• Segregate other site traffic (delivery vehicles, dumpers, etc) from the work area.
  
• Ensure parts of a MEWP cannot protrude into roads or other transport routes. If this is not possible, you need to use systems of work (e.g. temporary road closure at quiet times).
  
• Check the work area for localised features, e.g. manholes, service ducts, potholes, muddy ground etc (e.g., a hole 75 mm deep caused an overturn).
  
• Check temporary covers are strong enough to withstand the applied pressure
  
• Check temporary covers are secured and monitor them. Take similar action for permanent covers.
  
• Assess other alternative work methods or equipment before operating near a steep slope or edge.
  
• Establish the load bearing capacity (general and point loading, e.g. outriggers) when working inside a building or on a structure .
  

• Ensure there is supervision to ensure safe systems of work are appropriate and being used.
  
• Have agreed systems of communication (e.g. between MEWP operators and banks man during steel erection work).
  
• Check weather conditions have not altered ground conditions (e.g. heavy or prolonged rain).
  
• Establish limits for safe operation (e.g. maximum wind speed). Remember conditions can change internally (e.g. if roller doors are opened).
  
• Comply with permit-to-work systems where sites have them (e.g. chemical plants).
  
• Ensure you have a rescue plan agreed and in place for a fall. Are trained people and rescue equipment on-site? Do all operatives understand what to do?
  

OPERATOR   SAFETY

• Ensure you have procedures for loading/unloading during delivery/removal from site. Does this procedure apply to all your MEWPs (e.g., some do not have braking on all wheels)?

• Ensure operators are trained and familiar with the performance and controls of the MEWP they are going to use (e.g., do they know the types of ground/slope it can operate on or when outriggers will require packing?).

•  Ensure operators have any task-specific training (e.g. use of a chainsaw).

• Ensure daily checks are done (in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions).

• Ensure operators know when further operation would be unsafe. Do they know how to position the MEWP for optimum use?

• Ensure there is a system for recording faults, repairs and maintenance. What types of fault would prevent further use of machine (e.g., controls not responding correctly)?

•  Check if a different make or model of MEWP is delivered to the site. Check that it is suitable for the task. This is important with poor ground bearing capacities. Control systems can vary, leading to operator errors.