What are the Common Risks of Operating a MEWP?
Last Updated: 21 November 2025
In this blog we look at what the common risks are when operating a powered access platform and how to avoid them.
What are the common risks when using a powered access platform?
According to HSE, in 2023/24, 50 workers died from falls from height, which was 36% of all workplace fatalities. This highlights the importance of implementing adequate safety measures to prevent such accidents. Below we explore some of the main risks when working at height on a MEWP and how to prevent them.
Falls
Falling off the platform is one of the biggest risks when operating a powered access platform. Operators can fall from the platform due to a lack of balance or overreaching, which can cause the platform to tip over,
How to prevent falls: Ensure safety equipment, like harnesses, are properly attached and maintained. Operate the machinery within its capabilities to prevent the machinery from toppling over.
Tipping Over
Uneven grounds, weather conditions, overloading the platform or improper use of the platform can cause it to tip over which puts the operator at risk but also any other workers around the machinery.
How to prevent machinery tipping over: If operating on rough terrain, ensure you only use a rough terrain MEWP, specifically designed to handle the type of terrain. Do not operate the machinery in high winds or adverse weather conditions. Always read the manual and do not exceed the maximum capacity.
Collisions
Another risk is MEWPs colliding with other vehicles, buildings, overhead structures or workers. There is an increased risk when operating the MEWP in confined spaces.
How to prevent collisions: Always ensure the work area is clear when operating machinery and communication protocols are in place for operators to report hazards or any potential collisions. MEWP training can also help ensure operators can identify hazards and properly manoeuvre the MEWP in a safe manner.
Entrapment
If operators are working in tight spaces and are unaware of their surroundings they can become trapped between the platform and another item.
How to prevent entrapment: Again, providing adequate training can ensure operators can easily identify hazards and how to prevent them. Secondary guarding devices can also help mitigate the risk of entrapment.
Falling Objects
Falling objects can pose a risk to workers and people around the platform, improperly stored materials on the platform can easily fall during operation. Overloading the machinery can also pose a risk of falling objects.
How to prevent falling objects: Ensure not to overload the machinery and properly secure any materials to prevent falling objects.
Why is training important before operating a powered access platform?
One of the easiest ways to reduce risks when working at height is to use the correct equipment and be fully trained in how to use it safely. Accredited IPAF training will equip you or your team with all the knowledge you need, including all the relevant regulations.
Even though having IPAF training is not a legal requirement, it is a legal requirement for an employer to ensure their employees are adequately trained on how to safely operate MEWP equipment before use.
Looking to hire or buy a powered access platform?
Ensuring you have properly maintained equipment is also important. At Star Platforms, every powered access platform in our fleet is always properly maintained and serviced to ensure it is completely safe for operators to use.
If you’re ready to hire a powered access platform, we have both diesel and electric cherry pickers, scissor lifts, or low-level platforms to choose from – we have over 4,700 powered access machines in our fleet and access to over 10,000 platforms nationally.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to purchase or hire electric or hybrid powered access platforms, then you’re in the right place. At Star Platforms, we have new and used access platforms for hire and for purchase.
If you’re in need of a generator for your next project, our sister company, Star Power, has a range of temporary power solutions including generator hire and battery energy storage systems.
If you need help choosing the right equipment for your needs and requirements, then our team at Star Platforms can help – get in touch today.
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