MEWPs: Elevating Site Safety Through Powered Equipment Training

Worksite safety is of paramount importance for many reasons. Not only does it offer protection for your staff and operatives working on site at all times but it also helps you to comply with the legal requirements.

One of the key areas of safety and security in any workplace is working at height. There can be numerous reasons why this may be required but, in all eventualities, you need to ensure you have the right equipment to guarantee safety. In many instances this requires using a mobile elevated work platform, or MEWP.

There are two main types of MEWPs found on business premises. These are boom lifts (usually in the form of cherry pickers) and vertical scissor lifts. Both lifts have two main operating modes – static and mobile – and are covered by different training and qualification requirements. Which you choose for your premises depends on your specific needs. However, MEWPS have several key safety and security benefits in any work environment, including:

Accident Prevention

Powered equipment training ensures that workers are aware of potential hazards, understand safety procedures and can operate MEWPs in a way that minimises the risk of accidents and injuries. Safety considerations include those for operators, other members of staff and visitors, as well as any equipment or property. In 2021/22 the Health and Safety Executive reported that 23% of fatal accidents for workers were falls from heights, underscoring the need for robust training programmes around these kinds of working methods.

Legal Compliance

Training and certification programmes, such as those offered by organisations like IPAF training courses and approved training centres such as Qualitrain, help individuals and companies comply with regulations, reducing the risk of fines and legal liabilities. It is essential that businesses take the right precautions to ensure they are protected against potentially very expensive legal liability.

Improved Efficiency And Enhanced Productivity

Well-trained operators can use powered equipment more efficiently, leading to increased productivity, faster order fulfilment and optimised warehouse operations. MEWPs may represent a financial investment but the legal compliance and operating efficiency gains they can bring means they can more than pay for themselves.

MEWPs are commonly used in time-sensitive industries like construction and maintenance. Trained operators are better equipped to handle MEWPs effectively, ensuring that projects are completed in a timely manner.

Employee Confidence And Morale

Effective training programmes foster a sense of competence and confidence among employees. When workers feel skilled and safe, there is typically a boost in morale, which can translate into better job satisfaction, lower turnover rates and a more committed workforce.

Discover the extensive range of powered equipment courses and top-notch training provided by Qualitrain. Learn more about what we offer and enhance your understanding by getting in touch today!