Safe methods of isolation of platform controls on mobile elevating work platforms

HSE has worked with the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) to develop the following guidance on the safe methods of isolation of platform controls for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).

Background

HSE is investigating 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 investigation is ongoing.

The emergency stop control on the MEWP platform has been used in the powered access industry for a number of years to achieve isolation of controls and/or power source when the MEWP has reached its place of work.

This practice was first introduced on older machines, not designed to current standards, to reduce the risk of entrapment and inadvertent operation of controls.

As the standards have evolved and designs have changed, this practice may no longer be appropriate to reduce the risk as other methods are now used in control designs.

Safe isolation of the platform controls

The operator of a MEWP may be required to isolate the controls and/or power source using platform controls.

Where the machine is equipped with an ‘engine on/off’ control at the platform control console, this should be used to switch the engine off during normal operation rather than the emergency stop control, unless the manufacturer indicates that it would be unsafe to do so.

Where machines are not equipped with a dedicated ‘on/off’ control at the platform control console, the MEWP operator should follow the manufacturers’ operating instructions as to how this should be achieved.

It is the user’s responsibility to ensure the correct MEWP has been selected for the task, and that a suitable and sufficient risk assessment has been carried out and documented.

HSE 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.

British Safety Council Launches Hidden Hazards Campaign

Not all workplace dangers are visible. Some of the most serious risks to workers’ health can go unnoticed for years before their effects become apparent. The British Safety Council has launched its new Hidden Hazards campaign to raise awareness of these invisible workplace risks and drive action to prevent harm before it happens. [britsafe.org], [britsafe.org]

Worker Seriously Injured When Dumper Truck Overturned

A worker suffered serious injuries after a dumper truck overturned on site, highlighting the devastating consequences that can occur when vehicle stability is compromised. Initial reports indicate the vehicle overturned during operations, trapping or impacting the operator and resulting in significant injuries. Emergency services attended the scene and the worker was taken for medical treatment.

Food manufacturer fined over dust risk

A food manufacturer has been fined after failing to properly control dust risks in its workplace, highlighting the serious consequences of overlooking safety hazards. Dust generated during food production can create significant health and safety risks for workers, including respiratory issues and, in some environments, the potential for combustible dust incidents. The case serves as

Ebulletin

Company fined after worker injured by overturned truck A groundworks company has been fined after a worker sustained serious injuries when a dumper truck overturned. The worker had been reversing the one-tonne truck when it entered an unprotected excavation and overturned. HSE’s investigation found: Read more about the incident in our press release: Company fined after