The common hazards and dangers of MEWP

Typically, the most common hazards and dangers of MEWP arise from the use and operation of the machinery instead of its movements as an on-site vehicle. As per UK law, these types of dangers and Hazards must be correctly controlled at all times. The most significant way of reducing the risk of injury is by ensuring that there are Hazard free routes for traffic and pedestrians alike.

Exceptional care should be taken at all times to help ensure that no operators become trapped or die when in the basket of the MEWP or during instances of it overturning. This is why it is essential that the correct planning and management of its use is put into action with the correct an up-to-date training and instruction.

The most common hazards of MEWP use

• The majority of serious and fatal injuries while using MEWPs are a result of the following:
• Vehicle collision with pedestrians, other vehicles, and cables overhead.
• Vehicle overturning, resulting in the operator being thrown from the basket.
• Falling from the basket during normal working activities.
• Entrapment in the vehicle between the fixed structure of the basket.

How to control the risks

The first thing to take note of is that the correct MEWP is used for the job. Having a plan in place for rescuing somebody from a potential accident should be practised and prepared. There should always be somebody who knows how to operate ground controls should an emergency arise. Several steps can be taken to reduce the risk of injury and hazards, which include:

• Level and firm ground should be used with the platform, avoiding errors with manholes, trenches, and backfill, which can all lead to the machine to overturn.
• Guardrails should be fitted, along with toe boards for maximum safety.
• Wave confined overhead conditions, the correct vehicle should be selected that has been designed to mitigate the risk of entrapment.
• A harness should be used in high-risk situations where a worker may fall from the carrier.
• Outrigger should always be choked and extended before the platform is raised, with spreader plates being used if required.
• A barrier should be placed around the vehicle to prevent falling objects from injuring those on the ground.
• Never allow the vehicle alarm to extend into a route with oncoming traffic, you should also be aware of overhead cables and any other potential hazards.
• Weather can interfere with the stability of the vehicle, with high winds being able to tilt the platform. Snow and storms can also cause damage.

Competence and training

Any worker operating an MWEP should have the appropriate training and license. Along with official training, it is important that operators are also familiar with the operation and controls off the model they are using. If you are looking at undertaking a professional MWEP training course, then Pro-trainers are able to provide you with all of the knowledge that is required by UK law.

Examination, maintenance, and inspection

Finally, the machinery should be inspected and evaluated regularly via visual checks. Servicing schedules and inspections should be put into place according to the manufacturer instructions. All operators should report any problems or defects that they notice and they should be resolved immediately. A thorough bi-yearly examination should also be performed.