Misuse of transport platforms outside EN standards

It has come to the attention of IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) that certain construction hoist manufacturers are marketing equipment, described as ‘transport systems’ or other similar terminology, that look like transport platforms, but with operating speeds and passenger capacities that exceed the limits set for a transport platform in the European standard EN 16719.

The suppliers of the aforementioned machines, which do not comply with the EN 16719 standard for transport platforms (such as speed or personnel restrictions) or the EN 12159 standard for passenger hoists (such as requisite safety features), claim that these products have been ‘approved’ and certified by a Third Party.

IPAF considers this to be a dangerous and unacceptable practice, and it wishes to inform and warn all relevant stakeholders across the industry about the following:

1. Safety is being compromised
   This practice puts users at significant risk. EN 16719 for Transport Platforms and EN 12159 for Passenger Hoists were developed precisely to define safe operating parameters for such equipment.
2. Legal implications
   Presenting such equipment as outside the scope of current standards using a Third-party certificate does not shield manufacturers, suppliers, rental companies, and duty holders from potential legal consequences.
3. Damage to the reputation of the industry
   The improper use and classification of lifting equipment can have serious repercussions for the reputation of the entire construction hoist industry.

Brian Parker, head of Safety & Technical at IPAF, said: “These improperly labelled ‘transport platforms’ are operating outside the safety limits defined by EN 16719 and EN 12159, putting users at unjustified risk. These standards exist for a reason – to ensure that equipment is used safely and appropriately. Any attempt to circumvent them, even using third-party certification as justification, is both dangerous and misleading. Industry stakeholders must refuse unsafe practices and stay committed to equipment compliance to protect operators and maintain trust in the sector.”

Should such practices persist, IPAF will be left with no alternative but to pursue formal measures to ensure compliance with the applicable standards. This may include reporting specific cases of non-compliance to the relevant national safety authorities in the countries where misuse of transport platforms outside the scope of EN standards is identified.