Guide to managing the risks of elevating work platforms

Elevating work platforms can pose many serious safety risks. A new guide from Safe Work Australia provides practical information to PCBUs and others on how to manage the risks of working with EWPs.

The guide provides information to PCBUs on:

• identifying and assessing the risks of EWPs
• control measures for managing the risks of EWPs, and
• safe planning and use of EWPs.

EWPs are powered mobile plant designed to lift or lower people and equipment by a telescopic, hinged or articulated device, or any combination of these, from a base support. EWPs can move over a supporting surface without the need for fixed runways.

The guide highlights the different types of EWPs, including but not limited to:

• scissor lift
• self-propelled boom lift
• trailer lift
• truck or vehicle mounted lift
• telehandler
• vertical mast lift.

Other plant with lifting mechanisms such as integrated tool carriers (ITC), are considered EWPs when the work platform is attached.

The duties of designers, manufacturers, suppliers and importers of EWPs are highlighted in the guide, as well as the responsibilities of PCBUs and relevant legislation and codes of practice.

Information about choosing the right EWP from the start, safely operating them and working near electric powerlines is also included. There’s a preoperational checklist and tips and advice on training and competence, using spotters and exclusion zones.

A section on managing health and safety risks breaks focuses on licensing requirements, accessing risks, maintaining and reviewing control measures, as well as emergency plans and safe work method statements.

Further information

Download the Guide to managing the risks of elevating work platforms.