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An aerial work platform (AWP), also known as an aerial device, elevating work platform (EWP), bucket truck or mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) is a mechanical device used to provide temporary access for people or equipment to inaccessible areas, usually at height. Introduction of aerial work platforms has made it easy for workers to perform well without any risk of falling, leading to timely completion of the work with higher productivity. 

AWPs are being used across the segments of industry and businesses, such as infrastructure, construction, power, oil and gas, facility management, maintenance, buildings, hospitals, malls, hotels, etc. wherever people need to work safely at heights.

The conventional method of accessing heights by ladders, manual scaffolding, etc is not only unsafe but also greatly affects productivity. The use of AWPs makes the work both safe as well as productive and the project timelines can easily be met. In AWP, there is nothing called set-up time as it is ready to work so long as the batteries are charged in an electric machine, while diesel is available in a diesel-operated machine. In conventional methods, there is of course a major set-up and dismantling time involved. Besides, the AWPs being self-propelled can be moved to different locations in a worksite in the shortest possible time

AWPs, by their nature, are designed for temporary works and therefore frequently require transportation between sites, or simply around a single site (often as part of the same job). For this reason, they are almost all designed for easy movement and the ability to ride up and down truck ramps. 

Regardless of the task they are used for, aerial work platforms may provide additional features beyond transport and access, including being equipped with electrical outlets or compressed air connectors for power tools. They may also be equipped with specialist equipment, such as carrying frames for window glass. Underbridge units are also available to lift operators down to a work area. 

Work platforms are fitted with safety or guard rails around the platform itself to contain operators and passengers. This is supplemented in most models by a restraining point, designed to secure a harness or fall arrester. Some work platforms also have a lip around the floor of the platform itself to avoid tools or supplies being accidentally kicked off the platform.

AWPs have a clear advantage over other types of access devices or equipment. For one, they are built to provide a safe working platform for the persons /labor while working at height.  Reaching the height quickly is possible with these machines without much effort or strain for the workers. This increases productivity and project deadlines become realistically possible to achieve. The ease and convenience of use of these machines make it possible for the workers to maneuver deftly because all the controls are provided in the platform itself, they can drive over any kind of terrain, raise / lower and position themselves at the required location. These machines are equipped with turntable rotation and platform rotation as well, making them easy to operate and thanks to the sensors and interlocks provided they are foolproof as well. A built-in counterweight in these machines makes it possible for the user to horizontally boom out without the need for any stabilizers. Also, the machine can be driven even in an extended condition.

There are several distinct types of aerial work platforms, which all have specific features that make them more or less desirable for different applications.

Articulating Boom Lifts 

Articulating boom lifts are also known as knuckle lifts for the distinctive shape of the arm. The base of this arm is mounted to a turntable so it can make a full circular rotation. The arm itself features multiple joints that allow it to bend. The flexible design bends around and over obstacles, lifting the worker so they can reach areas that might otherwise be impossible to get to. Common uses for articulating boom lifts include electrical and piping repairs or exterior cleaning and maintenance projects. 

Telescopic Boom Lifts 

Telescopic boom lifts feature an extendable arm that can reach varying heights. Unlike an articulated boom lift, the telescoping boom has a straight arm that is attached to a freely rotating turntable. The bucket on this type of lift is typically small, holding one person at a time. Telescopic boom lifts are best suited for highly specialized work like electrical repairs or tree trimming in which a single worker can handle the job. Telescopic boom lifts have a longer reach than other options. They are available with an electric operation and solid tires for interior use or diesel engine operated and inflated tires for rough exterior use.

Scissor Lifts 

Instead of having an arm, scissor lifts feature a wide platform supported by cross-brace supports. This is the main difference between a scissor lift and a boom lift. It moves straight up and down, and thus it must be placed directly beneath the area you’re working on. This makes it more limited in its uses. However, the large platform is an important feature as it allows a whole team to reach the project at once. Typical uses for these lifts include exterior building repairs, cladding installation, window installation, and window cleaning. Rough terrain scissor lifts are also available for outdoor work on uneven terrain. 

Aerial Lift 

An aerial lift resembles a cherry picker, and it makes it safe and simple for workers to reach higher ground. It is a vehicle-mounted, boom-supported aerial platform and may be used to access utility lines and another above-ground job sites like maintenance work, remodeling, and installation of warehouse racks, systems, and lights. 

Aerial lift can be a blanket term used to describe boom lifts and scissor lifts. However, it is important to note that aerial lifts were originally designed to drive to outdoor job sites to access electrical lines, trees, and other outdoor objects. 

Spider Lifts 

A family of specially designed articulated boom lifts called spider lifts are available for use in architecture-related access for maintenance purposes. They are classified as spider lifts due to the appearance of their legs as they unfold, extend, and stabilize, providing a wide supportive base to operate safely. These legs can be folded manually or hydraulically. 

These are ideal for maintenance activities in airports, IT parks, hotels, and malls/shopping complexes. The difference between the spider lifts and the conventional AWPs is the low ground bearing pressure capability. This is important to protect the floor from getting damaged. Most floors are made of marble or vitrified tiles, and these are not capable of withstanding the conventional heavy AWPs.  The spider lifts are built keeping in view these factors. The large footprint of the outriggers provides the necessary stability even in extended boom positions.