10 September, 2024

Working safely at height alongside roads

Safety Public spaces Blog
Operating AWPs alongside roads can cause death or serious injury to operators or members of the public if the tasks are not adequately planned and machinery not positioned correctly. Due to the close working environment and proximity with other equipment, passing vehicles, buildings and pedestrians, the risk of an AWP being impacted is significantly increased.

Reducing risks

When planning ahead:

  • Planning the job properly is critical to ensuring a safe work environment. This showp-block-list uld be carried out before any task is carried out.
  • Ensure that you have a site risk assessment in place and are following safe work procedures to protect yourself and those around you.
  • Identify any foreseeable changes in site conditions through the task (for example rush hour, construction changes, ditch digging).
  • Where possible, set up a segregation zone around your AWP to operate safely.
  • Always ensure you are aware of and comply with local regwp-block-list ulations associated with working on or near roads.
  • The management of pedestrians will need to include designated walkways and signage.
  • Use a spotter or ground personnel to identify hazards and use a communication system between the operator and the spotter before performing the task.
  • Designate a safe area for the loading and unloading of machines. This showp-block-list uld be carried out in a safe, well-lit area away from a live site, passing traffic or pedestrians.
  • If you are working at night, or where there is potential for poor visibility, make sure there is adequate lighting so you can see, and be seen.
    •

    When operating:

  • Ensure you are trained and familiarised with the AWP’s controls, safety systems and operating characteristics (e.g., tail swing of counterweight and configuration of articwp-block-list ulated boom sections).
  • Ensure all parts of the AWP always stay inside the designated segregation zone.
  • Maintain a clear view of the area while operating.
  • When operating articwp-block-list ulated booms, try to keep the lower boom or articwp-block-list ulating knuckle raised, as this minimises the risk of collision with other equipment.
  • Be aware of the AWP’s movements and the location of other hazards in the area. This includes traffic, pedestrians, roads, and other plant. Use a spotter if needed.
    •

    Remember

    ◊ Follow your risk assessment and safe work procedures

    ◊ Maintain clear communications with the spotter and follow directions and warnings when instructed

    ◊ Be aware of your environment; look up, down and around

    ◊ Be aware of the AWP rescue plan before entering the platform and know the nominated ground rescue person

    Downloads

    IPAF Guidance – Safe use of MEWPs in public areas
    18 Dec 2023
    pdf
    1.71 mb
    IPAF Leaflet – Street Smart: Use MEWPs safely on roads
    19 Dec 2023
    pdf
    901.12 kb
    IPAF Toolbox Talk – Operating MEWPs alongside roads
    18 Dec 2023
    pdf
    87.09 kb
    IPAF Guidance – How to deliver an effective toolbox talk
    30 Nov 2023
    pdf
    76.38 kb

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    Working safely at height alongside roads
    Operating AWPs alongside roads can cause death or serious injury to operators or members of the public if the tasks are not adequately planned and machinery not positioned correctly. Due to the close working environment and proximity with other equipment, passing vehicles, buildings and pedestrians, the risk of an AWP being impacted is significantly increased.
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