Using the right elevating work platform (EWP) for the job can significantly cut down work hours while enhancing safety. Not only do EWPs provide extra space for tools and materials, reducing unnecessary trips, but they also minimize risks to those on the ground. For instance, tree surgeons may no longer need a ground assistant to pass up tools, which lowers the risk of injury and reduces the number of workers required.
That said, some types of access equipment require an additional operator to ensure safe operation. Current safety regulations emphasize that anyone exposed to fall risks must be supervised by a competent person. Even with top-quality EWP hire from GMH, common sense and safety precautions should always be applied.
A Helping Hand: Why You Shouldn’t Work Alone
A recent incident analysis of EWP-related accidents in the UK revealed that working alone increases the severity of injuries sustained by workers. Even if you are highly experienced with elevated work platforms, having an additional team member nearby ensures that if an accident occurs, help is immediately available.
The report identified working alone as one of the seven key factors contributing to accidents such as crushing or entrapment while using access equipment like cherry pickers. In such cases, workers may have only minutes to be rescued before asphyxiation occurs.
Simply having a colleague present can make all the difference. Even better, a competent ground operator should always be on hand to control the EWP from the ground if needed. Ground controls allow for rapid lowering of the platform, making it easier to free and assist an injured worker.
A Different Perspective: The Value of a Ground Operator
Having a colleague at ground level is not just a safety precaution—it also enhances efficiency and hazard awareness.
Take the tree surgeon example again. While an EWP provides a better vantage point than climbing, having someone on the ground adds an extra layer of awareness. They can spot hazards that might not be visible from above or even alert you to risks created during the job.
A ground operator also improves stability and maneuverability, ensuring that changing ground conditions don’t compromise the platform’s safety. Additionally, they can quickly assist in problem-solving when unexpected challenges arise.
Key Takeaway: Always Work in Teams
For maximum safety and efficiency, never work alone when using an elevating work platform. Ensure that at least one person remains on the ground to provide support, enhance situational awareness, and respond to emergencies.