Moving, testing, servicing or repairing MEWPs exposes workshop employees to hazards and risks that vary based on the type of MEWP and the type of service or repair being carried out. Failure to properly identify those hazards and eliminate or manage those risks or failure to follow work or service instructions, could lead to property damage, injury, ill-health or death.

Good working practices in any workshop environment are important, as they contribute to the everyday safe performance of tasks, focusing on reducing risks to personnel, equipment, materials, and the environment.

WHO NEEDS TO KNOW?

This Toolbox Talk applies to all individuals involved with a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) in a workshop environment, including:

• Workshop manager
• Workshop supervisor
• Workshop MEWP repair staff

WHAT IS A TOOLBOX TALK?

Toolbox talks are short discussion sessions that allow you and your workers to explore the risks and safety issues specific to your work site. The talks should focus on a single topic. A toolbox talk should be a regular occurrence to reinforce learning and gain worker buy-in.

IPAF TOOLBOX TALKS

IPAF’s toolbox talks focus on key issues when using mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), as well as mast climbing work platforms (MCWPs) or hoists. The talks build on the safety messages highlighted through the Andy Access campaign (www.ipaf.org/andyaccess), and these posters will form part of your briefing. It is advisable that these posters be used throughout your worksite to reinforce your safety messages.

USEFUL REFERENCES

• Statement of Best Practices for Workplace Risk Assessment and Aerial Work Platform Equipment Selection
• Manufacturer Operators Manual
• Be safe in the workshop Andy Access Poster

Ref: Toolbox Talk A24 | TE-1083-0821-1-en