Aluminium Access Platforms are widely used across Australian mining sites, workshops and industrial facilities because they’re lightweight, durable and designed for safe elevated access. But even the best-built platform can become a safety risk if it’s not set up correctly.
Below are the most common setup issues users face and how to fix them to ensure a safe, stable and compliant work environment.
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Uneven or Unstable Ground
One of the biggest mistakes crews make is placing the platform on soft soil, loose gravel, or other uneven surfaces. An unstable base can compromise the entire structure and lead to tipping or unexpected movement.
Solution: Always position the platform on firm, level ground. If the area isn’t flat, use appropriate stabilising equipment such as levelling jacks or base plates to create a solid foundation. A stable base ensures the rest of the setup remains secure.
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Missing or Incorrect Guardrails and Toeboards
Incomplete guardrails, loose mid-rails or missing toeboards are a major cause of fall-related incidents. These safety features are essential for both worker protection and compliance.
Solution: Install all guardrails, mid-rails and toeboards before anyone steps onto the platform. Ensure they are securely locked in place so tools or materials can’t be knocked off during work.
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Exceeding Load Capacity or Poor Weight Distribution
Every Aluminium Access Platform is engineered with a load limit. Overloading; whether with additional workers, bulky tools, or heavy equipment can compromise structural strength.
Solution: Understand the platform’s rated capacity and never exceed it. Keep the load balanced across the platform rather than stacked to one side. If you’re working with heavier equipment, use lifting tools instead of placing excessive weight on the platform.
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Unsafe Climbing or Access Techniques
A common issue is workers climbing the side frames or cross-braces instead of using the proper access points. This puts the worker at risk and can destabilise the platform.
Solution: Only use the built-in ladder system or designated access points provided by the manufacturer. Maintain three-point contact while climbing and never use braces or framing as footholds.
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Incorrect Assembly or Missing Bracing
Rushing the setup often leads to skipped bracing, unsecured locking pins, or incomplete frame installation. Without proper bracing, the platform becomes unstable and unsafe.
Solution: Follow the manufacturer’s assembly instructions step by step. Make sure all horizontal and diagonal braces are attached and locked properly. If the unit has castor wheels, ensure they are locked before any work begins.
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Ignoring Weather and Environmental Conditions
In Australia, sudden weather changes such as high winds, rain or extremely hot conditions can impact platform stability and worker safety. Wet or windy conditions significantly increase slip and topple risk.
Solution: Avoid setting up or using Aluminium Access Platforms during extreme weather. If the ground becomes wet or uneven, stop work and reassess conditions before continuing.
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Skipping Inspections and Ongoing Maintenance
Regular inspection is often overlooked, especially on busy mine sites or industrial workshops. Damaged planks, worn locking mechanisms or bent frames can easily go unnoticed until they cause an incident.
Solution: Inspect the platform before each use. Look for damage, loose fittings, worn components or missing parts. Replace faulty sections immediately, never continue working with compromised equipment.
Final Thoughts
Aluminium Access Platforms are a reliable and essential safety tool across Australian industrial and mining environments, but they only perform as intended when set up correctly. By addressing the most common setup issues such as unstable bases, missing safety components, improper load management, incorrect assembly, and lack of inspections you not only improve safety but also increase the lifetime of your equipment.