14.08.2003

HSE advocates use of platforms for tree work

A report into the use of mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPS) for tree work has been published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The report is intended to promote awareness and understanding of MEWP capabilities for arboricultural operations, in response to the high number of accidents in the arboricultural industry. The report has been prepared by Forest Research, an Agency of the Forestry Commission, and has evaluated the factors which affect the performance of such equipment and which types are suitable for particular types of sites and operations. The report also provides information to help employers and contractors use MEWPS safely. The Arboricultural Association, The Forestry Contractors Association and others provided assistance to ensure it reflected arboricultural practice.

The report, ‘Use and Effectiveness of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPS) for tree work’, Research Report 123, has identified a range of health and safety advantages including a more safe and secure environment, reduced effort of the operator while gaining access to the working position and potential increases in efficiency and productivity.

Adrian Hodkinson who deals with arboriculture for HSE’s national Agriculture and Food Sector said:
“The use of work positioning rope systems in tree climbing is high risk work with the potential for serious injury or even a fatal accident. MEWPS provide safe and quick access to trees and a secure working platform. This research has shown that use of MEWP has the potential to provide 74 per cent time savings and up to 67 per cent cost savings when compared to the cost of a climbing team.

“HSE is not looking to stop tree climbing using work positioning techniques, but is looking for work to be properly planned and for appropriate work equipment to be selected to make it as safe as possible. Every arboricultural business should assess each job carefully and use MEWPs where appropriate. They are particularly suited to tree work in urban areas; work on diseased or dying trees; where tree climbing is difficult or arduous because of tree species or tree form; and, where there is a reasonable number of trees to be worked upon.”

Billy Robb, Chairman of the Forestry Contracting Association, Arboriculture Specialist Group said: “Due to the likely effects of the new Work at Height Regulations in 2004; the general recognition that arborists work in a high risk environment; and, the subsequent knock-on effect with high insurance premiums this year, it is time our industry took the use of MEWPS more seriously. The new HSE research report lays out exactly how to do this. It is very thoroughly researched and gives extremely helpful practical guidance for the benefit of our industry.”