Uses Mobile Access Equipment

Chapter A11 – Uses Mobile Access Equipment

Topic 1 – Power Platforms

There are three basic types of power platforms: boom lifts, boom trucks, and scissor lifts. Each of these require proper training to operate.

Boom lifts – these are used primarily for smaller jobs such as painting, sheathing, and insulating. Boom lifts are made with a mobile base and hydraulic, telescopic boom to which a basket or platform is attached. The boom lift is equipped with controls on both the base and working platform. The controls on the working platform are only able to be utilized once the safety pedal is compressed. Without the safety pedal compressed, all functions will cease.

Boom Truck – These are used for heavier duty jobs where more material or greater heights are required beyond the abilities of a boom lift. It is essentially a boom attached to a truck deck which is equipped with outriggers for stability when the boom is in use. While they have more capabilities than the boom lift and are capable of self-transporting over long distances, they are not as versatile or agile as the boom lift and are restricted in their mobility on site.

Scissor lifts – Scissor lifts are essentially a mobile platform that is capable of extending vertically only. The scissor lift is primarily operable from the working platform, but there are also controls on the base in the event of an emergency, which override the platform controls. The platform is larger than a boom lift and is preferred over the boom lift when it is able to be utilized.

Generally, specific training is required in order to safely operate these machines and keep them maintained.