What is a Aerial Platform

Definition:

An aerial work platform (AWP) is a mechanical lifting device designed to safely elevate people, tools, or materials to perform work at height. These platforms provide temporary access to inaccessible areas – such as ceilings, building façades, or elevated structures – and are widely used in construction, maintenance, cleaning, and installation tasks.

Unlike fixed scaffolding or cranes, aerial work platforms are mobile, compact, and specifically engineered for flexibility, speed of deployment, and operator safety.

(Source: Platform Basket)

Benefits of Aerial Platforms

Flexibility to reach a wide variety of heights safely and efficiently
Manoeuvrability & flexibility as most aerial platforms can move their various sections independently for operator ease
Multiple sizes & variations available to suit your specific application needs (our team of experts at Hire Safe Solutions will happily discuss and match an aerial work platform with your particular needs and requirements)
Increased safety when working at height due to durable caging and safety measures
Improved lifting capacity that can’t be achieved in more mundane methods of working at height, such as a ladder

More About Aerial Platforms

Also Known As

Elevating Work Platform (EWP)
Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP)
Aerial Lift
Man Lift / Cherry Picker

Types of Aerial Work Platforms

There are several categories of aerial work platforms, each designed for specific uses and environments:

Boom Lifts: Telescopic or articulating arms with a platform at the end. Ideal for reaching over obstacles.
Scissor Lifts: Platforms that elevate vertically using a crisscrossing support mechanism. Excellent for indoor maintenance.
Vertical Mast Lifts: Compact machines that provide vertical reach in tight spaces. e.g., HERON 10 vertical mast lift.
Spider Lifts: Lightweight, compact lifts on extendable tracks (crawlers), capable of accessing uneven or sensitive terrain. Platform Basket offers a wide range of spider lifts up to 54 meters in height.