mobile lifts, it is necessary to have the appropriate qualifications. Only qualified operators are allowed to drive this equipment, which allows you to stay safe on the job. The process of becoming certified starts with a training course, which usually takes several days. Those taking the course must be of legal age, have a category B or C driving licence and be in good health. The training consists of two parts - a theoretical part, which covers construction, application and safety rules, and a practical part, in which participants acquire the skills to operate the platforms. The course is followed by an examination before a commission from the Office of Technical Inspection. Participants who successfully pass the test receive a certificate entitling them to work as a mobile platform operator.
A modern alternative to scaffolding
Mobile platforms, both self-propelled and suspended, provide a modern and effective solution for working at height, replacing traditional scaffolding. Thanks to the variety of types, their use is versatile - from construction work to fruit harvesting. Mobile platforms increase work efficiency, but also offer greater mobility and cost savings compared to traditional scaffolding. The classification of these devices according to the type of boom and drive enables the selection of equipment perfectly suited to a specific situation. However, to enable work to be carried out safely, only qualified operators are allowed to operate the platforms, which involves obtaining the relevant qualifications.
FAQ:
What are the main advantages of mobile platforms?
Mobile platforms are more efficient and mobile compared to scaffolding because they are quicker to erect and dismantle, resulting in lower costs for short-term work. In addition, they allow easy movement from site to site and offer greater flexibility in applications.
What types of mobile platforms are there?
The most common mobile platforms are divided by boom type into: telescopic, articulated, scissor and articulated-telescopic. They differ in the way the working platform moves, allowing the equipment to be adapted to the specific work being carried out.
What mobile platforms licence?
In order to obtain a licence to operate mobile platforms, it is necessary to complete theoretical and practical training and pass an examination before a board of the Office of Technical Inspection (UDT). You also need to be of legal age, have a category B or C driving licence and be in good health.
Do mobile platforms carry loads?
Mobile platforms, are used to transport loads at great heights. Thanks to their spacious working platforms, they can transport workers as well as tools or materials, making work more efficient.
