Get Training For MEWPS. It’s The Law!
Employers and individual users are liable
Whilst powered access platforms make working at height safer, quicker and more efficient, it must be remembered that employers or individual users are liable if the people in charge of the machinery are not properly trained.
Health and safety legislation and work at height regulations make training for MEWPs compulsory. Anyone working with the equipment needs to know how to inspect it, to operate it safely, and to recognise and avoid any potential hazards. As well as this general training, they should also be given familiarisation training on the specific model that they will be working with.
Who is responsible for training?
Employers and individual users must make sure operators are properly trained. Rental companies are also obliged to direct their clients to appropriate training if they don’t deliver it themselves.
There are courses available for:
• Operators
• Demonstrators
• Instructors
What’s the MEWP training about?
Training for MEWPS is a combination of classroom based study and hands-on experience with the equipment and includes:
• Industry regulations and standards
• Choosing the right platform for the job
• Carrying out workplace inspections
• Operation of the powered access platform including demonstrated proficiency in all functions of the equipment
• How to recognise and avoid common hazards
• Operator warnings and instructions
• The purpose and use of manuals
• Carrying out a pre-start inspection
• Factors affecting stability
• Personal protective equipment
• General equipment components
• Safe use of equipment
• Understanding issues associated with larger machines: e.g. outriggers/stabilizers, extendable axles, envelope management systems, load-movement devices, dual capacity
Specific Training For MEWPS
Training for MEWPS can be tailored to the individual requirements of your business. The MEWP training can cover specific categories of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWP) such as:
• Static Vertical (1a)
• Static Boom (1b)
• Mobile Vertical (3a)
• Mobile Boom (3b)
• Insulated Aerial Device (IAD)
• Specialist machines (SPECIAL)
Accredited training centres are located across the country and courses can be held at their premises, or on a convenient site with suitable facilities. Promax Access offer a wide range of training courses for working at height. Please call to discuss your particular access platform training requirements.
Where To Find Out More About Working At Height Training
In 2010, aerial work platform industry professionals published ‘The Statement of Best Practices of General Training and Familiarization for Aerial Work Platform Equipment.’ This document sets out the obligations and requirements of those responsible for delivering, arranging and receiving training in the use of powered access platforms and is essential reading for anyone planning a job at height with powered access platforms.
Summary
Powered access platforms have many benefits for working at height but there is a legal obligation to make sure they are used safely and properly. Training for MEWPS is not only a legal requirement but jobs can be completed more efficiently if everyone involved knows how to use the equipment properly. With professional training dangerous and costly accidents can be avoided.