Do you work with Elevated Work Platforms (EWP)?
If you answered yes, SafeWork SA has introduced new minimum standard of training for Elevated Work Platforms.
In the wake of the tragic fatal incidents involving scissor lifts at the new Royal Adelaide Hospital construction site, new minimum standards have been introduced. Their aim is to reduce the risk of injuries and fatalities for workers using elevated work platforms.
Elevated Work Platforms, otherwise known as EWP, are often used on constructions sites, in warehouses or where mobile access to height is needed. They lift or lower people, equipment and materials by a telescopic, hinged or articulated device. EWPs include, but are not limited to:
- Scissor Lifts
- Boom Lifts
What the New Standards Mean to You
Under the new minimum standards from SafeWork SA, before a worker can operate an EWP, they must be appropriately trained and competent on each type of EWP used.
Some Elevated Work Platforms require workers to have a high risk work licence to operate. Business owners must be aware that just because a worker has a high risk licence, it does not remove the duty of care from the business owner to ensure an EWP is appropriate for the work being undertaken.
In addition to high risk licences, under the new minimum standard, workers must also receive familiarisation training on each type of EWP they will be using. This is important, as the model EWP a worker used during their training and assessment, may differ from the model being operated on site. This is due to design differences between manufacturers, and even between models by the same manufacturer.
Workers need to be adequately trained in how to safely:
- Set up;
- Use; and
- Shut down
each EWP on site.
This is extremely important, because SafeWork SA inspectors will be on the look out for evidence of this.
SafeWork SA says that although most Elevated Work Platforms are used in construction, the new standard applies to all industries.
What’s Next?
Further information on the new minimum standard of training can be found on the SafeWork SA website – click here.
Alternatively, WLSS can help. We can assist by:
- Creating training and induction procedures for business
- Developing Safe Operating Procedures (SOPs) for plant and equipment, including how to safely set up, use and shut down equipment
If you need help, or further information, visit our website or call us on (08) 8322 2279.
