This article contains everything you will need to know about work equipment platforms and their use.
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A work equipment platform is an elevated surface in manufacturing or production sites designed to provide easy access to equipment and machinery. By increasing the square footage of a worksite, these platforms improve efficiency and make better use of previously unused areas. Built from heavy-duty steel or aluminum, work equipment platforms are robust and durable, able to withstand the demanding conditions of a worksite.
Equipment work platforms are not classified as part of the building's floor or general area and are therefore subject to less stringent regulations than mezzanines. For instance, mezzanines must comply with fire regulations, including the installation of sprinklers and adequate lighting, whereas work platforms—despite potentially being larger and incorporating stairs, ladders, or other access methods—do not have these requirements.
Various types of work platforms are perfect for companies with limited floor space but unused vertical areas. Installing them increases the usable workspace while enhancing worker safety. These platforms are versatile, fitting into any location, resting on their foundation, and standing independently without attaching to the building structure. When discussing work platforms and mezzanines, using accurate terminology is crucial to avoid confusion and ensure clarity.
Work equipment platforms come in various shapes and configurations, often customized to meet the specific requirements of their installation site. The type of platform chosen depends on its intended function, whether it’s a basic work area for repairs and inspections or one designed to support heavy production equipment. Their versatility lies in their load-bearing capacity, which ranges from 50 PSF to 250 PSF, making them suitable for nearly any application.
Work safety platforms, as with all equipment platforms, take different shapes according to their use. They can be installed to allow workers to operate equipment controls at the proper height for easy access. Other forms are used to access various parts of a large piece of equipment for maintenance and service purposes. The sizes of safety work platforms vary from ones that are a few inches high to ones that are several feet high with stairs for access. These types of work platforms are commonly used for warehouse and retail applications.
Other types of work safety platforms are attached to the forks of forklifts to lift workers to their work areas. These platforms are accessed from the ground through a secured safety gate and require workers to wear appropriate safety gear while in use.
Folding or hop-up work platforms are favored by painters and decorators for their portability and lightweight design. When expanded, these platforms provide easy access to ceilings and upper wall areas. The legs unfold and lock securely in place, ensuring a stable and safe workspace. These platforms vary in size, ranging from a few feet in length and width to several feet long and over four feet wide. They can reach heights of nearly four feet and often feature stairs on the sides for convenient access.
Podium work platforms resemble ladders in shape and appearance but offer enhanced safety features. Unlike standard ladders, podium platforms are equipped with enclosed guardrails to protect users during use. Additionally, the base is slip-resistant, supporting a strong and sturdy platform. These work platforms are available in various sizes, heights, and guardrail configurations to suit different needs.
For convenience, podium platforms are designed to be collapsible while maintaining a solid, stable, and secure work surface. Their popularity stems from their durability under various worksite conditions, offering reliable support despite the challenges of the environment.
Powered work platforms come in various types, including those resembling forklift platforms and those specifically designed for high-rise building maintenance. Also known as aerial work platforms (AWPs), these platforms are named for their ability to reach impressive heights.
Mobile powered or aerial work platforms typically feature a two- or four-wheel base, with two-wheel bases including extendable supports for added stability. Some models come equipped with power controls on the platform, allowing it to be maneuvered while elevated. For high-rise maintenance, aerial platforms often include a crane on top of the building, with controls on the platform to help workers position it accurately.
Various types of aerial lift platforms:
Cantilever work platforms are height-adjustable platforms designed for workers to safely position themselves when working on large equipment or trucks. Their design allows for efficient access to structures or machinery without the need to climb directly onto them.
TThe platform of a cantilever work platform can range from several feet in length and two to four feet in width. Some versions are designed to accommodate a single worker and extend over the equipment. These platforms are mobile, allowing them to be used on various pieces of equipment. They can be raised to heights between 8 and 15 feet (2.4 to 4.5 meters).
Machine access platforms are engineered to provide safe and convenient access to elevated or hard-to-reach equipment. They facilitate tasks such as adjustments, control changes, maintenance, and cleaning. Typically customized to fit specific equipment, these platforms feature robust stairs and guardrails to ensure worker safety.
Mobile work platforms come in various shapes and are designed to be easily moved on wheels. These platforms include ones resembling small mezzanines that can be repositioned next to large equipment. Smaller mobile platforms, often equipped with stairs and side rails, are commonly used in warehouses to help workers access products from shelves.
Mobile work platforms are designed to adapt to varying workflow needs by allowing flexible positioning of workstations. These platforms come in different forms, including scissor lifts and boom lifts, both classified as Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs). Equipped with electric motors, these platforms enhance mobility and ease of movement.
Group A mobile work platforms are versatile tools used across various industrial applications. These platforms, which can be elevated, are designed to be movable both when at their starting position and when elevated. The key difference lies in their design and functionality.
Stationary work platforms can vary in design, from mezzanine-style structures to stepping stools. Some platforms encircle equipment, providing easy access and space for tools, monitors, and electronic devices. The compact stool version allows workers to reach the operational level of equipment comfortably, facilitating easier access and functionality.
Smaller stationary work platforms are typically integrated into equipment and machinery designs to ensure efficient and smooth operation. In contrast, larger stationary work platforms are custom-designed for specific applications. These platforms are commonly used for maintenance of airplanes, buses, large trucks, and helicopters, as well as for assembling large products like boilers and fuel tanks.
Large stationary work platforms require construction from hardened steel and a secure foundation bolted to the facility floor to ensure stability. Typically positioned eight to ten feet (2.4 to 3 meters) above the ground, these platforms allow workers to move easily underneath. As permanent fixtures, they are installed and removed with significant effort and are designed for long-term use due to their exceptional durability.
Several safety measures are mandated for stationary work platforms, as specified by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These regulations cover various aspects, including the types of handrails, stairs, platform dimensions, material specifications, and the inclusion of protective devices such as shields. Adhering to these standards is crucial to ensure worker safety and compliance with OSHA guidelines.
A bridge deck combines a mobile work platform, maintenance platform, and height-adjustable work platform into one unique tool. It features a bridge-like structure with entry points at both ends via stairs. While mobility isn't essential, many bridge decks are equipped with wheels for easy repositioning and are height-adjustable, allowing versatile use across different locations.
Bridge decks are versatile tools designed for easy integration into various applications. They are quick to assemble and use. The platform’s weight is supported by two large structures at either end. The casters on a bridge deck work platform are specifically engineered to bear the load while offering mobility.
Loading work platforms are utilized in construction sites, warehouses, loading docks, and retail settings to facilitate the loading and unloading of goods and materials. In construction, particularly for multi-story projects, these platforms provide stable and secure surfaces positioned by cranes to transfer materials from ground or lower levels to higher floors of a building.
Loading platforms are designed to safely and securely position materials, enhancing efficiency by minimizing manual handling and accommodating forklifts and pallet jacks. On construction sites, these platforms can be set at different heights depending on their movement method. Like all platforms, loading platforms must comply with OSHA safety regulations and undergo regular inspections to ensure adherence.
With some exceptions, loading platforms of all sizes and types generally feature safety railings and textured surfaces. Floor-level loading platforms may not need safety rails depending on their use. Mobile raised loading platforms come in various designs and are elevated 4 to 10 feet (1.2 to 3 meters) from the ground. Their robust construction allows them to be used both indoors and outdoors.
Scaffolding is a specialized work platform designed for specific uses. Unlike general equipment work platforms, which hold tools, machinery, and workers, scaffolding offers robust support for work platforms, providing a safe and stable surface for tasks on multi-story buildings and during home renovations.
Scaffolding allows multiple people to work on a project simultaneously, reducing time, optimizing material use, and providing additional support as needed. Unlike standard work platforms, scaffolding is specifically designed for the requirements of a particular task or project. It is a temporary structure built at the work site and typically features an aluminum or steel frame. The platform materials used can vary, including wooden planks, which are less common in standard work equipment platforms.
A few critical factors distinguish scaffolding from work platforms, primarily regarding requirements and safety. Work platforms must meet OSHA compliance standards and have certification, ensuring they are safer, more reliable, and durable due to their robust construction. In contrast, scaffolding is a fixed, non-mobile work platform that cannot be easily repositioned.
Generally, loading platforms of all sizes and purposes feature safety railings and textured surfaces for added security. However, floor-level loading platforms might not require safety rails based on their usage. Mobile raised loading platforms, which can be elevated between 4 to 10 feet (1.2 to 3 meters), come in various designs. Their robust construction allows for use both indoors and outdoors. Additionally, loading platforms can be paired with stationary vertical reciprocating conveyors to efficiently move goods between different levels.
Work equipment platforms optimize otherwise unused space in a facility. These platforms can be customized, configured, and engineered to meet the specific needs of any operation, offering a durable, long-lasting solution for space maximization. They are essential assets for repair stations, warehouses, industrial operations, and equipment maintenance.
Modern equipment is complex and multifaceted, requiring constant monitoring and inspection. With various components spread across a piece of machinery or control panel, easy access is crucial. To ensure this, industrial machinery manufacturers use equipment platforms, often custom-designed, to facilitate convenient access for workers and technicians.
TThere is a wide range of equipment platforms designed to simplify tasks for workers. Depending on the machinery type and its function, these platforms come with various safety features to ensure that equipment monitoring is both easy and secure.
OSHA's stipulations and regulations outline comprehensive safety measures for workers, covering every aspect of an operation in detail. For large equipment, OSHA specifies the necessary safeguards to ensure worker protection and includes guidelines for all access points, ensuring a thorough approach to safety.
OSHA regulations cover various aspects of workplace safety, including the types of stairs and their surfaces, the design and construction of railings, weight limits, personnel capacity, and other factors to prevent worker injury and equipment damage. Detailed specifications for equipment work platforms are also provided and outlined.
The aerospace industry depends on work equipment platforms for constructing and repairing commercial and military aircraft. These platforms are crucial for various applications, including manufacturing, fleet maintenance, and damage prevention. They must meet specific requirements such as mobility, fall protection, and custom design to accommodate the dimensions and needs of different aircraft.
Machinery work platforms are designed to shield equipment from factory traffic and natural disasters like flooding or earthquakes. They feature guardrails for worker safety and fall protection, along with gates for loading materials and equipment. Custom-designed to accommodate various machinery, these platforms are tailored to meet specific weight and load requirements.
In many cases, machinery or equipment work platforms are installed due to space constraints. As businesses grow and need to boost production, they may lack the capacity to build more space or facilities. Installing work equipment platforms efficiently utilizes existing space at a lower cost. Opting for vertical expansion is more cost-effective than purchasing land and expanding horizontally, avoiding the high costs of construction and code compliance.
Scissor lifts and boom lifts are commonly used to clean exterior building surfaces. Their mobility, ease of positioning, and operational convenience from the work platform make them ideal for inspecting, repairing, and cleaning multi-story structures. Their versatility also allows for effective use in both internal and external cleaning tasks.
It may be errantly assumed that work equipment platforms and mezzanines have the same type of structure. Although this similarity is true, to a certain extent, there are certain characteristics and differences between the two, aside from their structure and permanence. One factor that differentiates the two is how they are defined in regard to company assets. Unlike mezzanines, work platforms are considered capital equipment since they are not permanent, which has an impact on how they depreciate and are taxed.
A mezzanine can occupy no more than 1/3 of the total floor area of a building. If multiple mezzanines are present, their combined floor area must not exceed 1/3 of the building's total floor space. Additionally, the height above and below a mezzanine must be at least 7 feet (2.1 meters). Mezzanines are often used because their area is excluded from the building's total square footage.
Unlike mezzanines, equipment platforms can be up to twice the size of a mezzanine and cover up to 2/3 of a building's floor area. However, if both a mezzanine and an equipment platform are present in a building, their combined area must not exceed 2/3 of the building's floor area.
The requirements for a sprinkler system depend on the area of a building and must comply with code regulations to ensure safety and protection. When assessing fire areas, equipment platforms are excluded, while mezzanines are included. Despite this, equipment platforms must be protected by a sprinkler system both above and below. The specific sprinkler requirements for equipment platforms vary based on their type and location, as they are not treated the same as mezzanines.
Mezzanines serve distinct functions compared to equipment platforms, and as such, they have specific regulations for entrances and exits. The number of exits required depends on the mezzanine's occupancy and the distance to each exit. Mezzanines with fewer than 49 occupants need at least one exit, while those with more than 49 require two or more exits. Additionally, mezzanines must be equipped with secure and robust stairways.
Catwalks, stairways, and ladders for equipment platforms provide entrance and are not considered part of the structure of the building. An equipment platform is not to be used as a part of a mezzanine system.
Equipment platforms and mezzanines are often added to buildings to utilize otherwise unused space. Despite their purpose, they must comply with local building codes. When a mezzanine is introduced, a structural engineer assesses its impact on the building's integrity. As a mezzanine becomes an integral part of the structure, building plans must be updated to reflect this addition.
While work platforms must adhere to specific building codes, their restrictions are generally less stringent compared to mezzanines. Often, a work platform can be installed and used immediately, unlike the more detailed specifications required for mezzanines.
Since work equipment platforms are not considered part of a building structure, they do not incur construction costs. Mobile work platforms can be assembled and utilized within a day, unlike mezzanines, which involve implementation costs and may require additional features such as bathrooms and handicap accessibility.
Work equipment platforms are classified as equipment for tax purposes and depreciate over 7 years. In contrast, a mezzanine is considered additional construction and depreciates over 31 years. Writing off these assets allows companies to receive tax deductions, which helps reduce their overall tax liability.
The depreciation factor arises from how an inspector classifies a mezzanine. Typically, a mezzanine is considered a permanent part of the building rather than a removable structure. As mezzanines are treated as part of the construction rather than equipment, they are subject to a 31-year depreciation period.
Equipment platforms are designed to support heavy machinery, made from durable materials to handle both equipment and personnel. Key features include elevated walkways, stairs, ladders, rugged panel surfaces, and easy access. Given the demanding nature of their use, these platforms must be structurally robust to match the equipment they support.
Work platform stairs are built from steel to support heavy loads and ensure durability over time. Available in configurations ranging from two to ten steps or more, these stairs are engineered to handle frequent use and the impact of workers moving up and down. While the design of the stairs is crucial, they are intended to function seamlessly with guardrails and railings, which are mounted on either side for added safety.
Various forms of grating for stairs ensures a rough surface as workers climb up and down the stairs. Such designs increase the grip of shoes to prevent workers from slipping or falling and are normally part of the certification of a work equipment platform.
TThe work surface of work platforms plays a crucial role in ensuring worker safety. It features a rough, perforated texture with a specially designed tread pattern that offers excellent traction and stability. This flooring helps prevent slips and falls, allowing workers to move safely even if the surface becomes slippery.
Manufacturers install durable, slip-resistant flooring that ensures a secure grip, allowing workers to focus on productivity rather than safety. Platform surfaces can feature a common diamond pattern, a serrated open texture, or an open grid design, tailored to meet the specific needs of the process or application.
The specifications for guardrails on work platforms are outlined in OSHA 1926.451(g)(4). The regulations mandate the installation of toprails, midrails, and toe boards to ensure worker safety, with each component of the guardrail system required to support a minimum load of 200 lbs (90.7 kg).
Guardrails are constructed from metal and secured to the platform floor. The metal type varies based on the platform's intended use; some guardrails are made of aluminum, while others are constructed from hardened steel. Regardless of the material, the primary purpose of guardrails is to offer slip and fall protection for workers.
Steel handrails and guardrails are constructed from heavy-gauge steel pipe and tubing. Given their use on work platforms, these guardrails are custom-designed to meet specific application needs. The piping can be either round or square, with both options providing the required strength and durability.
Several versions of work platforms are mobile and necessitate the use of highly durable casters or wheels capable of carrying the load of the work platform. The wheels for mobile work platforms take several forms including rubber tires for boom lift and scissor lift work platforms and casters for the movement of large work platforms in manufacturing operations. As a part of the design criteria, manufacturers include wheels that perfectly match the type of work a work platform will perform.
A specialized type of caster allows a work platform to roll easily into position. Once weight is applied to the platform, the supports are pushed down to prevent the wheels from engaging. Other variants feature locking wheels or adjustable feet, which can support the platform and adjust its height as needed.
Safety swing gates are engineered to enhance compliance with OSHA regulations, offering an additional layer of protection for workers. Suitable for installation on various work platforms, especially large ones, these gates can swing in multiple directions and feature adjustable bolts and screws to ensure a precise fit for any opening. While chains are sometimes used to restrict access to critical areas, safety swing gates provide a superior level of safety and security for the workforce.
The features of work platforms outlined above represent just a selection of the components used in their design. The way these components are engineered and integrated into a work platform can differ based on the manufacturer and the specific requirements of the platform.
The primary concern of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regarding work platforms is the risk of workers falling. To address this, OSHA established Standard 1910 Subpart D: Walking Working Surfaces, which provides guidelines for compliance with work platform safety. The 2017 revision introduced updated measures for employers to protect employees from fall hazards on unprotected sides that are four feet or higher above a lower level. These revisions include requirements for the maintenance, inspection, and use of fall protection systems.
Any work platform elevated four feet or more above a lower level must be equipped with guardrails capable of withstanding a force of 200 lbs., covering all sides of the platform. Additionally, toe boards are necessary to prevent tools from falling off the edge. It’s crucial to note that guardrails and handrails serve different purposes and have distinct height requirements.
OSHA 1910.23 addresses the use of mobile ladders and platforms for equipment repair or item retrieval from shelves. These must not exceed four times their shortest base dimension without additional support. For heights beyond this specification, outriggers, counterweights, or other stabilizing methods are required to prevent overturning of stands, ladders, or mobile platforms.
OSHA 1910.25 standards specify the requirements for the width and height of steps on mobile ladders and work platforms, including guidelines for their spacing and arrangement.
Work platform manufacturers meticulously ensure their platforms meet OSHA requirements, maintaining safe and reliable step depth and height, regardless of the platform or ladder's height. This commitment guarantees a consistent level of safety and dependability across all work environments.
When guardrail systems are used around holes and as access points, they must include a self-closing gate with a top rail, midrail, and be properly offset to prevent workers from falling or walking into the hole. Additionally, safety gates must be robust enough to prevent accidental openings.
This OSHA regulation is fundamental to work platform manufacturing, focusing on maximum load capacity, which depends on factors such as the number of people, types of equipment, and the platform's intended use. OSHA mandates that a work platform must support four times its maximum intended load, a standard that manufacturers strictly follow.
When selecting a work equipment platform, several criteria must be carefully considered. Smaller mobile platforms are generally easier to choose because their parameters are straightforward. However, selecting a larger work equipment platform involves more factors, as it is crucial to consider worker safety and the specific requirements of the job.
The primary purpose of work platforms is to ensure convenient access to equipment and its components. For large equipment, this involves assessing the areas that need to be reached, determining the platform's height relative to the components, and ensuring safe access. Additionally, the placement of stairs, guardrails, and access points must be carefully planned.
In all facilities, the ceiling height and vertical clearance must comply with OSHA regulations, with a minimum of 7 feet required both above and below. Adequate space above the platform is essential to ensure optimal performance and safety for workers.
The materials used to construct a platform depend on the intended use. For industrial applications where equipment and workers are elevated, hardened steel is essential to support heavy loads. In contrast, lightweight mobile platforms designed for small tools and equipment can be made from aluminum, which suffices without the need for steel.
Regardless of the metal used in construction, work platforms should always be coated with paint to safeguard them against workplace conditions. Manufacturers offer a range of coatings suitable for different environments.
This aspect of work equipment platforms is repeatedly highlighted due to its significant impact on worker productivity and efficiency. Key features such as guardrails, locking mechanisms, handrails, textured surfaces, and access gates should be incorporated into the platform's design. Ensuring worker safety is a top priority during the selection process and is a major focus for manufacturers.
The guidelines for the manufacture, assembly, and construction of work equipment platforms are governed by OSHA regulations. These regulations detail every aspect of a work platform, including height, capacity, mobility, surface, guardrails, and other factors. Manufacturers adhere closely to these stipulations, which are also verified by inspectors.
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