IPAF’s latest safety campaign highlights the main contributing factors to falls from the MEWP platform and how these can be avoided to ensure all those working with MEWPs plan for safety from the ground before work starts.

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.

Mast Climbing Work Platform (MCWP) Handover Certificate

Mast Climbing Work Platform (MCWP) Load Chart

Have you been familiarised?
Familiarisation prevents incorrect use.

Check your MEWP! Conduct a pre-use check to make sure the MEWP is safe to use before starting work.

Beware of falling objects. Organise a drop zone clear of the MEWP base.

Unsafe ground? Always check ground conditions – plan your route.

Caution when loading and unloading. Always load and unload MEWPs safely.

Never attach banners to MEWPs. Always remember a banner can act like a sail.

Don't use a MEWP as a crane! Lifting objects can overload or damage the MEWP and cause it to overturn.

Prevent unauthorised use. After use, always leave the MEWP in a safe and secure place and remove the key.

Keep clear of cables. You do not need to touch the power cables to be electrocuted – electricity can jump!

Overhead obstructions. Always be aware of your surroundings and identify crush hazards when moving the platform.

Register pre-owned MEWPs. Make sure you register with the MEWP manufacturer to get safety alerts and product updates.

Do not jump out of the platform. Always enter and exit the platform using three points of contact.

Danger keep well clear. When using pedestrian controls stand clear of the MEWP and return back to the platform when safe.

A selection of 3D virtual Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and Mast Climbing Work Platforms (MCWPs) is now available for use in Building Information Modelling (BIM).