The elevated work platform is an important fixture of many work sites around Australia. It makes sense that if you’re running one, you want to keep it in top condition. Regular EWP servicing is the best way to do that. Today, we’re going to take a close look at some of the signs that indicate it’s time for an EWP service. Doing so will help you get on top of issues early, helping your team and worksite stay productive and safe.
Why Regular EWP Servicing Matters
Elevating work platforms are treated as high-risk machinery because a failure at height can have serious consequences. Australian Standards such as AS 2550.10 for mobile elevating work platforms set out expectations for inspection, testing, and record keeping.
Keep up with the servicing, and your machine will run longer and be safer on site. Plus, you’ll be compliant with the industry rules and regulations. Peace of mind and productivity go hand in hand on this one.
Common Signs Your EWP Needs Servicing
You do not have to be a technician to spot the early warning signs. Some of them might present themselves during your pre-work check, while some may kick in during operations. This is what to keep an eye out for:
1. Unusual Noise or Vibration
Weird noises, rattling, grinding, and knocking are signs that something’s loose or worn. You want to get these checked out as soon as possible by an experienced EWP mechanic.
2. Slow or Jerky Movements
When the lift’s jumpy or slow, something’s not right. It makes the machine harder to control, which can then lead to safety issues. That’s definitely something you want to avoid.
3. Leaks or Low Hydraulic Fluid
Oil on the ground or around hoses and cylinders should never be ignored. Leaks and low fluid levels lead to heat build-up and damage to pumps and valves. If left unaddressed, you could face a hefty repair bill.
4. Warning Lights or Fault Codes
Many modern EWPs have onboard diagnostics. If the display shows fault codes or warning lights, record what you see and arrange an elevated work platform inspection rather than clearing the message and continuing to use the machine. Altequip’s article on common EWP failures explains how some of these problems show up in daily use.
5. Platform Drift or Height Inconsistencies
If the platform slowly sinks or moves even though the controls are neutral, that is a serious safety concern. Platform drift is often caused by internal leaks in cylinders or valves and can lead to elevated platform stability problems around powerlines, structures, and other hazards.
6. Battery or Electrical Problems
Dodgy electrics can show up in a number of ways. Your machine might not fire up in the morning, operations will cut out and lights will flicker on and off. You want somebody who knows their way around EWP electrics to sort it out for you if you’re experiencing any kind of electrical trouble.
7. Rust and Corrosion
Living in the coastal tropical climates of Brisbane, rust is something we deal with a lot at Altequip. Rust is usually easy to spot, but it can also sneak into hard-to-see places. Left too long and you’ll start to get corrosion that will affect the structural integrity of your machine. If you notice any signs of rust, mention it at your next service. Or if you’re concerned, bring it over to the Brisbane EWP service team at Altequip
8. Missed Services or Gaps in the Logbook
Sometimes the biggest red flag is your paperwork. If the logbook is incomplete, inspections have lapsed, or you cannot remember the last elevated work platform service, the machine is already overdue. For a simple framework you can follow, see Altequip’s guide to EWP maintenance best practice.
How Often Should You Service an EWP?
A common pattern for elevated work platform service and inspection looks like this:
- Every 3 months or 250 hours for a minor service and safety check, including fluids, fasteners, tyres, boom lift inspection, and basic scissor lift servicing.
- Every 12 months for a more detailed EWP compliance check and platform lift safety audit covering functions, structure, and safety systems.
- Every 5 or 10 years, depending on the manufacturer and regulations, for a major inspection focused on structural integrity, wear indicators, and rebuild needs.
Altequip’s Brisbane EWP servicing team works across all major brands and can set up an elevated work platform preventative maintenance program that matches your usage, whether you run a single machine or a large fleet.
Why Choose Altequip for Brisbane EWP Service?
A modern EWP has complex hydraulic, structural, and control systems. Our specialist technicians understand hydraulic lift platform wear indicators, access equipment repair signs, mobile elevating work platform faults and much more. They’ll get to the root of any problems you have, putting your mind at rest and keeping your machine operating at its best.
We’re conveniently based on the Brisbane northside, in Geebung, easily accessible for businesses across South East Queensland. We’re also available for site visits by arrangement if you have fleet servicing requirements.
As the official Australian agents for Italian EWP manufacturer Socage, our technicians are backed by international expertise and genuine parts support when you choose them as your elevated work platform service provider.
You’re getting a world-class EWP service when you book with Altequip.
Book Your EWP Service with Altequip
If you have noticed strange noises, leaks, drift, warning lights, or you simply know your logbook has fallen behind, now is the right time to schedule in your EWP service
Altequip services, repairs, and inspects EWPs for construction companies, maintenance firms, facility managers, councils, utilities, hire fleets, and other operators across Brisbane and South East Queensland.
Whether you run boom lifts, cherry pickers, spider lifts, or truck-mounted platforms, the team will keep your machines running like they should.
To organise your next elevated work platform service, call 1800 762 243 to speak with the team or get in touch here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an EWP service take?
This depends on the machine in question and the nature of the service. Our team will be able to tell you more if you can give them specifics about your job.
Can Altequip service EWPs on-site in Brisbane?
Yes, we can come to you for most jobs. This depends on tech availability, so any booking is done by arrangement.
Do you work on all kinds of EWPs?
We handle boom lifts, scissor lifts, cherry pickers, truck-mounted EWPs – pretty much whatever you’ve got. Drop it off and the Altequip mechanics will fix it.
What areas do you cover?
Our service depot is in Brisbane, and we service EWPs from all over Queensland there.
