Manlift Selection and Operation in Industrial and Construction Settings

[MikePhua]

The Role of Manlifts in Elevated Work
Manlifts, also known as aerial work platforms (AWPs), are essential tools for accessing elevated areas safely and efficiently. Whether used in construction, maintenance, warehousing, or industrial inspection, these machines provide a stable platform for workers to perform tasks at height. Their versatility ranges from compact electric scissor lifts for indoor use to diesel-powered boom lifts capable of reaching over 100 feet in outdoor environments.
The term “manlift” encompasses several categories, including vertical mast lifts, articulating boom lifts, telescopic boom lifts, and scissor lifts. Each type is engineered for specific terrain, reach, and maneuverability requirements.
Terminology Notes

• AWP (Aerial Work Platform): A mechanical device used to provide temporary access for people or equipment to inaccessible areas, usually at height.
  
• Articulating Boom Lift: A lift with multiple hinged sections allowing it to bend and reach over obstacles.
  
• Telescopic Boom Lift: A lift with straight, extendable arms for maximum horizontal reach.
  
• Scissor Lift: A platform that moves vertically using a crisscrossing metal support structure.
  

Choosing the Right Manlift for the Job
Selecting the appropriate manlift depends on several factors:

• Maximum working height required
  
• Horizontal outreach needs
  
• Indoor vs. outdoor environment
  
• Surface conditions (smooth concrete vs. rough terrain)
  
• Load capacity and number of workers
  

For example:

• Indoor electrical work in a warehouse may call for a 19-foot electric scissor lift with non-marking tires
  
• Exterior building maintenance might require a 60-foot articulating boom lift with four-wheel drive
  
• Bridge inspections often use telescopic boom lifts with high outreach and narrow chassis for tight access
  

A contractor in Colorado used a 45-foot articulating boom lift to reach under a steel canopy for welding repairs. The lift’s ability to maneuver around structural beams saved hours of scaffold setup.
Operational Safety and Best Practices
Manlift operation requires strict adherence to safety protocols:

• Operators must be trained and certified under ANSI A92 or equivalent standards
  
• Fall protection harnesses are mandatory on boom lifts
  
• Pre-operation inspections must include hydraulic lines, tires, controls, and emergency descent systems
  
• Wind speed limits must be observed, especially for lifts over 40 feet
  
• Ground conditions must be stable and free of voids or slopes
  

A technician in Ontario avoided a serious incident by detecting a soft spot under a scissor lift during his morning inspection. The lift was relocated, and the job proceeded without delay.
Maintenance and Reliability Considerations
Routine maintenance ensures safe and efficient operation:

• Hydraulic fluid levels and filter changes every 250 hours
  
• Battery inspection and charging for electric models
  
• Tire pressure and tread checks for rough terrain units
  
• Lubrication of pivot points and extension arms
  
• Calibration of tilt sensors and emergency stop systems
  

Fleet managers often use telematics to monitor lift usage, fault codes, and service intervals. A rental company in Texas reduced downtime by 30% after implementing GPS-based diagnostics across its manlift fleet.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Operators may encounter:

• Platform drift or tilt alarms due to sensor misalignment
  
• Hydraulic leaks from worn seals or hoses
  
• Battery failure in cold weather
  
• Control lag or joystick malfunction
  
• Error codes related to overload or uneven terrain
  

Solutions include:

• Resetting control modules after sensor recalibration
  
• Replacing hydraulic fittings with high-pressure rated components
  
• Using battery warmers or switching to AGM batteries in winter
  
• Cleaning and lubricating joystick assemblies
  
• Reviewing load charts and platform leveling procedures
  

A crew in Maine discovered that their lift’s tilt alarm was triggered by a miscalibrated sensor after a tire change. A quick recalibration restored normal function.
Recommendations for Owners and Site Supervisors

• Match lift type to jobsite conditions and task requirements
  
• Maintain a log of inspections, repairs, and operator certifications
  
• Use outriggers or stabilizers when required by manufacturer specs
  
• Avoid overreaching or leaning outside the platform
  
• Keep spare batteries, hydraulic fluid, and safety gear on hand
  

Conclusion
Manlifts are indispensable tools for modern elevated work, offering safety, efficiency, and adaptability across industries. With proper selection, training, and maintenance, these machines can dramatically improve productivity while minimizing risk. Whether reaching a warehouse ceiling or navigating a steel structure, the right manlift turns vertical challenges into manageable tasks—lifting not just workers, but the standards of jobsite performance.