HSE Safety Alert – Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP)

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a safety alert over Genie Z135/70 mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP), following preliminary findings for a machine overturn in 2013, which killed the operative.

The safety bulletin advises owners and users of the steps to be taken to control risks associated with the machine, importantly how to properly calibrate the machine to ensure its stability.

The HSE’s safety alert states: “In order to minimise the risks of overturn, the machine safety devices and sensors must be configured as per manufacturer’s settings.

“The emerging findings from the HSE investigations indicate that the operational stability of a Genie Z135/70 MEWP may be compromised by the incorrect measurement of the boom angle sensors.”

Genie, the machine’s manufacturer, issued its own Safety Notice in July 2013, which the HSE confirms should be followed.

In addition, the HSE states that: “Any machines for which the required calibration checks have not been completed should be removed from service.

“Following the completion of checks, the machines should continue to be inspected, serviced and maintained as per the manufacturer’s requirements.”

The full HSE safety alert can be viewed here.

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