IPAF has published a U.S. edition of guidance aimed at avoiding trapping or crushing incidents when aerial work platforms (AWPs) are used in confined overhead spaces. The Best Practice Guidance for AWPs: Avoiding Trapping/Crushing Injuries to People in the Platform is available at the Publications section of www.ipaf.org and www.awpt.org.
When used safely, AWPs make work at height more efficient and effective than using traditional methods of access. They significantly reduce the risk of injuries through falling from height. Unfortunately, there have been a number of fatal accidents involving the use of AWPs in which the operator was crushed against fixtures or other obstacles while working at height. IPAF believes that such incidents can be prevented by correct planning, preparation and selection of appropriate machinery to be used correctly.
This guidance was originally produced by a group of British organizations collectively known as the Strategic Forum for Construction, which included IPAF and the HSE (the UK Health and Safety Executive). It was prepared by the industry to provide clarity about the safe use of AWPs including planning, equipment selection, training, provision of information, familiarization, safe use, supervision and rehearsal of rescue procedures, together with monitoring of the whole process.
The UK document has been on the IPAF and AWPT websites for some time. The document has now been reviewed and made available for American use in response to requests from AWPT training centers and IPAF members, including the IPAF Manufacturers' Technical Committee. There are no substantive changes to the document, and any changes are limited to items that are related to legislation, standards or language.
"This document aims to focus thinking, and actions, with regard to the avoidance of 'crushing' accidents on AWPs," said Kevin O'Shea, chairman of the IPAF North American Regional Council. "It helps to focus collective industry thinking on a strategic preventative approach."
About IPAF
The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) is a not-for-profit members' organization that promotes the safe and effective use of powered access equipment worldwide. Members include rental companies, manufacturers, distributors and equipment owners. IPAF has an office in the US, where the training program is managed by its North American subsidiary, AWPT. More details at www.ipaf.org and www.awpt.org
IPAF is a not-for-profit safety organization whose budget does not allow it to pay color separation charges. IPAF nevertheless hopes that editors will use the story based on news value interest to readers.
