Beware falling objects or materials striking the MEWP

There are occasions where positioning or use of the MEWP renders the machine, or parts of it to impact from falling material. Proper planning and correct positioning of the MEWP for carrying out work at height is essential.

Where materials are to be handled from within the platform, consider the following:

• How are materials going to be secured against the possibility of them falling, striking MEWP operators and occupants or the MEWP itself?
• If materials are to be added to the platform, will or could they exceed the MEWP platforms maximum rated load?
• Could any object or material being installed or removed at height – for example a sign or banner – be blown by the wind, creating a sail effect, destabilising the MEWPs and/or being blown out of the grasp of the occupants?
• How will loose material be prevented from falling and striking the platform, occupants, machines or personnel on the ground?
• Using specialist and manufacturer-approved devices to help prevent materials from falling from the platform, for example tool tethers or platform netting.

See also: Back to Basics and Plan Ahead campaigns, IPAF Site Assessment Courses, Andy Access Posters, IPAF Toolbox Talks.