The importance of MEWP familiarization

Accidents can occur from operating a MEWP that you are not familiar with and have not been trained to use. The controls of one MEWP might for example by moving the platform in the opposite direction than on another machine you have used, or feature very different ways to correctly set up outriggers or operate auxiliary controls.

WHAT IS FAMILIARIzATION?

Familiarization is a short activity to make sure that the operator understands how to safely operate the machine to be used. Familiarization is NOT training – Each operator must be trained for the MEWP category and familiarized on the MEWP to be used.

To use any MEWP properly and safely, your familiarization process should confirm the operating manual is on the machine, and must include a review of the machine features, functions, devices, limitations, warnings and operating characteristics of the MEWP. Confirm that the nominated ground rescue person knows the position, function and operation of the auxiliary lowering controls.

See also: MEWP Familiarization Toolbox Talk, F1 Familiarization leaflet, IPAF Operators' Safety Guide in ePAL (accessed through the 'Experience' section once you have added a machine)