Making the Most of Your Access Platform: Tips and Tricks

Access platforms, also known as mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), are essential tools for various industries requiring work at height. From cherry pickers to scissor lifts, they can provide a valuable boost to the safety, speed and efficiency of your operations.

To maximise the benefits of access platforms, however, it’s important to keep some key considerations in mind. You’ll need to select the right model, follow safety guidelines and regularly service your machinery to keep it in good working order. Read on to discover our top tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your access equipment.

Preparing for Your Project

There are many types of mobile elevated work platform (MEWP), including small, electric scissor lifts and large, diesel-powered boom lifts. Before beginning your project, conduct a thorough evaluation of your project’s requirements. This will allow you to choose the right access platform for the job, reducing the risk of delays, unnecessary expenses and safety hazards.

The key factors you will need to consider include:

• Your reach requirements (working height, horizontal reach, strictly vertical vs. or ‘up and over’ movement)
• The maximum load capacity you will require, based on the weight of your workers, materials and equipment
• The working environment (indoor vs outdoor, terrain and ground conditions)
• Your budget, and your decision on whether to hire or buy access equipment for your project

Choose a reputable access platform hire or sales provider to ensure timely delivery and setup of your equipment. At TAG Forklift Truck Services, we offer prompt same-day or next-day delivery throughout the North West.

Enhancing Productivity on the Job Site

Clear communication among team members is crucial for productivity and safety on the job site. Before operating your access equipment, it’s important to establish protocols for communication, including hand signals and radio communication. This will ensure efficient coordination of tasks and equipment.

Efficiently managing your workspace is also crucial. Store tools and materials within easy reach, and maintain a clean and clutter-free environment to reduce the risk of accidents and improve workflow. As well as access equipment, TAG also provide smart, affordable storage and racking solutions for warehouse environments.

It’s also important to store and transport your access platform according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Proper storage and handling will protect your equipment from damage, corrosion, and other environmental factors that could negatively impact its lifespan.

Adhering to Access Platform Operator Best Practices

You should also follow UK industry guidelines and regulations to ensure the safe operation of your access platform. These may include:

• Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Ensuring workers have the correct licence or certificate; for example, to operate a cherry picker, they must undertake a MEWP training course that conforms to a recognised industry standard such as ISO 18878:2013
• Training workers in operating your specific model of access platform to optimise productivity and safety, and reduce wear and tear on the equipment
• Strictly adhering to weight capacity limits to prevent safety hazards such as tilting and tipping

You will also need to carry out routine risk assessments to help prevent harm to your employees, contractors and members of the public. This involves carefully examining any aspect of your operations, including the use of a MEWP, and identifying anything that could go wrong.

Prolonging the Lifespan of Your Access Platform

To extend the life of your access platform, adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended servicing and maintenance schedule. Regular upkeep ensures optimal performance by identifying and addressing potential issues early. This reduces the risk of equipment failure, preventing interruptions to your work and saving you money in the long run.

At TAG Forklift Truck Services, we specialise in the hire and sale of high-quality mobile elevated work platforms and warehouse equipment. We work with some of the best brands in the industry, including JLG, Hyundai and Linde.

Our fleet of access equipment includes scissor lifts, cherry pickers, articulated boom lifts and mast lift trucks in a range of sizes and fuel sources. We offer both new and used models for sale, as well as flexible short-term and long-term rental contracts with maintenance included.