Mobile Access Equipment: Towers, Podiums and Platforms

Mobile access equipment provides a stable, safe working platform for tasks that are too complex or lengthy for ladders but don't justify fixed scaffolding. Understanding when to use mobile towers, podiums, and platforms, and how to assemble and inspect them safely, is essential for compliance and preventing falls.

What is mobile access equipment?

Mobile access equipment provides temporary, movable working platforms for tasks at height. Unlike ladders, they offer a stable platform where you can work with both hands free, and unlike fixed scaffolding, they can be easily moved to different locations.

Main types include:

• Mobile access towers (also called mobile scaffold towers)
• Podium steps and low-level platforms
• Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) - covered separately
• Mobile scaffold systems

When to use mobile access equipment

When mobile access is the right choice:

Work duration:

• Tasks taking more than 30 minutes at height
• Repeated work at the same height over hours or days
• Work requiring both hands free
• Tasks involving tools and materials

Task requirements:

• Painting or decorating
• Ceiling work or light fitting installation
• Maintenance work requiring tools
• Inspection work needing stable positioning
• Work requiring precise movements or detail work

Site conditions:

• Indoor work with level floors
• Outdoor work on firm, level ground
• Areas where equipment needs to be moved regularly
• Multiple work locations at similar heights

When mobile access is NOT appropriate:

• Uneven, sloping, or soft ground
• High wind conditions (outdoor use)
• Areas with significant overhead obstructions
• Very confined spaces where assembly is difficult
• Surfaces that can't support the loaded tower weight
• Areas with high traffic where the tower could be struck

Types of mobile access equipment

Mobile access towers

Also called mobile scaffold towers, these provide working platforms at various heights.

Features:

• Aluminium frame construction (lightweight)
• Platform heights typically 2m to 12m
• Castors with brakes for mobility
• Guardrails on platforms for fall protection
• Internal or external ladder access
• Base stabilisers for added security

Advantages:

• Stable working platform with guardrails
• Can be moved when needed
• Adjustable height configurations
• Multiple workers can use simultaneously
• Large platform area for tools and materials

Requirements:

• Must be assembled by PASMA-trained persons
• Only on firm, level ground
• Brakes locked during use
• Outriggers deployed if required
• Regular inspection
• Height-to-base ratio limits (typically 3:1 indoors, 3.5:1 with outriggers)

When to use:

• Ceiling work across large areas
• Internal decorating and fitting work
• Maintenance at heights 2-10 metres
• Tasks requiring stable platform for extended periods
• Work where you need to carry tools and materials

Podium steps

Low-level work platforms, typically reaching working heights of 1.5m to 3.5m.

Features:

• Self-contained units (no assembly required)
• Built-in guardrails and toe boards
• Wide, stable platform
• Easy to move and position
• Folds for storage and transport

Advantages:

• Quick setup (unfold and use)
• No assembly training required
• Very stable for low-level work
• Guardrails provide fall protection
• Suitable for anyone to use

Requirements:

• Must be on firm, level surface
• All stabiliser legs fully extended
• Brakes locked during use
• Don't exceed maximum working height
• Pre-use inspection

When to use:

• Retail shelf stocking and display work
• Warehouse picking and inventory work
• Light installation and maintenance
• Office and facility maintenance
• Any low-level work previously done on stepladders

Advantages over stepladders:

• Larger platform (no balancing on single rung)
• Guardrails prevent falls
• Can work at chest/head height comfortably
• Both hands free
• Can stand for longer periods safely

Low-level access platforms

Similar to podium steps but often with larger platforms and different configurations.

Types include:

• Mobile platform steps (wheeled podiums)
• Work platforms with adjustable height
• Platform ladders with guardrails
• Folding work platforms

Best for:

• Warehouse and logistics operations
• Retail environments
• Facilities maintenance
• Production line maintenance
• Stock management

Mobile towers vs fixed scaffolding

Understanding when each is appropriate helps you select the right equipment.

Choose mobile towers when:

• Work duration is days to weeks (not months)
• You need to move to different locations
• Working indoors or on good outdoor surfaces
• Heights are within tower capabilities (typically up to 12m)
• Ground conditions are suitable
• You want to assemble and dismantle yourselves (with training)
• Budget and timeline favour flexibility

Choose fixed scaffolding when:

• Work duration is weeks to months
• The work area is fixed and won't move
• Working on building exteriors or complex facades
• Heights exceed practical tower limits
• You need to accommodate multiple trades simultaneously
• Ground conditions are uneven or require adaptation
• Additional loading capacity is required
• Weather protection (sheeting, roofs) is needed

Cost comparison:

• Mobile towers: Higher initial purchase but can be reused indefinitely, lower ongoing costs if you own them
• Fixed scaffolding: Lower equipment cost (hire) but significant labour cost for erection and dismantling, plus hire duration

PASMA training requirements

PASMA (Prefabricated Access Suppliers' and Manufacturers' Association) provides the industry-standard training for mobile access towers.

Who needs PASMA training?

Anyone who:

• Assembles or erects mobile towers
• Dismantles mobile towers
• Alters tower configurations
• Is responsible for supervising tower use

You do NOT need PASMA training to:

• Use a tower that's already been assembled by a trained person (though you should have basic awareness training)
• Move a tower short distances (if the correct procedure is followed)
• Use podium steps (no assembly required)

PASMA course types:

Towers for Users (1 day):

• How to assemble and dismantle low-level towers (up to 2-3 metres)
• Inspection and safety checks
• Safe use practices
• Most common course for general users

Towers for Supervisors/Advanced (1-2 days):

• Larger and more complex tower configurations
• Higher platforms
• Risk assessment and planning
• Rescue procedures

Certification:

• Valid for 5 years from training date
• Photo ID card issued
• Refresher training required every 5 years to maintain competence
• Practical and theory assessment

What PASMA training covers:

• Understanding the Work at Height Regulations
• Identifying different tower types and components
• Safe assembly and dismantling procedures
• The 3T method (Through the Trap)
• Inspection requirements
• Stability and loading limits
• Hazard identification
• Using towers safely

Refresher training:

Even if your certificate is valid:

• Refresher training every 3-5 years is best practice
• Re-training if returning after long periods of not using towers
• Additional training when using new or different tower systems
• Ongoing supervision and competence assessment

Assembly and inspection requirements

Safe assembly procedures

All mobile towers must be assembled following the manufacturer's instructions and the PASMA Code of Practice.

Key principles:

The 3T method (Through the Trap):

• Climb up and down through the tower, using the trap doors in each platform
• NEVER climb up the outside of the tower
• Reduces risk of tower toppling during assembly
• Ensures you're always protected while assembling

Assembly sequence:

1. Check all components are present and undamaged
2. Ensure ground is firm, level, and suitable
3. Build base frame with castors
4. Lock brakes on all castors
5. Add first lift of frames
6. Install first platform (through the trap access)
7. Continue building upwards from inside
8. Install guardrails on each platform before moving up
9. Add stabilisers or outriggers as required
10. Final inspection before use

Height-to-base ratio:

• Indoors on firm, level ground: Maximum 3:1 (height vs base width)
• Outdoors or with stabilisers/outriggers: May be extended to 3.5:1 or 4:1 depending on manufacturer
• If ratio is exceeded, additional stabilisation is required

Formal inspection intervals

Daily/before use:

• Visual check by users (see checklist above)
• Any damage or concerns reported immediately

Weekly (if in continuous use):

• Detailed inspection by competent person
• Recorded in inspection log
• Check all components, connections, stability

After any incident:

• Full inspection if tower has been struck, pushed, or subjected to unusual loads
• After high winds (outdoor towers)
• After any modification or alteration

Periodic (every 3-6 months):

• Thorough inspection of all components when in storage
• Check for corrosion, wear, damage
• Update asset register
• Plan maintenance or replacement

Safe use of mobile access equipment

Using mobile towers safely

Once assembled:

DO:

• Lock all castor brakes before climbing
• Use internal access (through the trap doors)
• Keep the platform clear of unnecessary materials
• Observe maximum loading (workers + materials + tools)
• Maintain three points of contact when climbing
• Stay within the platform guardrails
• Check weather conditions (wind limits apply outdoors)
• Move the tower properly if repositioning is needed

DON'T:

• Climb on guardrails or work outside the platform
• Overload the platform
• Lean out or overreach
• Work from the tower in high winds
• Move the tower with people or materials on it (unless specifically designed for this)
• Remove guardrails or safety features
• Use damaged or incomplete towers
• Extend the tower beyond manufacturer specifications

Moving a mobile tower

Most mobile towers can be moved short distances, but only if done correctly:

Before moving:

1. Remove all personnel from the tower
2. Remove all tools, materials, and equipment
3. Check the path is clear and level
4. Check for overhead obstructions
5. Ensure the tower is within stability limits
6. Unlock castors

During movement:

• Push from the base, never pull from above
• Move slowly and smoothly
• Stop immediately if you feel instability
• One person pushing, one guiding and watching for hazards
• Never move in windy conditions

After moving:

1. Lock all castors immediately
2. Check tower is stable and level
3. Re-inspect before allowing anyone to climb

Loading limits and capacity

All towers have maximum load ratings covering:

• Number of workers (typically 2-3 people)
• Weight of materials and tools
• Wind loading (for outdoor use)

Typical ratings:

• Light duty: 2 persons + light tools (275 kg total)
• General duty: 2-3 persons + materials (450 kg total)
• Heavy duty: 3 persons + heavy materials (600 kg total)

Check manufacturer specifications for:

• Maximum platform load
• Maximum number of users
• Maximum working height
• Wind speed limits (outdoor use)
• Ground bearing pressure

Weather conditions

Outdoor mobile towers:

Wind speed limits:

• Most towers: Maximum 17 mph (Beaufort Force 4) for use
• Some larger towers: Must not be used above 12 mph
• Always dismantle or secure if storms are forecast
• Never use outdoor towers in lightning conditions

Other weather considerations:

• Rain: Platforms become slippery, consider postponing
• Ice and snow: Do not use until cleared and safe
• Temperature extremes: Check components aren't damaged by freezing
• Fog: Visibility for safe operation must be adequate

Using podium steps safely

Podium steps are simpler to use than mobile towers but still require proper procedures.

Setting up podium steps:

1. Check the ground - firm, level surface
2. Unfold the unit - ensure all legs extend fully
3. Lock all mechanisms - spreader bars, height locks
4. Deploy stabilisers - if fitted, extend all stabiliser feet
5. Lock castors - if wheeled, lock all brakes
6. Pre-use check - guardrails secure, platform stable, no damage
7. Climb safely - use the steps, maintain three points of contact
8. Work from the platform - stay within guardrails, don't overreach

Maximum working heights:

• Typically 2.5m to 3.5m platform height
• Working height (reach) approximately 1.5m above platform
• Don't stand on guardrails or top caps to gain extra height
• Don't use additional steps or equipment on the platform

Moving podium steps:

If wheeled:

• Remove all tools and materials
• Clear the work area
• Ensure path is level and clear
• Push from base only
• Lock brakes immediately at new location

If non-wheeled:

• Fold and carry to new location
• Re-open and check setup before use

Selecting the right equipment

When deciding which mobile access equipment to use, consider:

Task requirements:

Working height needed:

• Below 3.5m: Podium steps or low-level platforms
• 3.5m to 8m: Mobile tower (most common range)
• 8m to 12m: Larger mobile tower
• Above 12m: Consider MEWP or fixed scaffolding

Work duration:

• Less than 30 minutes: Ladder may be acceptable (if light work)
• 30 minutes to several hours: Podium or tower
• Days to weeks: Mobile tower
• Months: Fixed scaffolding

Task complexity:

• Simple inspection: Ladder or podium
• Light maintenance: Podium steps
• Painting, installing, detailed work: Mobile tower
• Heavy work, multiple trades: Fixed scaffolding

Site conditions:

Indoor work:

• Firm, level floors: Any mobile access equipment suitable
• Narrow corridors or confined spaces: Podium steps may be better
• Large open spaces: Mobile towers work well

Outdoor work:

• Hard, level ground: Mobile towers with stabilisers
• Uneven or soft ground: Fixed scaffolding
• Windy locations: Fixed scaffolding (towers have wind limits)
• Public areas: Consider whether fixed scaffolding with barriers is safer

Resource considerations:

Training:

• Have PASMA-trained staff: Mobile towers are an option
• No trained staff: Use podium steps or hire trained contractors
• Don't want training overhead: Podiums for low level, hire for higher work

Budget:

• Own equipment: Mobile towers pay for themselves over time
• Occasional use: Hire or contractors
• Comparing ladder costs: Mobile access has higher upfront cost but lower risk and better productivity

Common problems and solutions

Tower instability

Causes:

• Incorrect height-to-base ratio
• Soft or uneven ground
• Missing or incorrectly fitted stabilisers
• Unlocked castors
• Overloading

Solutions:

• Check manufacturer specifications for height limits
• Use ground plates or boards to spread load on soft ground
• Ensure all stabilisers deployed correctly
• Lock all castor brakes
• Remove excess materials and workers

Difficulty moving towers

Causes:

• Castors locked or seized
• Overloading
• Attempting to move on uneven ground
• Tower too tall for safe movement

Solutions:

• Check castor brakes are released
• Remove all personnel and materials first
• Only move on firm, level surfaces
• For taller towers, consider dismantling and rebuilding

Components don't fit

Causes:

• Mixing components from different manufacturers
• Damaged or bent components
• Incorrect assembly sequence
• Using wrong configuration

Solutions:

• Only use matched components from same manufacturer
• Inspect and replace damaged parts
• Follow manufacturer assembly instructions
• Consult assembly guide for correct configuration

Insufficient working height

Causes:

• Tower not high enough for task
• Stability limits prevent building higher
• Incorrect assessment of working height needed

Solutions:

• Consider larger base or outriggers to allow more height
• Use different equipment (MEWP or fixed scaffolding)
• Reassess whether task can be done differently

Maintenance and storage

Regular maintenance:

Monthly (for frequently used equipment):

• Clean all components (remove mud, debris, paint)
• Check for damage, cracks, or deformation
• Lubricate castors and moving parts
• Check locking mechanisms function correctly
• Record findings in maintenance log

Annually:

• Detailed inspection of all components
• Replace worn or damaged parts
• Update asset register
• Review manufacturer recommendations

Storage:

Good storage practices:

• Store indoors or under cover
• Keep off the ground (use racking or pallets)
• Store horizontally, not leaning
• Keep components together (label sets)
• Protect from moisture and corrosion
• Keep away from chemicals or extreme temperatures
• Ensure easy inspection access

Bad storage practices:

• Leaving outdoor exposed to weather
• Storing in damp or flooded areas
• Piling components loosely
• Mixing components from different sets
• Blocking access for inspection
• Storing with other heavy materials on top

Component replacement:

When to replace:

• Any bent, cracked, or damaged frame sections
• Platforms with holes, cracks, or unsafe deterioration
• Castors that don't roll or lock properly
• Guardrails that are damaged or don't fit securely
• Any component showing corrosion or metal fatigue

Important:

• Only use manufacturer-approved replacement parts
• Don't mix components from different manufacturers
• Don't attempt DIY repairs (welding, bolting, etc.)
• When in doubt, replace - components are cheaper than injuries

Frequently asked questions

Next steps

If you're considering mobile access equipment for your work at height activities:

Assess your current access equipment:

• Are you using ladders for tasks that would be safer with mobile platforms?
• Do you have the right training for your equipment?
• Is your equipment inspected and maintained properly?

Get proper training:

• Identify who needs PASMA training for mobile towers
• Arrange training through PASMA-accredited providers
• Ensure refresher training is scheduled before certificates expire

Review your equipment needs:

• Would podium steps replace stepladders for your routine work?
• Do you need to invest in mobile towers for your typical tasks?
• Is your current equipment adequate or should you upgrade?

Related articles:

• Ladder Safety: Using Ladders Safely at Work
• What is Working at Height?
• Do I Need Fall Protection?

Useful tools:

• Risk Assessment Builder
• Equipment Inspection Tracker