MEWP Maintenance - What is it and why do you need it?

The right MEWP can make working at height significantly safer, BUT only when they are properly maintained, serviced and examined. Do you know what this involves and why?

Planed Service and maintenance of powered access platforms is a legal obligation for anyone using them for work activities throughout the whole of Great Britain. It’s not just large businesses that are subject to the Regulations: everyone who uses or controls work equipment, including self-employed people (sole traders) operating for profit or not, has to follow them. There are two specific regulations which apply: Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER 1998) and Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER 1998).

Beyond the regulations there are great commercial reasons to maintain your equipment.

• Regular servicing will increase the lifespan of your equipment
• A full service history can increase the value of your aerial access equipment if you come to sell it
• Minor faults are identified early and this can reduce the risk and cost of breakdowns
• Safety! A programe of daily visual checks, regular inspections and servicing ensure equipment is safe to use.
• Regular maintenance increases productivity by ensuring faults are minimised and the equipment is ready to use when needed.
• Accidents resulting from failing to adhere to LOLER and PUWER can results in convictions, multi million pound fines and jail time depending on the severity of the breach

So what do YOU need to do?

• Pre use inspection by operators, and encouragement to report all defects or problems  – Do you have a checklist? I can send you one.
• Six monthly mandatory thorough examination by a competent person* (LOLER)
• Regular service in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the risks associated with each MEWP

*In the UK CAP (Competent Assessed Person) certification is the recognised standard. Thorough examinations can be carried our more frequently if needed or advised by a competent person.

This is a complex set of rules and regulations that it is vital that all owners and users of MEWPS understand, but adhering to these regulations does not have to be a headache. A planned maintenance contract with a reputable company will give you the peace of mind you need.

What does a HLS planned service and maintenance contract include?

• Minimum Two visits annually, each including inspection, service and mandatory thorough examination
•  Inclusive of all Parts, labour and travel for planned maintenance
•  On site advice for machine operatives with regards to daily inspection and operation
• National coverage
• CAP certified engineers
• Fully stocked service vans – providing first time fix
• Technical archive – Maintaining your service records
• Support tailored to the specific needs of your business including technical advice and scheduling to ensure maintenance is conducted within the legislative framework
• Routine and fully comprehensive options available
• Peace of mind that you are compliant with current legislation
• One call number 0113 287 8446

If you would like a free copy of our MEWP daily inspection checklist email me at [email protected] . Feel free to contact me or comment below if you have any questions or would like any additional information on safe working at height.