Work platforms on the construction site: The possible uses

Working at heights is commonplace on construction sites - whether it's assembly work, facade construction or maintenance work. The question often arises as to which type of work platform is best suited for the respective application. Different conditions, such as uneven terrain, confined work areas or specific height requirements, require flexible and reliable solutions.

Telescopic work platforms and scissor lifts, for example, are ideal for jobs that require a high load-bearing capacity or a large work platform. Off-road models with four-wheel drive are ideal for outdoor use on uneven surfaces, while compact and low-emission aerial work platforms are often preferred for indoor use.

Choosing the right work platform depends not only on the height and reach, but also on the stability and the ability to maneuver safely in different work areas. Careful instruction of the operating personnel and compliance with safety regulations are essential to ensure safe work at heights.

Why work platforms are indispensable

On construction sites, working safely at heights is crucial to completing projects efficiently. Work platforms offer clear advantages over conventional scaffolding or ladders: They enable quick and flexible work in different areas of application while minimizing the risk of accidents. Whether it is an aerial work platform, scissor lift or articulated telescopic platform - each design has its specific strengths and is used for different tasks. These machines are indispensable when hard-to-reach places need to be reached safely.

possible uses for indoor and outdoor areas

Whether indoors or outdoors, work platforms offer a wide range of possible uses. Scissor lifts are often used in halls or narrow work areas because they are compact and still offer a high load-bearing capacity. Outdoors, however, all-terrain truck-mounted work platforms or trailer-mounted work platforms are advantageous because they can work safely even on uneven surfaces. These machines are often used especially for tree care work or facade work at great heights. For special applications, there are even hybrid work platforms that can be used flexibly both indoors and outdoors.

indoor use

Low-emission, compact work platforms are in demand in enclosed areas such as warehouses, exhibition centers or production facilities. Thanks to their vertical lifting function and compact design, scissor lifts offer an ideal solution for working in confined spaces. Their high load capacity and large platforms make them ideal for assembly work or maintenance work . Thanks to their emission-free electric motors, they are indispensable, especially in areas with high requirements for air quality and noise levels.

outdoor work

All-terrain truck-mounted work platforms or trailer-mounted work platforms are used for work on outdoor construction sites. These offer the necessary mobility and stability on uneven surfaces, which are often found on construction sites or in landscaping projects . Articulated telescopic platforms are particularly suitable when great heights and lateral reaches are required, for example for facade work or in hard-to-reach places.

Special assignments: tree care and facade work

For special work, such as tree care or cleaning and repairing building facades, particularly flexible and mobile work platforms such as articulated telescopic platforms are used. These machines allow you to reach difficult places and work safely at heights. Thanks to their large work platforms and the ability to avoid obstacles, they are perfectly suited for precise work on tall buildings or trees .

Choosing the right work platform

The choice of work platform depends largely on the intended use. If, for example, a large lateral reach is required, articulated telescopic platforms are suitable. Scissor lifts are ideal for simple maintenance work on small areas. Careful planning, taking into account the working height, ground conditions and load-bearing capacity, is crucial. If you want to rent a suitable work platform, you should also consider whether the platform also needs to be suitable for hard-to-reach places.

Rent or buy a work platform?

Many companies are faced with the question of whether it makes more sense to buy or rent a work platform. Renting a work platform offers the advantage that it can be used flexibly for specific projects at short notice, without high acquisition costs. There is also no need for regular maintenance, as this is usually included in the rental. Long-term rental can also be a solution if a work platform is needed at different locations over a longer period of time. Ultimately, the decision depends on the rental period and the specific purpose.

rent a work platform

Renting a work platform offers companies great flexibility and cost efficiency, especially if the use is only required for a specific project and for a limited period of time. A key advantage is that the maintenance and servicing of the machines is the responsibility of the lessor, so there are no additional costs for repairs or inspections. In addition, you can choose the right platform for each specific project, whether scissor lifts , articulated boom lifts or truck-mounted work platforms , and you are not limited to a fixed machine inventory. Long-term rental is an economically attractive option, especially for short-term use or specific projects.

Buy a work platform

Purchasing a work platform involves a high initial cost that is only worthwhile if used regularly over a long period of time. In addition, companies must take responsibility for maintenance , repairs and regular safety checks, which requires additional resources. Limited flexibility is also a disadvantage, as a company may not always have the right work platform available for every project. If the requirements at the job site change, a purchased platform can quickly become inadequate, which can result in additional costs for renting other platforms.

Safety on the construction site

Working safely at heights requires not only the right equipment, but also well-trained operators. Good fall protection, regular maintenance and compliance with applicable safety standards are essential. Many rental companies also offer training for operators to ensure that the work platforms are used safely and efficiently. The use of personal protective equipment is particularly important to further minimize the risk of accidents.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Wearing the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential to ensure safe working at heights. This includes helmets, safety shoes, but also fall protection such as safety belts and lanyards. The use of fall protection systems is mandatory, especially when working with aerial work platforms and articulated telescopic platforms , to prevent the worst from happening in the event of a fall. Regular checking of protective equipment before each use should be standard.

construction site safety

In addition to personal equipment, the correct safeguarding of the construction site itself is crucial. Work platforms must be placed on stable and level surfaces to prevent them from tipping over. Outdoors , it is important that uneven or soft surfaces are leveled out using supports or base plates. In addition, the work area around the platform should be cordoned off and provided with warning signs to protect the operating personnel and other people on the construction site. Clear fencing and markings prevent unauthorized persons from entering the danger area.

instruction of operating personnel

Working safely with work platforms requires trained and experienced operating personnel. Before use, all users must receive comprehensive instruction in the operation of the respective work platform. In addition to technical instructions, this also includes knowledge of the platform's safety functions, such as emergency shutdowns or fall protection. Regular training and refresher courses are also important to ensure that all employees are familiar with the applicable safety regulations.

Efficient use of rented work platforms

Renting a work platform not only offers flexibility, but also enables the machine to be used efficiently exactly where it is needed. The advantage of renting work platforms is that the machines can be tailored precisely to the requirements of the respective project. Different models are available for work that requires a maximum working height, for example. Thanks to the large selection of work platforms, it is possible to find the optimal solution for every project.

Conclusion: Work efficiently and safely with the right work platform

Choosing the right work platform plays a key role in efficiency and safety on the construction site. Whether for indoor or outdoor use, for great heights or tighter work areas - the right work platform ensures that work can be completed safely and on time. If you want to remain flexible, you should consider renting a work platform so that you always have the right machine to hand.

At BIBERGER you can rent work platforms with different working heights for use in maintenance and repair work. In addition to lifting platforms, our rental fleet also includes forklifts, telescopic and rotary forklifts as well as other construction machines for indoor and outdoor use.