Aluminium mobile scaffold tower: height, load capacity and UNI EN 1004 standard

The right mobile scaffold tower is chosen on three things: the height you need to work at, the platform load capacity and compliance with UNI EN 1004. In the collection the modular heights range from under 3 m to over 13 m, and the declared load capacity is generally 200 kg/m² including one or two people. Aluminium is the most common material because it is light to assemble and move. Assembly always follows the manufacturer's manual.

The types

• Aluminium mobile scaffold tower: the most common type, with aluminium tube (often Ø 50 mm). Light, assembled in modules. Examples are the Millenium and the Jolly.
• Steel mobile scaffold tower: the structure is made of steel instead of aluminium, so it is heavier. Check weight and load capacity on the data sheet.
• Fibreglass mobile scaffold tower: it does not conduct electricity, useful when you work near electrical installations. An example is the 100% fibreglass tower.
• Small mobile scaffold tower: compact footprint, for low work and tight spaces. An example is the small Time.
• Other series, such as the Roller or the Eurotech: height, platform size and load capacity change, to be compared on the data sheet.
• Accessories: internal ladders, guardrails, toe boards and stabilisers, to be chosen to be compatible with the model.

How to choose by job

Before deciding, write down three figures: the height to reach, the weight of the people and materials going up, and the space available for the base. With these three numbers the choice between the models becomes much quicker.

The features to look at

• Modular height: each model has a range, for example from 1.70 to 6.76 m or from 1.90 to 13.90 m. Check on the data sheet whether the value indicates the platform height or the working height, and choose with a margin over the point to be reached.
• Load capacity: 200 kg/m² including one or two people is the most frequent value. Some data sheets show Class 3, which corresponds to 200 kg/m². On the small models 100-150 kg also appear.
• Dimensions: for example 1.18x0.55 m for narrow models, 2.00x1.20 m for large ones. A wide base gives more room but weighs more and takes up more space.
• Material: tubular aluminium, steel, fibreglass. The aluminium one has a low weight, which makes transport easy.
• Weight: from 1.3 kg for accessories up to about 58 kg for the heaviest components. They matter for assembly and transport.
• Standard: UNI EN 1004 appears on most models, together with the reference to Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008, art. 113.
• Warranty: from 1 to 10 years depending on the model.

Common mistakes

• Choosing by height alone. Load capacity and platform size matter too.
• Assembling it without the manual. Each model has its own precise sequence and stabilisers.
• Moving it with people or materials on it. Never: lower the load and move it empty.
• Placing it on unstable ground. You need flat, load-bearing ground, braked wheels and open stabilisers.
• Using it in strong wind. The tower is tall and narrow: in gusts the work stops.

Frequently asked questions

How tall should the mobile scaffold tower be?

Start from the highest point you need to reach and choose a model whose height range covers it with a margin. Check in the data sheet whether the stated height is the platform height or the working height.

Is a course needed to assemble it?

Whoever assembles and uses the mobile scaffold tower must know the manufacturer's manual and be trained in accordance with Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008. Ask your safety manager.

Is aluminium or fibreglass better?

Aluminium is lighter and more widespread. Fibreglass is better if you work near live parts, because it does not conduct.

Can it be used outdoors?

Yes, if the model is designed for outdoor use and with stabilisers. Avoid strong wind and soft ground.

You will find the models in the aluminium mobile scaffold towers collection. For a quote or advice on the model suited to your working height, write to the AMES technicians.