This is the third webinar in the three-part IPAF Women in Powered Access series an outcome of the IPAF Women in Powered Access Initiative. Host Ali Moore is joined by panellist speakers Charlotte Bennett, Carolin Bautzmann and Francesca Marchesini.
This guidance is intended to: provide information for those who plan and manage MEWP operations; provide information on the main hazards when using a MEWP in pedestrian control mode; provide information on the risk control measures to adopt when using pedestrian controls; provide general global guidance for those who undertake tasks to prevent incidents occurring.
When a MEWP is delivered or collected from a site, loading and unloading on the public highway should be avoided wherever possible. The aim is to minimise risk to employees and members of the public by ensuring delivery vehicles park away from public highways and pavements.
All MEWPs 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.
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.
The following guidance is intended to help employers differentiate between the possible options available when considering the selection of appropriate equipment where the increased risk of entrapment has been identified.
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.
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.
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 document outlines a major inspection scheme to validate structural integrity and functionality of critical components of a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP). Such a scheme may be undertaken to determine if a machine is within safe design and use criteria beyond the manufacturer’s design life. Design life is defined as the duration determined by the manufacturer for which a structure or a structural component may be used for its intended purpose with recommended maintenance.
CRUSHING CAN KILL - STAY ALERT, STAY ALIVE
Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) are often used to carry out work in areas where there are risks of crushing or entrapment to the platform occupants. Any activity involving MEWPs must be planned and properly managed. Failure to do so can result in injury or death of the platform occupants.
