A Closer Look at MEWPs

What is a MEWP?

A MEWP (Mobile Elevating Work Platform) is a type of aerial work platform designed to safely lift workers to elevated areas. These platforms provide a secure and efficient solution for working at height, making them invaluable in industries such as construction, maintenance, and logistics.

Unlike traditional scaffolding, MEWPs offer quick deployment and enhanced manoeuvrability, reducing setup time and increasing on-site productivity. Whether used for window cleaning, electrical repairs, or high-rise inspections, MEWPs provide a flexible and safer alternative for elevated work.

Types of MEWPs

MEWPs come in different forms, each designed for specific tasks and environments. The two most common types are boom lifts and scissor lifts, but vertical lifts and cherry pickers also play key roles in certain applications.

Boom Lifts

Boom lifts are ideal for accessing hard-to-reach areas. These machines have extendable arms that allow them to navigate around obstacles.

• Articulating boom lifts, also known as knuckle booms, have jointed arms, making them ideal for precise positioning around structures or confined spaces.
• Telescopic boom lifts, or stick booms, offer exceptional horizontal reach, making them well-suited for outdoor construction and maintenance work.
• Cherry pickers, a common type of boom lift, are widely used in tree trimming, signage installation, and utility work, providing operators with safe and stable elevated access.

Scissor Lifts

For vertical access in confined spaces, scissor lifts are the best option. Their crisscross lifting mechanism provides a stable platform for tasks that require direct upward movement, making them ideal for warehouses, factories, and retail environments.

Many scissor lifts come equipped with safety features such as guardrails and emergency stop buttons, ensuring worker security. Additionally, electric scissor lifts are a quieter and eco-friendly option for indoor use, contributing to lower emissions and reduced noise levels in workspaces.

Vertical Mast Lifts & Personnel Lifts

Vertical lifts are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for tight indoor spaces where larger machines cannot fit. Personnel lifts, on the other hand, are used for single-worker access, often employed in light maintenance tasks and warehouse stocking.

Their small footprint and ease of maneuverability allow for quick, efficient use in work environments that require elevated access without the need for bulkier equipment.

When to Use a MEWP

Choosing the right MEWP depends on factors like terrain, height requirements, and job complexity. Boom lifts are better suited for outdoor tasks, while scissor lifts and vertical lifts excel in indoor work. Rough-terrain MEWPs provide stability on uneven ground, making them essential for construction sites.

MEWPs also prove invaluable in heritage site maintenance, where precision access is required without damaging historic structures. Their adaptability and ease of operation make them a preferred choice for delicate restoration projects.

When selecting the most suitable MEWP, operators must consider:

• Task requirements
• Platform height
• Manoeuvrability needs

These factors ensure efficiency and safety in elevated work.

Safety First: Rules and Regulations

Operating a MEWP requires proper training and adherence to safety regulations to ensure a secure work environment. All MEWP operators must complete certified training courses that cover hazard awareness, emergency procedures, and machine controls.

Daily safety inspections play a crucial role in ensuring that hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical components are functioning correctly before operation.

In the UK, MEWPs must comply with:

• PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations)
• LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations)

These regulations ensure that all lifting equipment is properly maintained and fit for use, significantly reducing workplace hazards. Before raising the platform, operators should also assess the ground conditions, weather factors, and any nearby obstacles to prevent potential risks.

MEWP Advantages

Using MEWPs instead of traditional scaffolding offers numerous benefits in terms of efficiency, cost savings, and environmental impact.

• Reduced setup time – MEWPs can be quickly positioned and operated, allowing workers to begin tasks much faster than with scaffolding.
• Mobility – MEWPs ensure increased productivity across multiple work zones without requiring time-consuming dismantling and reassembly.
• Lower project costs – MEWPs reduce labour expenses and streamline on-site workflows.
• Environmental benefits – Electric-powered MEWPs offer zero emissions, making them a smart choice for indoor environments where air quality and noise reduction are essential considerations.

Wrapping Up: MEWPs in Focus

MEWPs are an essential tool for modern construction and maintenance, providing safe, efficient, and cost-effective access to high areas. Their versatility and adaptability make them a superior alternative to traditional scaffolding in many scenarios.

Crown Services specialises in MEWP solutions, ensuring safe and efficient high-level building maintenance. Our trained operators and industry expertise allow us to tailor access solutions to the specific needs of each project.

Before starting your next project, consider the advantages of MEWPs. Contact us today for expert guidance on elevated work access solutions that meet the highest safety standards.