Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) can provide a safe way of working at height. They:
MEWPs include cherry pickers, scissor lifts and vehicle-mounted booms. These pages help you to:
If you are thinking of using a MEWP look at the following questions.
How high is the job from the ground?
Do you have the appropriate MEWP for the job? (If you are not sure, check with the hirer or manufacturer.)
What are the ground conditions like - is there a risk of the MEWP becoming unstable or overturning?
Are the people using the MEWP trained, competent and fit to do so?
Could the MEWP be caught on any protruding features or overhead hazards, e.g. steelwork, tree branches or power lines?
Is there passing traffic, and if so, what do you need to do to prevent collisions?
Do you need to use either work restraint (to prevent people climbing out of the MEWP) or a fall arrest system (which will stop a person hitting the ground if they fall out)? Allowing people to climb out of the basket is not normally recommended - do you need to do this as part of the job?
Has the MEWP been examined, inspected and maintained as required by the manufacturer's instructions and daily checks carried out?
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