PA Turnpike Debuts Swappable Truck Aerial Lifts

Pennsylvania, US - The Pennsylvania Turnpike., has deployed innovative swappable truck-mounted aerial lifts, developed in collaboration with Indiana-based Lift-a-Loft., and Iowa-based SwapLoader., to enhance maintenance safety and operational efficiency.

The two new hook lift-mounted platforms can extend up to 22 feet and slide beyond the truck footprint, giving workers more space to carry tools or personnel and reducing repetitive trips. The expandable design also minimizes awkward positioning, lowering the risk of injuries or falls for the Turnpike’s 720+ maintenance employees.

Unlike conventional lifts permanently fixed to trucks, these units can be swapped across existing fleet vehicles, providing flexibility and saving approximately $300,000 by avoiding the need for additional truck cabs and chassis.

Equipped with mounted work lights, a self-closing gate, emergency stop system, and transmission neutral interlock, the lifts have been in use since August.

Mr. Chuck Zeis, Turnpike electrician, said, “It’s perfect for stationary projects where we need to work directly underneath, like tunnel lighting. It adds another level of safety.”

The deployment marks a significant step in improving both worker safety and operational efficiency across the Pennsylvania Turnpike system.

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