Page 591 - Xmo Strata - Bulletin Archive
P. 591
Health, Safety & Environmental Bulletin No 232
K Parmentier – 10 February 2011
MEWP Out of Control
Please see enclosed self explanatory safety alert received from Coteba.
A similar incident to this was reported by an Xmo Strata crew in December 2009, the
crew were using a cherry picker on hire from a respected hire company when the
machine started elevating on its own. The trained operator attempted to stop the MEWP
using the normal controls, but they would not work. The emergency stop button had to
be hit to stop the MEWP, and the emergency controls had to be utilised by the banksman
in order to lower it.
It is important to remember that MEWPs are machines that have numerous components
that can fail, both electrically and mechanically. It is therefore imperative that you
check the inspection certificate of all hired equipment upon receipt, and that you carry
out an inspection of the MEWP before use. Always be ready to hit the emergency stop
button if the MEWP moves unexpectedly.
Risk management is a big step towards accident prevention; however, it is dependent on the risk firstly
being identified, then controlled. We need safety awareness to be instinctive and form an integral part
of both our working and home lives; it is this, in turn, that may save the lives of others. Remember: if
shared, risks can be mitigated before they pose a threat.
If you have any queries regarding the Safety Bulletin content or require further information please
contact any staff member of Xmo Strata Ltd.
