Mast Climbing Work Platform (MCWP) Load Chart

Know your machine. Familiarisation helps prevent incorrect use.

Pre-use inspection! Make sure the machine is operating properly, before starting work.

Rescue plan? Always plan for a safe rescue.

Beware of falling objects. Organise a drop zone clear of the MEWP base.

Unsafe ground? Always check ground conditions.

Caution when loading and unloading. Always plan for a safe delivery.

Never attach banners to scissor lifts. Always remember a banner can act like a sail.

Don't use a MEWP as a crane! MEWPs are designed to elevate people, tools & equipment inside the work platform.

Prevent unauthorised use. After use, always leave the machine in a safe and secure place and remove the key.

Keep clear of cables. You do not need to touch the power cables to be electrocuted – electricity can jump!

Overhead obstructions. Always be aware and avoid crush hazards when moving the platform.

Register pre-owned machines. Make sure you register with the manufacturer to get product updates.

Do not jump out of the platform. Always use the correct exit gate and step out using three points of contact.

Danger keep well clear. Operate from the platform or stand clear to avoid injury.

Caution with guardrails. Be careful not to trap your fingers when lowering or raising guardrails.

Setting up on a slope? Outriggers and spreader pads must be on level and stable ground.

Correct MEWP selection. Always use the right machine for the job.

Don't overload the Platform. Always respect the load chart and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for its intended use.

The mounting or re-mounting of a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) onto a new or different vehicle chassis to the original chassis as sold by the MEWP manufacturer is a specialist job requiring both in-depth engineering knowledge and the technical specifications for the MEWP to be mounted.

When working from a boom type Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP), it is strongly recommended that a lanyard short enough for the wearer to be restrained within the platform be used. The lanyard may contain an energy absorbing device, provided it is short enough to restrain the wearer within the platform. This includes Static Booms (1b) and Mobile Booms (3b).

Guidance on how members of the UK Contractors Group (UKCG) should manage the use of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) on their sites. First issued by the UKCG in January 2014, with input from IPAF and the Strategic Forum for Construction Plant Safety Group.