Genie has shared new resources that raise awareness about the safe use of MEWPs, in support of OSHA’s upcoming National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction (May 6-10). The new Genie “Safe Use Plan Guidance” whitepaper provides tips for creating a safe use plan when operating MEWPs.
In the new ANSI A92.22-2018 and CSA B354.7:17 standards, operators of MEWPs are required to have a safe use plan in place for their organization. According to the standards, the safe use plan must address the following:
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Risk assessment to identify hazards, evaluate risks, develop control measures, and communicate with everyone affected.
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Planning of operation that includes rescue procedures for the safe recovery of persons and/or the MEWP.
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The selection, provision, and use of an appropriate MEWP for the task as well as any work equipment associated with it.
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MEWP inspections and repairs.
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MEWP usage: Operator training and certification, familiarity with specific MEWP in use, understanding of local site requirement, proper supervision, preventative measures for unauthorized usage, safety guidelines for anyone working near a MEWP and properly documenting all relevant job-related data.
In addition, the standards mandate training:
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Safe use planning
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Supervisor training
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Occupant training
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Maintenance and repair personnel training
“One of the biggest challenges facing our industry today is how to increase awareness about why safety training is so important,” Scott Owyen, senior training manager, said in a press release. “Customers need to understand their responsibilities regarding training requirements for MEWPs. This understanding cannot be limited to what they’re required by law and enforced by OSHA to do, but that they know there are very good reasons for the training to keep their operators safe.”
Source: Genie
