Safe Exit from a MEWP Manlift - Health and Safety

Best Practices and Guidelines

Introduction Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) are primarily designed to lift personnel, tools, and materials to a height where they can work safely. While MEWPs are generally not intended for transferring people from one level to another, there are scenarios where exiting the platform at height may be safer than traditional methods. However, this action requires thorough planning and adherence to strict safety protocols.

Key Considerations for Safe MEWP Exit

Conduct a Site-Specific Risk Assessment Before any MEWP use, a detailed risk assessment must be conducted to identify hazards and risks. This is crucial when planning for an operative to exit the platform at height. The assessment should confirm that the MEWP is the safest option and that other methods have been deemed unsuitable.
Maintain Fall Prevention Methods Fall protection in MEWPs must be maintained at all times when exiting or entering the platform at height. This includes the use of safety harnesses and ensuring a competent operator remains in the MEWP to control the platform.
Understand Dynamic Loads on MEWPs and Platform Stability Dynamic loads exerted when a person enters or exits the platform may effect MEWP stability at height. Operators must be aware of these forces, especially when using different types of MEWPs. Stiffer MEWPs with minimal movement between the work platform and landing area are preferable.
Prevent Inadvertent Movements Unexpected movements of the platform can lead to accidents. It is essential to secure the MEWP properly, avoid overloading the MEWP and any accidental operations during exit or entry. Always use the designated MEWP entrance/exit points instead of climbing over guardrails.
Ensure Standby Personnel for MEWP Emergency Standby personnel should be available on the ground to facilitate a rescue if necessary. These individuals must be familiar with the operation of the MEWP and the emergency procedures, ensuring a quick response in case of an incident.
Supervision by a Responsible Person A responsible supervisor should oversee the operation to ensure all safety protocols are followed. The supervisor ensures that the identified safe method is adhered to by all personnel involved in the exit procedure.

Hazards to Consider When Exiting a MEWP

Risk of Falling: Transferring from the work platform to a structure carries a significant fall risk. Proper fall protection measures, such as safety harnesses, must be in place.
Dropping Tools or Materials: Tools and materials must be secured to prevent them from falling during the transfer.
Unexpected Movements: The MEWP or platform may move unexpectedly, especially if stability is compromised. This risk must be included in the risk assessment.
Stability Concerns: Ensure that the MEWP is not overloaded and that the structure can support any additional load.

Avoid Overloading at Height

Only those who have exited the platform should re-enter it. Ensure that the platform’s position remains unchanged between personnel exiting and re-entering. This avoids unnecessary risks.
Dynamic and impact loads from personal fall protection equipment should also be considered to prevent overloading.

Safe Use of Landing Areas

Non-Fragile Roofs: If accessing a non-fragile, flat roof with edge protection, ensure that any movements of the work platform do not create additional hazards.
Pitched Roofs: When exiting onto a pitched roof, use a full-body safety harness and twin-legged lanyard with a shock absorber, attached to a suitable anchor point to ensure continuous fall protection.

Main Points to Remember

Risk Assessment: Always conduct a risk assessment before exiting the platform.
Implement Control Measures: Ensure all relevant control measures are in place to manage identified risks.
Designated Exit Points: Use only the designated MEWP entrance/exit points to prevent falls.
Rescue Readiness: Ensure standby personnel are prepared for emergency rescue operations.
Stability and Fall Protection: Maintain fall protection measures and avoid overloading the platform.

Conclusion

Exiting a MEWP platform at height is not a routine operation and should only be undertaken with comprehensive safety measures in place. By conducting thorough risk assessments and following best practices, operators can minimize the risks associated with exiting a MEWP at height.