As types of MEWP vary a great deal, it is essential that they are operated only by persons who have been trained on the specific type of equipment to be used.
To be operated and maintained strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If in doubt about these ask your supervisor.
The safe working load specified by the manufacturer must never be exceeded. SWL includes the weight of men, tools and materials.
For outside work, any restrictions on wind speed must also be complied with.
Where outriggers or stabilisers are fitted, they must be fully deployed.
Ensure that ground conditions are satisfactory with no manholes, voids, etc. under wheels or outriggers. On uneven ground, ensure that the machine is level, or can be levelled.
Safety harness must be worn when using a cherry picker securely attached to part of the platform - never to any fixed point outside the platform.
When raising, lowering or slewing the platform, care must be taken to ensure that occupants cannot be trapped against a fixed object.
When travelling, care must be taken to avoid obstructions, floor edges, ducts, etc., and unsuitable gradients.
Occupants must not leave the platform (except in an emergency) while it is elevated.
Occupants must stand on the platform decking and not on guard-rails or mid-rails, or on boards placed across them, neither must they sit on the guard-rails.
Ladders, steps and hop-ups must not be used on the platform.
Loose materials must not be permitted to accumulate on the platform.
Safety devices must not be abused or over-ridden.
Undertake daily checks and periodic maintenance schedules in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions (tyre pressures, brakes, steering, safety devices, etc.). Defects in equipment or the system of work must be reported at once.
Mast Work Platforms (MWP)
No-one must erect, dismantle or operate a MWP unless trained and authorised to do so.
No-one must use a MWP unless authorised to do so.
The guard-rails and toe-boards must be kept constantly in position; they may only be removed on the side immediately adjacent to the building or structure whilst the platform is stationery and there is no risk of persons falling.
Work must not entail leaning out over the guard-rail.
The MWP must not be travelled horizontally while the platform is raised, unless the makers` instructions permit this.
The MWP must not be used as a jack, prop or tie.
The safe working load, as displayed on the platform, must not be exceeded.
Access and egress (except in an emergency) must be at ground level only.
Report any defect in the equipment or the system of work without delay.
