In the aerial work platform industry, one frequently encounters English terms such as "Boom" , "Scissor" or "Cherry Picker" . These terms are widespread – however, their exact meaning and distinction are often unclear, especially in an international context.
This article clarifies the most important terms: What exactly is a "cherry picker"? How do boom lifts (telescopic and articulated telescopic platforms) differ from scissor lifts ? And which technical terms are actually used in standards, training courses, and occupational safety?
English technical terms related to aerial work platforms
Correct umbrella terms: AWP, MEWP and EWP
The colloquial term "working platform" is frequently used, but is too imprecise from a technical perspective. The following terms are established in industry, standardization, and training:
- Aerial Work Platform (AWP)
- Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) – international standard
- Elevated Work Platform (EWP)
These terms are used by organizations such as DGUV and IPAF and describe mobile work platforms that safely lift people to heights. In German, they are usually called " Arbeitsbühnen" (work platforms ).
Overview: German and English terms compared
| German term | English term | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| truck-mounted work platform | Cherry Picker | Mobile, long range, flexible use | Instruction required, limited access to the terrain |
| telescopic work platform | Straight Boom Lift | Very large horizontal and vertical range | Large space requirement, susceptible to wind |
| Articulated telescopic platform | Articulating Boom Lift | Working over/around obstacles is possible | More complex operation |
| Scissor lift | Scissor Lift | High load capacity, large platform | Vertical movement only |
| Vertical mast platform | Mast Lift | Very compact, ideal for indoor use | Limited working height |
| telescopic handler | Telescopic Handler | Versatile with attachments | No substitute for work platforms |
Cherry picker – a collective term
The term "cherry picker" originally comes from fruit harvesting. Internationally, it is now used as a general term for boom lifts – both telescopic and articulated boom lifts. In Germany, it usually refers to truck-mounted aerial work platforms , but occasionally also to self-propelled articulated telescopic boom lifts.
Boom Lifts: Telescopic vs. Articulating
Boom lifts are work platforms with a boom arm and can be divided into two main types:
- Telescopic Boom Lifts (Straight Boom) : straight boom, maximum reach
- Articulating Boom Lifts : articulated arm, ideal for maneuvering around obstacles
Both belong to IPAF category 3b (mobile, with boom).
Scissor lifts (scissor lifts)
Scissor lifts move exclusively vertically. They offer a large platform and high load capacity and belong to IPAF category 3a . Typical applications include halls, maintenance, assembly, and logistics.
Mast Lifts
Mast lifts (vertical mast platforms) are particularly compact and designed for confined indoor spaces. Depending on the model, they belong to category PAV or 3a.
Telescopic Handler
Telescopic handlers are not aerial work platforms in the strictest sense, but are frequently used in the same environment. When equipped with a work basket, they are considered a special solution and are subject to specific regulations.
Overview of IPAF and SYSTEM-CARD categories
- 3a : Mobile, vertical (e.g. scissor lifts)
- 3b : Mobile, with boom (Boom Lifts)
- PAV : Push Around Vertical
Occupational safety & training obligation (DGUV)
In Germany, the DGUV Principle 308-008 ("Training and Appointment of Operators of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms") applies to the operation of mobile elevating work platforms. The following are also relevant:
- DGUV Rule 100-500, Chapter 2.10
- DGUV Information 208-019
Important: Only trained and authorized personnel are permitted to operate aerial work platforms. Understanding the terminology is an integral part of aerial work platform training – as are the differences between boom, scissor, and cherry picker models.
Conclusion
Those who know and correctly classify the English technical terms related to work platforms plan more safely, communicate more precisely, and meet training and occupational safety requirements.
Knowledge of AWP/MEWP and the differences between Boom Lifts, Scissor Lifts and Cherry Pickers saves time, avoids wrong decisions – and increases safety in daily use.
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