5 Reasons Why MEWPs are Chosen Over Scaffolding

Scaffolding has been used throughout history, playing a key role in the construction industry as the traditional method of working at height. However, since the invention of Mobile Elevated Working Platform (MEWPs), scaffolding has been replaced by a much safer, and more efficient way of getting the job done.

To this day, when it comes to working at height, scaffolding may still be commonly used in many industries such as painting, window cleaning, etc. But the fact remains: MEWPs make it safer and more efficient to work at various heights. If you are still not convinced, here are a few reasons why you should choose MEWPs over scaffolding at your jobsite!

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5 Reasons Why MEWPs are Chosen Over Scaffolding 

1. MEWPs are a much safer option than scaffolding

Compared to scaffolding, the deployment of MEWPs for working at height requires minimum time while the assembly of scaffolding requires a longer timeframe which involved more manpower. That indirectly increases the manhour exposure and increases the risk of work. 

MEWPs are technologically more advanced and manufactured with safety devices in placed to offer users a peace of mind. Some of the ways that MEWPs improve safety for your access solution are: 

• No manual handling of scaffold poles and boards.
• No climbing of long scaffold ladders which can be tiring, and especially difficult if you need to carry tools and equipment.
• The MEWP basket has fixed guardrails, with clip on harness points.
• MEWPs have inbuilt safety systems. For example: self-levelling, load cells, height restrictors and emergency lowering systems.
• MEWPs can be safely stowed and locked off when not in use, handy for long term projects.
• Some access platforms come with added safety features such as earthing points or insulated MEWP cages.
• Scaffolding and ladders can be riskier to work on. Unlike most MEWPs, they are not equipped with outriggers which offers extra stability. Scaffolding often requires many more safety measures to be in placed to ensure a hazard-free working environment.

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2. Excellent Cost-saving Option

Cost saving is one of the main reasons many users have stopped deploying scaffolding and began using MEWPs.  A scaffolding may be viable for certain long-term projects. But for majority of projects, the cost of hiring a MEWP is much cheaper than paying for scaffolding rental and installation fees.

Besides that, due to the efficiency that a MEWP offers, you could also potentially save up even more costs by speeding up the completion of your project.

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3. Time Efficiency

When using a MEWP as your access method, there is no need to carry scaffold boards and poles anymore. You can simply drive the MEWP to where you need it with minimal or no setups. Other ways MEWPs can speed up your project are:

• One MEWP operator to transport and operate a MEWP vs A team of scaffolders to set up scaffoldings.
• Spend more time getting the job done and less time climbing ladders.
• MEWPs are quick to move to a new location and the MEWP basket can be easily repositioned.
• Ease of safely moving the MEWP basket with passengers onboard when frequent adjustment of work position is needed (e.g., High level painting).
• You can hire a MEWP operator so you can concentrate on completing your project, leaving the access solution to a skilled operator.
• Some MEWPs come equipped with power and compressed air supply in the basket. This can be incredibly convenient for using hand tools.

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4. Reach Greater Heights with Flexibility

Using MEWPs, you can work safely up to 50m in the air. There is a MEWP designed for working safely on every project and all site conditions. Just imagine the hassle and safety concerns of building a 50m height scaffolding!

MEWPs can be used almost anywhere scaffoldings can. New features like all-terrain wheels, self-leveling, and scissors on tracks allow them to operate in places they previously could not go. In fact, they can often go to places that scaffoldings could not.

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5. MEWPs Can Lift Loads 

MEWPs do not just lift people to greater heights, they can safely lift materials, equipment, and components too.  They are often utilized to do both jobs at once, providing a safe method of working at height for technicians as well as lifting the equipment or materials needed for the project. 

Depending on the model and specifications, a heavy-duty scissor lift can carry loads up to 500kg. That will allow you to carry heavy materials and tools instead of needing to hire a crane to hoist it.

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Conclusion

It’s worth to mention that there are certain scenarios where scaffoldings need to be used over MEWPs. These scenarios include working on uneven grounds (e.g., staircases) or extremely fragile flooring. Hence, scaffoldings can still act as a complementary equipment alongside MEWPs. But the rule of thumb is: If your site can accommodate the use of MEWPs, it should always be given priority over scaffoldings.

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Falling from height remains one of the most common fatal accidents at the jobsite.  The different types of MEWP can be bewildering, so it is worth speaking to a specialist when planning your project. Remember, you can always speak to our equipment specialist via https://wa.me/6588313875 for a FREE consultation before reserving your equipment on Antbuildz.com!

Looking to rent MEWP equipment? Visit Antbuildz.com today to check for the best daily/weekly/monthly rental rates of all equipment types instantly. You can now Search, Compare, and Rent in just a few clicks! 

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