Short answer: dismantle a mast climbing work platform from the top down. Remove the mast guard, take off the red top mast section first, and release each wall tie only when the platform has reached its level. Then lower the platform onto the buffers, disconnect power and remove the control box. Before transport, strip guardrails and ladders.
This guide follows the user manual of the P1500 and P3000 work platforms made by ALPMAKSAN, an İstanbul-based manufacturer of mast climbing work platforms and construction hoists. Like installation, dismantling needs trained, authorized people. Use the manual for your serial number.
Why is dismantling a high-risk operation?
The manual warns that most accidents with mast climbers happen during assembly and dismantling. OSHA agrees: its mast climber eTool reports collapses during dismantling, including fatal cases where mast tie removal was not done in the right sequence. OSHA eTool The rule is simple: follow the sequence, keep the load within limits, and use only competent crews.
What is the dismantling sequence?
- Remove the mast guard.
- Starting from the red top mast section, dismantle the mast sections one by one until the wall tie level is reached. Place them securely on the platform. Each mast section weighs 65 kg.
- At the wall tie level, loosen the couplers first, then remove the nuts of the wall plate anchors. Put the tie tubes securely on the platform.
- Repeat until the platform is at its lowest position and the mast is fully dismantled. With suitable lifting equipment, up to four mast sections can be removed together and lowered to the ground for easier work there.
- Release the brake manually and lower the platform onto the buffer position.
- Insert and secure the pin of the automatic levelling device.
- Disconnect the power supply and remove the power cable.
- Rotate the support legs to raise the base frame and remove the ground support pads.
- Remove the control box.
Two warnings apply throughout. The maximum permitted load must never be exceeded during dismantling, and dismantling is not allowed above the wind limit in the manufacturer's manual. If work is interrupted, bring the operation to a safe state, tighten bolts of the last component and switch off and lock the main switch.
How is a platform prepared for transport?
Before transport:
- check that all fastening elements are correctly installed,
- lower the platform onto the buffers of the base frame and turn the main switch off,
- remove all guardrails, ladders and mast guardrail components from the platform,
- secure the machine carefully to the loading bed so it cannot move or be damaged.
The basic unit can travel on a standard truck. Mobile base frames must not be used to transport the platform on public roads, and local traffic laws must be followed.
How do you lift and relocate it?
When lifting from the vehicle, use suitable equipment: vehicle-mounted lifting devices, site cranes or forklifts. Always use the designated lifting slings beneath the mast standard sections, and set the machine down carefully to avoid impact. No load may be on the platform while it is being moved.
To reposition the platform on site, a crane can be used. The crane hook is connected to the mast with a suitable sling, and the total transport weight is calculated with the component weights from the manual. Our buy or rent guide notes that relocations should be part of the project cost comparison.
How should the platform be stored?
Follow the storage routine in the manual: complete inspection, replacement of damaged parts, cleaned and regreased pinion and rack, inspection of mast sections, racks and welds, and a corrosion check on the bolts of the lowest mast section. Cover the machine with a waterproof tarpaulin, and always protect at least the control box and limit switches. For long storage, ask the manufacturer or distributor. The same steps appear in the maintenance schedule.
What should be planned before dismantling?
- A crew authorized by the project manager, with qualified technical staff on site.
- Clear ground below the working area, and a place to set down mast sections and ties.
- Lifting equipment, if you want to remove up to four sections at once.
- A weather check against the wind limit in the manual.
- Transport access. The site preparation checklist applies in reverse when the machine leaves the site.
Tie planning also matters at the end of the job: review the tie-in spacing checklist before you remove ties.
Frequently asked questions
In which order are mast sections removed?
From the red top mast section down. Wall ties are released only when the platform reaches their level.
Can I remove several mast sections at once?
With suitable lifting equipment, up to four sections can be removed and lowered together.
Can the platform be moved while loaded?
No. No load may be on the platform when it is moved, and mobile base frames must not be used on public roads.
What must be removed before transport?
All guardrails, ladders and mast guardrail components, and the platform must be lowered onto the buffers.
How do I store the platform?
Inspect, clean, regrease, check lower mast bolts for corrosion, and cover with a waterproof tarpaulin, protecting the control box and limit switches.
Plan dismantling and relocation with ALPMAKSAN
Contact us for dismantling support or a relocation plan for your platform.
Sources
- OSHA eTool: Mast climbers
- IPAF: MCWP Installers course
- ALPMAKSAN P1500 / P3000 user manual (dismantling, transportation and storage)
Updated: 2026-10-28
This guide gives general information. Dismantling must follow the manual supplied with your machine and a safe working procedure.