Access group calls for better safety awareness

The Powered Access Interest Group (PAIG) has called for better safety awareness and guidance for users of access equipment and is in the process of producing a new code of practice.

According the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) during the last 10 years accidents involving machinery failure have actually decreased, while those caused by operator’s mistakes have gone up.

Of all accidents investigated by the HSE involving scissor lifts between 1997 and 2001, 42% overturned because of operator failure, and nearly 30% of all accidents with boom-type machines were caused by the operator overturning the unit.

Tim Watson, head of the PAIG working party said, due to CE markings and better manufacturing, access equipment is safer than before, but many hirers of machines need a better understanding of the safety aspects.

The PAIG - a working committee including the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), the Construction Plant-hire Association (CPA) along with the HSE – has compiled a draft code of practice for the best use of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).

The document will shortly enter a three-month consultation period, and Watson said industry comments will be invaluable in producing a definitive guide.