Mobile elevating work platform MEWP

[edit] Two types in brief

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP) are a types of 'plant', or equipment that facilitate working at height. They consist of a working platform on an extending structure and chassis, with controls for operation.

There are two basic types of MEWPs – 'booms', such as cherry pickers, which have both static and mobile forms; and 'verticals', such as scissor lifts, that can also be static or mobile.

[edit] Safety standard

The revised British Standard BS 8460:2025 Safe use of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) - Code of practice published in November 2025 replaces BS 8460:2017 and has been fully updated to reflect BS EN 280-1:2022 and BS EN 280-2:2022. The document has been completely restructured, introducing a new process-based structure to help users plan, manage, and operate MEWPs more effectively. Key developments in the updated document include:

• A new end-to-end process map for MEWP safe use and a full reorganisation of the document around that workflow.
• Updated and expanded guidance on risk assessment, wind considerations, use of MEWPs with fall-arrest equipment, and the addition of load-handling devices or accessories.
• More detailed advice on choosing MEWPs equipped for integrated load handling, and new requirements for how such appliances should be operated and what training is needed.
• Additional content covering machines with zone or motion-control features and clearer expectations for the competence of platform occupants and supervisors.
• An added planning stage, plus enhanced recommendations to prevent trapping/crushing, ensure effective secondary guarding, and manage pedestrians while the MEWP is travelling.
• Procedures for reinstating MEWPs that have been unused for a period.
• Introduction of several new definitions relating to lifting equipment, rescue roles, pedestrian management, and temporary works.
• Clarification on specific scenarios such as confined spaces, work near or over water, and keeping MEWPs separated from pedestrians and other workers.
• Two new annexes: one setting limits for hoist lift heights, and another explaining wind-speed considerations at height.

[edit] Variations in design

Some of the variations of MEWPs include:

[edit] Push around vertical (PAV)

This is a small type of mobile vertical lift with scissor operation. It is compact and lightweight which means it is often used for low-level access in warehouses, factories, and so on. It can be easily moved from place to place, including between floors.

[edit] Mast lift

A mast lift is a small type of cherry picker with a boom lift operation. It is compact, and so can be used in restricted spaces and busy environments, and has a caged platform that keeps users safe.

[edit] Scissor lift

This can be used in indoor and outdoor spaces where a straight vertical lift is required for access. The caged platform is elevated by linked, folding supports in an ‘X’ pattern, known as a pantograph. Pressure is applied to the external side of the lowest set of supports, which elongates the criss-crossing supports and raises the platform. For more information, see Scissor lift.

[edit] Cherry picker

A cherry picker is mobile and versatile and has a boom able to extend forwards and upwards. Different attachments can be fitted to the end of the boom, such as a cradle, bucket, pallet forks, muck grab, winch, and so on. It is flexible and multi-purpose, ideal for jobs that require the user to work at height in awkward of locations. For more information, see Cherry picker.

[edit] Stick boom lift

Also known as a telescopic boom, a stick boom lift offers an extensive range of movement similar to the cherry picker. The platform is capable of extending sideways as well as vertically, and is often used for moving around and above obstacles, machinery or buildings.

[edit] Track mount

Also known as a spider lift, a track mount is often used when ground is uneven or has a steep incline. The tracked chassis helps to spread weight more evenly, reducing the pressure on the ground, and making it suitable for use on soft ground or delicate floors.

[edit] Truck mount

Also known as a lorry-mounted platform, a truck mount is often used for installing signage and telecoms systems, high-level maintenance, pest control, and so on. It can be moved between sites quickly and is ready to use straight away.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Cherry picker.
• Construction plant.
• Forklift truck.
• How to use a ladder.
• Lift table.
• Lifting device.
• Mast climbing work platforms MCWP.
• Scaffolding.
• Scissor lift.
• Types of crane.
• Winch.
• Work at height.
• Working platform.
• Work platform safety, new British Standards published.