This Toolbox Talk provides guidance for powered access rental companies on how to deal with suspected asbestos contaminated equipment when it is off-hired.

There is a requirement for all lifting equipment, including Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), to specify maximum capacity limits. For MEWPs, this is the safe working load (SWL) which is expressed in kilograms or pounds and includes the maximum number of people allowed in the platform. An overload is the intentional, or accidental, exceeding of these limits.

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) should not be used if there is a risk of lightning. If lightning strikes a MEWP it will look for the path of least resistance to earth. This means it can travel from the platform, through the superstructure and tyres to earth. Rubber tyres do not insulate MEWPs.

This Toolbox Talk provides information on the types of hazards that can cause collisions/impacts and suggests ways to reduce the likelihood of these incidents occurring.

When working in a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) at height, you must be aware of the risk of tools, materials and equipment falling from the platform with the potential to injure people working at ground level. It is essential that any items likely to fall are properly secured within the envelope of the platform’s guardrails.

CRUSHING CAN KILL - STAY ALERT, STAY ALIVE
Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) are often used to carry out work in areas where there are risks of crushing or entrapment to the platform occupants. Any activity involving MEWPs must be planned and properly managed. Failure to do so can result in injury or death of the platform occupants.

Do you have a rescue plan? Always plan for a safe rescue.

Attach Your Lanyard. Always attach the lanyard to an anchorage point in boom type MEWPs.

Be street smart! Manage vehicle and pedestrian traffic, create a safe working zone.

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 MEWP for the job.

Have you been familiarised? Familiarisation prevents incorrect use.

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

Unsafe ground? Always check ground conditions – plan your route.

Caution when loading and unloading. Always load and unload MEWPs safely.

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

Overhead obstructions. Always be aware of your surroundings and identify crush hazards when moving the platform.

Be safe in the workshop. Ensure all work on MEWPs is carried out safely.

Don’t overload the hoist. Stay within the hoist rated capacity and observe the limits of the machine.

Don’t get hit at height! Never elevate the platform if there is a risk of being hit by other equipment.

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

Do not interfere with ties. A mast climbing work platform (MCWP) needs all of the ties for stability.

Check your MEWP! Conduct a pre-use check to make sure the MEWP is safe to use before starting work.

Don't use a MEWP as a crane! Lifting objects can overload or damage the MEWP and cause it to overturn.

Prevent unauthorised use. After use, always leave the MEWP 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!