International Powered Access Federation, a Supporter Member of FASET, has released a new guidance pack focused on the safe use and management of batteries used in mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs).
The new resources aim to support equipment owners, rental companies, operators and maintenance personnel in managing batteries safely throughout their lifecycle. The pack includes a detailed guidance document, three Toolbox Talks and two Andy Access safety posters, all designed to promote safe working practices across the powered access sector.
As battery-powered MEWPs continue to grow in popularity, clear guidance on their safe operation and maintenance is becoming increasingly important. The shift towards battery-powered equipment is being driven by factors including stricter emissions and noise regulations, increased indoor working, sustainability targets and ongoing advances in battery and charging technologies.
With more than 2.2 million MEWPs currently in operation worldwide, powered by technologies ranging from internal combustion engines and hybrid systems to hydrogen and battery-electric solutions, ensuring safe battery management is essential.
Brian Parker, Head of Safety & Technical at IPAF, highlighted that while battery-powered MEWPs offer benefits such as lower emissions, reduced noise and improved efficiency, safe performance relies on proper battery care and management. The new guidance is intended to help industry professionals understand potential risks and adopt best practice to ensure safe and reliable operation.
Guidance Coverage
The document outlines best practice for the safe use, charging, storage, inspection, maintenance and disposal of the main battery types used in MEWPs, including flooded lead-acid (FLA), AGM, gel and lithium-ion batteries.
Key objectives of the guidance include:
- Providing clear information on battery safety and maintenance for MEWPs
- Supporting those responsible for planning and managing MEWP operations
- Raising awareness of battery-related hazards and risks
- Identifying practical control measures and safe systems of work to reduce battery-related incidents
The guidance also includes technical references and practical checklists to support implementation on site. It can be downloaded from the IPAF website: https://www.ipaf.org/en-gb/resource-library/safe-use-maintenance-batteries-fitted-mewps
FASET welcomes the development of resources such as this by its Supporter Members, helping to promote safe working practices across sectors where powered access equipment is used.
