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.

In consultation with manufacturers, contractors, rental companies and other interested parties, IPAF has produced this good practice guide listing some of the key points that should be taken into consideration by rental companies and their customers when managing any type of Mobile Elevating Work Platform (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.

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!

IPAF’s accident reporting project, launched in 2012, is compiling a comprehensive record of known accidents. The accident data gathered enables IPAF to improve the content of training programmes, develop technical guidance, target specific high-risk professions or activities, and provide research findings to bodies developing and drafting new industry standards.