When it comes to work-at-height projects, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness is critical. Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) offer a smart, flexible solution, but working at height is dangerous, even more so without the right preparation and training. Whether you’re tackling a major commercial fit-out, facility maintenance, or industrial air conditioning installation, here are five key considerations when planning your next work-at-height project with a MEWP.
Site Assessment and Access Conditions
Before choosing a MEWP, a thorough site assessment is essential. Evaluate ground conditions, overhead obstructions, access points, and any environmental factors like wind exposure. Different terrains and space constraints will influence whether you need a scissor lift, boom lift, or tracked spider lift.
Tip: Read our guide to ‘Choosing the Right MEWP for Working at Height Safely‘ for expert advice on making the right selection.
Height and Outreach Requirements
Understanding the vertical and horizontal reach needed is key to selecting the correct machine. If your project demands significant outreach over obstacles, an articulated or telescopic boom lift might be ideal. For straightforward vertical access, a scissor lift could be the most efficient choice.
Tip: This guide called ‘How to Calculate the Working Height You Really Need‘ is great additional reading on this subject.
Load Capacity and Equipment Needs
Consider the total weight of personnel, tools, and materials. Overloading a MEWP can cause unsafe conditions and lead to accidents or project delays. Always factor in a buffer on your estimated load to stay safe.
Operator Competence and Safety Compliance
Only trained and certified operators should handle MEWPs. This ensures individuals and businesses stay compliant with health and safety regulations, such as the Work at Height Regulations 2005. This protects both your workforce and your business. Our guide, ‘The Importance of IPAF Training for Safe and Compliant MEWP Use‘ goes a little further into MEWP operator competence and safety compliance.
Reliability and Support Services
A reliable machine is crucial to keeping your project on schedule. Look for MEWP hire providers, like Horizon Platforms, that offer high-quality, well-maintained equipment, 24/7 support, and fast, same-day or next-day delivery.
With Horizon Platforms, in addition to 24/7 contact with our team, you also get access to our easy-to-use Platform Finder to quickly identify the best machine for your project, saving you time and ensuring you get useful recommendations.
Ready to Elevate Your Next Project?
Horizon Platforms makes hiring a MEWP simple and hassle-free. Find the perfect platform with Platform Finder or speak to our expert team for personalised advice. Experience a higher standard in work-at-height solutions with Horizon Platforms.