Aerial work platforms: Overview of regulations, accident prevention regulations and safe practices

Summary

Strict regulations apply to the use of work platforms – including BetrSichV, DGUV 100-500 and TRBS 2121.The decisive factor is:Only trained operators with IDmay control the stage,Risk assessment and PPE are mandatory, andevery use must be documented and checkedbe.

Even with rental stages, you as the user bear the responsibility.Before each useVisual inspection, functional test and instructionAnyone who follows these rules will worklegally compliant, efficient – and avoids accidents.

Anyone who works with a mobile elevating work platform assumes responsibility – for their own safety, for their colleagues, and for the smooth running of the construction site. To ensure everything runs safely, there are clear regulations in place.

Here you will learn which rules apply, what obligations you have and how to plan your operations in a legally compliant manner.

Why are there special regulations for work platforms?

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

The most important regulations at a glance

You must know these regulations when using mobile elevating work platforms:

Industrial Safety Ordinance (BetrSichV)

The BetrSichV regulates the safe operation of work equipment . It requires, among other things:

1. Risk assessment by the operator
2. Regular inspections with documentation
3. Operation only by trained persons
4. This operating instruction

Important: Even with rental equipment, the responsibility lies with the user on site – not with the rental company.

DGUV Rule 100-500 Chapter 2.10

It is considered the practical standard for safe operation. Key messages:

• Service only with operator ID
• Daily visual and functional inspection
• Testing of wind, subsoil and slope
• PPE in the work basket is mandatory
• No overloading or lateral force

Tip: Many accidents are caused by improper driving. Working in compliance with DGUV regulations significantly reduces risks.

DGUV Principle 308-008

This rule concerns the training and commissioning of operators. It stipulates:

1. Theoretical and practical training
2. Proof by operator ID, e.g. SYSTEM-CARD
3. Annual instructions
4. Written authorization from the employer

Practical: No one is allowed to operate the stage without training – not even “for a short time”.

DGUV Regulation 1

It sets out the general obligations of the employer :

• Provision of safe work equipment
• Organization of first aid
• Use of PPE, emergency lowering and radio communication
• Compliance with traffic routes

Other relevant regulations and standards

In addition to the main rules, additional regulations apply:

TRBS 2121 Part 3

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

Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC

• Regulates construction and CE marking
• Important: Only use CE-certified machines

DIN EN 280

• Specifies requirements for stability, control and security
• More relevant for the user when comparing devices

Practice: How to implement the regulations

Before use

1. Document risk assessment
2. Check the location (soil, environment, weather)
3. Instruct the operator in writing
4. Check platform: visual inspection, functional test, emergency lowering
5. Put on PPE and secure it correctly

During the operation

1. Always work safely
2. Avoid use in wind, rain or on unstable ground
3. Maintain visual contact or radio connection
4. Only trained persons in the basket
5. Do not make any technical changes

After the deployment

1. Secure the stage and load if necessary
2. Document defects
3. Check and store PPE
4. Create mission report

Rental stages: What should I pay particular attention to?

All regulations apply without restriction to rental equipment . This means:

1. Operators need a valid ID
2. The responsibility lies with you as the user
3. You must check whether the stage is suitable for use

BIBERGER supports you with instruction, technical checks and, if desired, complete training.

Conclusion: Regulations are your protection

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

The regulations are not an end in themselves, but rather your safety net on the construction site. The key factors are:

• Training and operator ID
• Regular instructions
• Use PPE
• Plan rescue
• Check stage

Those who are prepared avoid risks – and work professionally and safely.

About the author

Benjamin Biberger

Managing Director

Benjamin is the founder and managing director of BIBERGER Arbeitsbühnen & Forklifts.

He is responsible for thecommercial and administrative areasof the company and, together with his team, ensures theOptimization of operational processesand theoptimal customer supportin their projects.

Through his many years of experience in the areas of organization andProject managementIt provides a stable foundation – in its own daily business, in sustainableFurther development of processesas well as in theCollaboration with partners and customers.