When you work on elevated platforms, your risk is dramatically increased should anything go awry, due to the increased distance to the ground. As the hazard of the height cannot be removed, we must take steps to limit the impact it has.

The guide is designed to help you ensure that this work does not endanger the safety of your people who use them.

What is an elevated work platform?

Elevated work platforms (EWPs) are a telescoping, scissors or other device used to position people, equipment and materials above the ground.

Specify the standard you expect

When purchasing or hiring EWPs, include specifications such as type, load capacity, intended use, and all relevant Australian standards.

Defective maintenance can catch you out

Be sure that qualified personnel maintain all EWPS on a regularly basis. This maintenance schedule should include the mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems.

It is advised that operations personnel carry out weekly and pre-start inspections of EWPs.

EWPs should be inspected, maintained and operated in one of these scenarios:

• In accordance with the manufacturer or designer’s written instructions
• If it’s not practicable to obtain those instructions (e.g. they are lost or the machine didn’t come with the instructions), in accordance with written instructions approved by the appropriate authority
• If it’s not practicable to get either the manufacturer or designer’s instructions or written instructions approved by the authority, in accordance with the relevant Australian Standards (i.e. AS/NZ2550.1 and AS/NZ1418.1 and parts of AS/NZ2550.10 and AS/NZ1418.10)

Who can operate the platforms?

Only trained and qualified personnel should operate EWPs. Retraining should be conducted as required to maintain standards.

Operation of EWPs

When transporting EWPs to work sites, personnel should ensure that all parts and items are properly secured.

The positioning of EWPs for operation should be done with consideration to the following:

• Type of surface (firm, loose, etc.)
• Slope
• Excavations and embankments
• Wind and other weather conditions
• Position of obstructions and hazards (e.g. overhead power lines and structures)
• Ventilations (if operating indoors)
• Any other potential hazard to operating personnel and others in the vicinity

Any operation of EWPs near power lines should be the subject of a work permit.

Work instructions should be prepared, issued and maintained for the operation of EWPs. This should include:

• Use of personal protective equipment, including harnesses
• Entry and exit of the work box
• Hazards to personnel working below
• Warning signs
• Special precautions for work in public areas.

General advice warning

The information on this site is of a general nature only. It does not take your specific needs or circumstances into consideration. You should look at your own situation and requirements before making any decisions.

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