Still relying on ladders for jobs at height? You could be risking safety, productivity, and compliance.
Mobile access platforms provide safer, faster, and more versatile access than ladders—especially on professional sites. From tower systems to folding podiums, the right mobile solution gives you stability, reach, and confidence while staying compliant with work-at-height regulations.
For decades, the ladder has been a default tool for working at height. But the demands of modern construction, maintenance and industrial sites have evolved. Today, mobile access platforms offer a smarter solution for many tasks—whether it’s short-term work indoors or external façade maintenance.
If your team is still balancing on steps, it might be time to upgrade.
- Better safety and stability
Falls from height are still one of the UK’s leading causes of workplace injury. Traditional ladders offer limited stability and no edge protection, especially when working with tools or materials. Mobile access platform reduce this risk through:
- Wider working platforms with guardrails
- Lockable castors for stable positioning
- Anti-slip surfaces
- Increased load capacity for both worker and tools
These features drastically reduce the likelihood of slips, overreaches, or collapses—making them the safer choice for professionals.
- Compliance with regulations
Work-at-height tasks are governed by strict regulations in the UK. The HSE’s guidance stresses that ladders should only be used when other safer alternatives aren’t practical. Mobile platforms align better with:
- The Work at Height Regulations 2005
- PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations)
- Site-specific health & safety policies
Using compliant access gear not only protects staff but also reduces liability and HSE scrutiny. For detailed guidance, see: HSE Working at Height
- Increased productivity on site
Time spent repositioning ladders, adjusting footing, or climbing up and down takes its toll. Mobile access platforms speed up work through:
- Larger platforms allowing more tools/materials at height
- Quicker relocation across a workspace with castors
- Multi-height adjustability without dismantling
- Options for one-person setup and compact storage
Whether you’re doing M&E installs, ceiling work or warehouse maintenance, the right platform keeps your team working efficiently—and with fewer interruptions.
- Flexibility for all environments
Mobile access platforms come in a wide variety of types to suit different spaces and tasks:
| Task Type | Recommended Mobile Access Option |
| Indoor maintenance or painting | Folding podium steps or low-level platforms |
| Warehouse racking access | Mobile scaffold towers or push-around lifts |
| Work on uneven ground | Adjustable leg podiums or stabilised towers |
| Narrow corridor access | Compact folding units with small footprint |
Because FESS Hire stocks a wide range, you can choose what fits your exact task without the one-size-fits-none approach of ladders.
- Less physical strain, more job satisfaction
Let’s be honest: ladders are hard work. Constant climbing, holding tools, or repositioning wears staff out faster. Platforms reduce repetitive motion and allow better posture, resulting in:
- Less fatigue
- Reduced risk of musculoskeletal injury
- More satisfied and focused workers
For longer shifts or repetitive tasks, it’s a difference your team will feel.
Quick checklist: is it time to switch?
- Are your team working at height for extended periods?
- Do you need to use tools or materials while elevated?
- Is ladder repositioning slowing down progress?
- Are you unsure if your current access setup is compliant?
- Would a wider, more stable work area improve safety?
If you ticked yes to any of the above, it’s time to explore mobile access platforms.
FAQs
- Are mobile access platforms harder to set up than ladders?
Not at all. Many units, like podium steps or folding towers, are lightweight and quick to set up. FESS Hire provides simple user guides with every hire. - Can mobile platforms be used outdoors?
Yes. Many tower systems and adjustable podiums are designed for external use, with stabilisers and weather-resistant materials. - Do I need training to use mobile access equipment?
Most low-level platforms don’t require formal training, but it’s essential to follow usage guidance. For complex towers or powered access, training may be recommended. - Is it more expensive to hire platforms than use ladders?
While the hire cost may be slightly higher, the reduction in injury risk, downtime, and increased efficiency often makes it far more cost-effective. - What types of platforms does FESS Hire offer?
We offer folding podiums, scaffold towers, stairwell platforms, push-around lifts and more—ready for rapid dispatch across the UK.
Ready to step up your site safety?
Ladders have their place—but for professional work at height, mobile access platforms are the smarter, safer and more productive choice.
Get in touch with FESS Hire today to explore your access hire options and find the right platform for your project.
