In the construction, maintenance, and industrial sectors, the terms AWP and MEWP are often used interchangeably. However, while both describe equipment designed for working at height, there are key distinctions that professionals should understand. Clarifying these terms not only helps in choosing the right equipment but also ensures compliance with international safety standards.
AWP, short for Aerial Work Platform, is a general term used to describe mechanical devices that provide temporary access to elevated areas. These platforms are widely used for construction, electrical maintenance, cleaning, and warehousing tasks. AWPs include common equipment such as scissor lifts, boom lifts, and vertical lifts. The focus of an aerial work platform is accessibility and safety, allowing workers to perform tasks more efficiently than with traditional ladders or scaffolding.
MEWP, which stands for Mobile Elevating Work Platform, is a more specific term that has gained prominence in recent years, particularly in regulatory contexts. MEWPs are essentially a category of aerial work platforms, but the term emphasizes mobility. According to international standards such as ISO 16368 and guidelines set by organizations like IPAF (International Powered Access Federation), MEWPs are defined as powered machines designed to lift personnel, tools, and materials to a working position at height, with the ability to move both vertically and horizontally.
The main difference lies in terminology and scope. AWP is a broader, more general phrase, commonly used in North America and the construction industry at large. MEWP, on the other hand, is the internationally recognized technical term that reflects updated safety classifications and is widely used in Europe, Asia, and global safety standards. In short, all MEWPs are AWPs, but not all AWPs are classified as MEWPs under current definitions.
From a practical standpoint, businesses and safety officers need to pay attention to the term MEWP when reviewing compliance requirements. Many training programs, safety certifications, and regulatory documents now use MEWP to ensure operators receive consistent instruction aligned with international standards.
The growing popularity of the term MEWP also reflects advancements in technology. Today’s machines often feature electric drive systems, hybrid power solutions, and enhanced safety controls that align with modern regulations. For companies operating across different regions, understanding whether equipment is classified as an AWP or MEWP can impact procurement, training, and compliance procedures.
In conclusion, the difference between AWP and MEWP is largely about terminology, but it carries important implications for safety standards and industry practices. While AWPs describe the general category of aerial access equipment, MEWPs represent the modern, regulated classification that highlights mobility and compliance with international safety frameworks. As the demand for safe and efficient height access solutions grows worldwide, businesses are encouraged to adopt MEWP standards to ensure both productivity and worker protection.
