Mobile Elevating Work Platform Specific Hazards
Refueling Hazards
- Gasoline and diesel fuel are flammable and, if handled improperly, can make refueling a dangerous task. Be aware of the hazards and follow prevention steps to avoid an incident at your workplace.
| Source of Refueling Hazard | Means to Eliminate |
| Fire or explosion resulting from improper fueling methods | Do not smoke, create sparks, or produce flame during refueling |
Collision Hazards
- Collision hazards occur when a MEWP collides with another machine, structure, or object. Injuries and fatalities result from collision hazards when personnel are catapulted from the MEWP or impact parts of the platform when the collision occurs.
| Source of Collision Hazard | Means to Eliminate |
| Collision at work area | Check work area for clearances overhead, on sides, and bottom of platform |
High Pressure Fluid Injection Hazards
- High pressure hydraulics and other high pressure fluid systems may present high pressure fluid injection hazards. Injuries occur from high pressure fluid injection when a leak occurs in a high pressure system and oil or other toxic fluids are injected through the skin.
| Source of High Pressure Fluid Injection Hazard | Means to Eliminate |
| Leak in high pressure fluid system | Shut down machine when checking for suspected leaks |
Tipping Hazards
- There are several factors or hazards that may result in the MEWP becoming unstable and tipping over or upsetting. Factors such as ground conditions, slopes, grades, weight in the platform, and several others affect MEWP stability.
| Source of Tipping Hazard | Means to Eliminate |
| Machine upsets or tips over | Ensure machine is positioned on a firm, level and smooth surface before elevating platform or driving with the platform in elevated position. |