New ANSI Standards for Construction Equipment May Affect the Way Equipment Functions on the Jobsite

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) recently developed new safety standards for the design and operation of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs). These standards are industry-wide and not specific to OHR’s equipment. Here’s what you and your work crew need to know when operating machinery manufactured under the new ANSI standards:

So, what do you need to know about the ANSI standards?

  • Operation may stop if overloaded
  • Equipment will not operate when out of slope
  • Wind force requirements may reduce platform capacity
  • Tires on most rough terrain equipment will be solid or foam-filled
  • Chains are no longer acceptable for platform gates
  • Railing height has been raised for small indoor scissor lifts

For more information on the new ANSI standards, go to:

Want some helpful tips for operating equipment manufactured under the new ANSI standards?

  • Take the weight of the tools and materials into consideration. Machines must actively monitor load and will halt operation or sound an alarm if overloaded. 
  • Equipment can be used on slopes but must have a tilt sensor alarm and cutout. You may need to reposition the lift or grade the worksite. 
  • Make sure the equipment is rated for outdoor use. Outdoor lifts may require reduced platform capacities and/or more weight for stability. 
  • New stability testing guidelines mean most rough terrain equipment will only have solid and/or foam-filled tires. 
  • Chains are no longer acceptable entrance gates. New equipment will have half-height, full-height, or saloon-style doors.  
  • Platform railings on small indoor scissors will fold to fit through doorways.