All mobile elevating work platform regulations at a glance

Anyone who works with a mobile elevating work platform assumes responsibility – for themselves, for others, and for the safe operation of the construction site. To ensure this, there are clear regulations in place.

This article shows you in a concise and understandable way which rules apply, what you need to pay attention to and how you can plan your bets in a legally compliant manner.

Why are there special regulations for work platforms?

Mobile elevating work platforms are considered dangerous work equipment . They lift people to great heights and require special caution. To ensure no one is injured, several regulations and technical rules govern their safe use – from training and use to rescue in an emergency .

The most important regulations at a glance

Here you will find the key legal principles for the use of mobile elevating work platforms – with direct practical relevance:

Industrial Safety Ordinance (BetrSichV)

The BetrSichV regulates the safe operation of work equipment – ​​including mobile elevating work platforms. The key factors here are:

1. The operator must carry out a risk assessment
2. Work equipment must be checked and documented regularly
3. Only trained and qualified persons may operate the stage
4. There must be an operating instruction

Important: Even with rented equipment, the responsibility lies with the user on site – not with the landlord.

DGUV Rule 100-500 Chapter 2.10 (“Operation of lifting platforms”)

This regulation describes the safe operation of aerial work platforms in detail. It is often considered the "gold standard" in practice. Key messages:

• The stage may only be used by trained personnel with an operator's license
• A visual and functional inspection is mandatory before each use
• Wind speed, subsoil, obstacles and slope must be checked
• Persons in the work basket must be secured by PPE
• No lateral forces or overloading

Tip: Many accidents involving aerial work platforms are caused by improper driving. Working in compliance with DGUV regulations is a safe bet.

DGUV Principle 308-008 (“Training and Commissioning”)

This rule applies to everyone who wants to operate a work platform. It stipulates:

1. Theoretical and practical training at a recognized training center
2. Proof by operator ID (e.g. SYSTEM-CARD )
3. Regular training (at least annually) is mandatory
4. The employer must instruct the operators in writing

In practical terms, this means that no one is allowed to touch the stage without training – not even “for a short time”.

DGUV Regulation 1 (“Principles of Prevention”)

This regulation sets out the general obligations of the employer :

• Provision of safe work equipment
• Organization of first aid
• Protective measures such as PPE, emergency lowering, radio connection
• Compliance with traffic routes and visibility on the site

Other relevant regulations and standards

In addition to the main regulations, there are additional rules that you should know:

TRBS 2121 Part 3 – Risk of falling to persons when using work equipment

• Applies especially to work at height
• PPE against falls is mandatory
• Rescue concept required before operation begins

Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC (for manufacturers and distributors)

• Regulates construction, marking and CE marking
• Important for you as a tenant or user: Only use machines with the CE mark

DIN EN 280 (design standard for mobile elevating work platforms)

• Determines technical requirements for stability, control, safety devices
• No direct action required by the user – but important for device comparison

What does this mean in practice?

Before use

1. Document risk assessment
2. Check the location (soil, environment, weather)
3. Instruct operators and give written instructions
4. Check the platform: visual inspection, functional test, emergency lowering
5. Check PPE, put it on and attach it to the correct anchor points

During the operation

1. Always work safely (PPE)
2. No risk in wind, rain or slippery surfaces
3. Maintain visual contact or radio connection
4. Only trained persons in the basket
5. No changes to the technology or electrical system

After the deployment

1. Secure the stage, switch it off and charge it if necessary
2. Document and report defects
3. Check and store PPE
4. Keep an operational report (for larger operations or during construction)

What should you consider when renting stages?

Even if you rent the stage, all regulations apply without restriction . This means:

1. You need trained staff with ID
2. You are responsible for the safe use
3. You must check whether the device is suitable for your application

BIBERGER actively supports you here – with instructions, technical checks and, if desired, complete on-site training.

Conclusion: Regulations protect

Aerial work platforms are safe – if you know and follow the rules.

The regulations of the DGUV, the BetrSichV and the TRBS are not bureaucracy – they are your protective shield on the construction site.

If you plan to work professionally, there is no way around it:

• Take training
• Instruct regularly
• Use PPE
• Plan rescue
• Check technology

Everything else is risky – and that can be completely avoided with a little preparation.