Power access constitutes
of those revolutionary equipments which have made working at heights more
efficient and safer leading to enhanced productivity and comfortable working
conditions. Thus there demand and the need of proper access training have also
increased especially with the diverse range and capabilities of new models that
are continually getting launched in the market every day. To be able to use any
access platform, certain steps must be followed to ensure that the person is
capable of using it. If any worker is well experienced and adept at working
with MEWPs
(mobile elevating work platforms) and AWPs (aerial work platforms) like boom
lifts or scissors lift, then the worker is only required to update his training
and license. However, for any novice, the following guidelines should prove
handy in preparing him use those equipments safely and legally.
The first step- Training
The
first golden rule to remember is that anyone using powered access equipment and
platforms has to be mandatorily well accredited and trained. Due to the high
risk involved, the industry follows strict regulations as stated by the
Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations Act (PUWER 1998). This keeps the potential danger of working at
elevated heights with this heavy machinery at check. Training is something that
simply cannot be compromised upon since it is foolish to assume that all cherry
pickers would operate in the same way. Any company must ensure that even the
smallest personnel lift is well trained and has the complete knowledge of using
the machine in the most proper and efficient manner. This not only saves both
time and money for any company but also saves from much of legal hassle and
unnecessary hassle of any accidents by keeping a safe environment.
Specialized
training and certification is relatively simple and quick to obtain from
credible aerial platform sales and rental companies. They always provide
options of giving training facilities on site or even providing training in the
actual workplace as per the convenience of the one who has hired. This allows a
worker to learn with the actual machines which he would be operating. IPAF and
PASMA training ensures complete training for a range of different platforms and
work lifts.
The second step- Safety Equipment
The
next step after training is getting appropriate safety equipment and
accessories which are critical for safety while one is working on the platform.
These equipments can be a life saver! For instance, helmets not only protects
from falling debris or overhead collisions but they also ward off critical head
injuries in case anything untoward does happen. Similarly other equipments are
critical.
The third step-Maintenance
All
access platforms and equipments must be inspected every six months to ensure
optimum working efficiency. They should be regularly cleaned and maintained so
that no untoward incidence happens due to any negligence.