Organization

Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬

Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

TECHNICAL GUIDELINES FOR MEWP

1. INTRODUCTION

The use of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) is increasing as the benefits for
productivity and safety are recognised. They are acknowledged by many to be the
safest and most efficient means of providing temporary access to height for many work
activities. However, precaustion and care is must to ensure safety while using these
equipment.

Federal Law no. 8 (UAE Labor Code) and Dubai Municipality Local Order 61 of 1991
clearly emphasized the role of employers to take every precaution necessary for the
protection of his workers and ensure their safety from any occupational illness or
potential work accidents. The employer shall also initiate appropriate control measures
to improve work conditions and thereby provide healthy environment for his workers.

Tthis guideline focuses on the health and safety aspets of the Mobile elevated work
platforms such as man lift, scissor lift etc.

2. SCOPE

This technical guidelines shall apply to all establishments using MEWP’S at their
work in the Emirates of Dubai.

3. DEFINITION OF TERMS

MEWP Mobile elevated work platforms

DCAS Dubai Corporation for Amubulance Services
DHA Dubai Health Authority
DCD Dubai Civil Defence
SSW Safe System of Work
SWL Safe Working Load
PPE Personnel Protective Equipment
BS British Standard
EN European Norms ( Standard)
CSA Canadian standard association
ANSI American standard

1
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

4. GUIDELINES

4.1 General

These guidelines relate to mobile elevating work platform (MEWPS) in

compliance with BS:8460 Code of Practice for the safe use of MEWPs.

Design standards of EN 280:2013+A1:2015 Mobile elevating work platforms.

Design calculations. Stability criteria. Construction. Safety. Examinations and
tests Canadian – CSA B354.6.
ANSI A92.20: Design, Calculations, Safety Requirements and Test Methods for
MEWPs; ANSI A92.22: Safe Use of MEWPs; and ANSI A92.24: Training
Requirements for Operators MEWPs.

All MEWP operators must follow the manufacturers guidelines for safe
operational practices.

4.2 Planning method of work and Risk assessment

a) Consideration should be given to: the need for carrying out the work at
height, e.g. whether or not the work could be carried out at ground level.

b) Sequencing activities to avoid the presence of obstructions that could

cause trapping ,risks, tip over, falling from the platform and adopting
alternative working methods that avoid or reduce the risks when using a
MEWP.

Factors that need to be taken into account when planning work at height
involves:
• trapping risks,
• tip over,
• falling from the platform
e.g. identifying the range of work and selecting equipment to minimise the
chances occurring.

In assessing the risk, the employer should consider the following general
factors which, although extensive, are not exhaustive, since there may be
particular factors involved in the work to be undertaken which ought to be
considered:

▪ Are the operators trained in the use of a harness and lanyard?

▪ What type of MEWP is most suitable for the work to be undertaken?
▪ Does the selected MEWP have identified anchorage points?
▪ What is the type of work to be undertaken?
▪ What does the manufacturer of the MEWP recommend?
▪ Do you have a rescue plan?

2
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

Employers, employees and other responsible for the use of MEWPs should
assess the risks and take precautions to eliminate or control those risks.

In addition Risk Assessment should cover: -

a. travelling to and from the work area
b. accessing the work area, and
c. working at height

Particular attention should be given to lighting levels – additional task or

personal lighting may be necessary, but it needs careful design.

The risk assessment should be recorded. It should also be reviewed and

revised, as necessary, while work is carried out. For further advice on risk
assessment.

4.3. MEWP categories

MEWPs are divided into two Groups:

Group a
MEWPs where the vertical projection of the centre of area of the platform at
the maximum chassis inclination specified by the manufacturer is always
inside the tipping lines.
Group b
All other MEWPs.

And into three Types:

TYPE 1 - Travelling is only allowed with the MEWP in its transport position.

TYPE 2 - Travelling with raised work platform is controlled from a point of

control at the chassis.

TYPE 3 - Travelling with raised work platform is controlled from a point of

control at the work platform.

3
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

1a 1b 3a

Pav 3b

4.3 MEWP selection

Selecting a MEWP with the right operating characteristics can substantially

reduce the risk of entrapment. When selecting a MEWP, account should be
taken of the manufacturer’s instructions and, in particular the operating
parameters and limits specified.

Vertical lift, articulated boom and telescopic boom MEWPs allow a wide variety
and different sequences of platform movements to be performed. The
information provided by the risk assessment on the nature of trapping risks and
when the risks occur will aid decisions on the type and model of MEWP best
suited to avoid trapping risks.

4.4 Safe system of work.

A safe system of work (SSW) should be devised to ensure that work tasks can
be carried out safely. Key elements of the SSW should be written down. This
could take the form of a safety method statement as commonly used in the
construction industry or any other appropriate record.

4
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

The SSW should be based on risk assessment and identify the

a) type of MEWPs to be used
b) hazards that need to be taken into account, when travelling to,
c) accessing or working in the work area,
d) control measures to be adopted,
e) competence and training requirements for those involved in the work, and
emergency arrangements.

the person who formulates the SSW should be : -

▪ understand the MEWP characteristics and the nature of the work to be
carried out;
▪ be capable of identifying site hazards that could lead to trapping accidents;

▪ have the ability to communicate the results of their findings to those

responsible for managing MEWP activities. This can be on-site
management, contractor’s staff and/or principal
▪ contractor’s staff depending on the arrangements that are in place to
ensure that the risk assessment is understood and implemented.

The SSW should be communicated to all persons involved in the planning and
management of the work tasks. The hazards identified and control measures to
be adopted should be communicated to those who supervise and carry out the
work tasks.

4.5 MEWP Handover and Familiarisation

It is mandatory a supplier of MEWP type equipment must carry out a

demonstration to the trained operator when delivering the machine to site. The
demonstration does not qualify for training. The person carrying out the
demonstration must be trained and competent for example hold a MEWP
Demonstrator licence.

4.6 Travelling, positioning and set-up

The following points all need to be considered and checked to ensure safe
travel, positioning and set-up for work:
• Machine type and weight
• That machine is in travel position
• Walk the route before commencing
• Effect of limited operator visibility
• Other traffic or work in the area
• Poor, rough, waterlogged or frozen ground
• Paved areas and safe slab loading
• Un-compacted fill
• Trenches, drains and manhole or inspection covers
• Excavations, basements and cellars

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Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

• Slopes and ramps

• Services ABOVE and BELOW ground including overhead hazards
• Hazardous or narrow areas and obstructions
• Continual awareness of the situation and surroundings
• Continually observe – before and during the raising or lowering of the
platform – always checking for obstructions above and below, or people
Impact or crushing points
• Check speed and sound horn before entering a doorway
• Effects of weather on people, the machine and ground conditions
• Settlement and the use of spreader pads, stabilisers and jacks
• Machine levelling
• Correct position to reach work surface
• Cordoning off the work area
• Possible collision dangers and ejection from platform.

4.7 Ground condition(s)

During use it is important that operators use the level indicators on platforms
and take notice of any warnings provided. If the level indicator shows that the
operating limits are being exceeded, the operator should lower the platform or
the machine and then reset the machine in a level position. If it is suspected
that the outriggers could sink for any reason, regular checks should be made of
machine level and adjustments made to outriggers, spreaders, mats, etc.

The assessment of ground strength can vary from a visual inspection of the
ground surface to a full geotechnical survey. In the case of MEWPs, a visual
inspection is often adequate as outrigger loads are relatively low compared to
machines such as mobile cranes.

However, it is essential that the assessment is made by someone with

adequate knowledge and the experience to know when further expert advice
and assessment is required.

Typical ground condition hazards

a. Uncompacted fill - Soil or other fill material might be piled along the line of a
backfilled trench without being compacted. Cracking of the ground along
the line of the trench is an indication of uncompacted fill.

b. Proximity to excavations - MEWPs should not be positioned near to the

edge of trenches and other excavations as these are likely to collapse
without warning. If the machine needs to be used close to the edge of a
slope or excavation, with the outriggers or wheels in the ’Danger Area’, an
engineering assessment must be by a competent geotechnical engineer
before the MEWP is set up and operated.

6
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

c. Floors, cellars and basements - Many floors, cellars and basements are
incapable of bearing the weight of a MEWP and could collapse without
warning. The strength of floors and location of cellars and basements must
be taken into account when siting MEWPs.

d. Paved areas - Paved areas can look deceptively strong but might have
been aid on weak ground underneath. Footpaths should be considered to
be suspect as there could be weaker material or services just underneath
the surface.

e. Roads - If a road is used regularly by heavy commercial vehicles and does

not show any signs of distress it is of less concern than a lightly-trafficked
car park or estate road.

f. Underground services - Sewers, drains, manholes, gas and water mains,

etc might be damaged by the weight of a MEWP or could even collapse
and cause the MEWP to become unstable or overturn.

g. Weather conditions - Heavy or prolonged rain can alter ground conditions

and cause sinking of outriggers or wheels. If it is suspected that the ground
supporting a MEWP is getting softer, regular checks should be made on
machine level and the appropriate adjustments made to outriggers, packing
mats etc.

Regular checks should be carried out when after sand storms have
occurred since ground can appear to be much firmer than it actually is.

4.8 Site categories

Sites can be split into a number of categories to highlight the most likely
hazards that need to be considered:

a. Greenfield sites - No previous construction activity. Particular problems may

be encountered adjacent to rivers, estuaries and flood plains where soft
alluvial deposits and high groundwater tables can be expected.

b. Beaches - Low sand density and/or high or variable water table create
difficult conditions.

c. Filled construction sites (Brownfield sites) - Previous conditions are

unknown and there may be basements, poorly filled open pits,
storage tanks or variably compacted fill.

7
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

d. Paved areas - Roads, pavements, paths and car parks can look deceptively
strong but may have been laid on weak ground. If a road is regularly used
by heavy commercial vehicles and shows no sign of distress, then it will be
less of a concern than a lightly trafficked car park or estate road. Footpaths
always demand further investigation as there may be weaker material or
shallow services underneath a thin surface layer. Edges of paved areas are
usually weak.

e. Town centre sites - Expect underground hazards such as basements,

sewers, tunnels, live services, poor backfilling. Close to an airport - When
intending to work within 6km of an airport boundary and 10m or more above
ground level, prior permission will need to be sought from the airport
operator.

4.9 Outrigger foundations

The area of the foot attached to the outrigger of a MEWP is relatively small and
consequently generates high pressures on the ground. Most soils, unmade
ground and some paved and tarmac covered areas are not capable of
supporting these pressures and some form of foundation or spreader plate is
often required to reduce the pressure to an acceptable level.

It is therefore strongly recommended that suitable spreader plates should

always be used under the outrigger feet irrespective of the apparent ground
conditions.

In addition, very poor ground conditions may require the advance preparation
of additional foundations, such as timber mats, proprietary mats, steel grillages
or concrete pads, before the MEWP outriggers are deployed. If timbers are
used these must be in good condition and of adequate thickness (not scaffold
boards).

8
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

4.10 Safe Working Load (SWL)

The Safe Working Load (SWL) is the maximum load that the MEWP will safely
carry. This SWL includes the weight of all people, tools and equipment being
carried.

Overloading by exceeding the SWL is extremely hazardous and should never

take place. Not only may it cause the machine to overturn but it may also
damage the machine.

Shock loading a machine by the sudden increase or decrease in weight is also

extremely hazardous as it might overturn or damage the machine. It should be
noted that some manufacturers allow varying SWLs for particular machines.
Consult the manufacturer’s load chart and manual.

SWLs should always be marked on the machine in a prominent position and

shown in kilograms (and lbs) and by diagrams indicating the maximum number
of people that can be carried. Uneven distribution of the load on the work
platform and sudden impact (shock) loads from falling objects or dismantling of
structures etc could destabilise the machine.

4.11 Electrical Hazards

In emergency: Do not approach machine – keep others away, do not climb

down, do not jump – call emergency services.

Antennae/bus bars, Risk Assessment should check if antenna is receive or

transmit – switch off for duration of work if transmit type.

Overhead high voltage lines, most overhead electric lines are un-insulated and
usually carry high voltage electricity.

Working from or moving a MEWP in the vicinity of overhead high voltage lines
can be extremely dangerous, and essential precautions must be taken. There
may also be special rules established for particular sites.

On controlled sites, where MEWPs have to pass under overhead electric lines,
ground level barriers should be positioned and ‘goal posts’ erected at the place
where your machine may pass under the overhead lines.

If there is no need to pass under the overhead lines, both ground level barrier
and high-level markers, (usually bunting) will be placed to keep you at a safe
distance.
9
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

Not all sites are controlled, and the operator must always be aware of the
dangers of overhead electric lines.

A minimum safe distance must always be kept between the overhead lines and
the closest point of the MEWP when fully extended. This distance is 15m with
overhead lines mounted on steel towers and 9m with lines mounted on poles of
wood, concrete or steel.

These distances are measured horizontally at ground level from a position

vertically below the outermost conductor at the tower or pole position (see
Figures 1 and 2).

Warnings
If you are required to work inside these limits, you should seek further advice
before commencing work

All overhead lines and other electrical apparatus should be treated as live
unless declared ‘dead’ and ‘Safe’ by the electricity company (or other line
operator)

Strong winds may cause overhead electric lines to sway and thus reduce the
distance to a point where you are in danger.

The recommended minimum safe working distance must be rechecked and

confirmed if the work platform is moved from the original location

You must observe barriers and markers where these are erected to mark safe
working distances
10
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

When moving your machine under or near overhead electric lines, always be
guided by an experienced signaller

Do not raise any part of the machine when travelling under overhead lines or
between two sets of goal posts

If in doubt at any time seek further advice.

4.12 Co-ordination with other activities and preparation of work areas

MEWPs will rarely be used in isolation from other work activities and
preparations are likely to be required to enable them to be used safely in work
areas where trapping risks are present. The work should be planned to take
these issues into account. The people responsible for the following activities
should be identified and their responsibilities defined in the safe system of
work:

a) maintaining overhead objects on any designated travel route that MEWPs

are expected to use
b) preparing and maintaining the ground that MEWPs are expected to work
on,
c) managing the areas below and around the work at height, and
d) taking control of emergency operations

4.13 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All concerned personnel should always wear appropriate PPE. This might
include: steel toe capped boots, hard hat, harness, high visibility vest, this will
be determined by your risk assessment.

The use of PPE should be viewed as the final step in a hierarchy of

preventative measures, since the potential risks mentioned above can be
reduced by good operating practice, well-trained operators and a regime of
thorough maintenance.

Having determined the appropriate equipment, the harness and lanyard

combination should be inspected by a competent person, and an inspection
regime established to ensure they are regularly inspected and replaced if there
is evidence of wear. The operators using the harness and lanyard must also
have been trained in their use.

Safety harness/lanyard combinations must only be attached to the anchorage

provided by the manufacturer. Lanyards must never be attached to any other
object or a structure outside the platform.

11
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

Fall Protection
All persons that wish to use a MEWP must be wearing the appropriate EN361
full body harness with correct lanyard - IPAF recommend an adjustable
restraint. The intended operation of this PFPE is to provide work restraint inside
the basket / platform.

All operators of MEWPs will have undertaken ISO18878 standard training,

where guidance on harness use and how falls from height can occur has been
covered. All persons wearing harness inside a working platform should be
trained and competent.

Boom Type Platforms

When working from a boom type MEWP, it is strongly recommended that a full
body harness with an adjustable restraint lanyard be used to provide work
restraint. The lanyard should be adjusted to be as short as possible to avoid
the wearer leaving the basket in case of catapult or rough use and may contain
an energy absorbing device. This includes Static Booms (1b) and Mobile
Booms (3b) categories. For further details regarding energy absorbing device
seek manufacturer’s guidance.

Vertical Lifts
It is not normally recommended for personnel working in a vertical lift to wear
fall protection equipment (PFPE), other than in exceptional circumstances
where a risk assessment deems it necessary. This includes categories Static
Vertical (1a), Mobile Vertical(3a), Push Around Vertical (PAV) and Mast
Climbing Work Platforms (MCWP). The need for a fall protection system will be
the outcome of a job specific risk assessment undertaken prior to work
commencing and taking into consideration the manufacturer’s operator manual.

4.14 Load & Unload

The loading and unloading of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) is a

potentially risky activity.

MEWPs must be correctly and safely loaded, secured and unloaded prior to or
following transportation by road to and from the work site.

Ensure that a senior manager is responsible for planning MEWP deliveries,

collection and transportation.

Perform a proper risk assessment for all MEWP operations and document this
process. Ensure that all employees are adequately trained to fulfil their
responsibilities.

12
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

4.15 Fitting additional devices or equipment on MEWPs

Task specific risk assessment may indicate that fitting additional equipment or
device(s) to a MEWP may provide additional safety in particular types of work.
If you wish to fit additional equipment or devices, then you should obtain advice
from a person or body who is competent to assess whether or not such a
change to the MEWP will compromise its safety.

Employer shall consult the MEWP manufacturer but should note that health
and safety law does not oblige manufacturers to give advice on the fitting of
additional equipment or devices on their products. There are specific legal
requirements which need to be understood and followed by anyone who fits
additional equipment or device(s) on a MEWP.

Before putting MEWPs into use for the first time the user must satisfy himself
that the MEWP complies with essential health and safety requirements. Whilst
work equipment may be adapted, for example, for the specific operations and
conditions in which it is used. The adaptations must not increase the overall
risks associated with its use

a. Supply of Machinery

Before placing machinery, such as a MEWP, on the market and/or putting it

into service, the manufacturer or his authorised representative shall:
a) ensure that it satisfies the relevant essential health and safety
requirements
b) ensure that the technical file is available;
c) provide, in particular, the necessary information, such as instructions;
d) carry out the appropriate procedures for assessing conformity;
e) draw up the EC declaration of conformity and ensure that it
accompanies the MEWP;
f) affix the CE marking to the MEWP.

If you substantially modify a MEWP, then you become the new MEWP
manufacturer and are responsible for complying with manufacturer
standards. There is no definition of what a substantial modification is.

Whilst it is possible for manufacturers to self-certify their designs by

demonstrating full compliance to design standards (E.g. EN 280); to assist
them to comply with either design standards or Essential Health and Safety
Requirements (EHSR) manufacturers normally choose to have their
designs examined and certified by Notified Bodies.

Additional equipment or device(s) may be classed as safety components.

Safety components have to comply in the same way as machinery.
13
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

Compliance with means only that the safety component meets the EHSRs
relevant to the safety component. Before fitting any safety component to a
MEWP, you should follow the procedure given in “Additional devices or
equipment” to ensure that the device is suitable for use with the MEWP.

b. Additional devices or equipment

If additional devices or equipment are proposed to be fitted to a MEWP,
then further risk assessment is required before such a change is made. You
will need to have available all relevant technical details of the MEWP and
for the additional devices or equipment that you intend to fit. Risk
assessment must show that the proposed change protects against the
trapping risks identified and that, at least, it does not:

I. increase the consequences of injury in a trapping accident create

new or additional risks that outweigh the trapping risks addressed
(taking account of all the ways in which the MEWP is used including
areas where trapping risks are not present)
II. adversely affect the:
o operation of controls and any MEWP movements
o performance and reliability of control systems
o reliability of components
o cause ergonomic hazards for the MEWP operator or anyone
else in the platform
o cause distractions to the operator that could affect safe
operation of the MEWP
o encourage bad operating practices that could affect the safety of
the MEWP in use
o restrict access to the platform controls, particularly in an
emergency
o prevent the MEWP from being used for applications in which it is
acknowledged to be safe

c. Responsibility
The responsibility for any adaptation, addition or modification and the
associated risk assessment lies with the person who modifies the MEWP.
The safety of the adaptation, addition or modification and the safety of any
parts of the MEWP that it may affect must be ensured. Under these
circumstances the original manufacturer is not liable for the adaptation,
addition or modification or any effects it has on the safety and performance
of the MEWP. The person carrying out the adaptation, addition or
modification takes on these responsibilities and may become liable for the
safety of the complete MEWP.

14
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

Consultation with the manufacturer and your insurers.

Advice provided by the MEWP manufacturer on the adaptation, addition

modification you propose or the additional devices or equipment that you
wish to fit should be taken into account.

It is recommended that you discuss the fitting of the additional devices or

equipment with your insurer if you think that they could be classed as
modifications that could affect your insurance.

4.16 Wind Speed

All MEWPs (except those specifically for indoor use) have a maximum design
wind speed which should be marked on the machine. Operation in wind speeds
above this maximum may cause instability.

Design wind speed - is based on a three second gust; more prolonged

exposure can cause instability. The maximum set by the manufacturer is given
in the Operators’ Manual, on decals or data plates. It is important to measure
wind speed at working height – an anemometer should be used for reliable
measurement. It is very important to realise that wind speed increases with
height and may be 50% greater at a height of 20 metres above ground level.

Funnelling - possible around buildings or objects. Caution is necessary around

rooflines and corners.

Sheeting - using large sheets of material or anything with a large surface area
in a platform will adversely affect stability.

Wind-chill - will cause the operator to get cold and affect ability.

NEVER attach the platform to a structure.

15
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

Other sources of local high wind speed to consider are aircraft slipstreams at
airports and high sided vehicles on motorways.

5.0 Training

All employees shall be competent enough to perform their work safely, they
should have minimum OHS understanding. Accordinlgy each employee shall
be trained and certified as per Dubai Municipalities requirements.

Apart from general training each own shall be trainied for respective
organisation’s safe operating procedure of respective activities.

In addition to basic training, operators should be familiarised with the controls,

characteristics, safety devices, decals and emergency rescue systems on the
MEWPs they are authorised to operate.

Before operating a particular make and model of MEWP, the operator should
be able to prove that they have received familiarisation on that type of machine,
for example through entries in his/her log book (or similar). If this cannot be
demonstrated then the operator should undergo familiarisation, or if they are
authorised to do so by their employer, self-familiarise themselves using the
manufacturer’s instructions.

16
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

Site Management

Managers with responsibility for work where people on the platform may be
trapped between the platform and objects in the work area should have
knowledge of the factors that should be considered before selecting a MEWP
for use.
e.g. IPAF’s “MEWPs for Managers” training course is recommended for
people who manage work activities involving MEWPs.

Supervisors
Supervisors should be instructed in the hazards, causal factors, and control
measures identified in the task, specific risk assessments for the work to be
carried out. They should be familiar with the plans for the work to be carried out
and take part in regular on-site emergency lowering drills.

MEWP operators
a) be competent to operate the MEWP in the working conditions to which they
are exposed,
b) be instructed in local hazards and site rules,
c) have attended a recognised IPAF training course, and
d) be familiar with the make and model of MEWP they are authorised to
operate.
e) those who use mobile elevating work platforms must be competent and
trained to an internationally recognised standard, such as e.g. IPAF ISO
18878:2013. It is important to ensure that the operator has received training
in the correct category of MEWP that they will use.

Rescuers
a) be competent to lower the MEWP platform using the ground/emergency
controls in the work situations to which they are exposed;
b) be instructed in local hazards and site rules;
c) be familiar with the rescue procedures for the type of MEWP they are
authorised to operate;
d) be aware of what to do if the load control has tripped and/or the emergency
control has been activated in the platform.

Rescuers at ground level do not need to be trained as MEWP operators but

they must be trained by their employer and be competent to carry out rescue
operations. They should be familiarised with the safety devices on the MEWP
in use, its emergency lowering systems and ground controls. They should
check the emergency lowering functions with the operator during the daily pre-
use checks.

Rescuers should be trained in the procedures to follow when rescuing people

and take part in on site emergency lowering drills

17
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

Training Providers

Those who provide training on mobile elevating work platforms, should be able
to demonstrate that their training activity – facilities, equipment, instructor
qualifications and CPD, instructor / trainee ration and course content are
subject to independent assessment and ongoing audits by international
standard ISO:18878:2013. Records should be kept of the training received.

All trainng shall be repeated every two yearly as a minimum. However,

organisations can have better periodicity to ensure staff knowledge is upto date
all time considering changes.

MEWP operators, Health and Fitness

Since the safe use of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) requires that
you consult safety notices and read and thoroughly understand the
manufacturer’s instruction manual, literacy and language comprehension are
important requirements for any MEWP user.

Similarly, since the assembly and use of MEWPs can be physically demanding,
users should be physically fit and in good health and should, generally, not
have problems with eyesight or hearing, heart disease, high blood pressure,
epilepsy, fear of heights or vertigo, giddiness or difficulty with balance, impaired
limb function, alcohol or drug dependence or psychiatric illness.

If you have any problems with literacy or language comprehension or have any
doubts about your fitness to use MEWPs, you must bring them to the attention
of your employer/ supervisor.

This need not preclude you from using MEWPs, provided your employer
conducts an assessment and is able to put into place adequate measures, to
take account of any difficulties you may have.

Shall maintain the occupational health card as applicable and advice by Dubai
Health Authority.

4.2 Emergency Preparedness

Rescue Plans

It is a legal requirement to plan for emergencies and rescue when anyone is

working at height. Rescuing quickly someone who has become trapped can
make a very significant difference to the injuries sustained – it may be the
difference between life and death. There must always be someone at ground

18
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

level who is able to take action in the event of an emergency while a MEWP is
in use and trapping risks are present.

A suitable rescue plan must be developed to ensure that emergency recovery

can be carried out safely and quickly in the event of an operator or anyone else
becoming trapped between the platform and an adjacent object.

MEWP operators, supervisors and others involved should be briefed on and

practice the emergency procedures to follow if someone becomes trapped.

Emergency drill on contact with a live electric line

If the MEWP makes contact with a live electric line, observe the following
precautions in order to minimise the risk of electrocution.

Remain on the platform or in the cage

Warn all other personnel to keep away from the machine and not to touch any
part of it

Try, unaided, and without anything approaching the machine, to move the
machine until it is clear of the power line and/or lower the platform to the
ground

If the machine cannot be moved away, or lowered, remain inside the cage. If
possible, get someone to inform the electricity supply authority at once. Take
no action until it has been confirmed that conditions are safe

Locating emergency controls

The location of the operator’s instruction manual should be identified in the

emergency plan so those people who are authorised to operate the ground and
emergency controls can refer to it.

This can be used in conjunction with existing manufacturer’s symbols on the

MEWP to aid location of the emergency controls.

Periodic drills
The emergency descent controls and systems are often specific to individual
machines. As such, periodic drills should be required for those who have on-
site responsibility for the rescue of a trapped person. These drills must include
practicing the use of the ground controls and emergency controls for each
machine in use.

Orgnisation shall maintain adequate numbers of first aiders and fire warderns
as referenced in Dubai Corporation of Amubulance Services and Civil Defense
legislations respectively

Please remember to dial – 998 or 999 in case of any emergencies.

19
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

4.7 Monitoring

Pre-use inspection

Inspecting a MEWP is vital to ensure that it is safe, complete, that it works

properly and that it is clean. You must inspect the entire machine both before
and after use. That is, the power source, all working parts, the structure and the
vehicle mounting (where applicable) in conjunction with the manufacturer’s
manual.

▪ DOCUMENT ALL INSPECTIONS!

▪ Inspect the platform before and after use and keep a written record of
inspections
▪ Do not attempt repairs or adjustments which you are not authorised to
carry out. If you discover any defects you should:
• Isolate, tag and report the fault – DO NOT USE THE MEWP -
and REPORT the machine as defective.

MEWP Inspections and through examinations

All MEWPs must be inspected every six months by a third party who are
approved and qualified to do so. The third-party engineer must inspect the
MEWP through visual and function testing as required and not rely on the
operator for the function tests.

Supervisors should be instructed in and supplied with SSWs ( safe system of

works) for the work they are expected to control.

Supervisors should monitor the work and provide advice for the review and
revision of the risk assessments and SSWs as the work progresses.

Organization may conduct periodic inspections/Audit to verify implementation

appropriate control measures based on risk assessment and this guidance.

References:
ISO 188/78 :2013 – Mobile elevating work platforms – operator (driver) training
BS 8460 :2017 – Code of practice for the safe use of MEWPS
Canadian standards - CSA B354.6 Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs)
IPAF Operators Safety Guide Ref: UKC01/15008
Guidance and information on preventing falls and on the use of harnesses and lanyards in
MEWPs;
EN 354: Personal fall protection equipment, Lanyards
EN 355: Personal protective equipment against falls from a height. Energy absorbers

20
Occupational Health and Safety Section
 Organization
Health & Safety Department :‫الوحدة التنظيمية‬
Unit:
Form sheet Technical Guidelines for Mobile Elevated
: ‫اسم النموذج‬
title: Work Platform (MEWP)
Doc Ref. DM-PH&SD-P7-TG : ‫رقم النموذج‬

EN 358: Personal protective equipment for work positioning and prevention of falls from a
height. Belts for work positioning and restraint and work positioning lanyards
EN 360: Personal protective equipment against falls from a height. Retractable type fall
arresters
EN 361: Personal protective equipment against falls from a height. Full body harnesses
EN 362: Personal protective equipment against falls from a height. Connectors
EN 363: Personal fall protection equipment. Personal fall protection systems
EN 365: Personal protective equipment against falls from a height. General requirements
for instructions for use, maintenance, periodic examination, repair, marking and packaging
BS 8437: +A1:2012 Code of practice for selection, use and maintenance of personal fall
protection systems and equipment for use in the workplace
BS 8454: Code of practice for the delivery of training and education for work at height and
rescue
BS 8460: Code of practice - Safe use of MEWPs
ISO 18893: Mobile elevating work platforms. Safety principles, inspection, maintenance
and operation
BS EN 280: Mobile elevating work platforms. Design calculations. Stability criteria.
Construction. Safety. Examinations and tests
ANSI A92.20: Design, Calculations, Safety Requirements and Test Methods for MEWPs;
ANSI A92.22: Safe Use of MEWPs; and ANSI A92.24: Training Requirements for
Operators MEWPs.

Further information is available from:

Occupational Health and Safety Section

Public Health and Safety Department
Dubai Municipality
Tel: 800900

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Occupational Health and Safety Section