Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) Guidance

Introduction

• Guidance for safe operation of MEWPs including types:
  • Static Vertical (e.g. Scissors lifts)
  • Static Boom (e.g. Self-propelled booms)
  • Mobile Vertical and Mobile Booms

Legal Provisions

• Governed by:
  • Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005
  • Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007
  • European Communities (Machinery) Regulations 2008
  • Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013

Risk Assessment

• Site-specific risk assessment by a competent person
• Identify risks and measures to eliminate/control them
• Communicate risk assessment to relevant people

Working Conditions

• Near or Over Water: Conduct risk assessment for drowning risk
• On Live Roads: Risk assessment for MEWP selection
• Weather: Assess conditions like rain, flooding, or freezing

Safe System of Work

• Based on risk assessment
• Communicate safe system and rescue plan to all involved
• Practice rescue plans

Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Include hard hat, safety footwear, high visibility clothing, hearing and eye protection, hand protection
• Use fall restraints in boom type MEWPs

Selecting MEWP Type

• Pre-planning is essential
• Consider work nature, environment, ground conditions, space, load, and equipment handling

Risk Management

• Follow manufacturer's instructions
• Safe transport, delivery, and collection
• Pre-delivery inspection and documentation

Hiring a MEWP

• Ensure appropriate MEWP selection
• Transport planning and familiarization required
• Site safety briefing and rescue plan awareness

Storage and Recharging

• Secure storage with brakes on
• Safe recharging in well-ventilated areas

Positioning of MEWP

• Operate on stable, level ground
• Use spreader pads for stability
• Avoid proximity to trenches or unstable areas

Safe Traffic Management

• Segregate MEWP activities
• Use banksman for guidance

Working at Heights

• Conduct site-specific risk assessments
• Avoid falling, overturning, collisions, and electrocution

Operator Awareness

• Continuous awareness of changing environment and hazards
• Avoid incorrect operation due to lack of training or familiarization

Trapping or Crushing

• Identify risks in site-specific assessment
• Have emergency plans and ground-based personnel

Handling Materials

• Use MEWPs for people, not materials
• Use cranes or handlers for material lifting

Avoiding Electrocution

• Pre-plan to avoid overhead electricity lines
• Ensure proper risk assessment and communication with service providers

Training

• Ensure all operators are trained and familiar with equipment
• Maintain training records

Maintenance

• Regular maintenance and pre-use checks
• Isolate and report defects immediately

Thorough Examination

• Every six months by a competent person
• Keep proof of examination on site

Further Information

• Resources available on HSA website and other safety organizations
• Contact Health and Safety Authority for more info