21.01.2004

IPAF publishes MCWP guide

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has published a Site Safety Guide for Mast Climbing Work Platforms (MCWP). Following on from the publication of IPAF’s ‘Operators’ Safety Guide for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms, the new pocket-sized guide provides a handy reference to all those using the equipment on-site, as well as those responsible for supplying it.

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BS 7981
A main focus of the guide is to provide explanations of the key elements of the BS 7981 industry standard for Mast Climbing Work Platforms. In the Foreword to the guide, Andrew Reid, chairman of the IPAF MCWP committee and managing director of Glasgow-based Mastclimbers Ltd, stresses that: ‘In many countries, MCWPs have become the ‘latest access revolution’. Savings over traditional scaffolding can reach 40 per cent on fixed installation costs and 50 per cent on contract duration. These can be reduced by 30 per cent less operatives.

‘Reaping these benefits,’ continues Reid, ‘requires a thorough understanding of their special requirements, especially in installation, supervision and use. BS 7981, the Code of Practice for MCPWs, provides comprehensive practical guidance on every facet of MCWP application, including Hazard and Risk Assessment, Planning and Job Function, Engineering Certification and Execution, as well as Maintenance and Thorough Examination. Especially important is Training, and associated Skill Certification.’

The guide draws upon material from IPAF’s own training courses and covers additional topics, including Health and Safety legislation, responsibilities of appointed persons; method statement; safety features and testing, hand-over and induction procedures. The MCWP guide is available directly from IPAF.