Aerial Work Platforms
AWP or aerial work platforms are engineered and designed to elevate workers and their gear to a particular height so as to carry out a job. The particular model and manufacturer and type of equipment all varies. Before aerial work platforms were developed, all tasks which require work at high levels had to be carried out with scaffolding. Therefore, the invention of aerial work platforms has increased the overall productivity of similar jobs and kept many employees safe.
The three main types of aerial work platforms are boomlifts, mechanical lifts and scissorlifts. These machines could be operated with pneumatics, mechanically utilizing a pinion and rack system or with screws or by hydraulics. These models may be self-propelled with controls located at the platform, they may be unpowered models requiring an external force to move them or be mounted to a vehicle so as to be transported.
The aerial work platform was created by John L. Grove, an American industrialist and inventor. Nonetheless, in 1966, before the first model of JLG, a company called Selma Manlift launched an aerial lift unit.
During 1967, after selling his previous company Grove Manufacturing, John L. Grove along with his wife decided to take a road trip. They decided to stop at Hoover Dam. While the couple was there, Grove unfortunately saw 2 workers electrocuted while they were working on scaffolding. This terrible event led John Grove to discover an untapped market for a new product that can lift employees safely in the air for them to perform construction and maintenance jobs in a better way.
John bought a small metal fabrication company and formed a partnership with 2 friends, when he returned home from his trip. The small business immediately started designing ideas for the aerial work platform. The new company was named JLG Industries Inc. They proudly launched their first aerial work platform during the year 1920 with the aid of 20 employees.