Manual worker working on height must
be aware of safety risks and heaths before getting started. It is necessary to
be cautious while working on sky-high platforms in order to eliminate accidents
or any kind of injuries during work. Mobile Elevated Working Platform (MEWP) is
one amongst the most commonly used pieces of equipment that enables users to
access safely while working in various elevated zones. Although powered access
platforms are easy to operate there are some important things a user need to
know before getting started. And this checklist is for all users no matter it
is being used for private or public work. Let’s have a look-
Risk Management:
All users must be aware of the potential dangers that can take place while using MEWP. Sound knowledge about the ground conditions, stability issues, power lines and other obstruction is important to avoid any kind of risk for themselves or anyone present in the job site. It is necessary to keep a track of the risk assessment activities throughout the job.
Choosing appropriate Equipment and Tools:
Access platforms being mobile and flexible becomes suitable for working in height in a wide range of locations and in different environments. To work smoothly, it is necessary to choose suitable equipment some of the common equipment are spider lifts, cherry pickers, 4WD rough terrain access platforms, road rail access platforms etc.
Maintenance of the Machines:
By law, it is mandatory to test each and every access platforms before getting started. No matter equipment is brand new or used, all the platforms much are serviced regularly to ensure that all jobs are carried out efficiently.
Ground Conditions:
Generally, ground conditions are linked to the weather which makes it almost impossible to control. Monitoring the on-site ground condition or conducting geo-technical surveys to identify underground hazards is important.
Training:
The most assured way to stay safe while using in MEWP is by enrolling in access training or cherry picker training courses offered by IPAF trainers who train learners theoretically and in real life set-up. The courses are designed in such a way that users attain the proper skill to operate equipments with perfection. However, it is the responsibility of the employers to make sure that they deploy individuals who hold a valid powered access licence (PAL) and a certificate that is valid for at least five years.
