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.

All MEWPs/AWPs rely on the condition of the ground on which they stand for their stability. This applies equally to those which require the use of jacks or outriggers and those which operate free on wheels. It is essential that an assessment of ground conditions is made before travelling, using or setting up a MEWP on any surface.

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

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.

A secondary guarding device is a piece of equipment which can be fitted to a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP), also known as aerial work platform (AWP), in addition to the primary guarding systems and is intended to further reduce the risk of entrapment and/or provide an alert that an entrapment situation has occurred.

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), also known as Aerial work platforms (AWPs), are probably the safest way of doing temporary work at height. Stay safe
when near to power lines/conductors. Electrocutions were the single largest cause of fatalities to MEWP/AWP operators in the US in 2012.

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.

Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) Pre-Use Inspection Checklist.

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

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

Normal and auxiliary control systems built into a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) will allow the operator to bring the platform of the machine safely to ground level under controlled conditions. It is extremely unusual not to be able to lower the platform using these controls or for all of these systems to fail. The following is an example of a rescue plan for people who work at height using a MEWP.

Attach Your Lanyard: Always attach the lanyard in boom type machines.

Do not jump out of the platform. Always use the correct exit gate and step out using three points of contact.

Caution when loading and unloading. Always plan for a safe delivery.

Danger keep well clear. Operate from the platform or stand clear to avoid injury.

Know your machine. Familiarization helps prevent incorrect use.

Overhead obstructions. Always be aware and avoid crush hazards when moving the platform.

Register pre-owned machines. Make sure you register with the manufacturer to get product updates.