10 – 05 – 2024
Street smart – AWPs in public spaces
Long used in a managed and controlled environment for construction tasks, AWPs are now recognised as the preferred means of access across all industry sectors. This means both individuals and contractors responsible for undertaking work at height tasks should be aware of the safety measures necessary for responsible use in a public area. The safety principles of AWP management and operation are constant, no matter where or how an AWP is to be used, but public areas present extra challenges.
16 – 04 – 2024
Reducing trapping and crushing injuries
Aerial work platforms are acknowledged to be one of the safest and most efficient means of providing enabling temporary working at height. In some work situations, however, operators have been trapped/crushed between the machine’s platform/basket and an overhead obstruction. This has resulted in a significant number of major injuries and fatalities. In some of these incidents, the operator’s body has been forced over the control panel, holding the controls in the “on position”, increasing the severity of any injuries.
14 – 03 – 2024
Risk-control measures in vegetation work
Aerial work platforms are a safe way of providing temporary access at height for tree care work and vegetation control. This task is necessary in both urban and rural locations, often in public areas close to pedestrians and passing traffic.
Tree pruning or removing branches can be a hazardous task, especially if trees are in the proximity of power lines or communications cables, or if the platform is poorly positioned in relation to the work area.