Access platforms are extremely diversified and come in a series of different types. As a general rule of thumb, they should be selected with your main necessities and requirements in mind. Besides, they are also categorized by specific criteria. Most commonly, they are classified according to the maximum weight they can support. The respective weight is calculated about six feet above the platform. However, keep in mind that requiring any outreach will lead to a series of calculations, so you need a little math. This is why such machines must not be purchased out of nowhere. Instead, you need to do your homework or perhaps get a professional with you too. Other than that, deciding on the platform type is yet another major consideration. There are a few different types out there and each of them has specific particularities.
Boom lifts are available in two different forms. Some of them have articulated sticks, while others come with straight sticks. They provide a decent outreach too. When compared to other types of platforms, these are not really the most sophisticated ones, especially since they come up with a limited working area. The safety risks are not to be ignored either. Therefore, workers or operators are recommended to wear safety equipments in order to prevent unexpected accidents.
On a different note, scissor lifts are a lot more diversified. They also ensure a way larger working area. These are the most common types of platforms due to their flexibility and convenience, especially when it comes to lifting heavy equipments and materials. But just like any other thing out there, they are not perfect. Their main disadvantage is the impossibility to elevate in different positions. Instead, they mostly work above the base. The good news is that they can be easily driven while being elevated.
Track mounted platforms are not to be ignored either. They are fixed while elevated, so you cannot move them around. They are quite lightweight too, not to mention about their capability to travel on any type of terrain. The lack of flexibility makes them similar to personnel lifts. Personnel lifts are some of the most common access platforms for people. They look like the scissor lifts. They only go up and down, so there is simply no outreach available for them. The size is very important when deciding on these platforms. Normally, it depends on how many people you need to move around. All in all, such things are very common for maintenance work.
Finally, push around and road towing platforms are not to be ignored either.
When it comes to selecting the right materials, your options are slightly diversified as well. For example, you will most commonly have to choose between iron and aluminium platforms. The power and driving options are also to be considered, especially since they make the difference in the overall convenience of a platform. Some units run with diesel engines, while others rely on batteries, electricity or other types of fuel. With so many considerations, it is obvious that you have to take your time.
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