MEWPS

Below is an introduction to the topic of MEWPs. You can also search for your specific topic using the Search box at the top of the page or click on any of the following keywords and phrases: work at height , emergency response and stability.

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWP’s) are used as temporary working platforms to gain access to work at a height, and occasionally below ground level.

Typical Safety Hazards

• Falls from the Basket e.g.
  • equipment struck by another vehicle or moving plant
  • failure of the levelling system or major component of the MEWP.
  • Using the handrail as a work platform.
• Overturning or movement e.g.
  • incorrect use on a gradient
  • excessive wind loading
  • excessive platform loading
  • outriggers not in use, soft or uneven ground.
  • collision with fixed installations.
• Other people being struck by MEWP or falling objects e.g.
  • struck by tools or equipment falling from the platform
  • becoming trapped or being struck by the machine or it's moving parts.
  • driver colliding with overhead obstruction.

Work Positioning

Careful consideration should be made when purchasing or hiring MEWP’s to ensure the specifications are correct for the work to be carried out. On occasions where the operator needs additional reach a safe system of work must be identified through risk assessment to ensure the operators is not put in a position of danger.

Emergency Arrangements

As with all working at height a suitable plan must be developed to ensure emergency recovery can take place if an incident takes place that results in the operator being unable to operate the MEWP takes place.

If the operator is at risk of being suspended from a harness during a fall then the emergency plan must be able to institute a rapid response as personnel suspended in harnesses following a fall can often have injuries that render them unconscious and can quickly result in a fatality. Rescue/Recovery systems are available from the manufacturers and the most appropriate type should be considered for the nature of the work to be carried out.

Stability

MEWP’s are designed to work from a level stable surface and currently a light display on the control panel tells the operator the m/c is not level. Also foam filled tyres can offer improved safety during operation. Sufficient ground surveys must take place to ensure no drains, wells or soft ground exists in the area a MEWP is to be operated.

Link to IPAF web site:

http://www.ipaf.org/en/resources/health-amp-safety/