Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs)
Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) can provide a safe way of
working at height. They:
- allow the worker to reach the task quickly and easily
- have guard rails and toe boards which prevent a person
falling
- can be used in-doors or out
MEWPs include cherry pickers, scissor lifts and vehicle-mounted
booms. These pages help you to:
choose the right MEWP for the job identify and manage the risks involved with working from
MEWPs
Things to consider
If you are thinking of using a MEWP look at the following
questions.
-
Height
-
How high is the job from the ground?
Application
-
Do you have the appropriate MEWP for the job? (If you are not
sure, check with the hirer or manufacturer.)
Conditions
- What are the ground conditions like - is there a risk of the MEWP
becoming unstable or overturning?
Operators
- Are the people using the MEWP trained, competent and fit to do
so?
Obstructions
- Could the MEWP be caught on any protruding features or overhead
hazards, e.g. steelwork, tree branches or power lines?
- Is there passing traffic, and if so, what do you need to do to
prevent collisions?
Restraint
- Do you need to use either work restraint (to prevent people
climbing out of the MEWP) or a fall arrest system (which will stop a
person hitting the ground if they fall out)? HSE guidance
MISC614[1] acknowledges that
people should not normally climb out of boom-type MEWPS. Before
using any MEWP, the duty holder should have carried out a rigorous
risk assessment and followed the guidance in MISC614 and
CIS58[2] and ensure they are
complying with relevant legislation.
Checks
- Has the MEWP been examined, inspected and maintained as required
by the manufacturer’s instructions and daily checks carried out?
From experience
Good practice
What can happen?
Further information
Still haven't found what you need? Try Work at Height Solutions
(http://webcommunities.hse.gov.uk/inovem/inovem.ti/WorkAtHeightSolutions)
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