Every elevated work platform must carry a data plate (also called an identification plate or rating plate) fixed to the machine in a position where it can be readily seen. The data plate contains the information inspectors, operators and site supervisors need to confirm the machine is the right one for the job and is operating within its certified limits. Knowing what each field means turns the plate from a compliance formality into a practical working tool.
Where to find the data plate
On most truck-mounted EWPs, the data plate is fixed to the lower boom structure, the turntable chassis, or adjacent to the lower control station. On self-propelled machines, it is usually on the main chassis near the base controls. On trailer-mounted EWPs, check the drawbar or the main support frame.
If the data plate is missing, damaged or illegible, the machine must be taken out of service until a replacement is fitted and verified against the machine's original certification documentation.
Key fields on the data plate
- Manufacturer and model — identifies the make and model for tracking service bulletins, replacement parts and certification history.
- Serial number — the machine's unique identifier, used in all inspection records, certification documents, and registration submissions.
- Year of manufacture — triggers the timing of major inspections based on the machine's age and class.
- Maximum platform height (or working height) — the highest certified position of the platform floor, used to confirm the machine meets the job requirement.
- Rated platform capacity (SWL) — the maximum combined load of persons, tools and materials the basket is certified to carry.
- Maximum number of occupants — may be lower than the SWL would imply if the basket is only certified for a single person.
- Maximum wind speed — the highest wind speed at which the machine can be operated; operations must cease if site wind exceeds this figure.
- Horizontal reach or outreach — the maximum horizontal distance from the rotation axis to the platform at rated load.
- Design registration number — where applicable, the number under which the machine's design was registered with the relevant state authority.
Certification labels and tags
In addition to the manufacturer's data plate, an inspected machine carries inspection certification labels or tags showing the date of the last annual or major inspection, the name of the certifying inspector, and the next inspection due date. These are not the same as the data plate — they record compliance history, not design specification.
On a first encounter with an unfamiliar machine, check both: the data plate for what the machine is rated to do, and the inspection certification for whether its compliance is current.
This guide is general information prepared by EWP Australia and is grounded in publicly available Australian Standards and Safe Work Australia material. It is not a substitute for the current published edition of the relevant standard or for site-specific engineering advice. Always work from the current standard and consult a competent person for your specific equipment and application.