Don’t Fall For It! Preventing Falls From MEWPs
At JMS Powered Access, safety underpins every aspect of working at height. Across the industry, one of the most serious and persistent hazards remains a fall from a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP). According to data analysed by IPAF through its Don’t Fall For It! campaign, falls from the platform are the leading cause of serious injury and fatalities in powered access operations worldwide.
Since 2012, IPAF’s accident reporting has consistently identified falls from the platform as the most frequent cause of MEWP-related incidents. These events are almost always preventable.
Common contributing factors include:
- Selecting the wrong machine for the job
- Inadequate risk assessment and planning
- Lack of operator familiarity with specific equipment
- Improper or missing personal fall protection
The outcome of these failures is often severe injury or loss of life. Understanding the causes, and taking proactive action to address them, is essential on every worksite.
IPAF’s advice is simple: plan, prepare, and protect.
Applying these principles can make a vital difference.
Plan thoroughly
Before work begins, carry out a detailed site survey and risk assessment. Ensure the correct type of MEWP is chosen for the job and identify any environmental or access hazards. Assign trained supervisors and make sure responsibilities are clearly defined.
Know your machine
Operators must be competent and trained for the specific MEWP type and model being used. Understanding the machine’s reach, capacity, and control functions helps prevent unsafe operation.
Use personal fall protection correctly
Where required, Personal Fall Protection Equipment (PFPE) must be worn and correctly attached to the designated anchor points before elevation. Never raise the platform until all occupants have secured their lanyards.
Stay within the platform’s boundaries
Do not lean over guardrails, overreach, or stand on objects to gain extra height. Always remain within the guardrails, and never exit the platform while elevated. Only dismount once the platform has returned safely to the ground.
Reposition safely
If the work area cannot be reached comfortably, lower the platform and reposition the MEWP. Avoid stretching or working at awkward angles that could compromise stability or balance.
JMS supports IPAF’s campaign to raise awareness through toolbox talks, posters, and safety briefings, helping teams maintain a consistent focus on fall prevention. These are practical tools to keep safety front of mind in daily operations.
Competence remains the strongest protection against falls. Operators, supervisors, and managers should complete accredited IPAF training and refresh their knowledge regularly. Understanding both the technical and human factors associated with falls ensures safer, more confident operation at height.
At JMS, we are committed to supporting safe work at height through compliant equipment, qualified operators, and access to best-practice guidance.
If you need advice on MEWP safety planning or IPAF training options, contact the JMS team.
