As a company that lives and breathes working at height solutions it is all too easy to adopt industry acronyms and assume those outside of our industry understand it! At HLS we are always talking to people who just need a solution, they don't care about acronyms, or jargon, they just want something that works. To help those of you out there we thought we could provide a few definitions and explanations of commonly used industry terms, but where should we start? Read on for the answer to "What is a MEWP?"
In the simplest terms possible, a MEWP is a Mobile Elevating Work Platform. But perhaps the term requires a bit more explanation. Essentially a MEWP is a platform, usually powered, designed to help a person or people to carry out work at height in safe manner. MEWPs are more commonly referred to by a whole host of names (click through the hyperlinks to see more information on the different types of machines)
Access platform is a genaral term which covers powered and non powered equipment which give workers a temporary or permanent way to work at various heights.
MaScissor lifts are large mobile vertical lifts (sometimes called ‘flying carpets’), similar to PAVs. Ideal for use in a variety applications in both indoor and outdoor spaces, where a straight lift is required for access.
Although narrow width models are available, usually scissor lifts would not be suitable for tighter spaces as they offer a much larger platform area for workers. They are also available as rough terrain versions and with double extending decks.
Scissor lifts meet the requirements of the Work at Height regulations with guard rails around the platform. They provide much safer access to workers required to carry out tasks at height.
Articulated boom lifts, most often referred to as a cherry picker, offer an extensive range of movement.
The sideways outreach makes it a practical solution for both indoor and outdoor applications, as the extended reach enables the platform to maneuver around and over obstacles such as buildings and other equipment.
Available in a range of sizes, with additional features including rough terrain option, non-marking tyres and a variety of power options. Articulating boom lifts meet the requirements of the Work at Height regulations.
Stick boom lifts, also commonly referred to as telescopic booms, offer an extensive range of movement similar to the articulating boom lift.
The platform can extend sideways, as well as offer great height, so stick booms are ideal for maneuvering around and above obstacles, machinery or buildings. They can be used internally and externally with 4×4 and rough terrain options available.
Stick or telescopic boom lifts meet the requirements of the Work at Height regulations with a caged platform to ensure the safety of workers.
Vertical mast lift or PAVs and aerial work platforms
Push around vertical platforms, often called PAVs or personnel lifts, are a small type of mobile vertical lift with scissor operation. PAVs are ideal for indoor low level access making them suitable for smaller warehouses and factories, replacing ladders and steps.
They are compact and lightweight, which allows them to navigate narrow aisles, doorways and corners, and can be easily moved from location to location, including between floors using lifs or between sites using a van.
Spider lifts and tracked booms
Commonly referred to as spider lifts or tracked booms. They provide reach out as well as up and down working in numerous environments. With the ability to level the machine via the stabilisers they are ideal on uneven or sloping ground. When in closed position these highly versatile platforms are designed to go through doorways/narrow entranceways.
The important thing to note, is that MEWP is a generic term, it covers a whole host of different equipment that could be used for any number of applications in shops, hospitals, schools, warehouses, construction sites, hotels, arenas etc. If you have an application that requires a MEWP you should always go through a full and thorough specification process to ensure you get the most effective, productive, and safe MEWP for your particular application, and your specific environment.
Indeed, if a person needs to work on something that is beyond their natural reach while standing on the ground, they could well use some sort of MEWP.
If you need any help specifying a MEWP give us a call on +44 (0)113 287 8446 or get in touch via our website
