In construction and maintenance, safety is a necessity. One of the key aspects of ensuring safety is the proper use of equipment, particularly when it comes to elevated work platforms (EWPs).
In this article we look into the types and uses of EWPs and the benefits you could gain from completing an EWP course, providing you with a comprehensive guide on this essential training.
What Is an Elevated Work Platform?
An elevated work platform, as the name suggests, is a device providing temporary access to otherwise inaccessible areas, usually at height. It’s like a mobile staircase or a mechanical ladder, allowing workers to reach high places safely and efficiently. But unlike a ladder, an EWP is stable, secure, and can accommodate more than one person, along with their tools and equipment.
The Role of an EWP in the Industry
EWPs play a role in various industries, including construction, maintenance, and large-scale manufacturing. They are used for a wide range of tasks, from painting and window cleaning to electrical repairs and tree trimming. They are also used in warehouses for stacking and retrieving items from high shelves. Any task with a requirement for working at height can benefit from an EWP.
The Importance of Proper EWP Operation
Operating an EWP requires skill, knowledge, and a keen awareness of safety protocols. Improper operation can lead to accidents, causing injury or even death. Proper training is essential for anyone who operates these platforms.
Types of Elevated Work Platforms
There are different types of EWPs for different applications. Each type has its unique features and is suited for specific tasks and environments.
Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are mobile platforms restricted to vertical movement. They are perfect for tasks requiring a straight lift, such as painting or installing overhead structures. The ‘scissor’ mechanism provides stability and allows the platform to carry heavy loads. However, their lack of horizontal movement limits their versatility.
Boom Lifts
Boom lifts, also known as cherry pickers, can extend both horizontally and vertically, providing a greater range of motion. They are ideal for tasks requiring reaching over obstacles, such as trees or buildings. The ‘boom’ mechanism allows the platform to reach great heights, making them perfect for high-rise tasks. These lifts are mobile and are the most common type of EWP seen around worksites.
Vertical Lifts
Vertical lifts are smaller platforms designed for indoor use. They are perfect for tasks like electrical repairs or indoor painting. Their compact size allows them to navigate tight spaces, and their quiet operation makes them suitable for environments where noise is a concern.
Aerial Work Platforms
Aerial work platforms are large platforms designed for high-rise tasks. They are commonly used in the construction and maintenance of tall buildings. Their robust design and high load capacity make them suitable for heavy-duty tasks. However, their size and weight limit their mobility and require careful operation.
Why an EWP Course Is Essential
When it comes to operating elevated work platforms (EWP), having the right knowledge can mean the difference between a regular day at work and a potentially hazardous situation. An EWP course is more than a training program; it’s an essential tool to equip workers with the necessary skills and understanding to operate EWPs safely and efficiently.
Creating a Culture of Safety
The first step towards safety is awareness. An EWP course is designed to instil a culture of safety among workers. As well as learning how to operate the equipment; it’s about understanding the importance of safety measures, recognising potential hazards, and knowing how to respond in case of emergencies.
Understanding Risks and Hazards
Operating an EWP comes with its own set of risks and hazards. These can range from the obvious, such as the risk of falling from a height to the less apparent, like the risk of electrocution when working near power lines. An EWP course provides a comprehensive understanding of these risks and hazards, preparing workers to anticipate and avoid potential dangers.
Electrical Hazards
When working at height, there’s often a risk of coming into contact with overhead power lines. This can lead to serious, even fatal, electrical injuries. The EWP course covers how to identify and avoid hazards. This can include maintaining a safe distance from power lines and using non-conductive tools and equipment.
Unstable Loads
Another common risk when operating an EWP is dealing with unstable loads. This can cause the platform to tip over, leading to potentially serious accidents. The course teaches workers how to manage loads safely, including understanding the load capacity of the platform and ensuring proper load distribution.
Preventive Measures and Safety Protocols
When you understand the risks, it is equally important you know how to manage them. An EWP course covers a wide range of preventive measures and safety protocols designed to mitigate the risks associated with operating an EWP.
Equipment Inspection
One key safety measure is proper equipment inspection. This involves checking the EWP before each use to ensure it’s in good working condition. The course teaches workers how to perform these inspections, including what to look for and how to report any issues.
Understanding Load Capacity
Overloading is a common cause of EWP accidents. The course covers how to understand and respect the load capacity of the platform, ensuring it’s not overloaded. This includes not only the weight of the materials but also the weight of the workers and any tools or equipment.
Emergency Procedures
The EWP course covers the use of safety equipment to help prevent an emergency.
Components of an EWP Course
An EWP course is a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It’s designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of EWPs and their safe operation.
Theoretical Knowledge
The theoretical component covers the principles of operation, understanding of safety regulations, and risk assessment. It also includes learning about the different types of EWPs and their specific uses.
Practical Skills
The practical component involves hands-on training on operating the EWP. This includes pre-operational checks, manoeuvring the platform, and dealing with emergency situations.
Benefits of an EWP Course
On successful completion of an EWP course, you will have gained the knowledge and skills needed to operate machinery, plus understand the nuances of safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance in the context of elevated work platforms:
Enhanced Safety: Creating a Culture of Caution
The primary benefit of an EWP course is, of course, enhanced safety. As well as about reducing the risk of accidents, it’s also about fostering a culture of safety, where every action is guided by the principles of caution and preparedness.
Reducing Accidents
With proper training, the risk of accidents significantly decreases. Trainees learn to identify potential hazards and take appropriate measures to prevent mishaps. This includes understanding the machine’s load capacity, recognising unstable conditions, and knowing how to react in emergency situations.
Fostering a Safety Culture
Beyond the practical aspects, an EWP course instils a safety-first mindset. Trainees learn to approach every task with safety in mind, creating a culture where caution is the norm, not the exception.
Increased Efficiency: Maximising Productivity
An EWP course does more than teach safety; it also leads to increased efficiency. With a thorough understanding of the equipment, workers can operate EWPs more effectively, leading to increased productivity.
Understanding the Machine
A key part of the EWP course is learning about the machine itself – its parts, its functions, and its capabilities. This knowledge allows workers to use the machine to its full potential, maximising productivity.
Streamlining Operations
With proper training, workers can streamline their operations, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency. This includes knowing how to set up the machine quickly, manoeuvre it effectively, and troubleshoot minor issues.
Compliance With Regulations: Staying on the Right Side of the Law
Workers operating EWPs are required to have evidence of formal training. An EWP course ensures compliance with these regulations, keeping your operations legal and above board.
Understanding Regulations
An EWP course provides a comprehensive understanding of safety regulations related to EWPs. This includes knowledge of, and compliance with applicable Work Health and Safety (WHS) Regulations.
Maintaining Compliance
With this knowledge, workers can ensure their operations are always in compliance with the law. This not only prevents legal issues but also demonstrates your commitment to safety and professionalism.
Details of the EWP Course by KI Training & Assessing
The EWP course offered by KI Training & Assessing is designed to equip participants with the required skills and knowledge to plan, prepare, and operate a mobile elevated work platform (EWP). This course covers an EWP with a boom length of over 11m. This training, based in Perth, covers the requirements of the unit of Competency: TLILIC0005 – Licence to Operate a Boom-type Elevating Work Platform.
What’s Included in the EWP Course?
The EWP course by KI Training & Assessing is comprehensive, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Upon completion of this course, participants will be proficient in:
- Performing routine checks
- Planning work
- Checking controls, operating and shutting down the elevated work platform
- Evaluating ground condition
- Communication skills
- Using and interpreting manufacturer’s specifications.
Preconditions and Course Necessities
To maintain the quality of training and safety of participants, there are certain preconditions and course necessities:
- Participants must be 18 years of age or older
- A valid photo ID must be presented, i.e., a current driver’s licence or passport
- Basic numeracy skills are required
- Basic English language and literacy skills are needed
Certification and EWP Ticket
Upon successful completion of this course, individuals will receive a Statement of Attainment and Notice of Assessment, which remains valid for 60 days. Once your Worksafe application, Statement of Attainment and Worksafe fee have been submitted to the relevant territory or state regulator, you will receive a National High-Risk Licence.
Validity of an EWP Ticket
Once you obtain your Elevated Work Platform (EWP) ticket, it needs to be renewed every 5 years. Please note renewal necessitates paying the appropriate WorkSafe Australia fees.
Does EWP Encompass Working at Heights?
Working At Heights and Elevated Work Platform (EWP) are two distinct courses. The EWP training equips the worker to operate the machinery, which also happens to elevate to higher levels in the workplace. The Working Safely at Heights training course provides skills and knowledge on safely performing work, in the workplace, at varying heights.
Why Opt For KI Training & Assessing for Your EWP Course
At KI Training & Assessing, we recognise the significance of safety and the role of adequate training in ensuring it. Our EWP course is crafted to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills, delivered by seasoned professionals. We are dedicated to fostering a safer working environment through quality training.
Enrol in our EWP course today and ensure a safer and more productive workplace. It’s not merely about learning; it’s about evolving, enhancing, and improving your working life.