Do's and Don'ts :- Mobile Elevated Working Platforms (MEWP)

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The Safety in Use - Do's & Don'ts

OPERATING MOBILE ELEVATED WORKING PLATFORMS (MEWP)

Do….👍

1. Ensure the work platform is properly positioned and that outriggers, where required, are fully lowered and extended where possible, with sole plates and spreaders as necessary.
2. Check the work platform is properly positioned and that outriggers, where required, are fully lowered and extended where possible with sole plates and spreaders as necessary.
3. As far as is reasonably practicable, any work carried out from the platform should be within the area bounded by the guard-rails. It is not advisable for persons to lean out.
4. Always distribute any load evenly over the platform area, and ensure unstable loads are chocked off and fixed to prevent movement.
5. Operators an users should always wear safety helmets, and safety harnesses suitably clipped on.
6. Always check for possible obstructions before and when raising the platform

Don’t…👎

1. Allow the maximum working load to be exceeded.  The load capacity of a platform is the total combined weight of personnel, tools and materials.
2. Use unless all the safety guards and platform rails are in place and secure.
3. Start moving unless the way is clear.
4. Use the platform as a jack, prop or tie.
5. Use a platform to tow another vehicle or item of plant.
6. No modifications or additions should be made to the work platform, e.g. the mounting of signs, panels and other structures etc, which will affect wind loading and consequently the stability.
7. Use the manual emergency lower control for lowering other than in an emergency.
8. Use ladders, scaffolding or any other means of extending working height of the platform.
9. Wedge platform under girders, trusses etc.
10. Over-ride hydraulic, electrical or mechanical safety devices.
11. Use as a lift for transferring persons or materials from one level to another.
12. Use in winds exceeding 20 mph.
13. Charge batteries near sparks or open flame.  Batteries that are being charged emit highly explosive gasses.
14. Operate a MEWP unless you have been passed medically fit by the Registered Medial Practitioner.