There are aerial platforms in various categories. For example, there are aerial work platforms on a trailer, spider work platforms with outriggers, self-propelled scissor lifts and articulated telescopic work platforms. The Working Conditions Act, but also the Safety Checklist for Contractors (VCA), set requirements for the use of aerial work platforms. For example, users must be demonstrably instructed in the operation of the machines. People who use an aerial work platform to carry out their work must therefore have followed a training course appropriate to the type of aerial work platform and have obtained a corresponding certificate. In this article, we explain the difference between the various types of AWPs and the training that goes with them.
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Different types of aerial platforms; 1A, 1B, 3A and 3B
Aerial platforms are divided into four different categories. The main distinction is made between self-propelled and non-self-propelled AWPs. Self-propelled AWPs fall into category 3. Non-self-propelled AWPs are categorized in category 1. However, from the (petro)chemical industry, the maritime sector and the construction industry, the demand is greatest for training for self-propelled work platforms in categories 3A and 3B. Below is an overview of the various types of aerial work platforms per category.
Category 1A
These are vertically working, one-person stamped aerial platforms. These platforms are not movable and are only accessible to one person. They are also called one-man lifts.
Category 1B
Telescopic and articulated boom lifts, boom lifts on a trailer or chassis and spider lifts with outriggers belong to category 1B. Stamped platforms are permanently installed, the platforms on a chassis or trailer can be moved.
Category 3A
Self-propelled scissor lifts and self-propelled single-section vertical lift AWPs belong to category 3A. The lifting mechanism of these boom lifts is scissor shaped, which ensures that the boom lift can raise the platform to the desired height by means of vertical movement.
Category 3B
Within category 3B are the self-propelled telescopic and articulated boom lifts. Due to their flexible lifting, these work platforms can reach places that are not accessible with type 3A work platforms.
When to use which type of aerial work platform depends on a number of factors. Will you be working indoors or outdoors? At what height will the work take place? Are there any obstacles along or around which you need to manoeuvre? Can the aerial work platform go straight up or does it have to bend around certain structures? What space is available? What is the required lifting capacity? And on what surface will the aerial platform be placed?
Knowing how to classify a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) is part of the recent ANSI Standards updates and every operator's responsibility.
MEWP classifications are made up of a combination of two key elements; TYPE and GROUP.
A MEWP Type is in reference to traveling. Traveling is defined as self propelled or manually propelled.
A MEWP Group is determined by where the platform location is in reference to the tipping line.
For training purposes, there are only two Groups and two Types to remember that make up 4 classifications of MEWPs, 1A, 1B, 3A and 3B.
Type 1 - lifts only travel or move in the stowed position. These are manually propelled or push around lifts and tow-behind booms
Type 3 - are self-propelled lifts where travel is controlled from a point on the work platform
Group B = Boom Lifts (aerial lifts designed for the platform to be elevated beyond the tipping line)
Everything else is Group A
In other words, all boom lifts are in Group B and all MEWP's that only lift vertically are in Group A.
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Let's talk about them one at a time.
Traveling is allowed only with the MEWP in its stowed position. The platform never extends beyond the tipping line and the machine is designed to only be moved with the platform in the stowed position.
A great example of a (1A) MEWP would be manually propelled or push around vertical mast lifts.
Traveling is allowed only with the MEWP in its stowed position. The platform is designed to extend beyond the tipping line and the machine is designed to only be moved with the platform in the stowed position.
Trailer-mounted Booms are perfect examples of a (1B) MEWP.
Traveling with the work platform in the elevated position is controlled from a point on the work platform. The main platform never extends beyond the tipping line and machine travel is controlled from the platform controls.
Examples of (3A) MEWP would be electric or rough terrain scissor lifts and self-propelled vertical mast lifts.
Traveling with the work platform in the elevated position is controlled from a point on the work platform. The platform is designed to extend beyond the tipping line and machine travel is controlled from the platform controls.
Examples of (3B) MEWPs are self propelled articulating and telescopic booms.
Traveling with the work platform in the elevated position is controlled from a point on the chassis.
Note: because Type 2 MEWP's are uncommon, they are not included in operator training.
Please note, this article is not designed to take the place of a comprehensive operator training program.
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