IPAF Launches New MEWP Battery Guidance
The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has released a new guidance pack focused on the safe use and maintenance of batteries fitted to mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).
IPAF’s new guidance includes a technical guidance document, three Toolbox Talks and two Andy Access safety posters. Together, it supports owners, rental companies, operators, and maintenance providers in managing batteries safely and effectively throughout their service life.
As battery-powered MEWPs continue to grow in popularity globally, driven by evolving jobsite requirements, environmental regulations, and advances in battery technology, the need for clear, practical guidance has never been greater.
Brian Parker, Head of Safety & Technical at IPAF, said: “The rapid adoption of battery-powered MEWPs brings clear benefits in terms of emissions reduction, noise control, and operational efficiency, but it also introduces new responsibilities. While modern batteries are increasingly robust, a battery’s performance and safety are directly linked to how well it is maintained, which is an ongoing challenge in rental and high-utilisation environments.
“This guidance is designed to help the industry understand battery-related risks and implement best practices that support safe, reliable, and sustainable operations throughout the equipment lifecycle.”
It is estimated that more than 2.2 million MEWPs are currently in service worldwide, powered by a range of energy sources including internal combustion, hydrogen, bi-energy, bi-fuel, and battery-electric systems. The demand for battery-powered MEWPs continues to rise due to factors such as increased indoor construction and maintenance work, stricter emissions and noise requirements, corporate sustainability commitments, and improved machine performance made possible by modern battery and charging technology.
Guidance Scope and Key Objectives
The new IPAF guidance has been developed to outline best practice for the safe use, charging, storage, inspection, maintenance, and disposal of the various battery types fitted to MEWPs, including flooded lead-acid (FLA), AGM, gel, and lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.
The guidance aims to:
- Provide information on the safe use and maintenance of batteries fitted to MEWPs
- Support those who plan and manage MEWP operations
- Increase awareness of battery-related hazards, risks, and safe use practices
- Identify risk control measures and Safe Systems of Work (SSoW) to help reduce incidents involving MEWP batteries
The document includes specific technical information, references, and sample checklists to support real-world application.
The guidance is now available to IPAF members and the wider powered access industry.
