AssetTrader Buying Guide to Platforms

Functionality and Use

When choosing your platform, it is essential that you ask yourself the maximum height which you will require it to reach, as well as the weight it is required to carry. This will ensure that you purchase a platform which reaches the height which you require, as well as catering for your maximum weight capacity.

Some buyers may find capacities slightly problematic in that the larger the capacity required, the larger the vehicle will be. This may cause logistical problems, particularly if your platform will be mainly necessary for indoor tasks.

There are numerous safety specifications surrounding the use of platforms. The operating manual and safety decals provide essential information surrounding the operating procedures and maintenance of machinery.

Physical features of the platform which are integral for safe use include the standard guardrails and restraints. These are in place so as to prevent the operator from falling, and, particularly when looking to buy a used lift, this should be held in mind at all times.

There are other safety features in place, which include a high speed cut-out. This is employed when the operator lifts the platform to a certain height, causing the platform to consequently slow down to assist in maintaining safety.

Level warnings are in place so as to assist the platform on uneven ground, and when the lift is placed upon a service which is potholed, the level warning will sound an alarm and disable. Similarly, pothole protection is a safety feature on the platform which offers stabilisation when the platform is off of the ground. Extendable arms prevent the platform from tipping an operator out. In case a platform stops working when it has an operator extended in the air, platforms are fitted with manual descent valves, which allow a worker on the ground to lower the platform manually.