Floor contamination from work platforms: basics, risks and solutions

The ground load of aerial work platforms is a critical factor that significantly affects the safety and efficiency of using these devices. Simply put, ground load is the weight that an aerial work platform exerts on the ground. Too much load can damage the ground or even cause the aerial work platform to sink or tip over, which poses a serious safety risk.

In this article, we will cover the basics of ground loading and explain why understanding this aspect is critical to the safe use of aerial work platforms.

We look at the risks associated with inappropriate soil loading and present solutions to minimize these risks.

Basics of Soil Loading: What You Need to Know

The ground load of work platforms is the pressure that the work platform exerts on the surface below. This ground pressure, along with the climbing ability of work platforms, is crucial for whether a work platform is suitable for a particular surface. It is influenced by the weight of the work platform itself, the weight of the loads on it and the way in which this weight is distributed on the ground.

A lower floor load is often found on platform models with a larger surface area, as the weight is better distributed. For all work platforms, it is strongly recommended to use suitable base plates for load distribution in order to reduce floor pressure and ensure better stability.

Information about the maximum floor load and suitable measures for load distribution can be found in the manufacturer's technical data sheets or in the operating instructions and should be taken into account accordingly.

Rule of thumb for determining the maximum support load/wheel load

The maximum wheel load or support load of an aerial work platform can be approximately determined as 80% of the total weight of the machine including the load in the work basket. This means that up to 80% of the total weight can rest on a single support or a single wheel.

In self-propelled aerial work platforms without additional supports, such as telescopic or scissor lifts, the wheels have a similar supporting function to the supports on trucks, trailer-mounted work platforms or large megadecks.

Tip: Always pay attention to the manufacturer's information, which is usually found as a sticker or sign near the tires or supports.

These are the required sizes and thicknesses of load distribution plates

These are the minimum thicknesses for base plates according to plate size

The minimum thicknesses for base plates vary depending on the plate material. Please always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the specific case:

How to convert weight to force

• 1 kN corresponds to approx. 100 kg
• 10 N corresponds to approximately 1 kg
• 1 daN corresponds to approximately 1 kg
• 10 kN corresponds to approximately 1 ton

The traffic load of a work platform

• Area-related load specification, i.e. load per area
• Often specified in N/cm², kN/m², sometimes also as kg/m²
• Always pay attention to load-bearing ceilings / floor slabs

The point load of a work platform

• Point-related load or force specification
• Usually specified in N, daN, kN; occasionally in kg
• Pay particular attention to raised / suspended floors and floor coverings

Risks and challenges of excessive or incorrectly distributed floor loads caused by work platforms

Excessive or incorrectly distributed floor loads from aerial work platforms can lead to serious risks, problems or even injuries. For example, a concrete floor that appears to be stable and load-bearing may crack or even break under the extremely high point load of an aerial work platform, especially if the weight is not evenly distributed.

Another risk is when supporting the platform on manhole covers or similar structures that are not designed to withstand high loads. Excessive loading of the platform can lead to failure of these structures, which not only puts the platform and the project at risk, but can also result in significant repair costs.

In sensitive areas such as warehouses with sensitive floor coverings or parking garages with limited load-bearing capacity, inappropriate floor loading can lead to damage that requires expensive repairs. A common cause is exceeding the permissible traffic load due to the combined load of the platform's own weight and payload.

It is therefore essential to determine the compressive strength precisely in advance and compare it with the technical data of the work platform. If in doubt, a structural engineer or experienced technician should be called in to check the suitability of the subsurface for the planned use and to minimize possible risks.

Solutions and best practices for safe floor loading

Careful planning and preparation is essential to ensure even loading of the floor when using aerial work platforms. Here are some key elements of best practices:

• Use of base plates or stabilizers: These distribute the weight over a larger area to reduce the point pressure on the ground.
• Choosing the right platform: Depending on the ground conditions and the task, suitable platform models should be chosen, for example those suitable for soft terrain.
• Consideration of the subsoil condition: The soil should be checked for its load-bearing capacity.

Finally, for some projects, it may be advisable to consult a structural engineer or technical expert to confirm the suitability of the floor for the intended use of the platform. By following these measures and considering the specific requirements of each situation, the risk of floor damage can be minimized and safety when using aerial platforms can be maximized.