If you operate an elevating work platform (EWP) fleet, the current edition of AS 2550.10 sets the requirements for your 5 and 10-year major inspections. There have been updates to the standard that affect what is required before your next major — and with many fleets having machines approaching that milestone, now is the time to check your records.
AS 2550.10 covers the in-service inspection and maintenance of EWPs, including boom-type and scissor-type platforms. The major inspection (required at 5 years and again at 10 years from commissioning) goes well beyond the 6-monthly in-service check. It includes a full structural assessment, non-destructive testing of critical components, function testing, and — for insulated booms used in live-line electrical work — high voltage testing of the boom insulation and bucket liner.
Key points from the current edition:
- The major must be carried out or supervised by a competent person with documented qualifications for the specific machine type.
- NDT requirements for structural components are more clearly defined, including acceptance criteria for welds and boom sections.
- For HV-rated EWPs, acoustic emission testing to AS 4748 is required on fibreglass boom sections as part of the major.
- Records of the major must be retained and available for inspection — a gap in documentation is treated the same as a gap in compliance.
DEG carries out EWP major inspections nationally, including HV boom and bucket liner testing to ANSI/SIA A92.2 and acoustic emission testing to AS 4748. We issue BPG-compliant certificates and maintain records through our compliance management system.
If your machines are approaching a 5 or 10-year major, get it scheduled before the window closes.
Reference links:
Standards New Zealand — AS 2550.10:
https://www.standards.govt.nz/shop/asnzs-255010-2006/
WorkSafe — EWPs overview:
https://www.worksafe.govt.nz/topic-and-industry/elevated-work-platforms/