Working at Height with MEWPs: Essential Safety Insights

When it comes to working safely at height, there are few tools that are as versatile and widely used as Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs).

In this blog, we break down what MEWPs are, their role in height safety, the critical safety factors involved, and the PPE and equipment needed to keep your workforce compliant and secure.

What Are MEWPs?

MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms) are mechanical platforms used to provide temporary access to elevated areas that are otherwise difficult to reach. They are designed to lift workers, tools, and materials to a working position at height in a safe, controlled manner.

Common types of MEWPs include:

• Scissor Lifts – Vertical-only movement, ideal for indoor work
• Boom Lifts (Articulating or Telescopic) – Provide outreach and height access in hard-to-reach locations
• Cherry Pickers – Vehicle-mounted MEWPs are commonly used for road and utility works

How MEWPs Support Safe Working at Height

MEWPs are a vital component in the work at height hierarchy, often used when avoiding work at height isn’t possible and collective protection is the safest option. They:

• Provide a stable working platform
• Reduce reliance on ladders or scaffolding
• Allow rapid deployment and adjustment in dynamic site conditions
• Offer safe access to high-risk, elevated zones in construction, maintenance, arboriculture, and more

While MEWPs are designed for safety, their misuse can lead to serious incidents.

What Is the Primary Safety Factor for MEWP Operations?

The primary safety factor in any MEWP operation is operator competency.

Operators must:

• Be trained to the appropriate level (e.g. IPAF certification)
• Understand the specific type of MEWP being used
• Carry out pre-use checks and routine inspections
• Be able to respond to emergency situations, including platform descent and entrapment

Essential PPE and Equipment for MEWP Use

Even when inside a MEWP, the risk of falls from height remains. The correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is crucial. Here’s what your team should be using:

• Fall Arrest Harness: Operators should wear a full-body fall arrest harness compliant with BS EN 361
• Adjustable Lanyard with Shock Absorber: A short, adjustable restraint lanyard helps prevent workers from reaching a fall edge. In some MEWPs, a fall arrest lanyard with a shock absorber may be required, depending on the model and operating instructions.
• MEWP Anchor Point: Always ensure the lanyard is clipped to the designated anchorage point within the MEWP and never to the guardrail itself.
• Helmet with Chin Strap: To prevent head injury or dropped objects, a safety helmet with a secure chin strap should be worn at all times. It’s also best practice to tether your helmet.
• Hi-Vis Clothing and Gloves: High visibility garments and protective gloves are recommended to improve visibility and reduce handling risks during operation.

Pre-Use Checks and Planning

Before operating a MEWP, site teams should complete:

• A thorough risk assessment
• Pre-use inspection of the MEWP and PPE
• Ground condition checks (MEWPs should not be used on uneven, soft, or sloping ground unless specifically designed)
• Weather assessment, especially for wind speeds, is important if working outdoors

Emergency rescue plans must also be in place; simply having a harness is not enough.

Training and Compliance with Leading Edge

At Leading Edge, we provide:

• Working at Height Training
• PPE Inspection Training
• Height Rescue Training
• Drop Prevention Training

Our expert trainers ensure your staff are not only compliant but skilled and confident when working at height, whether using MEWPs, scaffolding, or rope access systems.

MEWPs are powerful tools that make working at height easier and more efficient, but only when used correctly. With the right training, equipment, and planning, your team can operate confidently and safely in even the most challenging environments.