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 serious injury or death of the platform occupants. To minimise these risks and protect platform occupants, see the following guidance:
- Training and Competence: Only trained, competent operators should operate MEWPs. Ongoing supervision and monitoring are essential to keep everyone safe on the job.
- Avoid Trapping Hazards: When manoeuvring, do not lean over controls. Keep the platform free from objects that could accidentally activate controls. Maintain focus; avoid distractions like mobile phones. Don’t be complacent, that’s when accidents happen!
- Always be Aware of Overhead Obstructions: Be mindful of environmental conditions (poor lighting, weather) that could make overhead hazards harder to see. Ensure adequate lighting is provided in low-visibility areas. Remember to:
- Look up! Before elevating the platform
- Look around! Before moving the platform
- Look down! Before lowering the platform
- Pedestrian Safety: Create exclusion zones to operate MEWPs safely and designated walkways for pedestrians. Use Spotters if needed.
- Ground Conditions Matter: Always check the ground condition before operating a MEWP. The ground should be capable of supporting the MEWP in all configurations.
- Avoid Disorientation in Boom-Type MEWPs: Always check the platform orientation before driving the MEWP. Orientate the drive directional arrows at the base of the MEWP with the directional arrows on the drive controller joystick.
- Prevent Unintended Movements: Take your time, and don’t rush. Ensure you are familiarised with the MEWP model you are operating. Double-check controls before moving.
- Secondary Guarding Awareness: Secondary guarding isn’t foolproof. Stay vigilant and understand the operating characteristics of any secondary guarding device installed.
- Ground Control Use: MEWPs are fitted with ground controls. They should only be used when conducting pre-use inspections or for lowering the platform in case of an emergency situation.
- Risk Assessment is Key: Ensure every task is risk-assessed. Regularly review and update assessments and communicate changes to everyone involved.
- Safe System of Work: Follow the safe system of work for each task stage, from setup to work at height. Always work within the defined control measures and supervision arrangements.
- Emergency and Rescue Readiness: Make sure you have a MEWP rescue plan and you understand it. Notify your supervisor on any hazards and changes to site conditions which could affect the Rescue Plan.
