Dealing with Environmental and Physical Hazards When Operating a Mobile Elevating Work Platform

Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), also known as aerial work platforms (AWPs), scissor lifts, or cherry pickers, have become essential equipment in various industries, such as construction, maintenance, and warehousing. These are powered work platforms that can be raised and lowered to allow workers to access elevated areas safely and efficiently. However, operating MEWPs involves significant risks, especially when dealing with environmental and physical hazards.  What is the importance of addressing these hazards to the MEWP operators and other workers?  

Understanding the Mobile Elevating Work Platform 

MEWPs come in various forms, including scissor lifts, boom lifts, and mast climbers, but they all share common components: 

1. Platform: The working area where operators stand or work. 
2. Controls: Devices used to manipulate the platform's movement. 
3. Base: The vehicle's lower portion that provides stability. 
4. Extensible arm (boom): A lifting mechanism that allows for vertical and horizontal movement. 

Environmental hazards that can affect the safe operation of MEWPs include: 

1. Weather: High winds, rain, snow, and ice can all make MEWPs unstable and dangerous to operate. 
2. Overhead obstacles: Power lines, trees, and other overhead obstacles can create a collision risk for MEWPs. 
3. Ground conditions: Soft, uneven, or slippery ground can make MEWPs unstable and prone to tipping over. 
4. Confined spaces: MEWPs should not be operated in confined spaces where there is a risk of entrapment or crushing. 
5. Extreme temperature: Extreme heat or cold can affect the functionality of MEWPs. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for temperature limits 

Physical hazards associated with MEWP use include: 

1.  Falls: Falls from MEWPs can be serious or even fatal. 
2. Overloading: Exceeding the safe working load of a MEWP can cause it to tip over. 
3. Collision: Collisions can occur when MEWPs encounter other vehicles, equipment, or structures. 
4. Tip-overs: Overturning is a significant risk, especially when the MEWP is not on level ground. 
5. Contact with moving parts: MEWPs have moving parts that can crush, entangle, or amputate limbs. 
6. Electrical hazards: MEWPs can come into contact with overhead power lines, creating an electrocution risk. 

How to deal with environmental and physical hazards? 

There are a number of things that can be done to deal with environmental and physical hazards when operating MEWPs. These include: 

1. Training and Certification: Operators should receive proper training and certification to operate MEWPs. 
2. Conduct a risk assessment: Before using a MEWP, identify all of the potential hazards and develop a plan to control them. This may involve selecting a different type of MEWP, changing the work location, or implementing additional safety measures. 
3. Pre-Operational Checks: Before each use, inspect the MEWP for any signs of damage or defects. Do not operate the MEWP if it is not in good working condition. 
4. Secure the Work Area: Establish clear work zones and barriers to prevent unauthorized access. Check for any environmental hazards and address them before operation. 
5. Communication: Use radios or hand signals to communicate effectively with ground personnel. Ensure all workers are aware of the MEWP's movements and actions. 
6. Use the right PPE: When operating a MEWP, always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a hard hat, safety glasses, harness, and lanyard. 
7. Follow Safe Operating Procedures (SOP): Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for operating the MEWP safely. This includes reading the operator's manual and following all safety warnings and decals. 
8. Emergency Preparedness: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and evacuation routes. Have a first aid kit and communication devices on hand. 

 Operating a Mobile Elevating Work Platform can be a safe and efficient way to work at heights, but it requires a thorough understanding of environmental and physical hazards and a commitment to safety. By addressing these hazards, adhering to safety protocols, and maintaining open lines of communication, operators can ensure that MEWP operations are incident-free and contribute to safer work environments. Always prioritize safety above all else when working with MEWPs, and regularly update your knowledge to stay current with best practices and safety guidelines in the industry.