The Statement of Best Practices of Personal Fall Protection Systems for Aerial Work Platform Equipment is an industry initiative to develop an educational document to clarify when and how to use PFP systems on AWP equipment. It was developed for use in the US and is based on ANSI standards. 

The Statement of Best Practices of General Training and Familiarization for Aerial Work Platform Equipment is a first-of-its-kind industry initiative to develop an educational document to clarify what is required for general training and model-specific familiarization of aerial work platform (AWP) equipment. 

Originally broadcast on November 8, 2017. Tony Groat, IPAF's North America Regional Manager, looks at the proposed standards (ANSI & CSA) for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) in the US and Canada.

In consultation with manufacturers, contractors, rental companies and other interested parties, IPAF has produced this good practice guide listing some of the key points that should be taken into consideration by rental companies and their customers when managing any type of Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP).

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

Prevent unauthorized 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!

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

Register pre-owned MEWPs. Make sure you register with the MEWP manufacturer to get safety alerts and product updates.

Do not jump out of the platform. Always enter and exit the platform using three points of contact.

Danger keep well clear. When using pedestrian controls stand clear of the MEWP and return back to the platform when safe.

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

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.

Beware of falling objects. Organize 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.

The IPAF Operators’ Safety Guide for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (also known as Aerial Work Platforms) is a pocket-size publication that sets out the recommended working practices for the safe operation of MEWPs/AWPs over a wide range of applications, from initial checks, through transport and positioning on site, to carrying out the required tasks.