Safe Work Australia has published a new model Code of Practice: Elevating Work Platforms, providing updated guidance on managing health and safety risks when using elevating work platforms (EWPs).
EWPs are powered mobile plant designed to lift or lower people and equipment from a base support and are widely used across construction, maintenance and industrial workplaces.
The new model Code is designed to help employers and other duty holders better understand and meet their work health and safety responsibilities when working with EWPs. It outlines common risks associated with EWP use, examples of effective control measures, and guidance on the inspection, maintenance and proper use of this equipment.
Safe Work Australia said the Code provides practical, up-to-date information to support safer planning, operation and management of EWPs in the workplace.
The model Code of Practice replaces two existing documents: the *Guide to managing the risks of elevating work platforms* and the *Guide to inspecting and maintaining elevating work platforms*, bringing the guidance together into a single, consolidated document.
The Code can be used by employers, workers and other duty holders as a reference to improve safety outcomes and reduce the risk of incidents involving elevating work platforms.