Define the Climb

Aerial-work platforms (AWPs) perform a simple task: They enable workers to reach their job safely when it's not at ground level. Beyond that, though, knowing which AWP to use requires answers to a wide range of questions about the application and terrain. More so than with most other construction equipment, AWP acquisition depends entirely on the specific task at hand.

The first differentiator is application. How high does it need to lift and how far does it need to reach, if at all? The answer to this question immediately guides the user to one of three types of work platforms: scissor; telescopic, also known as boom lifts; or articulated, also known as knuckleboom lifts.

Scissor lifts work well in straight up-and-down applications with heavy loads. Scissors generally have platforms large enough for a number of workers, plus tools and materials. They have large lift capacities, too, and are used extensively indoors so they're usually battery-powered.

For greater height or for horizontal reach, a telescopic-boom work platform works best. Telescopic work platforms can be extended and retracted quickly.

Don Ahern, president of Ahern Rentals, Las Vegas, boils selection down to horizontal reach. "If you're looking for something without [horizontal reach], then scissor lifts are generally more economical. If you need a lot of horizontal reach, you need the straight [telescopic] boom."

Many telescopic lifts have an articulated jib that allows them to reach into obstructed or confined areas. The forward reach is limited, but it does allow the worker to access restricted areas and to move up and over obstacles.

More and more, the AWP of choice around construction sites is the rough-terrain version of the boom lifts. These units typically feature four-wheel drive and oscillating axles. Rough-terrain AWPs still need to operate from level ground, and many have sensors that will alert the operator when the AWP is out of level beyond a certain safety range.

Larry Workman, owner of Illini High Reach, a Lemont, Ill.-based rental dealer, says he tends to buy diesel-powered, four-wheel-drive boom lifts because they handle most jobs well. "Diesel is better than gasoline on the jobsite," he says. "It provides more horsepower and better fuel economy. You could use two-wheel drive on hard-packed surfaces with little rain, but here [in the Midwest] you could rent it six months, not nine. Four-wheel drive also allows us to turn the machine over in resale."

Workman recommends straight telescopic booms for most outdoor construction work because there is little need to move around obstructions. "The telescopic [lift] doesn't wobble and it doesn't have the extra stick" needed to control an articulated jib. "[The user] wants to go up and down fast, so he doesn't feel like he's falling asleep."

Ahern says platform controls have been improved of late. He looks for controls that are ergonomic and allow for simple operation out of the basket. Additionally, says Jesse Spencer, site superintendent for contractor A. Zahner Corp., today's AWPs provide more generator power for the platform, allowing users to operate tools while in the air.

"They've added larger generators on some of the machines," he says. "That's huge when you don't have to run power up to the lift, especially at higher heights."

Most manufacturers now offer foam-filled tires so rough-terrain usage doesn't result in flats. From a safety standpoint, this provides additional security that the platform will remain stable, says Workman. "It gives the guy in the basket peace of mind," he says. It also reduces downtime.

Workman's parting advice on acquisition mimics the old standard on real estate: location, location, location. "It's residual, residual, residual," he says. "You buy the machine with the best residual value in five years. You'll probably have the best service and support to go along with it."

Rough-terrain capabilities provide maneuverability around exterior construction even when the lift heights themselves are relatively low. $67,720 - $265,390: Base price range for diesel-powered telescopic work platform $44 - $127: Estimated owne Rod Sutton, Editor in Chief Rough-terrain capabilities provide maneuverability around exterior construction even when the lift heights themselves are relatively low. $67,720 - $265,390: Base price range for diesel-powered telescopic work platform$44 - $127: Estimated ownership and repair cost, (diesel=$1.49/gal.; mechanic labor=$35.46/hour) Source: "Contractor's Equipment Cost Guide," published by EquipmentWatch; 800/669-3282
Key Questions How high do you need to go? How far do you need to reach? Are you working indoors or out? Are you working on rough ground or flat? How much are you carrying on the platform? Do you need to drive while elevated?
How to Acquire an AWP Jesse Spencer, site superintendent for A. Zahner Corp. in Chicago, turns to his rental dealer to help him make final decisions on which aerial-work platforms to bring on-site. But that's after he's determined the job needs. "Before bidding the job, we look at all the work elevations," Spencer says. "Then we'll look at the individual logistics such as horizontal reach and accessibility of the site." He says he'll spec work platforms up to 150-foot working heights, above which he turns to truck cranes. Spencer relies on past history in choosing the machine for the job. "You get comfortable with certain machines, their ranges and capabilities," he says. His rental dealer will provide input on other models, too, and bring one out to try. Although Spencer will occasionally purchase a work platform if the need extends beyond a year, he makes sure to add liability insurance into that potential cost. "It's not just the purchase cost," he says. "Rental companies usually carry liability insurance [for their equipment]. You have to add it up." In addition to the insurance coverage, rental dealers offer Spencer service and training. "[Work platforms] have a lot of hiccups from wear and tear, stresses, and being out in the elements. If I have to wait two days, that's a problem. Having the machine worked on and maintained by the dealer is extremely important," he says.
Tables:
Basic Specifications: Aerial-Work Platforms
Buying File Gallery:
Upright Snorkel International Bil-Jax Genie Industries JLG/Gradall Manitowoc Manlift Lift-A-Loft
Basic Specifications: Aerial-Work Platforms

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