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Steel erection
Elevated work platforms
Elevated work platforms (EWPs) can provide a very effective working platform for steel erection. But there needs to be a suitable supporting surface and enough access.
EWPs should be designed and manufactured to meet the minimum requirements of AS1418.10:2011 - Elevating work platforms.
Elevated work platform
Types of EWPs
There are different types of EWPs available, including:
- self-propelled scissor hoists (some have cantilevered rolling platform sections)
- manually powered cherry pickers
- trailer-mounted or truck-mounted travel towers
- self propelled boom lifts.
Using an EWP
Your employer must make sure you have been properly trained in the use of the particular type of EWP to be used and licensed (if required).
Before using an EWP, make sure you:
- have read and understood the machine's operating instructions
- are aware of its limitations before you use it for the first time
- complete all the necessary checks before each use.
Boom length
The boom length is measured in two ways. It is either:
- the greater of the vertical distance between the EWP's supporting surface, and
- the underside of the workbasket at its highest possible elevation.
Or, it is:
- the horizontal distance between the boom's centre of rotation, and
- the outer edge of the workbasket at the greatest possible radius.
Safety factors
Follows these rules when using an EWP:
Load-bearing
Make sure the supporting surface has enough load-bearing capacity for the EWP. Do not overload the platform or basket.
Inclines
Do not use the EWP on ramps or inclines which are steeper than the supplier's recommendations.
Outriggers
Where fitted, outriggers should be fully extended with pads bearing evenly and the EWP levelled before being elevated.
Self-propelled EWPs
For self-propelled EWPs, make sure the area of operation is free from obstructions and hazards, such as:
- holes
- penetrations
- drains or upstands
- underground services
- uneven terrain.
Where these can't be removed, make sure they are securely barricaded or guarded.
Work with another person
Whenever you are elevated, make sure another person who is competent to operate any over-ride controls is always in the immediate area. Never work in isolation.
Overhead hazards
Make sure you maintain the recommended clearances from powerlines.
Don't climb EWPs
Do not climb out of, or into the EWP while it is elevated. This is unless the unit has been specifically designed for this and the supplier's information allows it.
Do not try to gain extra height by doing any of these things:
- climbing up the guard railing
- placing planks on the guard railing
- placing ladders, trestles or boxes on the platform.
Don't use EWPs as a lifting mechanism
Do not use the EWP as an anchorage for lifting equipment unless it has specifically designed attachments for this.
Wear safety harnesses
All workers in the basket of a boom-type EWP are to wear a safety harness and lanyard that is attached to the designated anchorages provided within the basket. Do not disconnect your lanyard until the basket has been fully lowered.
More information on the selection and safe use of EWPs can be found in AS2550 - Cranes-Safe use Part 10, Elevating work platforms.