Look out when raising or lowering the platform

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.

When raising the platform, it is key to look for crushing and trapping hazards. Check for overhead cables, building or structural projections and tree branches, as well as any moving machinery or plant, including overhead cranes or hoists. Be aware of sources of radiofrequency (RF) radiation such as mobile phone masts; these can be inside roofs or structures like towers or church steeples, often designed to be hidden.

Always keep an eye on the MEWP elevating and ensure all parts of the MEWP including boom overhangs and the platform are clear of any structures and in particular vehicular traffic or pedestrians and other site operatives. If using a boom-type MEWP, ensure you are wearing the correct harness and lanyard for the task (see IPAF leaflet H1: Fall Protection in MEWPs).

When lowering the platform, the same guidance applies: Observe constantly, check the path is clear and that all personnel are clear of boom jibs or the scissor pack to ensure trapping or crushing doesn’t occur. Retract extension decks on scissors or truck-mounted platforms to avoid these hitting or snagging on objects.

Avoid becoming distracted; lowering a platform is not inherently any safer than raising it. Never disengage your harness or lanyard in a boom-type MEWP until the operation is finished and you are ready to safely exit the platform at ground level.

See also: IPAF guidance on crushing hazards; H1 Harness leaflet; Street Smart Campaign.