MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms) can operate in many environments. In some situations, hazards may be identified that are difficult to be seen by the operator, such as blind spots and provide another set of eyes on activities in the work area, including moving traffic or pedestrians. In these cases, a spotter may be used but they must be competent and authorized.

Moving, testing, servicing or repairing MEWPs exposes workshop employees to hazards and risks that vary based on the type of MEWP and the type of service or repair being carried out. Failure to properly identify those hazards and eliminate or manage those risks or failure to follow work or service instructions, could lead to property damage, injury, ill-health or death.

To stay safe and not distract the operator when the Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) is in motion.

Why do you need rescue procedures? A robust, documented rescue procedure is required to lower the Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) platform occupants in a timely manner in case of a malfunction or emergency. Any delay in rescuing the MEWP platform occupants may be the difference between life and death.

When working at height in a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP), one of the leading causes of death and severe injury is falls from the platform. This toolbox talk looks at the risks and how to prevent falling from the platform.

Harnesses and lanyards prevent severe injury or death by preventing falls from MEWPs, therefore it is essential that you check the condition and function before every use. Through use, PFPE could become damaged, worn or lose parts. These checks must be repeated before every use.

The mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) may be significantly different than the MEWP the operator was trained on, even if the MEWP is of the same group and manufacturer.

‘Walking the MEWP’ is the term used when manoeuvring or travelling a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) using the platform controls from the ground by walking alongside or near the MEWP. This includes those that use an ‘umbilical cord’, radio/remote control or fixed point of control at the chassis.

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) can be used in confined areas, or near overhead structures. When travelling or when elevated there is a risk that the operator or the platform occupant may come in contact with an overhead obstruction. This could result in crushing or entrapment of that person.

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are not advertising displays. MEWPs are designed to take persons, tools and equipment within the platform to enable the occupants to work safely at height. Attaching a sign or banner to a MEWP will potentially make the MEWP unstable. This can cause an overturn and result in serious injuries to people and damage to property.

Ground conditions are critical for the stability of the mobile elevating work platform (MEWP). Unsuitable ground conditions can result in the MEWP overturning with potential loss of life.

Why is a rescue plan important? Planning is critical to a prompt rescue of someone who has become trapped and timing can make a very significant difference to the injuries sustained – in some cases, the difference between life and death.

A mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) must be inspected daily or at the start of each shift to make sure it is: safe to use and will not cause an injury to the platform occupants or other personnel.