Safety is Non-Negotiable no Matter What the Costs or Challenges in the Lifting Industry

At a recent lifting conference in Johannesburg, industry experts reiterated the importance of training and compliance in ensuring safety within the work-at-height sector. Jean du Randt, general manager at Eazi Access Rental and chairman of the MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms) division, emphasized that regulatory compliance and operator competency are essential to maintaining high safety standards in MEWP operations.

Key Safety and Training Focus Areas

According to du Randt, MEWP operators must:

•    Undergo **adequate training** to ensure competency.
•    Operate within the **prescribed operational scope** of the equipment.
•    Ensure machines are kept in a **safe working condition**, meeting both safety and manufacturer standards for maintenance, inspection, and load testing.

Despite advancements, operator error remains a common cause of MEWP-related incidents, highlighting an ongoing need for effective training, especially as newer MEWP models with advanced features enter the market.

The Evolution of MEWPs

The history of MEWPs dates back to the early 1900s, with notable milestones including:

•    The **first cherry picker** created by **Jay Eitel** in 1944.
•    **John L. Grove**’s invention of the first **self-propelled boom lift** in 1969, which launched **JLG Industries** as a key player in the MEWP industry.

Over time, MEWPs have become indispensable for their efficiency, safety, and flexibility, allowing operators to reach heights safely compared to ropes, ladders, or scaffolding.

Operator Safety Tips and Common Incident Causes

Jean du Randt highlighted best practices and noted common causes of MEWP incidents, which include:

•    **Proper machine selection** for specific tasks.
•    Conducting **operator training**, **pre-use and workplace inspections**, and **full function tests**.
•    Ensuring operators use appropriate **PPE** and follow **safe operating** and **transport procedures**.

Frequent causes of incidents involve operator error, poor ground conditions, inadequate training, lack of situation awareness, leaning over platform side rails, and working without supervision.

Future Trends in Safety and Training

Innovations that promise to enhance MEWP safety and training include:

•    **Simulator training** to provide dynamic, real-time MEWP operation scenarios.
•    **Robotics and high-visibility systems** to improve operational control.
•    Development of **multi-terrain units** and systems aimed at **maintenance reduction**.

These trends aim to increase safety, productivity, and ease of use for operators, making MEWPs even more effective tools in the industry.