Morning All, I was looking at purchasing an metal mobile working platform/podium style kind of thing, for our operatives to use when they are putting together display units that are 6-10 ft tall. However I've been asked by the boss as to why we cannot build our own platform out of wood for them to use? I'm not keen on this idea but he wants evidence of certification/legislation requirements that states that we can't do this? Please can someone point me in the right direction? Many Thanks

All based on risk assessment. Who would make it, what wood is it, what is its tensile strength, where has the wood come from, was it stored outside/inside prior to use, is it coated, cracked etc.? Lots of questions on wood, so why not purchase a set of ladders (A frame is fine) for working at height - short duration? Has a SWL determined on it and as long as you brief those working on the display on the ladders and safe use, not issues. You have done as much as you can do. Regards Dean

Good advice above. Also - why not make it of wood? As well as the answers above about specification, etc, it would be really heavy! And probably more awkwardly shaped for transport / construction, etc. There's a reason why everyone uses light metal platforms.

Here is an example of the type of podium you mention. A quick Google (i have no interests with this company at all) shows that this Podium with a 1.2 platform height (so 10 feet could easily be reached) is available to buy at £339.99 with the relevant guarantees in place. Why would your boss want to make one when he would have to pay someone to design it, buy the materials, make it and then have the worry if anything goes wrong how he might have to defend it in court. No brainer for me.