Worker killed in elevating work platform rollover

Possible control measures to prevent similar incidents

EWP platforms can sometimes become stuck when a platform is inadvertently lowered on an obstruction (e.g. a roof edge). Training for operators should therefore include information on this potential hazard in addition to the more common hazards (e.g. crushing, overturning, etc). EWP field service technicians should be trained on methods to safely retrieve platforms, including when a platform has been lowered and is stuck. In addition, these technicians should be provided with equipment to carry out EWP retrieval in a safe manner.

Operators must be provided with adequate training, so they are familiar and competent with each type of EWP they use. EWP controls can differ between makes and models, so operators need to know four things in particular:

• where the operator's manual is kept, and what's in it
• the purpose and function of all controls
• what safety devices are fitted specific to that make and model
• how to lower the platform in an emergency.

A prestart inspection should be done before the EWP is used. It is important to keep records of the inspections and make sure there is a process for reporting faults or issues.

Some common prestart inspection items include:

• warning devices
• deadman control
• drive, steering and brakes
• any obvious faults.

Before starting work, always check the work area for any other hazards and potential risk, such as overhead obstructions or other workers in the area. All mobile plant operators should be fully aware of their surroundings while they're working. Distractions such as mobile phones and conversations with other workers should be avoided.

The most common EWP incidents happen when reversing, slewing or elevating near an obstruction or from unexpected movement near an obstruction.

Movement of the EWP should always be slow, deliberate and planned, with careful use of the EWPs proportional controls.

Start with large movements, like driving and elevating the EWP, and finish with finer controls.

If things do go wrong, other workers need to know how to use the ground controls and emergency descent devices for the type and model of EWP being used.

Keep your workers safe when using EWPs and manage the risks when working under overhead obstructions.

Safe operation

Requirements to safely operate EWP include:

• formal and refresher training of operators and record keeping of these
• ensuring the EWP has been inspected and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification. This may involve checking the logbook or maintenance manual.
• ensuring any outstanding faults or safety issues have been rectified before returning the EWP to service
• assessment of operator competency by a competent person
• elimination of EWP roll over risk through risk management
• safe work procedure development to support training and subsequent safe use
• operator harnessing where an anchor point has been provided
• lock-out procedures that exclude worker access to faulty machines.

Worker/operator obligations

The operator of an EWP must ensure:

• operation is authorised and in accordance with the safe work procedure
• faults are reported
• pre-operational checks are done
• safe working load (SWL) or maximum rated capacity of the platform is not exceeded
• operating speed is consistent with load, terrain and weather conditions and does not exceed the maximum recommended by the manufacturer
• in boom type EWPs a fall arrest harness is worn and is attached to the platform anchorage point with a fall arrest lanyard at all times. The lanyard should be short enough to minimise potential free fall distance but long enough not to restrict movement. Note: on rural boom type EWPs with short booms and very small platforms a sit harness with a very short lanyard intended for travel restraint only may be used.

Competent person

Inspection, maintenance and repair to be carried out by competent persons. A person who is competent to perform an inspection or other task for a control measure is a person who has acquired through training, qualifications or experience, the knowledge and skills to do the task in a safe way. This includes knowledge of relevant Australian Standards, codes of practice, and legislation.

For daily and routine inspection of EWPs, a competent person could be a worker who has been trained in the requirements for the inspections (e.g. use of the checklists and operator manuals).

For annual and major inspections or for major repairs, the competent person is likely to be the manufacturer, an engineering tradesperson, or a professional engineer.

Recordkeeping

The relevant person should keep records of EWP operation, maintenance, structural inspections, and training of workers for the following time periods:

• pre-operation or daily checks – one year
• routine inspection and maintenance – life of machine
• third party mechanical and structural inspections – life of machine
• EWP operator training – duration of employment.

The control measures put in place should be reviewed regularly to make sure they work as planned.