1. You could fall four feet or more
Unless you are in the construction industry, OSHA requires that any time a person could fall four feet or more, railings are required. Do your maintenance or manufacturing processes require upper-level access above four feet? Are permanent rails not a good option? A mobile work platform may be the answer.
2. Your technicians spend more time maneuvering and working around their upper-level access equipment than actually using it
Many people find that when they use standard ladders, step stools, and platforms for upper level access, they spend too much time working against the limitations of the equipment. It may not provide the overreach required, or its structure prevents proper interface. Either way, it gets in the way of performing work efficiently.
Industrial work platforms designed specifically for your application provide access where you need it and how you need it. You don’t have to worry about the platform blocking access or damaging your equipment. You can purchase a commercial work platform designed specifically for your equipment, or have a custom stand developed to meet your unique needs.
3. Your injury rate is higher than industry average
The Bureau of Labor Statistics has a great calculator for determining your injury incidence rate and comparing it in industry averages. If you already know your rate, you can compare it to your industry on the BLS site.
If your rate is higher than average, a work platform may help reduce or eliminate some of those injuries, which can lead to absenteeism, increased workers compensation rates, decreased employee morale, and fines. Work platforms compliant with OSHA or other safety regulations can help prevent injuries, particularly falls from height.
4. You work with high value or fragile equipment
If you build or work on high value equipment, work platforms are pretty much a requirement. The cost of one platform is usually less than the cost of fixing damage caused by using improper upper level access equipment. We recently had a customer purchase a maintenance platform to access one specific location on their aircraft, because the cost of damaging that area just once was exactly equal to the cost of a platform that would prevent it.
5. Your current equipment doesn’t meet OSHA - or other safety program - standards
When it comes to work platforms, the OSHA regulations are more in-depth than you might think. Handrails, toeboards, materials, load ratings, and structural design all have to conform to specific rules. If you are using makeshift equipment for access, or you built your own platform, you may not be in compliance. You can find out if you are in compliance by using our OSHA Compliance Checklist.
6. You need access on multiple levels
What would you rather have: a five foot high ladder and an eight foot high ladder, or one platform that spans the length of your equipment and adjusts in height to accommodate all your access requirements? Adjustable work platforms can provide access at the height range you require without any additional equipment.
7. You get a lot of exercise going up and down to get tools and parts
Work platforms are large enough to hold your parts, tools, manuals, and virtually everything else you need to do your job. You save time and prevent injuries when your equipment is located on the same level you are. Stop burning calories running up and down that ladder. Look into getting a work platform.
