MEWPs: Mobile Elevated Work Platform Safety

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) provide safe access for working at height when ground-level work isn't possible. Also known as cherry pickers, scissor lifts, or boom lifts, MEWPs are a safer alternative to ladders for tasks requiring a stable working platform or both hands free.

What are MEWPs?

Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) are powered access equipment that elevate workers to height in a platform or basket. They provide a stable working platform with guardrails, allowing safe work at height with both hands free.

Common types of MEWPs:

Scissor lifts:

• Vertical lift only (straight up and down)
• Large platform area for multiple workers and materials
• Stable and straightforward to operate
• Indoor (electric) and outdoor (diesel/hybrid) models
• Working heights typically 4m-18m

Boom lifts (cherry pickers):

• Can reach up and out, over obstacles
• Smaller platform (typically 1-2 persons)
• Articulated booms (multiple joints) or telescopic booms (straight)
• Greater reach and flexibility than scissor lifts
• Working heights typically 10m-40m+

Vertical mast lifts:

• Compact, lightweight platforms
• Vertical lift only, narrow profile
• Ideal for indoor work in tight spaces
• Single-person operation
• Working heights typically 4m-10m

When to use MEWPs

MEWPs are appropriate when:

• Ground-level work isn't possible — you've considered and ruled out working from ground level
• Ladders are inadequate — the work exceeds 30 minutes, requires both hands, or involves carrying materials
• You need a stable working platform — for painting, maintenance, installation, inspection, or similar work
• Access is needed at multiple heights — MEWPs allow easy repositioning
• The environment is suitable — ground conditions, weather, and access routes allow safe operation

When MEWPs are NOT suitable:

• Ground is soft, uneven, or sloped beyond machine limits
• High winds (typically operations cease above 12.5 m/s or 28 mph)
• Working near overhead power lines without proper precautions
• Limited access routes prevent safe delivery/positioning
• Work will take multiple days at same fixed location (scaffolding may be better)
• Indoor use where diesel exhaust would create hazards
• Areas with insufficient headroom or lateral clearance

LOLER and PUWER requirements

MEWPs are lifting equipment and work equipment, so they're covered by two key regulations:

LOLER 1998 (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations)

Requires:

Thorough examination:

• Before first use (or after installation at new site)
• At least every 6 months for equipment lifting persons
• After significant modification or repair
• By a competent person (usually an independent inspection body)

Records must show:

• Identification of the MEWP
• Date of examination
• Results (pass/fail)
• Defects identified and action taken
• Date of next examination
• Name and signature of examiner

Safe working load (SWL):

• Clearly marked on the platform
• Must not be exceeded (includes weight of persons + tools + materials)
• Typical platform capacities: 200kg-450kg depending on model

PUWER 1998 (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations)

Requires:

Equipment suitable for the task:

• Right type of MEWP for the work environment
• Appropriate working height and reach
• Suitable for ground conditions and weather
• Adequate capacity for workers and materials

Maintained in safe condition:

• Regular servicing by competent engineers
• Defects repaired promptly
• Maintenance records kept
• Pre-use checks completed

Training and information:

• Operators must be trained and competent
• Information and instructions available
• Supervision arrangements in place
• Emergency procedures understood

Inspection before use:

• Daily pre-use checks by operator
• Verification of LOLER status
• Check for obvious damage or defects
• Review of ground conditions and hazards

IPAF training requirements

IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) provides the industry-standard training and certification for MEWP operators in the UK.

Why IPAF certification matters:

• Legal compliance — demonstrates competence under PUWER
• Insurance requirement — most insurers require IPAF or equivalent
• Client expectation — standard requirement on construction sites and managed facilities
• HSE recognition — HSE accepts IPAF as evidence of training
• International recognition — valid across many countries

IPAF training categories:

Static boom (1b):

• Self-propelled boom lifts
• Travel controls from the platform
• Most common category for cherry pickers

Mobile boom (1a):

• Vehicle-mounted booms
• Operated from ground level
• Typically mounted on trucks or trailers

Static vertical (3a):

• Scissor lifts
• Vertical mast lifts
• Push-around vertical towers

Push-around vertical (3b):

• Manually propelled vertical platforms
• Low-level access (typically under 8m)

Manager/Demonstrator:

• For supervisors and equipment demonstrators
• Broader knowledge across categories
• Required for those overseeing MEWP operations

What IPAF training covers:

Theory:

• Legislation and regulations (LOLER, PUWER, Work at Height)
• Hazards and risk controls
• Different MEWP types and capabilities
• Pre-use inspections
• Safe site procedures
• Emergency and rescue procedures
• Roles and responsibilities

Practical:

• Pre-use checks and inspections
• Operating controls (both ground and platform)
• Travelling with platform raised (if applicable)
• Positioning and stabilizing
• Emergency lowering procedures
• Confined space maneuvering
• Operating on slopes (within limits)

Assessment:

• Theory test
• Practical assessment
• Must demonstrate competence in both elements
• Certificate valid for 5 years from issue date

How to get IPAF training:

1. Find an approved training centre — search at ipaf.org
2. Book category-specific courses — typically 1 day per category
3. Attend theory and practical training — usually 6-8 hours
4. Pass theory and practical assessments
5. Receive PAL Card (IPAF operator license)
6. Maintain records — track expiry dates (5 years)
7. Provide familiarization — even with IPAF, operators need site-specific familiarization

Site familiarization and competence

IPAF training alone doesn't make an operator competent. Competence = Training + Experience + Knowledge.

Familiarization requirements:

Before operating any MEWP, operators must receive familiarization with:

The specific machine:

• Type and model
• Control layout and functions
• Capacity and operating envelope
• Emergency procedures specific to that machine
• Ground or platform controls (depending on type)

The site and task:

• Ground conditions and hazards
• Overhead hazards (power lines, structures, trees)
• Exclusion zones required
• Weather restrictions
• Emergency procedures and contact numbers
• Rescue equipment location

Duration:

• Minimum 15-30 minutes
• Must be documented
• Required even for experienced operators using unfamiliar equipment

Building competence:

For newly trained operators:

• Supervised operation initially (minimum 5-10 uses)
• Start with simple tasks in open areas
• Progress to more complex environments gradually
• Regular feedback and coaching

For all operators:

• Regular use maintains competence
• Refresher training if not used for 6+ months
• Toolbox talks for new hazards or incidents
• Encourage reporting of near-misses and concerns

Pre-use inspection requirements

Every MEWP must be inspected before each use, even if it was used yesterday.

Recording inspections:

You must record:

• Date and time of inspection
• Machine identification (make, model, serial number)
• Name of person conducting inspection
• Defects identified (or 'nil defects')
• Action taken

Good practice:

• Use daily inspection sheets (paper or digital)
• Keep inspection records with the machine
• Review trends (recurring issues indicate maintenance needs)
• Don't operate without completing and recording inspection

Safe operation procedures

Before raising the platform:

Ground preparation:

• Check ground is firm, level, and capable of supporting the machine weight
• Identify and mark any underground services (electricity, gas, water)
• Check maximum slope not exceeded (typically 1.5-5 degrees depending on model)
• Look for potholes, drains, soft spots, or debris
• Deploy outriggers fully if fitted (check ground beneath each pad)

Overhead hazards:

• Identify overhead power lines — maintain safe distances (minimum 10m for high voltage)
• Check for building overhangs, canopies, tree branches
• Identify maximum working height considering overhead clearances
• Plan boom movements to avoid contact with structures

Exclusion zones:

• Establish barriers or signage around the machine base
• Prevent pedestrians and vehicles entering the area beneath the platform
• Typical exclusion zone: 2-3 metres around machine base (more for large boom lifts)
• Assign a banksman if working in high-traffic areas

Communication:

• Agree hand signals if ground-level communication needed
• Provide two-way radio if working out of sight/earshot
• Ensure everyone knows emergency procedures
• Identify the rescue plan if operator becomes incapacitated

During operation:

Platform movement:

• Face direction of travel
• Move slowly and smoothly (especially when elevated)
• Watch for obstacles at platform level (even if clear at ground)
• Be aware of boom swing area and tail swing
• Stop immediately if anything unexpected happens

Working from the platform:

• Stay within the platform guardrails (never sit or stand on rails)
• Don't overreach — reposition the platform instead
• Keep weight evenly distributed
• Secure tools to prevent drops
• Don't throw materials up or down

Weather monitoring:

• Stop work if wind speed exceeds machine limits (typically 12.5 m/s or 28 mph)
• Avoid operation in heavy rain, snow, or ice
• Lower platform if lightning in area
• Consider ground conditions after heavy rain

Traveling with platform raised:

• Only if machine is designed for travel when elevated (check manufacturer instructions)
• Only on firm, level ground
• Move very slowly
• Check clearances continuously
• Never travel on slopes or uneven ground when elevated

Emergency procedures:

Emergency lowering:

• Every MEWP has emergency lowering controls (usually at ground level)
• Operators MUST know where they are and how to use them
• Practice emergency lowering during familiarization
• Use only in genuine emergencies (not for convenience)

If platform won't lower (power failure):

1. Stay calm — platform is secure even if power is lost
2. Try emergency lowering system
3. Call for help (phone/radio)
4. Do NOT attempt to climb out of the platform
5. Wait for rescue (fire service has specialist equipment)

If MEWP tips or becomes unstable:

• Emergency stop immediately
• Stay in the platform (do not jump)
• Alert ground personnel
• Wait for rescue services
• Do not attempt to move the machine

If contact with power lines:

• Stay in the platform (safest place)
• Do not touch any metal parts
• Alert others to stay clear
• Call emergency services
• Only exit if machine catches fire — jump clear without touching machine and ground simultaneously

Harness requirements for MEWPs

Whether harnesses are required in MEWPs depends on the machine type and manufacturer instructions.

Scissor lifts:

Harnesses generally NOT required because:

• Large platform with full guardrails
• Vertical movement only (no lateral forces)
• Platform remains level
• Low risk of being thrown from platform

Exceptions:

• Manufacturer specifically requires harnesses (check handbook)
• Working in extreme conditions (high winds)
• Work involves significant lateral forces
• Platform rails have been modified or removed

Boom lifts:

Harnesses generally REQUIRED because:

• Boom movement can create lateral forces
• Sudden stops can throw occupants
• Risk of platform striking obstacles
• Smaller platform with more movement

Requirements:

• Full-body harness (CE marked, in date)
• Short lanyard (prevents falling out but not over guardrails)
• Attached to designated anchor point in platform
• Pre-use harness inspection completed
• Operator trained in harness use

Correct harness use in MEWPs:

Do:

• Use a short lanyard (typically 1m or less) to prevent ejection but allow movement
• Attach to the designated anchor point (usually marked on platform)
• Ensure harness is properly fitted (snug but comfortable)
• Complete pre-use harness inspection
• Remove harness when exiting platform (don't climb down wearing it)

Don't:

• Attach to boom or structure outside platform
• Use long lanyards (defeats the purpose)
• Share harnesses between operators without size adjustment
• Use harnesses as a substitution for guardrails
• Attach lanyard to yourself or the platform rails

Common MEWP hazards and controls

1. Crushing against overhead structures

Hazards:

• Platform or occupant crushed between platform and building/structure
• Particularly during boom movements
• Can cause serious or fatal injuries

Controls:

• Survey work area for overhead hazards before starting
• Maintain awareness during all platform movements
• Use slow, controlled movements
• Never place yourself between platform and any structure
• Emergency stop if unexpected contact

2. Machine instability and tip-over

Causes:

• Soft or uneven ground
• Exceeding slope limits
• Overloading platform
• Extending boom beyond safe envelope
• Wind forces on extended boom

Controls:

• Assess ground conditions before positioning
• Deploy outriggers correctly on suitable ground
• Stay within marked safe working envelope
• Monitor weather and wind conditions
• Don't exceed platform SWL (persons + materials)
• Position machine on firm, level ground

3. Electrocution from overhead power lines

Hazards:

• Contact between boom/platform and power lines
• Electricity can arc several metres through air
• Usually fatal or causes severe burns

Controls:

• Identify ALL overhead cables before starting work
• Maintain minimum safe distances (10m for high voltage)
• Get lines de-energized if working nearby
• Use insulated tools if essential to work near cables
• Appoint trained banksman to watch clearances
• If contact occurs, stay in platform and call for help

4. Falling objects and dropped tools

Hazards:

• Tools or materials falling from platform
• Injuries to people below
• Damage to property

Controls:

• Establish exclusion zones below work area
• Use tool lanyards to secure all hand tools
• Don't throw items up or down — use hoist or rope bag
• Toe boards on platform to prevent material sliding off
• Wear tool belts or use buckets for small items
• Store materials securely in platform

5. Collision with structures or vehicles

Hazards:

• Boom striking buildings, vehicles, or equipment
• Damage and potential injury
• Machine instability if boom catches on structure

Controls:

• Plan boom movements before starting
• Use slow, controlled movements
• Appoint banksman for confined areas
• Mark hazards (poles, walls, signs)
• Use barriers to control vehicle traffic
• Check tail swing clearance when rotating

Maintenance and servicing

Routine maintenance:

Daily (by operator):

• Pre-use inspection (see checklist above)
• Clean platform of debris and spills
• Check fluid levels
• Report any defects immediately

Weekly:

• Detailed visual inspection by competent person
• Function test of all controls and safety systems
• Check battery condition (electric machines)
• Lubricate moving parts as per manufacturer schedule
• Record findings

Monthly:

• More detailed inspection by trained maintenance person
• Test emergency lowering systems
• Check hydraulic hoses for wear or damage
• Inspect structural components
• Review and update maintenance log

As per manufacturer schedule:

• Full service by qualified engineers (typically 3-6 months)
• Replace wear items (filters, fluids, bushings)
• Load test if required
• Update service records

LOLER thorough examination:

Every 6 months (minimum):

• By independent competent person
• Detailed inspection of all safety-critical components
• Function tests of safety systems
• Load testing if required
• Written report provided
• Certificate issued (or defects noted)

After significant events:

• After tip-over or collision
• After exposure to extreme conditions
• After modification or major repair
• Before returning to service

Defect reporting and management:

If defects are found:

1. Stop work immediately — don't complete the task if safety is compromised
2. Tag the machine — attach 'Do Not Use' tag and remove keys
3. Report the defect — inform supervisor/manager and maintenance team
4. Record the defect — document in defect log with date, description, severity
5. Arrange repair — contact qualified engineers; don't attempt DIY repairs
6. Verify repair — test and re-inspect before returning to service
7. Update records — document repair and clearance to use

Never:

• Ignore defects or assume they're minor
• Continue working with known defects
• Attempt temporary repairs with tape, wire, or improvised fixings
• Remove safety systems or guards
• Override safety devices

Supervision and management responsibilities

Employer/site manager responsibilities:

Before MEWP use:

• Conduct risk assessment for working at height
• Select appropriate MEWP type for the task and environment
• Ensure LOLER certification is valid
• Verify operator training and competence
• Provide information, instruction, and supervision
• Establish emergency procedures and rescue arrangements

During operations:

• Supervise work to ensure safe procedures followed
• Monitor weather conditions
• Ensure exclusion zones maintained
• Stop work if unsafe conditions develop
• Be available for queries or emergency support

After operations:

• Review any incidents or near-misses
• Ensure defects are reported and recorded
• Arrange maintenance and repairs
• Update risk assessments if needed
• Maintain records (training, inspections, maintenance)

Operator responsibilities:

Every time you operate a MEWP:

• Complete pre-use inspection and record findings
• Verify LOLER certification is in date
• Assess ground conditions and site hazards
• Establish exclusion zones
• Operate within training and competence level
• Follow manufacturer instructions and safe working procedures
• Report defects immediately
• Stop work if conditions become unsafe

You must NOT:

• Operate without valid training
• Use defective or uncertified equipment
• Exceed safe working limits (load, slope, wind, reach)
• Allow untrained persons to operate the machine
• Remove or disable safety systems
• Work in unsafe conditions (wind, ground, overhead hazards)

Frequently asked questions

Next steps

If you're planning to use MEWPs for working at height:

Working at Height Risk Assessment Tool →

Understand the broader regulatory context:

What is Working at Height? →

Need help selecting the right equipment or managing MEWP operations?

Related articles:

• What is Working at Height?
• Do I Need Fall Protection?
• Ladder Safety

Useful tools:

• Risk Assessment Builder
• Equipment Inspection Tracker

Key external resources:

• IPAF Training and Certification↗
• HSE Working at Height Guidance↗
• LOLER Approved Code of Practice↗