Tracked Access and Tracked MEWP

A tracked MEWP, or Mobile Elevated Work Platform, is a specialised piece of equipment designed for working safely at heights. Unlike traditional wheeled MEWPs, tracked MEWPs are equipped with tracks, like those found on tanks or heavy machinery. These tracks provide enhanced stability and manoeuvrability, making them ideal for navigating rough terrain, sensitive surfaces, and confined spaces.

Tracked MEWPs come in various types, including cherry pickers with tracks and spider MEWPs. Cherry pickers with tracks, also known as tracked cherry pickers, offer the ability to reach high elevations while maintaining stability on uneven or delicate ground. Spider MEWPs, often referred to as spider lifts or spider cherry pickers, feature multi-jointed arms that provide exceptional reach and flexibility, making them suitable for accessing difficult-to-reach areas.

Tracked MEWPs offer a host of advantages that make them indispensable for various applications:

Enhanced Stability: Tracked MEWPs, such as cherry pickers with tracks and spider lifts, provide superior stability compared to their wheeled counterparts. The tracks distribute weight evenly, ensuring stability on uneven or delicate surfaces.

Manoeuvrability: Equipped with tracks, tracked MEWPs can navigate challenging terrain with ease. Whether it's rough outdoor terrain or cramped indoor spaces, these machines offer exceptional manoeuvrability, allowing operators to reach difficult-to-access areas.

Versatility: Tracked MEWPs are highly versatile, capable of tackling a wide range of tasks. From construction and maintenance to landscaping and event setup, these machines excel in various industries and applications.

Safety: Safety is paramount when working at heights, and tracked MEWPs are designed with this in mind. Features such as intuitive controls, robust stabilisation systems, and advanced safety technology ensure operator confidence and minimize risks.

Reach and Flexibility: Spider MEWPs, also known as spider lifts or spider cherry pickers, feature multi-jointed arms that provide exceptional reach and flexibility. This enables operators to access tight spaces and manoeuvre around obstacles with ease.

Yes, tracked MEWPs, including cherry pickers with tracks and spider lifts, can be used indoors, providing valuable access solutions for a variety of indoor applications. However, several factors need to be considered to ensure safe and efficient operation:

Height and Reach: Determine the maximum height and reach required for your indoor tasks. Tracked MEWPs come in various sizes and configurations, so choose one that can access the desired height while manoeuvring within the indoor space.

Floor Surface: Consider the type of floor surface in the indoor environment. Tracked MEWPs are suitable for both smooth and rough surfaces, but adjustments may be needed for delicate or sensitive flooring to prevent damage.

Access Restrictions: Assess the accessibility of the indoor space, including doorways, corridors, and elevators. Tracked MEWPs are designed for manoeuvrability, but ensure that the machine's dimensions allow it to navigate through narrow passages and tight spaces without difficulty.

Weight Restrictions: Check weight restrictions for the indoor area, especially in elevated spaces such as mezzanines or upper floors. Tracked MEWPs distribute weight evenly through their tracks, but it's essential to verify that the floor can support the machine's weight.

Ventilation and Emissions: Consider ventilation requirements, particularly if the indoor space is enclosed. Tracked MEWPs powered by internal combustion engines emit exhaust gases, so ensure adequate ventilation to prevent accumulation of fumes.

Obstacles and Hazards: Identify potential obstacles and hazards within the indoor environment, such as overhead obstacles, electrical wires, or fragile equipment. Plan the route of the tracked MEWP to avoid collisions and minimize risks.

Operator Training: Ensure that operators are adequately trained and familiar with operating tracked MEWPs indoors. Training should cover safe operation, emergency procedures, and awareness of indoor hazards.

Yes, operating tracked MEWP requires specialised training to ensure safe and efficient usage. Training covers machine controls, safety procedures, stabilisation techniques, and working on slopes.

Key aspects of specialised training for tracked MEWPs include:

Equipment Familiarisation: Operators must be familiarised with the specific features, controls, and safety systems of the tracked MEWP they will be using. This includes understanding how to start and stop the machine, operate the controls for elevation and movement, and engage safety mechanisms.

Safety Procedures: Training should cover comprehensive safety procedures, including pre-operation inspections, emergency shutdown protocols, and response to potential hazards. Operators must understand how to identify and mitigate risks associated with operating tracked MEWPs.

Terrain and Environmental Considerations: Operators need to be trained to assess terrain conditions and environmental factors that may impact the safe operation of tracked MEWPs. This includes understanding how to navigate uneven terrain, avoid obstacles, and adjust operating parameters based on environmental conditions.

Stability and Load Management: Training should address the principles of stability and load management when operating tracked MEWPs. Operators must know how to maintain stability during elevation and movement, as well as how to properly position loads to prevent tipping or overloading.

Emergency Procedures: Operators should be trained to respond effectively to emergencies or malfunctions that may occur while operating tracked MEWPs. This includes procedures for safely lowering the platform in the event of a power failure or mechanical issue.

At Sunbelt Rentals, we prioritize safety and offer comprehensive IPAF training programs for operators of tracked MEWPs. Our training courses cover all aspects of safe operation and are conducted by experienced professionals to ensure that operators are fully prepared to handle tracked MEWPs in various working environments.