Inspecting and maintaining elevating work platforms
Elevating work platforms, or EWPs, caused nine Australian work deaths 2015-19. They are high risk equipment and must be inspected at least annually. Safe Work Australia has published guidance on the EWP inspection, maintenance and testing programs that are crucial to assess their safe operation.
There are different types of EWPs, including:
- scissor lifts
- self-propelled boom lifts
- trailer or vehicle mounted lifts
- telehandlers with elevating work platform attachment.
The guide provides information on:
- inspection
- inspection types
- monitoring and testing
- recording and reporting.
Employers must also ensure workers are given the necessary information, training, instruction and supervision to use EWPs safely.
Check out the Guide to inspecting and maintaining elevating work platforms to make sure you are eliminating or minimising the risks of working with EWPs.