IPAF offers free advice to help save lives at ConExpo

All ConExpo 2020 delegates who visit the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) stand can learn how to select the suitable MEWP for the job, develop a MEWP specific safe-use plan, and train operators and supervisors to improve workplace safety by complying with the new ANSI standards, which come into legal effect later this year.

IPAF staff will offer free advice and share technical expertise with anyone planning the use of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) and mast-climbing work platforms (MCWPs).

IPAF’s North American Council is sponsoring free registration to its new ANSI-compliant MEWP Supervisor training course on 8 or 9 March prior to ConExpo opening on 10 March. You can register here https://ipaf.eventsair.com/mewp-supervisor-training-at-conexpo-2020/registration.

Visitors to the IPAF stand can learn the answers to the following key questions:

• Why should I follow ANSI standards to keep my workers safe?
• What is a MEWP-specific safe-use plan – and why do you need one?
• Why must you train MEWP operators and those who supervise them?
• How can selecting the right MEWP save both time and lives?
• How can IPAF’s safety campaigns assist you in managing risk?

Peter Douglas, CEO & MD of IPAF, said, “Conexpo one of the world’s biggest construction and associated trades equipment showcase. It’s very important for a global organisation like IPAF to be at this show, to help people get to grips with all aspects of powered access safety and best practice. Our highly experienced and approachable staff and members will be on hand throughout the week to answer any powered-access-related query you may have.

Tony Groat, IPAF’s North America Regional Manager, who also sits on ANSI and CSA Standards committees, comments: “Many people may feel like they’ve heard it all when it comes to the ANSI standards. Some may even think they don’t apply to them – this couldn’t be further from the truth. OSHA mandates employers provide personnel a workplace safe from harm and that can be achieved when carrying out work using MEWPs by knowing and understanding all the available safety guidance, and this very much includes the updated ANSI A92 MEWP design, safe-use and training standards.”

“There is zero defense should someone get injured or killed on your watch in arguing that you did not know what a MEWP-specific safe use plan is; did not realize you need to train supervisors as well as operators; or do not understand the difference between familiarization, ie showing someone a machine’s controls and operation, and thorough operator training, which includes relevant theory and rigorous practical assessment – all of which are required in the new ANSI standards.

“Thankfully, IPAF is at hand to offer simple, relevant and above all free advice to anyone who visits our stand – we hope to see you in Las Vegas. And remember, those who would like to take IPAF’s MEWP Supervisor course to gain ANSI compliance at no cost are urged to register interest without delay!”

Claude Dubé, IPAF’s Technical & Safety Manager, adds: “Planning safe working at height saves lives. We see from IPAF’s accident research (www.ipaf.org/accident) that almost every accident could have been prevented by proper planning. Safety starts before the work starts.

“Conexpo is a great opportunity to get more information on using powered access equipment safely. It is not a paperwork exercise – planning and supervising work at height is fundamental to keeping workers safe.”