Saturday 6 December 2014

Aerial Work Platform – A Boon to Construction Workers

An aerial work platform(AWP) can be defined as a device which is used to help people reach heights in a skyscraper or any other place, which is not possible by other means, to perform a specific operation, such as cleaning, repairing etc. People also call these instruments by other names like aerial device, elevating work platform, or mobile elevating work platform (MEWP).

Aerial Work Platform

What to Know about Aerial Work Platform:

History

Before its invention, people had to resort to other ways to reach heights, such as climbing rods or using ladders etc., which were not only time consuming but also extremely dangerous. Finally, an American, John L. Grove, invented this machine in the late 20th century and made the work of construction workers so much easier.

Types

Aerial work platform can be of different types- they differ by their mode of operation, maximum load capacity etc. These can be classified into the following types-
  • Scissor Lifts – These machines work by elongating in a criss cross or “X” pattern, hence the name Scissor. The force applied can be either through hydraulic, pneumatic or mechanical system. They move the system only vertically.
  • Telescopic Booms - These provide more horizontal motion than any other platform, thus they are ideal for limited and cramped spaces.
  • Compact One Man Drivable – These machines are smaller in size, and can accommodate one person only. These are best in places where there is less work and limited room.
  • Trailers – These are moving vehicles upon which the main device can be mounted on to make it portable.

Safety

Since these systems are responsible for moving people or other objects, they need to follow a few set rules and regulations for safety reasons. In this age, most of the work has been automated with the help of computers. Moreover, the computer immediately stops the operation whenever it can sense any problem. Thus, these machines have evolved a long way hence accidents have become extremely few in number.

These machines have helped us tremendously in construction and repairing purposes, and will continue to be of immense use to us in future by working wonders.

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