Industry organizations partner to develop MEWP best practices

April 3, 2013 – The American Rental Association, the
Association of Equipment Manufacturers, the International Powered Access
Federation and the Scaffold and Access Industry Association have joined forces
once again to develop a document of best practices for assessing risk and
selecting the proper elevated work platform.

The result of this joint venture is the Statement of Best Practices for Risk Assessment and Mobile
Elevating Work Selection. Previous documents include Statement of Best Practices of Personal Fall Protection Systems for
Aerial Work Platform Equipment (2011) and Statement of Best Practices of General Training and Familiarization for
Aerial Work Platform Equipment (2010).

The participating organizations recognized a need to aid in
the identification of hazards, offer guidance for conducting a thorough risk
assessment and implementing control measures as well as assist in the selection
of the most appropriate MEWP for the work involved. The industry remains
committed to putting forth initiatives that increase awareness of best
practices, clarify responsibilities and address the safe use of MEWPs.

The objectives of this best practice document are intended
to:

• Educate the
  industry on applicable OSHA regulations and the industry-recognized and
  supported ANSI/SAIA standards.
• Provide
  information to assist users and operators in assessing the risks for the
  work to be done and implementing appropriate control measures to reduce or
  eliminate such risks.
• Provide guidance
  for the selection of the proper equipment to perform the work needed.
• Encourage the
  incorporation of best practices into a company’s risk assessment plans.

The Statement of Best Practices for
Risk Assessment and Mobile Elevating Work Selection document was unveiled
by the participating organizations during The Rental Show, the
ARA’s convention and trade show, Feb. 11, 2013 at The Sands Expo and Convention
Center in Las Vegas.

Related Link
www.ararental.org