Improve worker comfort whilst also conserving precious workshop floor space

Fixed Height Platforms (FHP) come in a huge range of types, including mass produced and customised versions. In general they are less expensvie than AHP, depending on the level of customisation.

Depending on the level of customisation of the FHP, Adjustable Height Platforms (AHP) are usually a bigger investment than fixed height platforms (FHP)

Fixed Height Platforms

• Being fixed, can only be safely used for objects within the reachable range of that single particular platform height
• Can offer cantilever platforms, and
• If fitted with gates can be used as an access to elevated areas but only if they are the correct height

Equiptec AHP can adapt to many different situations by having a large range of retrofittable options. These options can be used to increase Cantilever distance, deck width, deck height etc. as well as add more features such as Barrier systems, multiple direction access gates etc. Not all brands offer these capabilities.

FHP require minimal maintenance.

Although some AHP brands utilise complex systems which include high maintenance sliding faces, winches etc. Equiptec AHP have very few moving parts and consequently very little maintenance requirements. It is a good idea to check out the Manufacturers Instruction Manuals to ensure they are comprehensive. Despite the major maintenance advantages the Equiptec brand offers, AHP will generally require more maintenance than FHP due to the fact that FHP have no (or very few) moving parts.

Reputable FHP suppliers would usually comply.

Compliance is not easy for AHP as Standards have not been developed to cover this relatively new concept yet. Check that the Manufacturer has made some effort to comply with the design (handrail heights etc.), stability and strength requirement sections of an appropriate Standard. Equiptec AHP may go well beyond these, but compliance with these basic requirements would be essential for any reputable supplier.

Most FHP's are bulky to transport, but once on site they are usually relatively easy to move around.

Some AHP’s are very large and difficult to transport, while some are small and compact, and therefore easy to move around. Ease of transport and deployment will again vary between brands. Some brands produce some very large units that “fold down” to a more manageable size/shape for transport/storage. Watch this capability as if a brand cannot do this, it may incur a lot of cost to get them to your site.

Once on site, deployment should be reasonably easy. Some brands also produce options that allow for units to be used “off slab”, so its important to check you are getting the brand and options that accurately suit your needs.

FHP need a lot of room to store if you require a range of them to reach different heights

An AHP is similar in size to (but a lot heavier than) an FHP, but provides multiple height options within that size, so instead of many different FHP units, you will only need the one AHP.

Fixed Height Platforms:

• Are generally stable if used within the limited working range they offer
• Are susceptible to windy conditions
• Can sway a lot (cheaper versions)

Equiptec AHP comply with the applicable 'strength and stability' requirements of major international standards. Some Brands do not place importance on this, so while they are “safe” they may feel quite unstable at higher positions which makes users uncomfortable. AHP tend to be susceptible to wind, so take care when using them outside.

With FHP being fixed, there is no adaptability. It either fits the job exactly, or it shouldn’t be used.

AHP are adaptable by the very fact that they adjust to suit work at different heights. Equiptec AHP not only adjust for height, but also have the ability to retrofit a variety of accessories to suit many different situations. This makes Equiptec AHP truly versatile.

Most Fixed Height Platforms are easy to use, just place and climb, but again, only if the height is right.

AHP outperform FHP for ease of use on low level height work. This because of:

• Easy and quick access from floor to deck (or vice versa)
• Rapid and easy manual movement of small to medium sized units.
• On larger stair units, the ability to carry items up and down with ease.
• Individuals can descend or ascend while others remain on the deck.
• Users can quickly adjust the deck to both a safe and ergonomic position surrounded by handrails and compliant access methods at any height.