The HSE has today issued guidance on safe methods of isolation for platform controls on mobile elevated working platforms (MEWPs).
It has been working with with the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) to develop the guidance following an investigation into an incident involving a MEWP and found that when at height, the method of isolating the controls on the MEWP can introduce a hazard to the occupants of the platform.
The regulator has said that the investigation is ongoing.
The emergency stop control on the MEWP platform has been used in the powered access industry for several years to isolate controls and/or the power source when the MEWP reaches its work location.
This practice was initially implemented on older machines that were not designed according to contemporary standards, with the intention of minimising the risk of entrapment and preventing inadvertent operation of controls. However, as industry standards have advanced and design methodologies have evolved, this practice may no longer be suitable for mitigating risk, as other, more effective methods are now being employed in control design.
The operator of a MEWP may need to isolate the controls and/or power source utilising the platform's control features. In situations where the machine is equipped with an 'engine on/off' control located at the platform control console, it is advisable to utilise this feature for turning off the engine during regular operations.
The emergency stop control should be reserved for situations that are genuinely emergency-related, unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer regarding safety concerns.
In instances where machines do not feature a dedicated 'on/off' control at the platform control console, it is essential for the MEWP operator to adhere to the manufacturer's operating instructions for proper operation.
Furthermore, it is the user's responsibility to ensure that the appropriate MEWP has been selected for the specific task. A comprehensive and well-documented risk assessment must also be conducted to ensure safety and compliance.
The regulator concludes by saying it endorses this jointly developed guidance and has encouraged IPAF to communicate it to MEWP users.
HSE’s website has more information and advice on working safely with MEWPs.
