Movable platforms – an alternative to standard scaffolding

Movable platforms (self-propelled and hanging), just like scaffolding, allow you to create a comfortable workstation in places where access is limited due to height. However, they are much more effective than scaffolding and have a wider range of applications. Movable platforms they are used not only in construction, but also in many branches of the service industry. It is worth getting acquainted with the specifics of these extremely useful machines. What do you need to know about them?

What are moving platforms?

Movable platforms are mobile machines that play a similar role to scaffolding - that is, they are a working platform on which work can be performed at heights. In this case, however, the working platform of the mobile platform is its permanent part and is not constructed ad hoc and attached, for example, to the building. These devices are also called boom lifts or lifts. Their maximum working height is usually sufficient for most ad hoc work.

In construction moving platforms there are some differences, depending mainly on what type of device it is and what it is intended for. However, the very general scheme remains the same regardless of the type of platform. It includes:

• the body with all the control equipment, and often also the operator's cabin,
• lifting crane or boom with various range of mobility,
• a working platform, also called a basket, equipped with barriers and other safeguards enabling comfortable and risk-free work.

Although slow-moving mobile platforms are not complicated machinery, their operation requires great manual skills, spatial imagination, as well as good knowledge of safe work principles. Because improper use of this machine poses serious hazards, it may only be operated by qualified operators who have licenses for lifts. Height qualifications for people on platforms are often needed due to the maximum height of the working platform.

What types of moving platforms are there?

Diffeleaseiation of types moving platforms is quite large, which is very beneficial for their user. It allows you to choose a device that will fully suit the specific nature of your work and allow you to perform it in the fastest, most efficient and effective way.

Movable platform - classification according to the Office of Technical Inspection:

The classification created by the Office of Technical Inspection divides mobile platforms into two groups:

• moving platforms passable (I P) – this group includes, among others self-propelled moving platforms mounted on self-propelled chassis and transportable platforms adapted for towing,
• hanging movable platforms, mast mobile platforms and stationary mobile platforms.

Mobile platform – classification by boom type:

The classification is more interesting moving platforms due to the type of boom, because this division best describes the functionality of the machine. In this respect, platforms are most often divided into: telescopic (long boom and high working height), articulated (broken mast allowing the boom to move vertically and horizontally), scissor lifts (two levers operating only vertically) and articulated-telescopic.

Transportable mobile platforms - classification according to the type of drive

The third and last classification is division self-propelled mobile platforms due to the type of drive. In this case, primarily combustion platforms, electric platforms and manual platforms should be distinguished.

Where are mobile platforms used and what are their advantages?

Application moving platforms is very broad. They are used not only as an alternative to scaffolding, but also in other, less obvious places where the working range of the work platform may be important. Examples of their use may be:

• work on high voltage lines,
• assembly works - for example hanging large-format advertisements, neon signs, roof gutters,
• construction works,
• trimming tree branches,
• fruit collection,
• high-altitude window cleaning,
• painting and cleaning facades,
• firefighting operations.

Self-propelled mobile platforms and others they are therefore intended for many more tasks than scaffolding. Additionally, setting up the scaffolding is time-consuming and completely unprofitable for activities that take no more than a few days. In such situations, the construction and subsequent dismantling of scaffolding would be troublesome. 

Moving platforms also have many other advantages. These are:

• no high costs associated with scaffolding construction,
• possible to use moving platforms also in situations where scaffolding will not work, e.g. when cutting down trees or repairing traffic lights.
• versatility of use - mobile platforms do not necessarily have to be a working platform for employees, they are also great for moving loads to great heights safely and quickly,
• moving quickly from place to place.

Finally, it is also worth mentioning that moving platforms they work perfectly both outdoors and indoors, and the dimensions of the work platform allow for free work of often more than one employee at a time. 

Permissions for mobile platforms – how to get them?

As already mentioned, mobile movable platforms may only be operated by a qualified and authorized operator. To obtain them, you must complete dedicated training and pass the UDT exam. It is open to adults who have a category B and C driving license and no medical contraindications to practicing the profession. 

The course does not last long - usually a few days - and consists of two parts: theoretical and practical. Learning to operate mobile platforms includes both useful knowledge of construction, application and safety, as well as testing this knowledge in practice on various types of lifts.

Like training, qualifying exam qualifications for mobile platforms it consists of two parts and takes place before the commission of the Office of Technical Inspection. After passing the course, the course participant receives an ID card confirming his qualifications and can start working as an operator of mobile platforms.

Check out UDT training courses available at GIZO.

Do you want to obtain UDT qualifications for mobile platforms or are you looking for a functional platform at an attractive price? Welcome to GIZO - we are a certified training center with extensive technical resources, and at the same time we offer many models of renowned brands for sale or lease! Contact us and we will be happy to present the full offer for leaseal of basket lifts.