Safe Work Australia issues reminder regarding EWPs

Safe Work Australia has published new guidance for inspecting and maintaining elevating work platforms (EWPs), which are considered to be in the high-risk equipment class.

EWPs were involved in nine worker fatalities in the years 2015 to 2019.

According to Safe Work Australia, an inspection, maintenance and testing program is crucial to assess the platforms’ safe operation, and this includes annual inspections and operator training.

EWPs come in many forms, including scissor lifts, self-propelled boom lifts, trailer- or vehicle-mounted lifts, and telehandlers with elevating work platform attachments.

Safe Work Australia is reminding employers that they are responsible for keeping workers safe, which includes ensuring that plant equipment is inspected and maintained.

Employers must also ensure that workers are given the necessary information, training, instruction and supervision to use EWPs safely.

Full guidance information is available on Safe Work Australia’s website.

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