Driving and maneuvering telescopic work platforms safely: How to do it right

Summary

Operating telescopic work platforms safely requires planning, caution and knowledge of the technology.Many accidents happen during shunting – due to poor visibility, incorrect assessment of the surface or operating errors.Therefore, always maneuver with the basket retracted, check the route in advance and ask for help if you are unsure.

Driving with the platform raised is only permitted on certain devices and in certain conditions.Anyone who familiarises themselves with the driving behaviour, observes lines of sight and realistically assesses ground conditions, workssafer, more efficient and without incident.

Working with telescopic boom lifts requires not only height, but also control – right from the start. Many users concentrate on operating the basket, but most incidents occur during driving and maneuvering. The platform is tilted, drives over an edge, or hits an obstacle – these are not isolated incidents, but rather daily practice.

In this article, you'll learn how to operate a telescopic work platform safely and efficiently – from the first meter to the last turn. We'll show you the most important basics, typical sources of error, technical aspects, and practical tips for real-life use. Not theory – just practical knowledge.

Preparation: If you want to drive safely, you have to think ahead

Safe driving doesn't begin with pressing the joystick, but before. Every job site is different – ​​and every platform behaves differently depending on its weight, wheelbase, tires, and visibility.

For this reason:

Get a clear picture of the path – not just the job.

Important control questions before the first maneuver

1. Are there any height restrictions on the route (gates, pipelines, canopies)?
2. Is the surface stable and level enough to support the total weight of the stage?
3. Is the turning circle sufficient – ​​or do you have to maneuver several times?
4. Are there other vehicles, people or obstacles in the driving area?
5. Do you know the controls of the specific device?
6. Do you have PPE (personal protective equipment against falls from a height) ? You must wear it!

Without these points, you are flying blind when maneuvering – and that is unnecessarily risky.

Driving behavior of telescopic work platforms: This is how these things really tick

Many people underestimate the behavior of articulated boom lifts when moving. They're not like forklifts or vans—they have their own unique dynamics.

What influences driving behavior

• Platform height : The higher the platform is extended, the more unstable it becomes when driving.
• Wheelbase : Long platforms have a larger turning circle – this can be critical in tight spaces.
• Tires : Pneumatic tires provide cushioning but rock. Solid rubber is more precise but harder.
• Drive : front wheel, rear wheel or all-wheel drive – this has a massive impact on maneuvering behavior.

Practical tip: At first, drive each platform empty and with the basket retracted for a few meters – to get a feel for the brakes, acceleration and steering.

Visibility and overview: How to drive with foresight

Articulated boom lifts are tall, long, and sometimes confusing. This is especially true when reversing or when the platform is tilted. The swivel range is also often underestimated.

You can achieve safe visibility

1. Use the lowest possible ride height – better visibility, better handling
2. Drive according to the principle: anticipate – don’t readjust
3. If unsure: Use a signaller – especially when reversing or in narrow passages
4. Mirrors and cameras are aids – but no substitute for active observation

A lot of damage occurs because people think, “It’ll be fine.” – but it often isn’t.

Soil conditions: The subsoil decides

Even if the surface appears to be paved, it is not automatically load-bearing. Interlocking paving can sink, manhole covers can break, or floors can become slippery when wet.

Deserve special attention

• Courtyard edges or changes in height – e.g. small steps or drainage channels
• Manhole covers and maintenance hatches – they do not support platforms
• Slight gradient in driveways or ramps – particularly dangerous when driving diagonally
• Unevenness under load – with people in the basket, every inclination is increased

If in doubt, don't drive over it. Instead, secure yourself, avoid it, or check first.

Driving with a raised platform – allowed or not?

Many operators are unsure whether they are allowed to drive with the platform slightly raised. The answer is: It depends on the device.

In most cases, driving with the cage raised is only permitted in restricted driving mode, and only on level, stable ground. If the platform is tilted, the terrain is uneven, or there are obstacles, the following applies: Lower the platform before maneuvering.

If you want to be on the safe side, take a look at the operating instructions – the driving permission is clearly regulated there.

Typical mistakes – and how to improve them

Driving errors happen quickly – and are almost always avoidable. Here are the most common pitfalls from practice – with direct solutions:

Special features for rental equipment: You are responsible

Even if you rent a stage, the responsibility lies with you. Therefore, the briefing at the handover meeting is not mandatory, but rather your insurance against operating errors.

Talk to your aerial work platform rental company about:

1. the driving behavior at full height
2. Special features of the drive
3. Braking behavior on inclines
4. Emergency lowering and stop functions
5. Safety clearances for travel movements

The better you know the technology, the safer you will drive – and the more professional you will appear on the construction site.

Conclusion: Driving safely means driving prepared

Driving telescopic work platforms safely is not rocket science – but it is not a sure-fire success either.

Those who take the time to understand the device, plan the route and remain attentive when maneuvering will not only drive more safely – but also faster and more efficiently.

Because in practice, safety doesn't mean slowing down—it means being more proactive. And that's precisely what determines successful operations.

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.