When working at height, safety and quality are non-negotiable. Not all access towers are created equal, even when they meet regulatory standards. This guide explores the key factors that define a high-quality access tower and compares leading options on the market.
Key Factors in Choosing an Aluminium Access Tower
A professional aluminium access tower should not only comply with BS EN 1004-1:2020 but also excel in design, durability, and ease of use. When comparing access towers, consider:
- Fact-Based Performance – Look for measurable features like weight capacity and material strength.
- Safety Enhancements – Features like auto-latching frames and one-piece toeboards reduce user error.
- Build Quality – Welded joints, robust castors, and heavy-duty braces improve longevity.
- Ease of Assembly – Automatic locking mechanisms simplify setup and reduce the risk of missing parts.
- Verified Compliance – Ensure the tower has independent certification, not just a claim of compliance.
- Long-Term Durability – Investing in high-quality aluminium access towers ensures longevity, reducing long-term costs. Many customers still use original Alto towers after 20+ years before needing repairs.
Why These Features Matter
Maximum Safe Working Load (SWL)
A higher SWL per platform means the tower can support more weight safely. Towers with a low SWL may compromise stability and safety, especially when carrying tools, materials, or carrying out demanding tasks.
Auto-Latching Frames
Frames that automatically lock together reduce assembly errors and eliminate the risk of sections becoming loose over time. Unlike manual locks that can be forgotten, auto-latching systems ensure structural integrity.
Brace Frames and One-Handed Latches
Fully welded brace frames provide superior strength compared to crimped or bolted braces, which may loosen under stress. One-handed latch operation simplifies setup and dismantling, making it easier to use the 3T method and reducing the chance of improper assembly.
Rung Connections and Frame Construction
Welded rungs provide a secure and long-lasting connection, unlike cast joints, which may crack under load. Additionally, towers made from fully extruded 2.0mm aluminium offer greater durability compared to seam-welded 1.5mm tubing, which is considerably weaker.
Base Stability and Captive Components
A one-piece base trolley enhances mobility without compromising stability. Auto-latching captive legs prevent movement during use, reducing the risk of collapse.
Access Tower Comparison Table
|
Characteristic |
Alto Mini Tower |
Mi Tower |
Boss Solo |
Euro One |
T B Davies |
Mono Tower |
|
Maximum SWL per platform (kg) |
350 |
150 |
275 |
150 |
150 |
360 |
|
Platform heights (m) |
2.2/3.2/4.2 |
2/3/4 |
2.2/3.2/4.2 |
1.1/2.1/3.1/4.1 |
4.1 |
2/3/4 |
|
Tower weight (kg) |
134 |
109 |
134 |
130 |
130 |
148.2 |
|
Folding one-piece toeboard |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Auto-latching frames |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
Frame connections |
Offset Tapered |
Parallel shank |
Parallel shank |
Parallel shank |
Parallel shank |
Parallel shank |
|
joints |
Fully welded |
Mix of Crimped, Castings & Welded |
Welded |
Mix of Crimped, Castings & Welded |
Mix of Crimped, Castings & Welded |
Mix of Crimped, Castings & Welded |
|
One-handed brace latch operation |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
Castor size (mm) |
125 |
125 |
150 |
125 |
125 |
113 |
|
FOLDING base trolley |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Base material |
2.0mm extruded |
1.5mm seam welded |
1.5mm seam welded |
1.5mm seam welded |
1.5mm seam welded |
1.5mm seam welded |
|
Auto-latching captive legs |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
Plastic clip components |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
No |
|
Loose pin connectors |
No – Auto Latching |
No – attached manual pins |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Made in the UK? |
Yes |
No |
Not Disclosed |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Notes
|
|
|
|
|
Rebadged Euro One |
|
Why Choose an Alto Aluminium Access Tower?
Alto Mini Towers stand out due to their superior build quality, safety features, and long-term durability. Unlike competitors, they feature fully welded brace frames, auto-latching components, and robust castors designed to withstand heavy use. These features ensure enhanced safety, ease of assembly, and greater longevity, making Alto towers a superior choice for working at height.
For a safer and more reliable working-at-height solution, explore our Alto Mini Towers today: Visit Mini Tower.
