Do You Own Or Operate An Elevating Work Platform In Your Workplace?

SafeWork SA inspectors are auditing elevating work platform safety between now and June 2019 in an effort to reduce the risk of incidents and injuries. Inspectors will assess EWPs which elevate above three metres, including scissor lift and boom type EWPs, and the South Australian Business Chamber’s consulting team can help your business prepare.

Elevating work platforms (EWPs) are mobile plant tools designed to lift or lower people and equipment by a telescopic, hinged or articulated devices, or combination of these, from a base support. While EWPs may control work at height risks, the movement of mobile plant introduces new risks. Duty holders usually understand the risks EWPs pose to people on the ground, however the increased crush risk to workers from the EWP platform or within the basket is often not fully considered.

SafeWork SA inspectors will be conducting the audit and assessing the following:

• Information for the operation and use of the EWP is available to the operator
• Maintenance records are kept and up to date
• Operators are competent and where necessary, licenced
• Safety equipment and administrative controls are available, used and maintained
• Operation controls are clearly marked and in good working order
• Emergency controls are visible and operational
• Where the EWP is for hire, that the hirer ensures the above conditions are met, and
• The EWP is used in suitable locations and on suitable surfaces.

Should you have any questions relating to the audit our the South Australian Business Chamber consulting team can assist. Contact us on (08) 8300 0000 or click here for more information on our consulting services.