The most common accidents that happen on a work platform have to do with people falling. In fact, more than 80% of people who fall from a height will suffer serious injury or death.
One of the biggest risks involved with working at height is the risk of falling. A fall from a great height, even if it is only a few meters, can be fatal and will certainly cause severe injury. This is why you should never work on any elevated work platform without having first been trained in how to do so safely. This is why it’s so important that you take all the precautions you can to ensure your safety and the safety of your co-workers. Here are a few essential ones
Put on fall protection
Elevated work platforms can be dangerous, which is why it’s so important to follow the proper safety procedures and wear the right protective equipment.
The fall protection equipment should include a harness, lanyard, and a connecting device that is attached to a fixed object. Make sure your harness fits well and is properly secured. Inspect it before each use to make sure there are no signs of wear or damage, such as frays or tears in the straps. Replace it if you notice any damage or if you’ve had it for a while.
When you’re working in a space that isn’t completely flat, you need to make sure that you have the right equipment for the job. Some things you should ask for when you’re working off an elevated platform include a guardrail, a non-skid surface, and toe boards.
Perform Risk assessments on the vehicle and site
It is important to be safe when working on an elevated work platform. Before you get on the platform, make sure that it has been properly set up and is safe to use. Make sure that the platform is stable and secure on a level surface. Make sure that there are no obstructions under the platform that could cause it to tip over.
Learn the safety regulations and stay within them
Before you climb onto an elevated platform, there are some safety regulations you need to understand to stay within them. It is always best to check with your state’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to make sure you’re following the correct codes.
The platform must not be used for any purpose other than that for which it was designed. The platform should be erected and operated according to the manufacturer’s instructions and must not be altered, modified, or extended in any manner that may cause instability or danger. The platform should be inspected by a competent person before use.
Receive proper training for the kind of work
If you are using a work platform to get to hard-to-reach areas, make sure you receive proper training on how to use the equipment. Work platforms come in many different sizes and styles, and an inflatable one may be more appropriate for some tasks than a heavier piece of equipment.
Receive proper training for the kind of work you’ll be doing. Make sure that the ewp licence training in Australia is certified by a recognized organization. Learn how to do the things that you need to do on your job. Employees who climb on elevated work platforms also need to understand the risks associated with this type of work and how to minimize them.
Make sure the platform is clean and dry
Before you begin your work, make sure the platform is clean and dry. Using a damp rag, wipe down the platform to remove any dirt or dust. Before stepping onto the work platform, look for any holes or loose boards. Check the railings to make sure they are secure and that there are no sharp edges. The last thing you want is for your shoes to get stuck on a dirty platform.
Always make sure that the platform you are standing on is clean, dry, and in good working order before using. If you are unsure of its condition, please do not stand on it, as your safety is our priority.