Worker ejected from EWP (3 August 2023)
A 63-year-old worker was seriously injured while working within the back of an enclosed trailer using an elevated working platform (EWP). The EWP fell off the back edge of the trailer striking the ground and ejecting the worker forward and onto the ground below.
Safety information
Consider ‘reasonably practicable’ control measures to manage the risks associated with working with and around EWPs.
Ensure:
- a risk assessment of the site is carried out prior to work commencing to identify any hazards and appropriate control measures
- consideration of alternative means of working at height, for example, mobile scaffolding or boom-type EWP
- manufacturer’s instructions are followed including inspections to ensure the condition, safe operating procedures, and limitations of the EWP
- site conditions allow for the plant to be used in a safe manner, for example, suitable supporting surface, adequate separation from other plant and powerlines, wind or other environmental factors
- all necessary training, information and instruction is provided to and understood by operators prior to use
- operators hold a current high-risk work licence for boom type EWPs platforms where the boom length is of 11 metres or more
- a safe system for maintaining sufficient distance from hazards is implemented, such as barricades, exclusions zones, spotters etc
- operators are provided with adequate supervision.
Related guidance material
- Managing the risks of falls at workplaces - Code of Practice (PDF, 2326.56 KB)
- Managing the risks of plant in the workplace - Code of Practice (PDF, 1987.96 KB)
- Managing the risks of elevating work platforms
- Provide supervision and ongoing training
- WHS in the road freight transport industry (PDF, 2749.87 KB)