Product Overview

This Elevating Work Platform (EWP) Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) sets out the step-by-step procedures and risk controls required to safely operate mobile and fixed elevating work platforms at height. It is a comprehensive document covering multiple aspects of Elevating Work Platform EWP operations to support WHS compliance and effective risk management on Australian worksites.

Activities & Specific Tasks Covered

This document includes specific risk controls for:

• Selection of the correct elevating work platform (boom lift, scissor lift, cherry picker, bucket truck, manlift, Genie lift) for the task and site conditions
• Pre-start inspections of mobile elevating platforms, including structural components, hydraulics, controls, alarms and safety devices
• Safe access and egress when using mobile elevating platforms to reach work areas at height
• Setup and stabilisation of EWPs, including use of outriggers, jacks, wheel chocks and ensuring firm, level ground
• Safe use of access platforms, including guardrails, gates, mid-rails and toe boards to prevent falls
• Planning and execution of aerial lift tasks, including work positioning, tool management and exclusion zones below
• Operation of aerial work platforms in congested or restricted areas to avoid crushing, trapping and collision risks
• Elevated platform use above 11 metres, including additional controls for fall protection, rescue and emergency response
• Operation of EWP boom lifts, cherry pickers and scissor lifts around overhead powerlines and other electrical hazards
• Safe operation of bucket trucks and truck-mounted EWPs on or near roadways, including traffic and pedestrian management
• Use of articulated boom type EWPs for accessing difficult or overhead work locations while maintaining stability
• Operating mobile elevated platforms on sloping, uneven or partially obstructed surfaces with appropriate derating and controls
• Use of harnesses, lanyards and anchor points in boom-type EWPs to control fall and ejection risks
• Emergency procedures for EWP operation, including platform descent, loss of power, equipment malfunction and rescue of incapacitated workers
• Management of weather-related risks such as high winds, lightning, rain, poor visibility and heat stress during elevated work

Who is this for?

This SWMS is designed for EWP operators, electricians, maintenance technicians, construction trades, arborists, facility managers, civil contractors and site supervisors responsible for managing elevating work platform activities at height.

Specific Job Steps & Hazards Covered

Legislation & References

This document was researched and developed to align with:

• Model Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces – Guidance on preventing falls when working at height, including from elevating work platforms.
• Model Code of Practice: Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace – Requirements for the safe use, inspection and maintenance of EWPs and associated plant.
• AS 2550.10 Cranes, hoists and winches – Safe use – Mobile elevating work platforms – Guidance on safe operation and maintenance of mobile EWPs.
• AS/NZS 1418.10 Cranes, hoists and winches – Special purpose appliances – Mobile elevating work platforms – Design and operational requirements for EWPs.
• AS/NZS 1891 Industrial fall-arrest systems and devices (series) – Requirements for harnesses, lanyards and anchorages used with boom-type EWPs.
• AS/NZS 4024 Safety of machinery (series) – General principles for the safe design and guarding of machinery and plant.
• AS/NZS 3012 Electrical installations – Construction and demolition sites – Electrical safety requirements for construction sites where EWPs are operated.
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Work Health and Safety Regulations 2017