Stay safe and avoid falls from the platform by conducting a thorough site survey and risk assessment. Assess machine suitability for the task and conditions, and follow the good practice guidance to avoid falls from the platform.

Plan and walk the route – getting to and from the work site may involve manoeuvring the MEWP over challenging terrain.

MEWPs are designed to lift people so they can conduct temporary work at height safely. Using a MEWP as an overhead anchor is not recommended by IPAF.

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) can be used in confined areas, or near overhead structures. When travelling or when elevated there is a risk that the operator or the platform occupant may come in contact with an overhead obstruction. This could result in crushing or entrapment of that person.

If a boom-type MEWP becomes snagged or caught on another object, you might not realise this has happened, and might experience a catapult effect if you do not follow correct procedures with caution.

Who is to blame if something goes wrong or there is an accident when using powered access equipment? According to IPAF’s research, the fault can often be traced back to the planning stage.

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.

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.