IPAF MEWP Guidance
The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has updated recommendations for assessing ground conditions where mobile elevating work platforms (also called aerial lifts) are used.
In the past, MEWP guidance from the safety group was aimed at outrigger-enabled equipment; the new information now also references importance of ground stability and understanding load-bearing capacity for self-propelled and crawler-mounted aerials.
According to Brian Parker, IPAF Working Group Chairman, “The surface area of the point of contact of a tire on a MEWP is relatively small and consequently may generate high pressures. It is therefore essential that an assessment of the ground conditions, taking into consideration the manufacturer’s floor/point loads, is carried out before operating a MEWP on any surface.”
To assist with this assessment, IPAF plans to introduce a web-based outrigger pad calculator to determine the area of the outrigger pad needed to reduce ground bearing pressures based on the load and ground strength that is input.
DICA offers a similar service for users of cranes, but one that is specific to DICA’s products. DICA’s three step fitting process is designed to help determine the outrigger pads or crane pads that are best for the application. Selecting the correct material, thickness and construction is critical to ensuring that you have the proper strength, rigidly and area to support and distribute loads.
“DICA applauds what IPAF is doing and fully supports IPAF’s Spread the Load campaign. IPAF does a nice job of help users understand area needs, however the tool does not provide direction on pad materials, design, or construction needed to spread the load over the noted area. This is where DICA picks up, explains Kris Koberg, CEO. DICA’s three step fitting process provides users with area information, but goes further in providing clear direction on the material, design, and construction required to achieve customer stated objectives.”
In addition, IPAF also recommends that the person in control of the site should supply relevant information about the ground-bearing capacity, which could impact MEWP stability. This includes ground conditions, supporting structures, or underground voids. Safety responsibilities are also outlined for operators, managers, clients, subcontractors, rental companies, and others.