It is vitally important that, where a MEWP machine is to be manoeuvred, that the operator must check the whole route of the MEWP from point A to point B.

Constant, all-round observation is key whenever you are raising or lowering any MEWP; look with your own eyes, do not rely on others to guide you and keep checking above, below and to all sides.

A 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.

Accidents can occur from operating a MEWP that you are not familiar with and have not been trained to use. The controls of one MEWP might for example by moving the platform in the opposite direction than on another machine you have used, or feature very different ways to correctly set up outriggers or operate auxiliary controls.

If using a boom-type MEWP, occupants may be ejected from the platform if the catapult effect occurs. This is common if the MEWP becomes snagged on another object or structure, and breaks free suddenly, as stored inertia causes a whiplash or catapult effect.