How to maximise MEWP safety and efficiency with accessories

Requirements for fall protection when working with MEWPs such as scissor lifts and boom lifts vary from region to region. However, it is always advisable to use fall protection when operating these machines. If something goes wrong, fall protection arrests the fall, resulting in less severe consequences.

A fall protection kit is not restrictive as it provides sufficient slack and freedom of movement to perform tasks. Such a kit consists of the following components:

• A full-body harness,
• Anchor devices, to be attached to the correct anchor points on the MEWP,
• Coupling or connecting devices, for example, fall restraint lanyards.

Mobile elevating work platforms are ideal for working in hard-to-reach places. However, this means that the machine sometimes has to be parked in less-than-ideal conditions, such as bad weather or along a busy road. To make sure the MEWP stands out, it’s advisable to use warning lights. The lights are magnetic, so they can be quickly and easily attached to the machine. TVH has lights in its range with nine different flashing patterns for extra visibility.

MEWPs for outdoor use are designed to withstand wind speeds up to a certain maximum. This maximum is always specified on the machine, as it’s important that the mobile elevating work platform isn’t operated at wind speeds above the maximum. Otherwise, this could lead to instability or, in extreme cases, could cause the machine to tip over. 

That’s why wind speed should always be measured before entering the platform. This can be done with a wind meter, also known as a wind gauge or an anemometer. Modern wind meters come with a Bluetooth connection and a smartphone app, and can usually display more than just the wind speed and direction. Some types also measure the temperature, humidity and air pressure. TVH offers several types of wind meters, as well as magnetic tripods and self-levelling mounting brackets for secure mounting.

Not only wind speed affects the stability of mobile elevating work platforms, but the surface on which the machine is standing or being driven also plays a crucial role. In case of soft or uneven terrain, ground protection mats can provide a safe and solid base for the MEWP to travel over. These mats are also useful to protect the delicate zones that normally aren’t accessible with heavy equipment, such as golf courses, festival grounds, etc.

Another way to keep mobile elevating work platforms stable is with outrigger pads. They distribute the ground pressure better, which prevents the machine from slipping and sinking into soft ground. But outrigger pads can also be handy indoors to protect floors, as some types have an integrated non-marking rubber base.