Aerial Work Platforms: What to Ask Before Buying

Written By: Sabah Karimi

From above-ground-level maintenance projects to warehouse management, the right elevation equipment helps ensure that your projects run smoothly and efficiently. Aerial work platforms are designed to lift and transport heavy materials across different types of surfaces and up to various elevations. These types of lifts can help your workers reach different heights and transport heavy materials without compromising their health and safety.

Whether you need to transfer pallets of materials across a warehouse or lift a set of boxes to a higher elevation for storage, selecting the right make and model will help you get the job done efficiently and successfully. Here’s a quick look at some of the essential questions to ask and features you should consider before you make a purchase.

Selecting aerial work platforms: key questions to ask

• Can the platform reach your highest elevation? What options do you have for adjusting the height and overall reach?
• Will workers need to undergo extensive training to use it?
• Does the lift have leveling capabilities for working on uneven surfaces?
• Does the system use AC or DC power? (Plug in or battery powered?)
• How much weight and how many workers can the platform lift?
• Can you get an on-site demonstration?
• Does the dealer have similar models from different manufacturers available?
• Is the dealer an authorized service center for lift equipment?
• Can the aerial work platforms you're looking at be used indoors and outdoors (if applicable to your situation)?
• Can the work platform be moved while it’s elevated?

Evaluating elevated work platforms

Key features you'll need to evaluate during the selection process include:

Overall specs. What is the maximum elevation that the platform can reach, and weight it can lift? These are the two central considerations to keep in mind.

Size and adaptability. Some elevated work platforms are designed to work over immovable objects or fit through small doorways.

High quality materials. Look for quality paint, tough finish and well-hidden hydraulic lines and wiring.

Safety features. Look for convenient safety switches and pulls that will make it easy for workers to turn the system off during an emergency.

OSHA/ANSI certification. Look for any documentation regarding government regulations and certifications.

Ease of use. How simple is it to operate the equipment?

Selecting the right elevating work platform can take some time, but learning as much as possible about the product can help you make an informed decision. When you’re ready to take the next step, BuyerZone’s free aerial lift price quote service will match you to reputable dealers in your area. Try it today!