If you’ve ever hired a cherry picker, boom lift or scissor lift, you’ve probably come across the term MEWP. But what exactly does it mean?
A MEWP stands for Mobile Elevating Work Platform – a piece of powered access equipment designed to safely lift people, tools and materials to areas that would otherwise be difficult to reach.
MEWPs are widely used across construction, facilities management, telecommunications, utilities and industrial maintenance because they provide a safer, faster and more efficient alternative to ladders and, in many cases, scaffolding.
In this guide, we’ll explain what a MEWP is, the different types available and how to choose the right one for your project.
What Does MEWP Stand For?
As previously mentioned, MEWP stands for Mobile Elevating Work Platform.
The term refers to a wide range of powered access machines designed to lift operators safely while working at height.
Rather than climbing ladders or erecting scaffolding, a MEWP provides a secure working platform that can be raised, lowered and, in many cases, repositioned quickly as work progresses.
You’ll often hear the terms MEWP, powered access platform and powered access equipment used interchangeably, as they all refer to machines designed for safe temporary access at height.
What Are the Different Types of MEWP?
There are several different types of MEWP, each designed for specific applications.
Cherry Pickers (Boom Lifts)
Cherry pickers, also known as boom lifts, are one of the most recognisable types of MEWP.
They use a hydraulic arm to lift the operator both vertically and horizontally, making them ideal for reaching over obstacles such as roofs, extensions, trees and street furniture.
They’re commonly used for:
- Roofing and building maintenance
- Signage installation
- Telecommunications
- Tree work
- High-level inspections
Truck-mounted cherry pickers are particularly useful when visiting multiple sites, while self-propelled boom lifts are often better suited to larger construction projects.
Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts raise the working platform straight up and down using a criss-cross lifting mechanism.
They provide a larger working deck than most cherry pickers, making them ideal when multiple operatives or tools need to work at height together.
Scissor lifts are commonly used for electrical installations, warehouse maintenance, ceiling work, shop fitting and decorating. Their large working platform provides a stable space for operatives and equipment while working at height.
Vertical Mast Lifts
Vertical mast lifts are compact MEWPs designed for low-level indoor access.
Their small footprint makes them ideal for working in confined spaces such as offices, schools, hospitals and retail environments where manoeuvrability is important.
What Is a MEWP Used For?
MEWPs are used whenever safe temporary access is needed at height.
Common applications can include:
- Building maintenance
- Roof inspections
- Window cleaning
- Electrical work
- Facilities management
- Telecommunications
- Construction
- Industrial maintenance
- Signage installation
Because different projects have different access requirements, choosing the right type of powered access platform is essential.
How Do You Choose the Right MEWP?
There isn’t a single MEWP that’s suitable for every project.
The right machine depends on factors such as:
- Required working height
- Horizontal outreach
- Site access
- Ground conditions
- Indoor or outdoor use
- Duration of the project
For example, if you’re working across multiple customer sites during the day, a truck-mounted cherry picker is often the most practical solution because it can be driven directly between locations.
For larger sites where you’ll be working in one area for an extended period, a self-propelled boom lift or scissor lift may be the better option.
Choosing the right equipment helps improve efficiency while ensuring work can be carried out safely.
Why Choose Smart Platforms?
At Smart Platforms, we provide a wide range of powered access equipment to suit projects of all sizes.
Whether you need a self-drive cherry picker, an operated access platform or advice on selecting the right MEWP for your project, our experienced team can help.
We’ll consider your working height, site conditions and project requirements before recommending the most appropriate solution, helping you work safely and efficiently.
Now You Should Understand What Is Meant By MEWP
A MEWP, or Mobile Elevating Work Platform, is a machine designed to provide safe temporary access when working at height.
From cherry pickers and boom lifts to scissor lifts and vertical mast lifts, there are several different types of MEWP available, each suited to different tasks and environments.
Understanding the differences makes it much easier to choose the right equipment for your project.
If you’re unsure which powered access platform you need, the team at Smart Platforms can provide expert advice and help you find the safest and most effective solution. Contact us today.
