Working on mobile elevating work platforms

A mobile elevating work platform is a safety device which is used to reach a high-level workplace. To be able to operate a mobile elevating work platform, you need to have been trained appropriately and require a special approval. To use the equipment properly, you must observe the operating instructions accordingly. These also include information on fall hazards.

Mobile elevating work platforms give you a sense of security - and rightly so. However, a dangerous situation may quickly arise, if the equipment is used incorrectly - or where external influences come into play. Precautions must be taken to reduce or eliminate the risks.

Protection against being hurled out of the cage

Whether it is necessary to take extra measures to prevent falls is a question which is frequently asked. There are basically two factors that can provide an answer to this question.

Rules contained in the operating instructions

In their operating instructions, the manufacturers of mobile elevating work platforms specify how to use the equipment safely. Therefore, if these refer to the usage of PPE equipment, this definitely needs to be used.

If, however, the instructions do not indicate the need to use PPE, the decision must be made based on a respective risk assessment. In this case, it is vital to bear in mind that the top bars of the work platform cage are not generally intended to serve as an anchorage option, i.e. if there is no suitable point to hook up to, securing individuals using PPE equipment in this particular cage is simply not possible.

Results of the risk assessment

Particular attention must be paid to the following points - with a special focus on the risk of falling - when a risk assessment is carried out:

• Did the manufacturer intend PPE equipment to be used in this cage?
• What type of work platform is concerned?
• Where will the mobile elevating work platform be deployed/erected?
• Do moving traffic or similar external influences pose a threat?
• Will the work platform be set up on a level, suitable load-bearing surface?
• Is there a risk of sinking into water, if the equipment tips over?
• How can someone be rescued from the cage?

If the risk assessment prescribes the use of PPE equipment although the manufacturer does not provide a means of securing it, this particular mobile elevating work platform is not suitable and must not be used.