• Don't use a MEWP as a crane! Lifting objects can overload or damage the MEWP and cause it to overturn.

  • Prevent unauthorized use. After use, always leave the MEWP in a safe and secure place and remove the key.

  • Keep clear of cables. You do not need to touch the power cables to be electrocuted – electricity can jump!

  • Setting up on a slope? Outriggers and spreader pads must be on level and stable ground.

  • The IPAF Operators’ Safety Guide for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (also known as Aerial Work Platforms) is a pocket-size publication that sets out the recommended working practices for the safe operation of MEWPs/AWPs over a wide range of applications, from initial checks, through transport and positioning on site, to carrying out the required tasks.

  • Attach Your Lanyard. Always attach the lanyard to an anchorage point in boom type MEWPs.

  • Beware of falling objects. Organize a drop zone clear of the MEWP base.

  • Unsafe ground? Always check ground conditions – plan your route.

  • Caution when loading and unloading. Always load and unload MEWPs safely.

  • Never attach banners to MEWPs. Always remember a banner can act like a sail.

  • This guidance is intended to assist companies to demonstrate the independence, impartiality and integrity of the 2nd party inspection/examination bodies that they employ.

  • This guideline sets out recommendations to ensure that MCWPs are installed, maintained, examined and used in a safe manner.

  • Mast Climbing Work Platform (MCWP) Handover Certificate

  • Mast Climbing Work Platform (MCWP) Load Chart

  • Have you been familiarized? Familiarization prevents incorrect use.

  • Technical Guidance

    Guidance on MEWP Security

    It is essential that MEWPs are secured and managed correctly to ensure that only competent and nominated personnel operate the equipment in accordance with the employer’s safe system of work. All MEWPs should be stored in a safe and secure manner when left unattended.

  • Technical Guidance

    MEWP Safety Alert Protocol

    The purpose of this guidance is to develop a standard approach to the generation and circulation of safety alerts in the MEWP industry.

  • Scissor lifts are not designed to hold banners. Attaching banners to a scissor lift will increase the surface area and create a "sail board” effect which will destabilize or potentially turn over a MEWP.

  • Check your MEWP! Conduct a pre-use check to make sure the MEWP is safe to use before starting work.

  • Mast Climbing Work Platform (MCWP) Thorough/ Frequent Examination form.

  • Technical Guidance

    Rescue of Persons from MEWPs

    This publication gives guidance to the organisation that has control of the planning, management and use of the MEWP on-site.

  • Overhead obstructions. Always be aware of your surroundings and identify crush hazards when moving the platform.