WHAT IS THE RISK?

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), are a safe and effective means of access for undertaking temporary work at height tasks. It is important to remember a MEWP is only as safe as the person who is operating it. If this equipment is used incorrectly, unsafely or by inexperienced people, accidents and fatalities are more likely to happen.

This Toolbox Talk provides some safety measures which can reduce the risk of falls from the platform.

WHO NEEDS TO KNOW?

This Toolbox Talk applies to everyone involved with the operation of a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP):

• Equipment rental companies
• Users/hirers of MEWPs
• Operators of MEWPs

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

• IPAF Operators Safety Guide (available on the ePAL app www.ipaf.org/ePAL)
• Andy Access: Don't fall for it!
• IPAF Fall Protection in MEWPs guidance (H1)
• IPAF Familiarisation guidance (F1)
• IPAF Exiting the Platform at Height guidance (E2)

Ref: Toolbox Talk A30 | TE-18-EN--V42