One of the key conditions for MEWP stability is the ability of the ground or structure to safely support the weight of the MEWP at its point of contact with the ground in all configurations. Failure to consider the load-bearing capacity of the ground could potentially cause the MEWP to go out of level, become unstable, and overturn.

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are considered to be one of safest ways of performing temporary work at height. This technical guidance explores the importance for all MEWPs to be kept in a safe working condition throughout their working life to ensure continued safe and efficient operation over time.

This guidance is intended to: provide information for those who plan and manage MEWP operations; provide information on the main hazards when using a MEWP in pedestrian control mode; provide information on the risk control measures to adopt when using pedestrian controls; provide general global guidance for those who undertake tasks to prevent incidents occurring.

When a MEWP is delivered or collected from a site, loading and unloading on the public highway should be avoided wherever possible. The aim is to minimise risk to employees and members of the public by ensuring delivery vehicles park away from public highways and pavements.

Stay safe when working near RF sources with Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs). This leaflet highlights the key risks from RF and how to avoid them.

International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) collates incident reports received from around the world, from companies, individuals and IPAF members who share their experiences to allow others to work safer. By analyzing the data, it is evident incidents involving electrocutions and electric shocks have notably increased since 2015, the standout statistic is that reported incidents of electrocution are nearly always fatal.

The purpose of this document is to provide information, and good-practice guidance on means of reducing exposure to trapping and crushing hazards while using a MEWP.

The catapult effect on a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) occurs when stored energy or an impact to the MEWP’s superstructure causes a whiplash effect, which travels through the boom to the platform.

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are a safe way of providing temporary access at height for tree care work and vegetation control. Overgrown or overhanging trees and vegetation require management and MEWPs provide an ideal solution for this. This task is necessary in both urban and rural locations – often in public areas close to pedestrians and passing traffic. Pruning or removing branches can be a hazardous task, especially if trees are in the proximity of power lines or communications cables or the platform is poorly positioned in relation to the work area.

This document is intended to highlight the relevant hazards and associated risks when a MEWP is to be used in public areas, which are often more challenging to control than other work sites. Identify measures that can be implemented to eliminate or reduce the risk of an incident or injury when using a MEWP in locations where public and/or vehicles are not prohibited, ie not on fixed construction sites or defined commercial premises.

MEWPs may encounter wind during operation, this can affect the stability of the machine. MEWPs must be designed and tested to demonstrate stability for operation while exposed to permissible wind speeds or be labelled as designed for indoor use only. Indoor-only MEWPs should only be used in areas where there is no wind force acting on the MEWP. Some MEWPs may be rated for use both indoors and outdoors use.

IPAF has developed this guide to assist in your development of your MEWP-specific safe-use plan. The ANSI A92.22 MEWP Safe-Use standard specifies requirements for the application, inspection, training, maintenance, repair, and safe operation of MEWPs. A safe-use program specific to MEWPs shall be developed by the user to ensure all responsibilities are met.

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are designed to lift people to a position where they can work at height safely in the platform. MEWPs are not designed to be used as an overhead anchor point. Using them as such is not recommended.

Guidance for where a Thorough Examination cannot be carried out on a MEWP, MCWP or Construction Hoist due to COVID-19

This document is intended to provide practical guidance on safety measures to minimise exposure to COVID-19 for anyone using MEWPs, MCWPs or Construction hoists for work activities.

This document is intended to provide practical guidance for IPAF-approved Training Centres to minimise the risk of exposure to COVID-19 when undertaking training on MEWPs, MCWPs and Hoists.

Before using a MEWP you must be trained to the applicable MEWP classification and be familiarised on the specific machine. Familiarisation is required on any MEWP that is significantly different in weight, height, length or complexity to the MEWP on which training took place. The operator, supervisor, ground person/rescuer, service engineer and demonstrator all need adequate familiarisation to undertake their duties. 

Exhibitions, trade fairs and other such shows can be challenging environments in which to operate Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs). Special consideration is required when displaying or demonstrating at such events.

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) provide a safe means for people to conduct temporary work at height. When buying a pre-owned MEWP, it must comply to the safety legislation and meet the relevant standards in the location where it will be operating before it can be used. Every MEWP must be supplied in a safe working condition, with all safety devices functional.

This publication gives guidance to the organisation that has control of the planning, management and use of the MEWP on-site.

A Practical Approach to Inspection, Maintenance and Thorough Examination of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs). Jointly published for the Strategic Forum for Construction - Plant Safety Group by the CPA and IPAF.

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are specifically designed to lift people to a position where they can work at height safely within the platform. MEWPs are not designed to transfer people from one level to another, or for people to exit the platform at height.