This is what the specifications of work platforms mean

Work platforms have become indispensable tools in many industries when it comes to carrying out work at heights. However, before you rent a work platform , you should familiarize yourself with the key technical specifications. These include working height, basket load and reach. These three key terms can determine the success of your project and, above all, the safety of your employees.

We explain what lies behind these terms and why they are so crucial.

Working height: How high do you want to go?

The working height of a work platform is one of the first and most important features you should consider. This is the maximum height you can reach with the platform. But why is the working height or lifting height so important? It's simple: depending on the type of project or task you have, you will need different heights. Do you want to work on facades, carry out maintenance work at heights or perhaps reach treetops? The working height determines whether your work platform is suitable for the task.

But be careful, the working height is not the height of the platform itself, but the maximum height you can reach when you are on the platform of the platform. You must take into account the height at which your task must be carried out and make sure that the working height of the platform meets these requirements.

Basket load: more carries more

The term "platform load" refers to the maximum weight capacity (load capacity in kg) that a work platform can safely support. But why is this so important? The answer is simple: to work safely and avoid accidents, the platform must be able to easily handle the weight of the operator, his equipment and possible materials.

Therefore, when choosing the right aerial work platform, you must consider the expected total load that will be placed on the platform. Never underestimate the importance of the basket load, as overloading can lead to dangerous situations.

Range: How far do you have to go?

For certain types of boom lifts, such as boom lifts, articulating boom lifts and roto stackers with a work basket, the lateral reach is a critical consideration. It's not just about how high you can get, but also how far you can work sideways. This is especially important when you need to work in places with limited access or when you need to reach over obstacles.

Additional specifications at a glance

In addition to working height, basket capacity and outreach, there are other specifications you should consider when choosing a boom lift. These include aspects such as platform size, maximum load capacity, driving and steering characteristics, drive type and more. Each of these specifications can have an impact on your project. In the following section, we will look at these additional specifications in more detail so that you can make an informed decision.

Platform size: space to work

The larger the platform, the more space operators have to carry out their work safely and efficiently.

A generous platform size not only allows for more freedom of movement, but also accommodates multiple people and tools, which can increase productivity. For tasks that require extensive equipment or where multiple workers need to work on the platform at the same time, a sufficiently large platform is essential.

Driving and steering characteristics: mobility on site

The driving and steering characteristics of your work platform are crucial for flexible movement on site. The maneuverability of your platform is significantly influenced by different steering systems and drive types. Simple steering may be sufficient, but more advanced steering systems such as all-wheel steering or slewing ring steering make it possible to master tight curves and avoid obstacles. Choosing the right work platform is crucial. It should have suitable driving and steering characteristics to enable efficient and precise movement on site. This section looks at the different options in detail and gives tips on choosing the optimal work platform for your requirements.

Drive type: power source and off-road capability

The type of drive can have a major impact on the possible uses of your work platform. Whether electric drive, diesel drive or hybrid drive, you can find more information about work platform drives here.

Climbing ability: Coping with inclines

The climbing ability of a boom lift refers to how well it can handle inclines and uneven terrain. This is especially important when working in areas where you have to work on high ground or uneven surfaces. There are different models of boom lifts with different climbing abilities. Some models have four-wheel drive or crawler tracks to safely climb steep inclines. Others are better suited to flat terrain.

Tires: The right grip

The type of tires has a significant impact on the grip and off-road capability of your work platform. You can find more information about tires for work platforms here.

Transport dimensions: From A to B

The transport dimensions of a work platform are crucial for transporting it from one job site to the next. They determine how easily the work platform can be loaded onto a trailer and driven through narrow passages or gates.
Transport dimensions typically include the height, width and length of the aerial work platform in its folded or transportable position. It is important to take these dimensions into account as they significantly affect the effort and cost of transport.

Conclusion: The key specifications for choosing your work platform

In this guide, we've highlighted the most important aerial work platform specifications that are crucial when choosing the right machine. From working height to load capacity, reach and many other aspects, each specification serves a specific purpose and influences the possible uses of your aerial work platform.

The right choice depends on your individual requirements and the specific work tasks. By understanding and considering the key specifications, you can ensure that your aerial work platform is a perfect fit for your project and offers you maximum efficiency and safety.

Remember that choosing the right work platform can not only increase productivity, but also improve safety in the workplace. If you have any questions or need further information about choosing your work platform, we are happy to help. Trust our expertise to find the optimal solution for your work requirements.