The safety campaign for 2018-19 from IPAF reminds managers and operators conducting work at height using MEWPs to carry out proper risk assessments, choose the correct equipment for the job, conduct thorough site and machinery inspections, to use only trained and familiarised operators under proper supervision and to implement adequate segregation from other machinery and traffic.
Technical and Safety Director, IPAF
The most common types of accidents can be prevented by proper planning and safely managing the use of MEWPs. IPAF is highlighting these factors so managers and operators know the risks and know their responsibilities. Some of the key points of guidance include:
Risky behaviour: Operator behaviour when using MEWPs is usually positive in terms of safety, but risky behaviour can be a contributing factor in falls from a work platform. Common risky behaviours include leaning out of the platform, climbing on guardrails, tying gates open or overriding safety controls. Managers should ensure operators are trained; that the right machine has been selected; and all work at height is supervised.
Exiting at height: Stepping out of the platform immediately exposes the worker to falling from height. Remain inside the work platform at all times.
Setting up near other machinery or vehicles: A collision between a MEWP and other plant or a road vehicle can be catastrophic. Therefore always restrict movement of machinery and/or traffic near the MEWP. Ensure site planning and risk assessments are conducted prior to positioning the MEWP, and implement an exclusion zone.
Mechanical failure: To avoid accidents through mechanical failure and to ensure MEWPs are maintained in safe working order – the owner’s legal obligation – MEWP owners should implement a rigorous inspection, maintenance and thorough examination regime. All inspections must be conducted by a competent person with adequate training and experience on that type of MEWP.
“Operator behaviour when using MEWPs is usually a positive in terms of safety, but risky behaviour can be a contributing factor in falls from a work platform.” – Andrew Delahunt, IPAF Technical & Safety Director
Update to IPAF’s global auxiliary controls decal
IPAF has updated one of its most widely used global safety stickers for use on MEWPs – launching a redesign of the decal that is applied to machines to indicate where the auxiliary lowering controls are located.
The new design provides an easy-tocomprehend and clearly visible reminder to operators, managers or supervisors of MEWP operations as to where the auxiliary lowering controls are on the particular machine being operated.
IPAF urges manufacturers, rental companies and owners of MEWP equipment to update the machines in their fleets with the new decal at their earliest convenience.
Visit www.ipaf.org/contact for details of how to contact your nearest IPAF office or representative, or check www.ipaf.org/safe for the full range of stickers, safety messages and Andy Access posters available that are available to interested parties free of charge.
IPAF
015395 66700
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