WorkSafe is reminding employers about the importance of safe systems of work when using elevating work platforms (EWPs).
Read full article here: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/safety-alerts/employee-crushed-while-using-elevating-work-platform
The background information highlights recent incidents involving Elevating Work Platforms (EWPs), where two employees were crushed in separate incidents, resulting in one fatality and one injury. The common factor in both incidents was employees becoming trapped between the EWP platform and fixed structures, such as roofs, beams, cable trays, and pipework. The document identifies safety issues contributing to these incidents, including the presence of overhead structures, unexpected platform movements, unstable ground conditions, operator unfamiliarity, and ground-based obstacles.
To address these safety concerns, the document provides recommended ways to control risks associated with EWPs:
Use Secondary Guarding:
– Install effective operator protective devices, commonly known as secondary guarding, to prevent crushing against fixed structures.
– Examples include physical barriers, pressure sensing devices, and proximity sensing devices.
Check EWP Surroundings:
– Operate the EWP in creep mode near fixed structures.
– Avoid traveling with a raised platform, especially on uneven ground.
– Do not drive EWPs through doorways while operating from the platform.
– In restricted headroom areas, walk the EWP using ground controls.
Never Operate EWP Alone:
– Operators should never operate an EWP alone due to the importance of prompt rescue.
Use a Safety Observer:
– Appoint a trained safety observer to warn operators of hazards and facilitate prompt action during emergencies.
– The safety observer should be trained in EWP operation, licensed if required, and knowledgeable about emergency procedures.
Ensure Emergency Procedures and Resources:
– Establish emergency procedures and resources for prompt rescue in case of sickness, injury, or entrapment at height due to EWP malfunction or misuse.
Train Employees:
– Provide information, instruction, training, or supervision to those involved in EWP operation.
– Ensure training is structured, nationally recognized, and includes assessments overseen by a qualified assessor.
– Familiarize operators with the specific EWP model they will be using if it differs from the training model.
The document also emphasizes employers’ legal duties under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017. Employers are obligated to provide a safe working environment, eliminate or control risks associated with high-risk work and plant usage, consult with employees and safety representatives, and ensure proper training and licensing for employees. Specific duties related to high-risk construction work, fall hazards, and plant usage are outlined, emphasizing the need for risk identification, elimination or control, and regular monitoring of associated risks.
For all your workplace health and safety management systems get in touch with Integrate Safety on 1300 001 842 or email Steven at steven@integratesafety.com.au