31.07.2014

EN280 to be reviewed

The European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) has gained a mandate to commence a full revision of EN280:2013 – the European standard governing the design and manufacture of aerial lifts.

EN280:2013 was published in June 2013 after a review period of five years. Detailing additional requirements regarding the application of EN13001-3-1 and EN ISO13849-1 as well as aerial lift structures and control systems, it is anticipated that EN280:2013 Amendment A1 will be published in 2015, following a period for public comment.

Possible topics for consideration in the next full revision of EN280 include: exit at height, retention of key in ground control station, average weight of person, fire prevention, ability to isolate power when elevated (other than emergency stop), wind speed variations and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).

IPAF technical & safety executive Chris Wraith, said: “The increasing popularity and increased use of aerial lifts throughout the world in almost all sectors of industry, for new and differing applications, mean that there are constantly new issues that need addressing in the design standard. Continual technical and physical advances in aerial lift design mean it is essential that the industry-specific design standard EN280 reflects ‘state of art’ and provides relevant guidance for manufacturers to ensure safe design of aerial lifts.”

IPAF members wishing to provide comments related to the full review of EN280 should contact Chris Wraith.