It is that essential operators identify obstacles that might pose a crushing or trapping hazard in any direction of movement of the work platform. Always check in all directions while preparing to move the work platform, including checking all around the platform, and especially behind you.
MEWPs pose significant risks of crushing or entrapment to platform occupants. Failure to plan and manage activities involving MEWPs can result in severe injuries or fatalities.
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.
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.
MEWP overturn incidents often result in serious injuries or fatalities. Instability leading to overturn is commonly among the top four causes of lost time incidents (LTIs) annually, according to global data.
