ELEVATED WORK PLATFORMS (EWP)Note: Some pictures used are from

Instant Access & Coats Hire as well as other related literature

M. S. MartinSept. 2010

Note

These slides are intended to give an overview of the use of elevated work platforms, in a trade context. They are not comprehensive enough for the instruction for licensing requirements

TYPES OF EWP’S

A boom –type elevating work platform means:

A powered telescoping device or articulated device or any combination of these

used to support a platform on which personnel, equipment and materials

Which may be Elevated to perform work and which has a boom length of 11 metres or more.

An example of a elevated workplatforms. (Boom or knuckle boom)

Self Propelled, Trailer mounted elevated work platform

Self-propelled elevating work platforms are those with the ability to move over the ground under their own power with movement (travel) controlled from the platform. Such units must be equipped with an in-service brake

Self-Propelled (scissor type) Elevating Work Platform

As for other types, these must also be equipped with a brake capable of holding them on the maximum slope they are capable of negotiating when loaded to 1.25 times their rated capacity in the out of service mode.

Note: Outriggers used for levelling

Self-Propelled Elevating Work Platforms with Telescoping Boom

(Vertical Only).

Vehicle mounted EWPs

An Elevating Work Platform Mounted on a Suitable Vehicle.

Key Points

The Elevating Work Platform must never be overloaded because structural failure or tipping could occur.

Load testing must be carried out by a competent person.

Operation of elevating work platforms must be in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and specifications.

Elevating Work Platforms must never be used if there is a fault which affects safe operation

Operating Elevating Work Platforms near power lines can be very dangerous and therefore special care must be taken.

Usual for standard power lines

Always check with local authority, voltage and power line type will change safe distance requirements

PLANNING FOR USE ON THE JOB

Planning

How much reach do I need the machine to do ? Often other authorities need to be involved, which

are needed for this job ? Police for traffic control, RTA for road closure, etc

What licences and permits are required ? Instigate a ‘work plan’ what are the site procedures,

identify hazards, remove or control them, etc. Do you require owners or clients permission What type of machine do I need, boom, scissor, etc What is the safe working load of the machine What other equipment do I need for the job, can it

be used on a EWP ?

TRANSPORTING THE EWP

Be Aware

The work cover authority and work safe (Victoria), often release warning notices in regard to operating equipment.

Check with your authority !

Three things to remember

Always ! Retract and lock all outriggers Bring boom into rest position / cradle, and

insert locking pin Lock boom and carrier to ensure there is no

movement

OPERATING THE EWP

Before you start !

See the foreman or supervisor on site, check with them for any hazards – power, gas, etc.

Inspect the site from the ground up: Is the ground of suitable material Will it support the ewp Are there other machines operating in your

area Will there be workmen near by Do you have sufficient barricades & signage Check for obstructions above – trees,

powerlines, balconies, temporary landing platforms, anything

OH&S

Safety helmet, harness, and other specific PPE as required – Boots, Gloves, Masks, safety glasses etc

Setting up the EWP

Check the ground type and stability Will the ground take the weight of the machine Will I be operating on a sloping surface Check the service logbook Check safety equipment Bring machine into position Park brake on Level the machine accordingly – stabilisers &

outriggers on sound footing Signs & barricades in place, flashing light

operational Carry out all pre-operational checks

Pre-operating Checks

Make sure access to basket or platform is safe

Check load rating for equipment Check logbook Check your familiar with controls Check controls operation Operate all motions from ground, then basket

or platform

Apply all PPE, load basket, and operate SAFELY !

Safe shut down procedure when finished with machine

Identify all obstruction and / or hazards Carefully lower boom or scissor Once safe on ground, retract outriggers or

stabilisers Remove all tools and equipment from basket

or platform Remove harness and lanyards, store in dry

place Shut down the motor Lock the control panel doors Isolate fuel switch if applicable

SAMPLE RISK ASSESSMENT

QUICK QUESTIONS

Quick Questions

Name three hazards to consider when using and operating an EWP ?

(A) Soft ground, outriggers extended & machine level, PPE and harness on, tools secure, overhead power lines, etc.

What are three set up hazards to consider when using EWP ?

(A) soft or unstable ground, are signs and barricades in place, is flashing light operational, is your position in suitable reach for job, levelling machine on a sloping surface, etc

Quick Questions

Name some PPE warn in association with a EWP’s use on a building sight.

(A) hard hat, harness, boots, safety specs, masks if applicable, etc.

What are four things to consider when planning a task for an EWP

(A) what authorities do I need to contact, permits required, what machine reach is needed,

what type of machine did I need, do I need road closures etc.