IPAF Publishes Guidance on Avoiding Contact with Power Lines When Operating MEWPs

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has published new guidelines aimed at reducing electrocution and electric shock incidents when using mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) near power lines. These guidelines are part of the "High Voltage!" safety campaign by IPAF and have been developed in collaboration with the IPAF International Safety Committee (ISC) and supporting members. The document, called "Safe Use of MEWPs in the Vicinity of Power Lines," is available for free download in digital format and can be produced as co-branded hard copies by organizations.

The statistics show a rise in incidents involving electrocutions and electric shocks since 2015, according to Brian Parker, IPAF's Head of Safety & Technical. He emphasizes that working near energized power lines can expose workers to various health and safety risks, including death by electrocution or electric shock. The new guidelines outline measures that can reduce or mitigate these risks and help reduce incidents involving contact with or arcing from power lines.

The guidelines also highlight the importance of proper planning and thorough site surveys, including identifying and understanding the risks of working near power lines, selecting the correct machine, and ensuring operators are briefed on the situation. Furthermore, operators must be trained on the type of MEWP they are using, and supervisors and spotters must be briefed on the Safe System of Work (SSoW).

It is crucial to stay outside exclusion zones, which is the prescribed safety envelope around live electric power lines. Operating a MEWP in these zones can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. It is also important to have a rescue plan in place and to call the emergency services and Energy Supply Authority (ESA) immediately in case of an accident.