Aerial work platforms (AWP) are designed to elevate workers and their tools to a desired height for a job. There are two types articulated and scissor lifts.

Articulated: Articulated boom lifts are used for jobs that require reaching up and over obstacles to gain access to a job not easily approached by a straight telescopic boom. This lift is nearly identical to the straight boom lift in every aspect, except in the boom’s ability to articulate. Articulation points on the boom allow it to bend in any number of different directions enabling it to maneuver around various obstacles on a job site.
Scissor lifts:
Scissor lifts are designed for working on directly overhead projects as they only lift on a vertical plane. It consists of a series of linked, folding supports that crisscross in an “X” pattern. In order to raise the unit, pressure must be applied to the outside of the lowest set of supports, which elongates the crossing pattern, elevating he platform vertically. If the machine is hydraulically or pneumatically powered lowering of the platform can be achieved by simply opening a valve to release the pressure.