Key points
- Mast Climbing Work Platforms (MCWPs), or mast climbers, are a type of construction elevating equipment used to perform work at height.
- Using mast climber equipment requires training.
- Complete an inspection of the mast climbing work platform before starting work.
Overview
Mast climbers are equipped with a powered drive unit for propelling the work platform up and down a vertical mast structure. As with any type of equipment used to accomplish work at height, safety hazards may be present. Hazards working at height can result in injury or death.
Training is necessary for anyone using mast climber equipment.
Spotlight
NIOSH developed an online tool to help those who use mast climbers identify common hazards. This educational resource can also help employers, trainers, and safety and health professionals to prevent work-related falls.
MCWP daily inspection walkthrough
Using the inspection tool is not a substitute for OSHA training requirements for MCWPs.
Note: Every mast climbing work platform configuration and set-up is site specific. Always consult manufacturer specifications and guidelines for each specific set-up as they can vary. Mention of any company or product does not constitute endorsement by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Resources
Infographics
Mast Climbing Work Platforms [JPG]
Production Tables on Mast Climbing Work Platforms Can Reduce Back Injuries and Falls [Español (Spanish)]
Journal articles
Biomechanical assessment while using production tables on mast climbing work platforms Applied Ergonomics: January 2021 / 90:103276
Mast climbing work platforms Silver Spring, MD: CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training: June 2020 / :1
Evaluating the stability of a freestanding mast climbing work platform Journal of Safety Research: September 2017 / 62:163-172