Planning Works Using
Mobile Elevating Work Platforms
Index:
1.0 Stages of Planning
1.1 Transporting MEWPS
1.2 Use of Harness Systems
Before starting the job, the first step is to plan how to do the work safely. The nature
of the task and the hazards linked with it determine how much planning is needed.
At a minimum the following steps should be taken. Identify Control Measures
1.0 Stages of Planning Once the hazards and the risks are
identified, control measures to eliminate,
Follow the steps below when planning any isolate or minimise the hazard need to be
job: put in place.
1). identify the tasks to be done. Control measures will include any
2) identify the hazards linked to each personal protective equipment to be used,
task. such as hard hats and harness systems.
3). pick the right MEWP for the job.
4). identify control measures. Develop The Plan
5). develop your plan. Having identified the hazards, evaluated the
6). make a plan for what to do in an risks and worked out the control measures
emergency. needed to do the job safely, develop a safety
7). record the planning, including any plan.
rescue plan.
8). involve people and talk to everyone Make a Plan for What To Do In An Emergency
working on the job about the plan. The plan needs to include how you will
9). review the plan before the job starts rescue anyone stuck on the work platform
and add any changes. if the platform can’t be lowered for any
reason, such as a machine fault or the work
Identify The Tasks To Be Done platform gets tangled.
First, identify exactly what work needs to The rescue plan should cover what to do
be done, where and when. in case someone is sick, injured or
Visit the location and check the exposed to chemicals or fumes.
conditions of the worksite. Take along Any rescue plan must take into account
site staff who can identify hazards in the the reason the platform was stranded at
area and any problems with the ground height and any need for urgent action.
where the MEWP will need to work. Wherever possible, a trained person
For simple tasks, planning could happen should do the rescue using the machine’s
at the same time as the site visit. For ground controls or secondary lowering
more complicated jobs planning may system. If this is not possible, use another
need to be completed off site. MEWP to carry out the rescue.
All sites need an emergency plan in
Identify The Hazards Associated With The place. Before starting any rescue, do a
Task hazard assessment. Have an emergency
Identify the hazards of each task. These plan for the operator to complete their
might be caused by the location of the own rescue.
work, the type of MEWP or the people The plan needs to allow for any hazards,
and equipment being carried. like the ones listed below:
- the rescue machine needs to be
Pick The Right MEWP For The Job placed so the people doing the rescue
MEWPs vary in rated capacity, working are not put at risk
height and reach. The MEWP that best
matches the particular work task should be - the work platforms of both machines
chosen. The choice will be guided by the need to be next to each other with as
limits of the worksite, ground conditions, site little gap as possible between them.
access and how near other workers will be.
Switch off the engines on both machines Involve People And Talk To Everyone
during the transfer Working On The Job About The Plan
- Where practicable, the person A critical part of successful planning is
being rescued and the rescuer making sure everyone knows what is
should wear full body harnesses in the plan. Make sure the plan can be
with adjustable lanyards. Attach understood by people with low literacy
lanyards to certified anchor or for who English is a second
points on the rescue machine language.
before starting the transfer.
Review The Plan Before The Job Starts
- Do not overload the rescue Just before the job starts, check that
machine. More than one trip nothing in the tasks or the working
may be needed to make to environment has changed. If it has,
complete the rescue. assess what effect that could have on
- Caution – make sure the floor can the safety of the job.
take the weight of all machines Communicate any changes to the plan
used during the rescue operation. to everyone involved.
Call emergency Services if:
There is an injury, illness or risk of 1.1 Transporting MEWPs
exposure to toxic substances
someone has been hanging for Accidents and injuries can happen
any length of time – they might when getting MEWPs to and from sites.
be suffering from suspension Any health and safety planning should
trauma cover the hazards of moving machinery
the operators on the work to and from sites.
platform cannot communicate Transport operators must be
with rescuers on the ground. competent if they need to drive the
MEWP to load or unload it from a truck.
Record The Plan, Including Any Rescue Always read,
Plan understand and follow the
Record the plan and keep a copy manufacturer’s instructions for
onsite where it can be easily loading and unloading the MEWP
accessed. The length and detail and the tie down and lifting
of the plan will depend on the procedures.
complexity of the task and the
risks involved. Getting Ready To Transport
A simple, low-risk task – such as Complete a hazard assessment of the
routine maintenance work in a site and decide the best method for
factory – might only need a brief loading the MEWP.
safety plan; while a more Remove all loose items, tools and
complex and high-risk job will equipment from the platform, deck or
need a more detailed task tray
specific plan. Check and secure all engine and
access covers, ensure battery box trays
and doors are secure. Secure tool bin
lids.
Ensure turntable lock pins are engaged
(slew lock pin, if applicable).
Ensure boom lockdowns are in place
(pins/straps/over centre buckles).
Secure the boom and basket of any
self propelled booms using the
manufacturer’s instructions.
