EWP HRW Training Activity 2

Identifying appropriate communication methods

Communication is a major factor in creating and maintaining a safe and efficient workplace. Different forms of communication are used throughout various work places e.g. verbal, written instructions, listening, signage, hand signals, appropriate work permits, etc… (Q22)

Communication is an important factor in the event of an emergency within the workplace, such as a fire for example. When the emergency has been identified, it is important to warn others of the danger (this may be done verbally or commonly through the use of an emergency alarm system. Personnel should have the nature of the emergency explained to them (i.e. explain what it is and where). There should be at least one individual who is responsible for advice to emergency services (Q23)

 

Communications Equipment

There are various types of equipment that can be used for each task. For example, when an elevating work platform is operating in an environment where it is hard to hear someone from the ground then the use of radio communication equipment may be suitable. Alternatively the use of hand signals for simple instructions may be sufficient.

The types of communications equipment required will be determined during the planning stage of the task (Q24)

It is important to ensure that the communication equipment to be used is in correct working condition. All communications equipment must be inspected for serviceability prior to use

 

Visually checking the EWP for any damage or defects

Why are pre-start operational safety checks completed?

Before using any elevated work platform it is essential that you conduct a pre-operation safety check. This check is to ensure all equipment is safe to use and is the responsibility of the operator to carry out. You must always check the full extent of the EWPs capabilities to ensure that it is functioning correctly and is safe to use. (Q25-27)

Any safety check on the EWP is to ensure that there are no faults, damage or obvious signs of visual defects to the EWP which make it unsafe to operate. If the EWP is unsafe, the work should be stopped, it should be tagged out of service, reported to an appropriate person (such as your supervisor) and recorded within the EWP Logbook (Q28)

When conducting a visual inspection of an EWP, it is important to ensure that all signage, labels and load charts are in place and readable so that you can refer to these to determine the EWP capacity and capabilities (Q29)

 

EWP Logbooks and EWP Service Logbooks

An EWP Logbook is for recording the important information relating to the operations of a particular EWP. This information includes, but is not limited to the following:

    1. EWP operations
    2. Daily safety checks carried out, and
    3. reporting defects and corresponding rectification of defects  (Q30)

When you are checking an EWP logbook as part of a pre-start check, you should always ensure that the EWP logbook is applicable to the EWP you are checking and ensure that there are no outstanding defects (i.e. any defects reported have been rectified) (Q31)

An EWP Service Logbook is where all service records are recorded as well as repairs and any defect rectifications  (Q32)

Any defects of an EWP should be recorded within the EWP logbook and service logbook. (Q33)

 

Elevated Work Platforms must be tested in accordance with the relevant Australian Standards (AS 2550.10 – 2006). You should never operate an EWP that has not been properly tested. If the Service Logbook of an EWP shows that it has not been properly tested or it has safety defects that have not yet been repaired, the work should be stopped, it should be tagged out of service and reported to an appropriate person (Q34+35)

An operator is never allowed to remove a danger tag/out of service tag unless they are the person who placed it or they are authorised to do so by their employer (Q36)

 

PRE-START CHECKS…

You should always do a visual check of a elevating work platform before using it to ensure there are not any problems. Faulty equipment can cause injury to yourself and others if you have an accident. Look carefully at the EWP. You may be able to visually see some problems. A list of items you should pay particular attention to is listed below:

  1. EWP Logbook and Service Logbook
    It is important to check the EWP logbook and Service Logbook to ensure that there are no outstanding defects recorded against the EWP and that it is the correct logbook for the EWP you are checking.
  2. Ensure there are no safety tags on the plant
    Check that there are no safety tags on the EWP. REMEMBER: the only person who can remove a safety tag, once placed, is the person who placed it or by an authorised person such as a mechanic.
  3. Inspect all fluid levels
    Check all oil, water and fluid levels. Ensure that they are at the correct levels and that there are no leaks.
  4. Ensure signage is present and legible i.e. WLL and the manufacturer’s data plate
    You will need to determine the Rated Platform Capacity or the safe working load limit (WLL) of the elevated work platform from either to the machine itself (on the data plate) or the information contained within the manufacturer’s information.
  5. Inspect for any structural damage to the boom/jib (Q37)
    The following are visual indicators that the boom or superstructure of an EWP is defected: Cracks in the boom, superstructure or welds – Bends and/or twists in the boom or superstructure – Visual rust from welds or joints – Flaking paint – Loose bolts.
  6. Inspect outriggers and packing (if applicable)
  7. Inspect for any obvious signs of damage to the EWP
  8. Tyre condition (safe and legal) (Q38)

REMEMBER: If you identify any defects to the EWP during your visual inspection that it not only needs to be recorded within the EWP logbook and service logbook but reported to an appropriate staff member, such as your supervisor or manager. (Q39)

 

Safety Devices

Safety equipment and safety devices should always be inspected prior to use to ensure that they are in correct operating condition. The types of safety equipment and devices will be determined during the planning stage of the task (when you are working out what needs to be done and what is required for the task) (Q40)

You must wear a safety harness and fittings. If you fall out of the basket, the safety harness could save your life. Make sure you are wearing the relevant PPE. For example, non-slip boots and a high-visibility vest (Q41)

 

Safety Harness and Fittings

The primary safety device that all EWP operators must use is a suitable safety harness and fittings (i.e. lanyards and anchor points). Before using this equipment you should check that:
  1. The safety harness is in good condition
  2. The lanyard is in good condition and the energy absorber is there
  3. The equipment is less than ten (10) years old
  4. The anchor points in the basket are in good condition (Q42)

Dead Man and Ground Controls

The ‘dead man’ control is a safety feature. You can only use the EWP when the ‘dead man’ control is on. For example, if you slip over and let go of the ‘dead man’ control, the EWP will stop working.

The main purpose of the ‘dead man’ control is to prevent accidental control of the EWP and is used as a safety device. (Q43)

The ‘dead man’ control should only be used as a means to stop the EWP in the event of an emergency. (Q44)

Likewise, the ground controls on an EWP are for use in the event of an emergency (such as an operator being stuck in the basket above ground) or for testing purposes, when you are inspecting the EWP (Q45).

 

 

Accessing the EWP Safely

You must get into and of the basket when it is fully lowered or when there is a landing area. When you climb into the basket 3 body parts (2 hands & foot) must be touching. This is know as 3 points of contact. (Q46)

Controls

The EWP has two sets of controls. Ground Level Controls and Basket Controls. The Ground Level Controls move the boom and basket. If the operator is in the basket, ground level controls are for emergencies only. The Basket controls are for moving the boom and basket and for driving the EWP.

Starting the EWP Correctly

There are different kinds of EWPs. Make sure you look at the operator’s manual before using the EWP. The most common procedure for starting an EWP is:

  1. Put the key in the ignition and turn on;
  2. Look at the gauges and make sure they are working; and
  3. Conduct the post-start (after start) checks. (Q47) 

Before moving the boom, make sure that the area is clear of personnel and that there is sufficient room for the boom to move around (i.e. safe slewing radius).

 

Post Start Operational Checks

Once a pre-start operational check is complete and the elevating work platform is started according to procedures, an operator should conduct a post-start operational check to ensure that the plant is safe to use. (Q48)

 

Make sure the pathway to move the EWP is free of obstructions/hazards and that you check the following:

  • ControlsWarning devices
  • Throttle control
  • Travel brakes
  • ‘Dean Man’ switch
  • Horn/lights/drive indicator
  • Gauges
  • The full range of EWP capabilities (Q49)

If at any time while conducting pre start and post start inspections on an EWP, the EWP is found to be defective and/or unsafe the operator should remove the keys, place a warning notice on the EWP indicating the EWP must not be used and then report the fault to an authorised person and record in the logbook (Q50)

 

Inspecting the work area

Elevating work platform operators must make judgment calls from the beginning to the end of each job. Some things which must be considered include the capacity and stability of the equipment, the height at which the operator must be lifted, and obstacles both in the path and overhead where the equipment is to be operated (All hazards and Controls).

Before you commence the operation of an elevating work platform, the operator should consider all hazards and controls (Refer back to ‘What is a “Hazard”?) (Q51)

When you are planning the operation of an EWP and setting up for the task, there are also certain things, other than site hazards, that you should consider. These things include:

  • Access and egress – Is the rate or means of entry or exit to a work place. It includes footpaths, corridors, doorways, gates, steps etc.
  • Capacity of the EWP – The weight of the load must be within the capacity of the EWP being used.
  • Communications (safe and adequate) Appropriate methods that can be used to communicate with other site personnel
  • Specifics of task (What the Job is) – Does the task require specific tools? Are you qualified to carry out the task?
  • Location of task (Where the job is) – Where is the task to take place? Are there people working in the area? Is there sufficient space? Is it safe to operate there?
  • Permits required for the task (Permits and Licenses) Sometimes only personnel that are issued with a valid work permit may carry out certain work or tasks.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Generally used in combination with other measures as an added precaution.
  • Equipment required for the task – Is the type of equipment to be used suitable for the task? Is there any special training required before it can be used?
  • Availability of equipment – Is permission needed before the equipment can be used? Does someone else need to use the equipment or will they need it before the task is completed?  (Q52)

Working in public areas

Before setting up an EWP on busy streets you should first check the following with local authorities to ensure the safety of others:

  1. If permits are required for traffic control
  2. If there are any conditions for operating the EWP at that location
  3. Any exclusion zones (Q53)

What is work near overhead power lines?

Work ‘near’ overhead power lines means a situation where there is a reasonable possibility of a person, either directly or through any conducting medium, coming closer than thespecified approach distances.

Overhead power line contact is one of the largest single causes of fatalities associated with mobile plant and equipment. Contact with live overhead power lines is a serious risk because any voltage that causes sufficient current to pass through the heart is potentially injurious or even fatal.

You don’t have to have a direct contact with a high voltage overhead power line to receive a fatal electric shock. Simply being too close can kill. 

 

How close can I go to overhead power lines?

Without appropriate technical knowledge and experience of electricity distribution networks and associated electrical apparatus, untrained personnel working or operating cranes or plant near overhead power lines will not be able to identify the operating voltage concerned, and will therefore not be able to recognise and avoid the inherent dangers of live overhead power lines.

For safety reasons, minimum safe distances from powerlines, including clearances for all EWPs, are prescribed by the Code of Practice. These prescribed distances apply from the closest part of the machinery, including its load, to the closest conductor of the powerlines, at all times. (Q54)

It is advised to refer to your local power authority to determine the specific voltage of overhead power lines. (Q55)

Working within the minimum safe distance

The clearance distances prescribed are absolute clearances that must be breached at any time. Any breach of the prescribed clearances puts you, and all those on your site in immediate danger of electric shock. If you are required to work closer than the minimum distances you must ensure the safety of all those on your site by: (Q56)

  • Seeking an exemption from the relevant authority
  • Shut off the power
  • Insulating the power lines

Site specific practices must also be considered and adhered to.

Warning Devices

When working near overhead powerlines it is recommended that you have ‘Tiger Tails’ installed on the low voltage powerlines. These ‘Tiger Tails’ are a warning device only and do not reduce the prescribed safe working clearances. (Q57)