Working at Height
Working at height remains one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) provide a safer alternative to ladders and scaffolding when used correctly, but their safety depends heavily on one simple step that should never be overlooked: the pre-use inspection.
What Is a MEWP Pre-Use Check?
A pre-use check is a systematic inspection carried out before a MEWP is operated. It ensures the machine is safe, fully functional, and free from defects that could put operators or others at risk.
These inspections should be completed at the start of every shift or whenever a different operator takes control of the machine.
Why Are Pre-Use Checks So Important?
- Protecting Lives
The primary purpose of a pre-use inspection is to identify faults before they become hazards. Issues such as damaged tyres, leaking hydraulic hoses, faulty emergency controls, or worn guardrails can lead to equipment failure while working at height.
By identifying these problems early, operators can prevent accidents and ensure everyone goes home safely.
- Legal Compliance
Employers have a legal duty to provide safe work equipment and maintain it in a safe condition. Operators also have responsibilities to ensure the equipment they use is fit for purpose.
Completing and recording daily inspections demonstrates a commitment to health and safety while helping organisations meet their legal obligations.
- Reducing Downtime
Discovering a fault before work begins is far less disruptive than dealing with a breakdown during a job. Early identification allows maintenance teams to repair defects before they develop into costly failures, reducing downtime and improving productivity.
- Protecting Equipment
MEWPs are significant investments. Regular inspections help extend the lifespan of the equipment by identifying wear and tear before it develops into major mechanical issues.
- Building a Strong Safety Culture
When pre-use checks become routine, they reinforce a positive safety culture where everyone understands that safe working practices come before productivity. Consistent inspections encourage accountability and demonstrate professionalism across the workforce.
What Should Be Included in a MEWP Pre-Use Check?
Although inspection requirements vary depending on the manufacturer and machine type, operators should typically inspect:
- Tyres and wheels
- Hydraulic hoses and fittings
- Fluid levels
- Battery condition or fuel levels
- Guardrails, gates and platform floor
- Emergency stop buttons
- Ground and platform controls
- Emergency lowering system
- Safety decals and operating instructions
- Outriggers and stabilisers (where fitted)
- Signs of structural damage or excessive wear
The operator should also carry out a full function test to ensure all controls operate correctly before using the machine.
Never Ignore a Defect
If a defect is found during the inspection:
- Do not operate the MEWP.
- Report the issue immediately.
- Isolate the machine to prevent further use.
- Ensure repairs are completed by a competent person before returning it to service.
Ignoring defects can place both the operator and others at serious risk.
Training Makes the Difference
Even the best equipment cannot compensate for inadequate training. Operators should receive recognised MEWP operator training and understand how to perform effective pre-use inspections, identify hazards, and safely operate the equipment.
Regular refresher training also helps maintain competence and keeps operators up to date with current best practices. Alide Hire Services provides IPAF Training to the highest standards
Final Thoughts
A MEWP pre-use check typically takes only a few minutes, but its impact can be enormous. It helps prevent accidents, protects valuable equipment, reduces costly downtime, and supports legal compliance.
Safe working at height starts long before the platform leaves the ground. Every inspection is an investment in safety, professionalism, and the wellbeing of everyone on site.
Book your IPAF Training today, contact training@alidehire.co.uk