AWP vs MEWP vs EWP – What Does it All Mean?
You may have heard of various names for access equipment, be it elevated work platforms, mobile elevating work platforms, ariel work platforms or even a hydraulic-powered lift. Confusing right? Why can’t they just have one simple name? Well, the answer for that is the whole world doesn’t operate as one and as our countries become more and more diverse the languages of the industry merge.
So here it is explained:
An aerial work platform (AWP), also known as an aerial device, elevating work platform (EWP), 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.
There are two distinct types of access platforms, usually called scissor lifts and boom lifts (or sometimes cherry pickers). Both require proper EWP safety training before operating on site. The difference between the two being that a scissor lift can usually only move vertically, whereas a boom lift has an outreach, to work above areas not accessible from directly below.
And if that doesn’t seem complicated enough, there are also various options of either electric powered, diesel powered or push along units…and that doesn’t even start on the scaffolding side of things! (check that out here)
Still confused? Give us a call and one of our staff will walk you through what would be best for your job.
PHONE: 1300 580 580
