What You Need to Know
In addition to the necessary training, crucial information for the safe operation of construction machinery is provided by the markings on work platforms and the operating instructions.
But what do the information on the type and information plates mean, and what do you need to pay particular attention to? We'll explain!
Overview of specific markings of construction machinery
Let's now turn our attention to the individual markings on mobile elevating work platforms that are essential for safety and proper use. Each marking has a specific meaning and contributes to overall functionality and safety:
Nameplates
Nameplates are the heart of the technical information. Nameplates contain data such as manufacturer, model number, year of manufacture, maximum load capacity, and working range. This information is crucial to ensuring that the aerial work platform is suitable for the intended task.
Load information
The load specifications, including the maximum permissible number of persons and load capacity, are crucial for safety. Exceeding these values can lead to serious accidents.
Safety instructions
Safety notices on the aerial work platforms indicate specific hazards that must be observed during operation. They contain instructions for safe use and warnings about specific risks.
Maintenance instructions
Maintenance instructions provide information about necessary inspections and maintenance intervals. They are essential to ensure the continued functionality and safety of the aerial work platform.
UVV test stickers
The UVV inspection stickers indicate when the last safety inspection took place and when the next one is due. UVV stickers are an important part of documenting compliance with accident prevention regulations.
Hazard symbols
Hazard symbols provide quick, visual guidance about specific risks. Hazard symbols are designed to be understandable even without text and contribute to immediate risk recognition.
This is what the technical data on type plates on work platforms mean
The factory or type plate of an aerial work platform is a fundamental element that contains precise information about the technical specifications of the machine. This includes basic data such as manufacturer name (1.) , model name (2.) , serial number (3.) , year of manufacture (4.) and dead weight (5.) , supplemented by technical details such as
6. Maximum permissible wind speed in m/s
7. Basket load limitation
8. Person limit
9. Material load in kg (at 80 kg – manufacturer’s assumption of the person’s weight)
10. Hand forces / lateral forces
11. Maximum permissible inclination of the base frame
This information is essential for the efficient and safe use of the aerial work platform. It not only serves as a guideline for correct operation and loading of the machine, but is also crucial for maintenance and repair work.
Always keep in mind that manual forces or lateral forces, such as those caused by impact drilling or tensioning electrical cables, can quickly exceed the limit of 400 N (equivalent to approximately 40 kg).
The UVV inspection sticker on mobile elevating work platforms
The UVV inspection sticker affixed to the aerial work platform serves as visual proof of when the next annual safety inspection is required. This inspection sticker is an essential indicator of the operational safety of the aerial work platform.
Equally important is the documentation of these tests in the test book, which contains a detailed history of the tests carried out and any maintenance work.
The short operating instructions on the device
Attached to many devices, this manual provides a quick overview of the most important operating instructions. This includes important information such as the travel position specifications, which ensure correct and safe positioning of the device. Equally important is the reach and load diagram, which shows the limits of the working area and thus helps to avoid dangerous overreaches. The operating instructions also contain information on the basket load and the maximum permissible number of persons. This information is important to avoid overloading and the associated hazards. The short operating instructions serve as a quick but comprehensive guide for the safe use of the access platform and are an indispensable tool for every operator.
Conclusion: Safety through understanding and observance of the markings
From the technical data on the nameplates to the load information and hazard symbols, every marking contributes significantly to minimizing risks and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The UVV test labels and the brief operating instructions on the device complement this information and provide a quick but comprehensive overview for safe operation.
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The subject content on biberger.de are editorially created, reviewed, and continuously updated. The basis is our daily work with aerial platforms, telehandlers, and industrial trucks – in rental, sales, operational planning, and technical support.
Each article draws on real-world experience and is editorially reviewed for clarity, accuracy, and practical relevance according to expert criteria. Technical statements are regularly compared against current industry standards and best practices.
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