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Workplace Health and Safety Queensland

Inspector guide – Mobile and operational plant – elevating work platforms

The following guide has been prepared to assist Workplace Health and Safety Queensland construction inspectors carry out the Mobile and operational plant – elevating work platform audit. The information in this guide may also be useful to duty holders, principal contractors, site managers, supervisors and safety personnel who work with and around elevating work platforms (EWP) on construction sites. Further information about the campaign can be found at www.worksafe.qld.gov.au.

Assessment details Detail Guidance

Category of work Select one: Building construction Heavy and civil engineering construction Construction services

This question records the category of work taking place on the project or site. Select the most appropriate category that applies to the specific activity being assessed. The categories and associated activities have been drawn from the Australian and New Zealand Industrial Classification (ANZSIC), which is used for activity, incident and injury reporting throughout Australia.

Sub-sector Inspectors are required to identify one activity involving an elevating work platform to be assessed and to which the remaining questions will relate. Select the most appropriate category that applies to the activity in question or select ‘Other’ where a suitable description is not listed. The activities have been taken from the ANZSIC. The activity list will change based on the category of work selected in the previous field.

Building construction: House construction Other residential building construction Non-residential building construction

Heavy and civil engineering construction: Road and bridge construction

Other heavy and civil engineering construction

Construction services: Land development and subdivision Site preparation services Concreting services Bricklaying services Roofing services Structural steel erection services Plumbing services Electrical services Air conditioning services Fire and security alarm installation services Other building installation services Plastering and ceiling services Carpentry services

Tiling and carpeting services Painting and decorating services Glazing services Landscape construction services Hire of construction machinery with operator Other construction services n.e.c.

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http://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/


Detail Guidance

Principal contractor (where there is one) or person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) in control of the activity

A principal contractor will exist only when the work relates to a construction project (i.e. the total value of the work is $250,000 or more). If a principal contractor has not been appointed for a construction project, then the client (i.e. the person that commissions the construction project) will be the principal contractor. If the work is not a construction project (i.e. no principal contractor) then record the PCBU that has management or control of the site.

PCBU that owns the item of plant being assessed Issues of plant maintenance may result in enforcement action against the plant owner, rather than the principal contractor or PCBU with management or control of the site.

Plant operator employment status Select one: Employee of principal contractor Employee of specialist subcontractor Plant owner/operator Labour hire

Information gathering.

Make and model of EWP EWP model: _________________ Serial No: _________________

Include the manufacturer or brand.

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Management Questions Q# Question Reference Guidance

1 What is the predominant method of monitoring compliance with the SWMS? (Provide details)

s300(1) Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011

Inspectors are required to determine the planned method of monitoring, either by viewing the WHS management plan or SWMS or by discussing the matter with a site or safety manager.

Constant monitoring by a supervisor/team leader/manager – someone outside of the work crew that is providing constant supervision and monitoring the implementation of the SWMS (e.g. a supervisor, a site manager, a safety manager).

Periodic monitoring by a supervisor/team leader/manager – someone outside of the work crew that only periodically (e.g. a few times a day or less frequently) monitors the implementation of the SWMS.

Monitored by workers performing the activity – a nominated (i.e. named in person or by role) member of the work crew is providing constant monitoring of the implementation of the SWMS.

No monitoring performed – no roles are nominated to monitor the implementation of the SWMS. If there is no SWMS, select this option.

2 What information, training and supervision is provided to young workers (i.e. 25 years and younger) and/or inexperienced or unskilled workers on site? Same as all other workers (No additional support) Other (Provide details)

Information gathering

The purpose of this question is to gather information that can inform future projects or initiatives. Inspectors should validate claims as much as is possible by talking to workers and managers. However, it is not necessary for inspectors to view training records, documented procedures, etc. to validate the information.

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EWP – Marking and Identification Q# Question Reference Guidance

3 Is the EWP fitted with a clearly legible identification plate? Y/N

Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS/NZS 1418.10 Section 4.2.1

On non-insulated EWP, where no external power supply is used the following information should be provided1 on the unit’s identification (ID) plate: 1. Manufacturer’s or supplier’s name. 2. Country of manufacture. 3. Model designation. 4. Serial number. 5. Year of manufacture. 6. Unloaded mass, in kilograms. 7. Rated capacity, in kilograms. 8. Rated capacity, given as the allowable number of persons and mass of equipment,

in kilograms. 9. Maximum allowable manual force, in Newtons (this is a side load that can be

applied by operator(s)). 10. Maximum allowable wind speed, in metres per second or, where the EWP is

designed for use in non-wind conditions, advice to that effect. 11. Maximum allowable chassis inclination. Note1: additional information is required on the ID plate for insulated EWP and where an external power supply is supplied. On units manufactured before about 1996 manual force, wind speed and chassis inclination were not marked on the ID plate.

4 If the unit is a boom-type EWP, does it have a design registration number? Y/N

s243, s245, s260(5) & Schedule 5 Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011

All boom-type EWPs must be design registered either in Queensland or under a corresponding Work Health and Safety law (i.e. with another State or Territory health and safety authority in Australia). The number should preferably be marked on the EWP, otherwise documentation verifying the design registration number should be available on the unit or on site.

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EWP Condition Q# Question Reference Guidance

5 Has the pre-operational or daily checklist been completed? Y/N

s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS2550.10 - s5.1.2 & s6.4.2

Pre-operational checks should be completed by the operator prior to using the EWP. Records of these should be kept and a process for reporting faults is to be available to operators. Pre-operational inspections should be carried out at the beginning of each working shift in accordance with the pre-operational checklist, and the results entered in the logbook. The log book should be located in a weather proof container or pouch in the platform. A list of pre-operational checks should be provided by the EWP manufacturer. The pre-operational inspection is to check the EWP is fit for the work to be completed. It is a basic inspection by the operator that checks the general operation of the plant, including key safety features.

6 Has the routine inspection been completed? Y/N

S19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011, s237(2) Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011, Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS2550.10 Section 6.4.3.

The routine inspection should be completed by a competent person at intervals not exceeding three months, unless the unit is stored for extended periods of time. This is a more comprehensive inspection than the pre-operational inspection and is to include criteria specified by the EWP manufacturer. This inspection is to include opening of covers (for example, limit switch covers) which are required for service and inspection purposes. For EWPs returned from hire the pre-delivery inspection carried out prior to supply to the next user may meet the criteria of the routine inspection.

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Q# Question Reference Guidance

7 Has the EWP received its annual (periodic) inspection? Y/N Date of last annual inspection: _________________ Competent person: __________________________

s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS2550.10 Section 6.4.4

All EWPs should receive an annual inspection with documentation provided on the unit or at the workplace where the unit is being operated. The annual inspection should be in accordance with inspection criteria specified by the EWP manufacturer or the instructions of a competent person where such criteria do not exist. The annual inspection documentation should include the following information: a. A date of the inspection. b. The EWP model and serial number of the unit. c. The competent person name and qualifications. d. The competent person company name, if applicable. e. A signed statement that the EWP has received an annual inspection in accordance

with the manufacturer’s instructions or Australian Standard AS 2550.10 and is safe to use.

It is advisable for the EWP to be marked with the date of the last annual inspection.

8 If more than 10 years old, has the EWP received its major inspection? Y/N/NA Date of last major inspection: _________________ Competent person: __________________________

s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS2550.10 Section 6.4.5.

EWPs greater than 10 years old need to receive a major inspection that is based on dismantling critical safety components. The major inspection documentation should indicate that the unit has received its major inspection and is safe to operate. Subsequent major inspections may be required within 5 years. If the owner claims that the unit has had an “enhanced periodic inspection” in accordance with AS 2550.10-2006 (section 6.4.4.2), the unit should still be supplied with a major inspection documentation. The major inspection documentation should include the following information: a. The date of the major inspection. b. The EWP model and serial number of the unit. c. The competent person name and qualifications. d. The competent person company name, if applicable. e. A signed statement that the EWP has received a major strip down inspection in

accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions or Australian Standard AS 2550.10 and is safe to use.

It is advisable for a major inspection compliance plate to be attached to the EWP. This plate will cross reference the major inspection report.

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9 Are there any obvious visual external faults? Y/N s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011

The EWP should be in good condition with no obvious visual faults2. Obvious visual items include the following: 1. Tyre condition. 2. Wheel nuts not loose. 3. General condition (corrosion, deformation, etc). 4. Hydraulic rams (leaks, bends, pin movement). 5. Damaged hydraulic hoses. 6. Pin retainers damaged or poorly secured (cheek plates, split pins, other). 7. Pins seized or obvious lack of lubrication. 8. Dislodged pins. 9. Platform condition (top and mid-rail, gate). 10. Linkage condition. 11. Control condition and marking. 12. General operation. 13. Major slew ring wear. Note2: This audit outline is a basic guide only and successful completion of this audit tool is not confirmation that the plant is safe to use and has no faults.

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Safe use – Ground support and proximity to voids – overturning risk Q# Question Reference Guidance 10 Does the EWP supporting surface appear to be

adequate to safely support the EWP? Y/N s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011

Soft ground: Supporting surface is not to show any signs of tyres or outrigger feet sinking into the ground where the platform is raised or where it is likely for the platform to be raised. Sloping ground: EWPs are not to be driven across sloping ground unless the platform is lowered. EWPs designed for concrete floors are not to be driven over uneven ground. Rough terrain EWPs can be driven over uneven ground with the platform lowered. Newer EWPs are fitted with limit switches that prevent unit being driven over excessive gradients with the boom raised. Older units may only be fitted with an audible warning device. Truck mounted units are to be set up level – an inclinometer shall be provided on the truck. Ground collapse next to excavations: If EWPs are used too close to ground excavations the ground under the EWP can subside and slide into the excavation, causing the EWP to overturn. Note the following general rules:

Firm solid ground – wheels or outrigger feet should be at least a horizontal distance equal to the depth of the excavation

Friable (crumbly) ground – wheels or outrigger feet should be at least twice the horizontal distance equal to the depth of the excavation

Pit covers: pit covers can either fail or become dislodged when an EWP is driven over them – this can cause the EWP to overturn. An EWP should not be driven over a pit cover unless there is written certification that the pit cover can withstand the maximum wheel load applied by the EWP. The maximum allowable point load (i.e. in kg, tonnes or kN) for the pit cover is to exceed the maximum wheel load that can be applied by the EWP. Outrigger feet: all outrigger feet should be provided with timber, composite material or purpose designed plastic pads under feet – unless unit is on supporting surface that is clearly adequate. Outrigger pads to be in good condition and undeformed (rule of thumb – crack through timber should not extend more than ¼ total length of timber). Outrigger pads to have larger footprint than the outrigger foot. Where there are visual indications that the outrigger feet are sinking into the ground, the EWP platform should not be raised.

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Q# Question Reference Guidance 11 Is the EWP a reasonable distance from an edge where

overturning of the EWP could occur? Y/N s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011

An EWP should not be operated in close proximity to excavation or drop off due to the overturning risk. A drop off that could cause the EWP to overturn can vary depending whether the unit is a rough terrain or slab type EWP. The minimum distance from a void or drop off will depend on factors such as the following:

Type and size of the EWP The type of work activity taking place Minimum braking distance – machine characteristics and human response

delay issues Control measures to minimise the overturning risk

One of the best controls is to provide a physical barrier that is strong enough and high enough to prevent the EWP driving off the edge and into the void. Other control measures that can be used include the following:

Visual demarcation indicators on the floor or between posts (not a physical barrier)

Use of safety observers communicating with the EWP operator Other administrative controls such as reducing travel speed when in close

proximity to voids Additional training of operators

Safe use – Worker position Q# Question Reference Guidance 12 Do all occupants of the platform have their feet on the

platform floor when the EWP is in use? Y/N

s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011 Steel Construction Code of Practice 2004 Section 3.5.2.

Workers are to remain in the EWP basket with their feet on the platform floor at all times. Standing on the mid rail or top rail is an unacceptable work practice. In unusual situations EWP can be used as access onto another elevated work area, but a number of comprehensive conditions and control measures are to be implemented.

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Safe use – Load handling and general use Q# Question Reference Guidance 13 Load handling – within the platform

Does the load in the EWP (persons and materials) appear to be less than the rated capacity of the unit? Y/N

s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011

The combined mass of materials, tools and persons in the EWP basket must not exceed the rated capacity of the unit. Safety devices provided on some newer units that stop the operation of the EWP when an overload is detected are not to be relied upon to determine an acceptable load. The EWP operator needs to be able to judge the EWP is not overloaded by estimating the combined mass of occupants and materials. Materials and persons should be evenly spaced around the EWP platform.

14 Load handling – material loads outside the platform If materials are being lifted either on top of, or on the side of the platform, does the loading comply with the manufacturer’s design? Y/N/NA

s219(4) Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 Steel Construction Code of Practice 2004 Section 3.5.2 and AS/NZS 1418.10 s2.1.4.2.1.

EWPs are designed to have the platform load within the confines of the platform. Loads outside of the platform can cause overloading, overturning of the EWP and damage to the platform rails. Where external loads have a large surface area (i.e. panels and air-conditioning ductwork), there can be an increased risk of the EWP overturning from wind loading. Where external loads are lifted by an EWP the following is to apply: 1. Purpose designed racks are to be fitted to the EWP basket. The racks are to be

fastened to the platform and are to prevent damage to the EWP basket and the lifted load falling off the platform.

2. The EWP manufacturer should certify the lifting configuration on the EWP – including the lifting racks themselves, the maximum rated capacity of the racks, and the EWP model numbers that the racks can be used on. Where such certification is impractical a suitably qualified professional engineer may provide the certification.

3. Clear instructions for use for the racks should be kept with the EWP or at the workplace where the EWP is being used.

4. The rated capacity of the EWP needs to be reduced by the mass of the racks. The possible effects of wind loading on the EWP need to be considered – where the conditions of use state the unit must be used indoors – wind should not enter the work area (i.e. before glazing, walls or doors are installed). Typically most outdoor EWPs should be designed for a wind speed not exceeding 12.5 m/s (45 km/h).

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Q# Question Reference Guidance 15 If external loads are being applied to the EWP, does

the loading comply with the manufacturer’s design? Y/N/NA

s206(1) Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS/NZS 1418.10 s2.1.4.3

EWPs are specifically designed to provide easy access to the work area – they are not designed to push or pull structural members into position nor to drag loads. In addition side loading3 applied to the platform must not be excessive. Abuse of EWPs can cause structural collapse of the unit or can cause the unit to overturn. Although damage to the EWP may not be immediately apparent, repeated abuse of the unit will cause catastrophic failure or damage. EWP should never be used to push or pull structural members into position. The units should also never be used to tow or move other plant. Suspended loads, such as loads lifted by winches, should never be lifted unless the EWP manufacturer specifically states that this is acceptable – with a list of conditions that are to be complied with. The EWP must never be used to apply side loading unless the EWP manufacturer certifies that this is acceptable including all of the associated conditions to ensure the unit is not damaged. Note3: According to Section 2.1.4.3 of AS/NZS 1418.10 one person EWP are to be designed for a manual force (side loading) of 200 N (approx. 20 Kg force) and more than one person EWP are to be designed for a manual force (side loading) of 400 N (approx. 40 Kg force). Units manufactured before about 1996 were not required to be specifically designed for this side loading – but the fact that the units may be still operating is an indicator that they can resist some side loading.

16 If the EWP is operating outdoors, is it rated to work in windy conditions? Y/N/NA

s19(1) Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011, Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS/NZS 1418.10 s2.1.4.2.1. and s4.2.1.

To minimise the risk of the unit overturning, the EWP should never be used in wind exceeding the maximum speed specified by the EWP manufacturer (this should be marked on the EWP identification plate). If the unit is designed in accordance with AS/NZS 1418.10, and is designed for use in wind, it should be designed to operate in a maximum wind speed of 12.5 m/s (45 km/h). Note: Units manufactured before about 1996 were not required to be specifically designed for wind loading – but the fact that the units may be still operating is an indicator that they can resist a some wind loading. Units designed for indoor use are generally not designed for working in the wind. The manufacturer’s ID plate should state whether the unit can be used in the wind.

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Q# Question Reference Guidance 17 If workers are gaining access from the EWP to an

elevated area, are the appropriate safety control measures being implemented? Y/N/NA

s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Steel Construction Code of Practice 2004 Section 3.5.2.AS 2550.10 s5.9

The use of EWP to gain access onto elevated structures, with the operator climbing out of the platform, should generally be avoided. However, in unusual situations EWP platforms can be used as access onto another elevated work area, but a number of conditions and control measures need to be implemented.

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Safe use – Fall arrest harness issues – Boom type EWPs only Q# Question Reference Guidance 18 If the unit is a boom type EWP are the occupants

wearing full body fall arrest harnesses? Y/N/NA

s19(1) Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS/NZS 2550.10 s5.15.

All occupants are to wear full body fall arrest harnesses that should be compliant to AS/NZS 1891. The harness is provided in the event of an occupant being ejected out of the platform – typically from failure of the levelling system or being “bounced out”.

19 Are the fall arrest harness and lanyard in good condition? Y/N/NA

s21(2) Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS/NZS 1891.4 s9.

Fall arrest harnesses and lanyards are to be maintained in good condition. Items that should be checked include the following: webbing free from fraying, tears Stitching complete and undamaged Marking with the appropriate fall arrest design standard (i.e. AS/NZS 1891) Harness free from weld spatter damage, paint, chemical and oil contamination All double action hooks, latches and connectors operational and undamaged

20 Is the lanyard length suitable for the EWP size and work activity? Y/N/NA


The lanyard length should minimise the amount of free fall distance, in the event of being ejected from the platform. However, the lanyard must allow adequate movement for the different sized occupants to freely move around the entire platform without disconnecting the lanyard. For most platforms a 1.8 m lanyard is a reasonable control measure. However, for smaller platforms and/or top harness anchorage points, a lanyard length of 1.2 m or less is encouraged. Inertia reels (i.e. fall arrest type devices) may be used where the manufacturer states these can be used horizontally and there is an appropriate inspection system for the devices.

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Q# Question Reference Guidance 21 Is the lanyard attached to an appropriate anchorage

point on the boom type EWP? Y/N/NA

s306D(4) Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011, Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice 2013, AS/NZS 1418.10 s2.5.5.

Fall arrest harness anchorage points can be exposed to high loading in the event of a worker falling. The EWP should be provided with a designated anchorage for a fall arrest harness lanyard. The top rail of the platform generally has inadequate strength – lanyards should not be back hooked around the platform top or mid rails.

22 Is an energy absorption device provided in the fall arrest anchorage lanyard? Y/N/NA


In the event of a fall the forces on a person using a fall arrest system can be extremely high. To reduce the likelihood of injury from these high loads all users of fall arrest equipment are required to use energy absorber devices in their fall arrest lanyard. For some type of inertia reel fall arrest devices the energy absorption device is provided internally in the body of the inertia reel. However, with fall arrest lanyards the energy absorber is very obvious. Energy absorbers should be marked with the appropriate fall arrest design standard (i.e. AS/NZS 1891).

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Safe use – Proximity to crush hazards Q# Question Reference Guidance

23 If the platform is raised up close under an overhead structure are there systems in place to minimise the likelihood of operators being crushed? Y/N/NA


When working close under overhead structures EWP operators can be crushed if the platform is unintentionally raised. The operator may not always be aware of an approaching crush hazard and can inadvertently raise the platform into a crush zone without realising the risk. The issue can be made worse when part of the operator’s body is unintentionally pushed onto the EWP control without the operator being able to release pressure from the controls. While this hazard may apply to all types of EWPs, it can be more of a problem on boom type EWPs for the following reasons: A boom lift platform is usually more compact than a scissor lift and can get into

“tighter” spots. A boom lift platform can be raised by a number of the controls and will raise in an

arc instead of directly up like a scissor lift. Operators moving a boom lift from a brightly lit area into a shaded area (such as

under an overhead structure), can lose peripheral vision and not see the overhead structure.

Operating a boom lift at night with insufficient lighting can impede the operator’s ability to see the drive and steer wheels.

Newer EWPs are fitted with load sensing systems (where applicable) that stop the EWP from being raised when an overload is detected – although this is an advantage, excessive force could still be applied to the operator’s body. Workers in EWPs working close under overhead structures should not work in isolation. Operators should have received specific familiarisation instruction for the specific model of EWP they are operating. It is particularly important that persons are available at ground level that are trained to carry out emergency lowering of the platform in the event of the EWP operator being trapped or incapacitated. It is also advisable that other EWPs are available to provide assistance.

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24 If the EWP can be driven into or close to an overhead structure (i.e. car park ramps), are there systems in place to minimise the risk? Y/N/NA


While driving an EWP, the platform can become wedged under overhead structures with severe consequences for the operator in some situations. The risk is generally greater for scissor lifts and can be a particular risk when driving the unit up a car park ramp. The operator may not always be aware of an approaching crush hazard and can inadvertently drive into a crush zone without realising the risk. The issue can be made worse when part of the operator’s body is unintentionally pushed onto the EWP control without the operator being able to release pressure from the controls. While this hazard may apply to all types of EWP, it is more of a problem on scissor lifts. The use of EWPs that can become wedged under overhead obstructions, while driving should be minimised. If the site has ramps and overhead obstructions specific safe work procedures should be developed that list the conditions under which the EWP can be driven along the ramps. Relevant workers should be trained in these safe work procedures. Operators should have received specific familiarisation instruction of the specific model of EWPs they are operating. EWPs are not to be driven up or down ramps that exceed the maximum gradient specified by the EWP manufacturer. Boom lifts have a long reach and can impact overhead obstructions when travelling and one axle drops down – this can cause the chassis to tilt and the boom to rise. Platforms should be lowered when driving under overhead obstructions.

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Safe use – Plant interaction with other workers Q# Question Reference Guidance

25 Are systems in place to reduce the likelihood of other workers being crushed or struck by EWPs? Y/N


EWPs can be heavy and have a wide range of movements and can injure pedestrians and persons working around the EWP. Although the travel speed of EWPs is relatively low, serious injury to others can still occur. The risk to other workers will generally increase with:

Larger EWPs. Tighter, more restrictive work areas. Greater numbers of EWPs working on site. Greater numbers of workers on site.

Systems to reduce the likelihood of risk to persons include the following: 1. Limiting the number of EWPs and workers in a particular work area. 2. Providing designated and marked walkways for persons gaining access through

areas where mobile plant is operating. 3. Only allowing workers that have a specific work activity to be located in the same

areas as EWPs. 4. In areas where there are a large number of EWPs operating, not allowing other

persons in those areas. 5. The use of high visibility clothing for workers and the use of flashing lights and

audible warning devices on the EWPs.

26 Are systems in place to control the risk of objects falling from the EWP or related work? Y/N

s55(2) Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011

The PCBU must minimise the risk of an object falling on a person from the EWP or related work activities by providing adequate protection against the risk.

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Safe use – Overhead power lines Q# Question Reference Guidance

27 Are there systems in place to ensure that no part of the EWP, occupants, or load intrude into the relevant exclusion zone around overhead powerlines? Y/N/NA

s68(1) Electrical Safety Regulation 2013, Electrical safety code of practice 2010 – Working near overhead and underground electric lines

Extreme caution must be shown when an EWP is operating under or over power lines and the EWP is capable of entering the exclusion zone. The likelihood of contact is generally higher in this situation. For this reason the use of EWP under overhead power lines is strongly discouraged. Before setting up (EWP) near overhead electric lines, the PCBU should conduct an inspection to identify the presence of overhead electric lines that may pose a risk. Overhead powerlines should always be treated as live. Consultation with, and safety advice from the person in control of the line must be sought in order to determine the actual voltage and relevant exclusion zone for the overhead powerlines. Consultation regarding the work, related risks and controls must occur between the PCBU and the EWP operator prior to work commencing An exclusion zone of at least 3 metres applies for most situations when operating plant near live power lines with a voltage of up to 132 kV. Where the voltage of the power lines exceeds 132 kV an exclusion zone of at least 6 or 8 metres applies. On construction sites most power lines are under 132 kV. If any part of the EWP, operator, hand tool or load is capable of entering the exclusion zone an authorised safety observer is required to observe operation. The safety observer is to direct the EWP operator to stop if the exclusion zone is approached. The communication procedure needs to be effective such that the operator is able to stop the EWP prior to any part entering the exclusion zone. For EWPs set up on outriggers the EWP is considered to be capable of entering the exclusion zone if the platform can be telescoped or slewed into the exclusion zone. For self propelled EWPs, a good indicator of whether the EWP is capable of entering the exclusion zone is if any part of the EWP or load is observed within 6 metres of the power line (for a voltage of up to 132 kV). To assist in preventing the EWP entering the exclusion zone, visual aids such as warning tape or painted lines marking the exclusion zone are encouraged. Note: Visual markers, such as “tiger tails” on power lines, are only an aid in helping operators to be aware of the proximity of power lines. When visual markers are used on the power lines the exclusion zone distances are not to be reduced.

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28 If the overhead powerlines have been de-energised as a control measure, can a copy of the written confirmation from the person in control of the powerline be produced? Y/N/NA

s30(1) Electrical Safety Act 2002, Electrical safety code of practice 2010 – Working near overhead and underground electric lines

Where power lines have been de-energised, written confirmation from the person in control of the power line is to be sited. The written confirmation is to include the following information:

1. A clear description of the location of the de-energised lines (preferably including a sketch or other diagram).

2. The duration for which the power lines are to be de-energised including the

commencement and finish time.

3. The name of the person in control of the power line or of the authorised representative.

4. A dated signature of the person in control of the power line or of the

authorised representative.

29 Can the EWP operator demonstrate their understanding of exclusion zones when working near overhead powerlines? Y/N


Operators should know: If the line cannot be de-energised then exclusion zones apply Exclusion zones as specified in SWMS The area of an exclusion zone may vary, but it will always exist. Before

working or operating near a live electrical part, the plant operator needs to confirm the correct exclusion zone.

A person must not enter the exclusion zone.

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30 In relation to operating EWP near overhead power lines, can the plant operator demonstrate their understanding of when a safety observer is required? Y/N


A safety observer should be employed when a crane or operating plant is operating within the safety observer zone. What is the safety observer zone? An EWP is considered to be in the safety observer zone when, by where the EWP is located, it is possible that any of the following could enter the exclusion zone of live electric lines during operation:

any part of the EWP any person on or working on an EWP; or any hand tools or other equipment held by anyone involved with the operation

Refer to Appendix 4 for more information regarding safety observer zones or part 4.3.1 of the Electrical safety code of practice 2010 – Working near overhead and underground electric lines

31 If there is a safety observer on site can the safety observer explain their role? Y/N/NA


Refer to section 4.3.2 of the Electrical safety code of practice 2010 – Working near overhead and underground electric lines

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Safe use – Loading and unloading EWPs Q# Question Reference Guidance

32 Are there systems in place to reduce the likelihood of workers being crushed or struck by EWPs while unloading or loading? Y/N


A number of incidents have occurred during loading and unloading of an EWP onto a truck - on tilt tray, traditional tray and low loader trucks. The EWP has either rolled back down the tray or fallen off the tray. The following control measures can help to minimise the risk of incidents during loading and unloading:

Load and unload the unit according to the EWP manufacturer's instructions. Truck must be on firm level ground with no side slope. Always use a truck that is large enough for the size of EWP. Make sure the EWP is in line with the tray and the wheels are straight to stop the

EWP falling off the side of the tray. Only drive the EWP onto the tilt-tray if the EWP manufacturer specifically states

that this can be done. Always use the winch to help pull or lower the EWP up or down a tilt - tray when

loading and unloading – do not just drive the EWP on or off. When loading a boom lift onto a tilt tray, make sure the platform does not strike the

ground when loading. The tray or trailer is to be long enough for the boom and basket in the travel

(stowed) position. The mass of the EWP is to be within the capacity of the winch, truck and/or trailer.

When using removable ramps, make sure they are locked in place and can’t fall off the truck.

Make sure the EWP is firmly secured on the tray in accordance with the Load Restraint Guide.

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Training and competency issues Q# Question Reference Guidance

33 If EWP boom length is 11 m boom or more, does the operator hold a high risk work licence (HRWL)? Y/N/NA

s43 Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Schedule 4 Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011

All operators of boom type EWPs with a boom length of 11 m or more are required to hold a boom type elevating work platform – WP licence. If the operator does not have the licence available for a WHSQ inspector to see, the inspector can stop the operation of the EWP immediately.

34 Does the EWP operator appear to be operating the unit in a safe manner? Y/N


All EWP operators should receive training on the safe use of the particular type of EWP they operate. The Elevating Work Platform Association of Australia provides training on each basic type of EWP and on loading/unloading EWPs on trucks. This training is known as the “Yellow Card” and persons who have participated in the training receive a certificate of completion. The Yellow Card is one way of helping to demonstrate that an operator has received training in the safe operation of a particular type of EWP. In addition to the above, it is advisable for all EWP operators to receive documented familiarisation instruction for the specific make and model of EWP they are operating. This is encouraged because no two EWP models are exactly the same. This familiarisation instruction should assess the operator, to determine that they can safely operate that particular machine and is familiar with any specific features of that machine. Familiarisation instruction should include an assessment of all of the functions of that particular machine – however, this instruction can be a fairly quick process – depending on the operator skill level and aptitude.

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Operator Interview Q# Question Reference Guidance

35 What is the age group of the operator?

a) ≤ 20 b) 21 - 25 c) 26 - 30 d) 31 - 35 e) 36 - 40 f) 41 - 45

Information Gathering

36 Length of time operating EWP?

a) ≤ 1 year b) 1 – 5 years c) 6 – 10 years d) 11 – 15 years e) 16 – 20 years f) 21 – 25 years g) ≥ 25 years


37 Does the operator hold an EWPA yellow card to operate the specific model of EWP currently in use?


38 Does the operator hold an EWPA yellow card for any other type of EWP?


39 How long has the operator been using the specific model of EWP currently in use?


40 Has the operator been given familiarisation instruction on how to operate the specific model of EWP currently in use?


41 If yes, was the training documented? Information Gathering

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42 Did site management ask the operator for any documented evidence of EWP training prior to commencing work?


43 Have the workers been included / consulted in the formulation or review of the SWMS?


44 Can the workers demonstrate an understanding of the SWMS contents as they relate to the activity (e.g. risks, controls, monitoring)?


45 Do the workers report that the SWMS is: Suitable for the activity Easy to understand Enforced/checked by management


46 Would the operator like to receive further training on EWP


47 In the operator’s opinion, which of the following factors contribute to EWP incidents?

a) Pressure to complete jobs quickly b) Inexperienced EWP operators c) Operators don’t receive adequate training d) EWP are becoming too complicated to operate e) The controls on EWP are not the same f) The wrong type of EWP for the job g) Too many EWP on the one job h) Poor site conditions i) Large amount of work in the building industry j) Other reason


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