At HLS, we live and breathe working at height solutions, but we know that for many people searching for equipment, industry acronyms like MEWP might as well be another language. What matters is finding equipment that is safe, reliable, and right for the job.
In this guide, we will break down exactly what a MEWP is, explain the different types available, and highlight where each one works best. You will learn the key features, typical applications, and important safety considerations to help you choose the right machine for your needs. We will also share how HLS can support you with training and Thorough Examinations (LOLER).
What is a MEWP?
MEWP stands for Mobile Elevating Work Platform. Usually powered, access platforms are designed to safely lift people so they can work at height.
MEWPs are used across a wide range of industries, including:
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Manufacturing
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Warehousing and logistics
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Facilities management
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Events and film production
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Data centres
The main purpose of a MEWP is simple, to keep workers safe and productive while providing secure access to complete the job efficiently and correctly.
Types of MEWPs
MEWPs include a variety of machines, each designed for specific environments, reach requirements, and levels of manoeuvrability. Below, we break down the main types and their ideal applications.
1. What is a Scissor Lift? (a.k.a. “Magic Carpet”)
A scissor lift is a mobile aerial work platform named after its unique lifting mechanism. It uses a series of crossed, folding supports that operate like scissors to raise and lower the platform. Typically self-propelled, scissor lifts provide a safe and stable way to elevate workers and materials vertically.
2. What is a Boom Lift / Cherry Picker?
A boom lift is a type of aerial work platform designed to safely lift workers and equipment to elevated heights. Featuring a secure platform attached to a hydraulic boom arm which can extend, rotate, and articulate. A boom lift offers flexible access to hard-to-reach areas.
Fun fact: They are called cherry pickers because they were originally used for fruit picking.
Safety Tip: It is recommended that operators wear a full-body harness with an adjustable restraint lanyard that is short enough to ensure the operator does not find themselves in a position to be catapulted.
Need to Improve Harness Safety?
We provide harness awareness and user training, plus supply full body harness kits to ensure your team works safely at height.
3. Vertical Mast Lifts / PAVs
Vertical mast lifts, also known as personnel lifts, one-man lifts, or push-around vertical lifts (PAVs), provide safe, compact access for tasks at height such as cleaning, maintenance, and order picking. Designed for indoor and outdoor use, these self-propelled or manually pushed platforms replace ladders and steps, helping businesses meet work-at-height regulations.
Many of our customers are replacing traditional steps and ladders with safer, more efficient solutions. Their main challenges?
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Space: Finding compact equipment that can access restricted areas.
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Safety: Reducing the risks of working at height by moving away from ladders.
The HLS Hugo Lift: Safe, Compact, and Efficient
The HLS Hugo Lift answers common workplace challenges, offering a small footprint and excellent maneuverability for even the most cramped environments. It provides secure low-level access for a variety of tasks, replacing ladders and steps while increasing safety and productivity.
See how businesses like yours have improved safety and efficiency with the Hugo Lift. View Case Studies
Explore all the features of the Hugo Lift and get your free specification sheet for detailed product info. View Features & Download Free Spec Sheet
4. Spider Lifts (Tracked Booms)
Spider lifts, also called tracked booms, are versatile aerial platforms that provide both vertical and horizontal reach. Equipped with stabilisers to level the machine on uneven or sloping ground, they are ideal for challenging terrain. When closed, their compact design allows them to pass through doorways and narrow entrances, making them suitable for a wide range of environments.
Choosing the Right MEWP
Falls from height are one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities in the UK.
Many accidents occur when precautions are not taken, equipment is defective or unsuitable, or it is used incorrectly. Often, workers underestimate the risk, thinking a quick task is safe to do without proper measures.
When selecting and using a MEWP, consider
- Work at height activities to be carried out
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Working and platform height
- Up and over height if required
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Indoor or outdoor use
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Ground conditions and terrain requirements
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Access restrictions such as doorways, aisles, or weight limits
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Power source including mains, diesel, petrol, lithium, or hybrid
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Load capacity for workers, tools, and materials
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Stability requirements, including outriggers if needed
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Operator training and certification for the specific MEWP type
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Weather conditions, such as wind, rain, or icy surfaces
- Number of people required in MEWP
Before starting any task, always carry out a thorough work-at-height risk assessment. Learn more in our guide: How to Conduct a Risk Assessment?
It’s also essential to have a clear rescue plan in place. Find out how to create one here: What is a Rescue Plan?
HLS – Your Partner for Safe Working at Height
At HLS, we specialise in providing equipment, access platforms, and tailored solutions for safe and compliant working at height, materials handling, and floor care. Whether you need brand-new machinery, quality used equipment, or flexible options such as short-term hire or long-term lease, we’ve got you covered.
Not sure where to start? We will guide you every step of the way.
We also deliver the right IPAF training for any MEWP category, either at your site or at one of our UK-wide IPAF-approved training centres, so your team works safely, efficiently, and in compliance.
We can also support you with:
- Preventative maintenance and Thorough Examinations (LOLER)
- Contract rental, short-term hire, or purchase
- Risk assessments & rescue plan templates. Download free resources here.
