Emergency lowering on work platforms – Function, operation & handling emergencies correctly

What You Need to Know

If the platform stops responding and the basket is still at a height of 25 m, then theEmergency descent often your only retrieval option. He bypasses the main control and lowers the platformmanual, safe and controlled– usually from the ground, by a second person.

Typical reasons:Control failure, power outage or a medical emergency.Important:Only trained personnel may operate the emergency lowering device. The platform must then be inspected –no further travel without approval.In case of emergency, first call 112.

What do you do if the platform suddenly stops responding – and the cage is hanging 25 meters above the ground? In such moments, the emergency lowering system determines safety and control. This feature ensures that you can return to the ground safely in an emergency – even if the controls fail or the power goes out.

Here you'll learn what emergency lowering is, how it works, when you need it, and what mistakes you should avoid . This includes practical examples, legal requirements, and checklists for operators.

What is an emergency release – and what is it for?

The emergency lowering device is a technical safety device that allows the platform of a work platform to be lowered in a controlled and safe manner if the main control fails. It is one of the key safety devices according to EN 280 and DGUV 208-019.

Typical trigger situations

• Power failure or battery damage
• Failure of the control or hydraulics
• Medical emergency in the work basket
• Defects in the driving or lifting system

The goal is always to get the operator back to the ground quickly and safely – regardless of the system status.

How does the emergency release work?

Depending on the manufacturer and model, there are different systems. They all bypass the main control and allow lowering – usually from the ground, by a second person.

Emergency lowering systems by stage type

Important: The emergency lowering device may only be operated by trained personnel or after instruction. Incorrect operation may result in sudden lowering or instability.

As a renter of a BIBERGER aerial platform: Contact the 24/7 emergency service in case of malfunctions. In the event of a medical emergency, always call 112 first.

When is the emergency release used?

The emergency lowering is only used when normal lowering is no longer possible or too dangerous:

• No response to control commands
• Medical emergency in the basket
• Emergency stop activated, but system does not respond
• Stage in an unsafe position (e.g. over obstacles)

Practical example 1: Power outage during work

Situation: Articulated telescopic platform, 18 m working height. Power supply completely fails.

Procedure: Operator in the cage activates emergency stop → colleague on the ground locates the valve → activates it → platform lowers in about 6 minutes.

Result: safe repatriation without external assistance.

Practical example 2: Medical emergency in the basket

Situation: A mechanic loses consciousness at a height of 22 meters. The second operator remains calm, alerts the emergency services, and activates the emergency lowering system.

Result: The stage is on the ground after 9 minutes – rescue takes over immediately.

Where is the emergency drain?

The position varies depending on the model, but according to the standard it must:

1. be accessible from the ground
2. be clearly visible and permanently marked
3. explained in the instructions and manual

In practice, it is usually located on the chassis or on the hydraulic pump, sometimes with a green lever or separate valve.

• Emergency lowering = lowers the stage
• Emergency stop = stops power supply

Emergency lowering (green) and emergency stop (red) on a Niftylift platform. The green lever lowers the platform in a controlled manner, while the red emergency stop immediately stops all functions.

After using the emergency lowering

An activated emergency lowering is not a reset, but an emergency procedure. The platform may not simply be used again afterward.

1. Switch off the stage / activate the emergency stop
2. Inform landlord or internal maintenance
3. Technical testing: hydraulics, power supply, control
4. Carry out maintenance according to the manufacturer's instructions
5. Only put back into operation after approval

Important: Every emergency lowering activation must be documented and understood as an indication of possible malfunctions.

Emergency discharge: Legal requirements

• EN 280: requires an emergency lowering device for all aerial work platforms
• DGUV 208-019: Operators must know the location and operation
• BetrSichV: Risk assessment must include failure scenarios
• Maintenance obligation: Check and document emergency lowering annually

Medical emergency: setting the right priorities

The order in an emergency:

1. Call emergency number 112 – provide exact location, altitude and condition
2. Lower the platform safely – operate the emergency lowering device slowly and evenly
3. Inform your landlord or emergency service – e.g. BIBERGER 24/7 hotline
4. Await rescue on the ground – keep access clear

Typical time: Lowering takes 8–15 minutes – emergency doctor usually on site at the same time.

Common mistakes during emergency lowering

Error 1: Emergency lowering confused with emergency stop

Problem: Operator presses emergency stop and waits in vain for movement.

Solution: Demonstrate and explain both functions before each use.

Error 2: Emergency lowering location not known

Problem: When you panic, you waste valuable time searching.

Solution: If you are renting a stage, ask to see the location and ideally take photos.

Mistake 3: Lowering too quickly

Problem: Jerky movements can cause injury.

Solution: Move the lever smoothly, never abruptly.

Mistake 4: Continuing to work after emergency lowering

Problem: Stage may be damaged.

Solution: Always inform maintenance or the landlord and wait for approval.

Checklist: Before use

• Location of the emergency lowering known?
• Operation explained or tested yourself?
• Is the lever/valve clearly marked?
• Risk of confusion with emergency stop excluded?
• Is there a maintenance inspection sticker?
• Emergency number handy?

Conclusion

The emergency lowering system isn't a minor issue; it's a lifeline on every construction site . It ensures you get to the ground safely in an emergency—whether it's a power outage, a malfunction, or a medical emergency. Knowing how to lower it saves minutes in an emergency—and those minutes are crucial.

About the author

Martin Biberger

Managing Director

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

He is responsible for thetechnical areaTogether with his team, he is responsible for thetechnical purchasingthe machines thatFurther development of the machine inventoryand the smooth operation of over 1,500 BIBERGER rental devices.

From many years of experience he knows theStrengths and weaknesses of all device classes, the possibleAreas of applicationand thetechnical possibilities– always with a view to theDevelopment of the entire industryand future innovations.