Elevating Work Platforms
Uploaded by
Andrea BiondaElevating Work Platforms
Uploaded by
Andrea BiondaSafe Work Practice
Elevating Work Platforms
1. In accordance with the current Regulations for Construction Projects, a
worker who operates an elevating work platform shall, before using it for the
first time, be given oral and written instruction on the operation of the
elevating device. An elevating work platform shall only be operated by a
worker who has been instructed in:
operating the machine;
the daily inspections and maintenance required by the manufacturer;
the types of working surface on which the machine is designed to be
used;
the maximum rated working load;
special conditions or limitations of the machine;
the significance of alarms; and
the location of emergency controls
2. An elevating work platform which is not working properly or which has
sustained damage to critical components must not be used until repaired by
a qualified mechanic.
3. In the raised position, an elevating work platform shall only be used on
surfaces specified by the manufacturer.
4. An elevating work platform must not be driven in a raised position close to
holes, depressions, trenches or similar hazards.
5. An elevating work platform must not bear more than its rated working load
and, where possible, the loads shall be distributed over the platform.
6. When elevating work platforms are used to lift materials, care must be taken
to ensure that the materials are firmly secured to the platform.
7. Do not place makeshift platforms, such as boxes, or proper access
equipment, such as ladders and scaffolds, on an elevating work platform to
gain access to areas above.
8. Overhanging loads must not be lifted on an elevating work platform.
9. An elevating work platform or any other part of an EWP device must not be
moved closer than 3 metres (10 feet) to overhead power lines, unless the
device is equipped for live electrical line work and the workers on the
platform are qualified for such work.
10. An elevating work platform must not be used for pulling, pushing or dragging
materials.
11. The platform of an elevating work platform must not be extended by using
cantilevered planks or similar platform materials. Only manufacturers'
platform extension devices shall be used.
12. Planks or similar platform materials must not be used to bridge a gap
between an elevating work platform and other work areas.
13. Workers must always maintain 3-point contact (one hand and two feet or two
hands and one foot) when getting on or off the platform of an elevating work
platform.
14. For all types of off-slab devices, the terrain on which the device is placed or
over which it will travel must be firm enough to support the device and its
rated working load.
15. An elevating work platform must not be used under high wind conditions.
This is especially important for smaller scissor lifts and boom-type devices.
16. When the elevating work platform is not being used, turn off the power
system to prevent exhaust fumes from accumulating in an enclosed work
area.
17. Elevating work platforms used on ramps or on sloping or uneven surfaces
must be designed for such use and properly secured against horizontal and
vertical movement.
