Choosing the Right MEWP: EWPA’s Latest Guidance for Safer, Smarter Operations

Choosing the Right MEWP: EWPA’s Latest Guidance for Safer, Smarter Operations

At DEG, safety and precision are at the heart of everything we do. The latest Elevating Work Platform Association of New Zealand (EWPA) guidance, released in September 2025, provides a robust framework for selecting and operating Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) across diverse environments.

Why MEWP Selection Matters

Selecting the correct MEWP isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about doing it safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with industry standards. The EWPA guidance highlights that each worksite presents unique challenges, and MEWPs vary widely in capability. A poor selection can lead to inefficiencies, safety risks, and compliance issues.

Key Factors to Consider

Before deploying a MEWP, competent persons should assess:

• Task Requirements: Height, reach, number of personnel, and weight of tools/materials.
• Terrain & Stability: Ground conditions, slope, and the ability to level the chassis.
• Environmental Conditions: Wind exposure, electromagnetic radiation, exhaust emissions, and noise.
• Machine Specifications: Platform size, mass, tail swing, boom elbow swing, and travel capabilities (e.g., 4WD, crawler).
• Safety Features: Secondary guarding for crush protection, especially near fixed structures.

Special Considerations

• Wind: Only MEWPs rated for wind speeds ≥12.5 m/s should be used outdoors. Wind assessments and monitoring are essential, especially in channeled areas like between buildings.
• Electromagnetic Radiation: MEWPs operating near high EM fields must be evaluated for interference risks.
• Hazardous Environments: Only MEWPs certified for explosive or flammable conditions should be used in such areas.
• Exhaust Gas: Internal combustion MEWPs require proper ventilation or mitigation measures in enclosed spaces.

Guidance Checklist

EWPA includes a sample checklist to assist in MEWP selection. While not exhaustive, it prompts consideration of:

• Task height and reach
• Ground strength and slope
• Indoor/outdoor conditions
• Access restrictions
• Load requirements
• Operator training and supervision

This checklist is a valuable tool for DEG’s field teams and clients to ensure every MEWP deployment is safe, compliant, and fit for purpose.

At DEG, we integrate this guidance into our inspection and commissioning workflows, ensuring our clients benefit from the latest industry standards. Whether it’s EWP commissioning, fatigue inspections, or compliance testing, our team is equipped to deliver with confidence.

📄 Reference: MEWP Selection and Control Measures – Industry Guidance, Elevating Work Platform Association of New Zealand (EWPA), Version 1, September 2025.