Training workers on elevating work platforms more important than ever!
The use of elevating work platforms (EWP) has been on the rise as employers look to ladder alternatives when performing tasks at height. As a result, the importance of thorough worker training can’t be emphasized enough. Training is required for workers on or around EWPs. The incorrect use of EWPs can cause serious injuries or fatalities. Resulting injuries may include crushing accidents and those associated with the equipment tipping over or collapsing.
Elevating work platform training is required for operators in both industrial and construction projects and training must occur before using the equipment. In addition, all Ontario workers on an EWP must successfully complete a CPO-approved Working at Heights training course.
Risks
Some risks associated with EWPs include:
- Being struck by moving equipment
- Getting crushed between equipment and other objects
- Electrical contact while operating a vehicle or equipment
- Being struck by an inadequately secured load being lifted or moved
- Being struck or crushed by equipment tipping over
Source – Ontario construction sector plan 2017-2018
To avoid injury and accidents, employers are responsible for ensuring that workers receive proper training and are supervised under the authority of a competent supervisor.
For Industrial Establishments
The Ontario Ministry of Labour provides the following list of specific requirements for using an EWP within industrial establishments.
- Before wearing protective equipment or devices (for example, fall protection equipment), workers must receive information and instruction on how to use and care for them. (Reg. 851 s.79):
- An EWP or lifting device can only be operated by a competent person or by a worker who is accompanied by a competent person. (Reg. 851 s.51(2)(a)):
Source – Ontario Ministry of Labour
For Construction Projects
The MOL also outlines general duties for those working on construction projects and using aerial lift machinery.
As noted on the Ontario Ministry of Labour’s article on Elevating Work Platforms in Construction, employers are obligated under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the Construction Projects Regulation to do the following:
- Employers must ensure workers receive proper training in the use of fall protection systems at Ontario construction sites [O. Reg. 213/91, s.26.2]
- Employers must ensure a competent person is appointed as supervisor [OHSA s.25(2)(c)]
- Employers must take every precaution reasonable for the protection of the workers [OHSA s.25(2)(h)]
Source – Ontario Ministry of Labour
MOL Alert
In April 2016, the MOL issued an Alert regarding elevating work platforms and crushing hazards. EWPs are useful and helpful equipment, but when used incorrectly, can cause serious injuries. During incident investigations, the Ontario Ministry of Labour found that many EWP accidents involved workers being trapped or crushed between the machine’s platform and an obstruction (such as a beam). Under the “Required Action” the MOL Alert states:
“Elevating work platform operators are to be trained and familiar with specific equipment operation and follow manufacturer’s operating instructions. Conduct pre-operation inspections as per the manufacturer’s operating manual.”
Source: Ontario Ministry of Labour: Alert: Elevating Work Platform Crushing Hazard
Regardless of industry, it is extremely important operators receive proper training including refresher training to continually remind workers of the ever-present hazards in the workplace and to avoid complacency.
Act First Safety conducts public EWP training at their Scarborough location or private training at your location.
Act First Safety is a CPO-approved training provider for:
Working at Heights
Joint Health and Safety Certification Part 1
Joint Health and Safety Certification Part 2.
Training is regularly scheduled for public sessions and private sessions.