Working at height using Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) requires careful planning, specifically rescue/emergency plans. In the event of a breakdown, entrapment, or other incident, having an effective recovery and rescue plan in place can make the difference between a controlled response and a serious injury.

Last month, IPAF released a new guidance document entitled ‘The Principles of MEWP Recovery and Rescue’ which has been designed to help ensure that rescue at height is better planned, practiced, and consistently executed across the industry.

But do you know the difference between rescue and recovery? The table below explains the difference between the two terms.

Planning

Without planning rescue and recovery plans, confusion and delays can occur during emergencies, increasing the risk of injury to the platform occupants.

A rescue plan outlines a procedure for safely recovering platform occupants from a MEWP platform which is in elevated or extended position. IPAF recommends that all rescue plans be documented, shared, and regularly practiced by everyone involved in the work at height.

In some situations, a risk assessment may determine that a recovery or rescue is unsafe. If the rescue/recovery could endanger the lives of the platform occupants and/or the response team, then the rescue should not be carried out.

Practicing Recovery and Rescue Drills

Recovery and rescue drills should be conducted on a regular basis, in accordance with the task and site risk factors. The user/duty holder should determine the frequency of these drills following a risk assessment completed by a suitably competent person. Regular practice is important in order to maintain skills, knowledge and preparedness.

Drills should also be practiced when site or operational environments change. For example, new buildings or structures, ground or surface conditions, change of personnel, or different MEWPs being used. IPAF advises that drills should be carried our on irregular days and times when people are least aware, such as lunchtimes, the end of the shift or adverse weather (if safe to do so).

Communication Methods

Communication is key to any rescue plan. Unless there is a medical emergency, the operator should be able to stay in contact with the ground rescue person and the response team.

Common communication methods include two-way radios, mobile phones and hand signals (agreed prior to work beginning).

All devices should function correctly. Factors should as noise, platform height, electrical interference and weather conditions can affect the performance of these devices. A risk assessment and the recovery and rescue plan should identify the most suitable communication method.

Training and Familiarisation

Anyone who is required to work at height needs to be adequately training based on their role and responsibilities. At Certora, we deliver a range of specialist working at height courses and IPAF accredited training courses...

• Emergency Descent & Rescue for MEWPs course which has been designed for security, engineers, office staff or anyone who works within close proximity to those who work at height and listed within the rescue plan.

• IPAF MEWPs for Managers - ideal those who plan, supervise, or manage working at height with MEWPs. The course covers legal responsibilities, planning, risk assessment and correct equipment selection.
• The IPAF MEWP Operator Course is an entry level course and is suitable for anyone required to operate a MEWP safely and effectively. Successfully completing the course means that operators will receive the globally recognised IPAF Powered Access Licence (PAL) Card. The course consists of both theory and practical training, available through eLearning or in-person, either on your site or at one of our training centres.
  

If you would like to access IPAF’s safety guidance document, you can download it here.

Alternatively, contact a member of our team today to discuss your training requirements.