Mobile Access Towers Standards Changes – BS EN 1004:1:2020-1

In light of the recent Mobile access towers standards changes (November 22nd , 2021), our team have put together an update of all the significant changes to be aware with regards to standard compliance. We have also highlight the steps we are taking as a manufacturer within the revision. Please observe the following questions & answers.

What is BS EN 1004?

This is a product standard that covers the manufacturing of Mobile access scaffold towers, along with laying out the building methods needed. EN1004 ensures that a product is certificated fit for purpose and safe for all users to assemble and dismantle.

When are the changes being brought in?

November 22nd, 2021 – The standard code changes from BS EN 1004:2004 to BS EN 1004:2020. This means any new tower components manufactured 23rd November 2021 must conform to the new revised product standard.

What does BS EN 1004:1:2020-1 cover?

This standard covers the structural integrity of the tower from the extensive testing needed on all the components that go into the complete structure of a freestanding tower using four legs and locking castors.

What are the key changes to the standard?

• Reduce maximum distance between platforms 4m to 3m.
• Reduce distance from the lowest platform and the floor level.
• Requirements that all platform decks are resistant to becoming detached from the tower structure in windy conditions. This is achieved using double wind locks on the platform securing hooks.

What are we doing as a manufacturer?

Pop Up Products have been involved with all aspects of the changes to the standard and we have committed considerable resources to retest all our current ranges and update the various assembly guides.

Our MITOWER range not only introduced the concept of one person towers to the UK, but has been designed in such a way that no amendments are necessary following the change of standard.

All of the EIGER assembly guides have be updated and assessed to the new standard and include additional bracing and platforms for certain builds. These are available in the resources section of our website.

Platforms across both the EIGER and MITOWER range have featured double wind locks for approximately two years now, so most platforms already in circulation comply with the revised standard.

We have also designed a new style of AGR Panel, the Safe Quick AGR, to be launched early in 2022. This has enabled us to maximise the number of heights of tower which are now not possible with traditional AGR Panels.

If you have any questions please email our office sales@popupproducts.co.uk.