This safety alert reminds owners and operators of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) to be aware of the machine’s capabilities and always operate within its limits.
Background
A worker sustained fatal injuries while operating a three wheeled MEWP on a terraced property while picking avocados. The MEWP was found tipped over with the boom and basket in the fully extended position.
Action required
- inspect and maintain equipment as per the manufacturer’s specifications, including daily inspections before operating the MEWP
- keep maintenance and inspection records
- where possible, remove hazards including logs, large tree branches, large rocks and thick undergrowth from the operating areas of the MEWP
- ensure controls are correctly labelled and legible
- develop safe work procedures with a site map highlighting any known site specific hazards, eg:
- Steep gradients that are outside the manufacturer's recommendations for the machine,
- Slippery, soft or uneven ground, ruts and washouts,
- Banks, pits, drains and irrigation lines,
- Animal burrows,
- Power lines and fences.
- train and assess operators to ensure they are competent for each model of MEWP they operate
- operators should:
- Have a clear understanding of the machine’s capabilities,
- Be familiar with the hazards included in the site map and are able to follow the safe work procedure,
- Have easy access to operator’s manual.
- the MEWP should never be operated on soft surfaces or side-on to any sloping ground steeper than recommended by the manufacturer
- operators should wear an appropriate restraint device with fixed length lanyard that restricts the operator to the basket
- re-assess operators for competency on a regular basis
Further information
- AS 1418.10-2011: Cranes, hoists and winches – Mobile elevating work platforms
- AS 2550.10-2006: Cranes, hoists and winches – Safe use - Mobile elevating work platforms
- Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017
For more information call 13 10 50.
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