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MOBILE ELEVATED WORK PLATFORMS (MEWPS)

Safe Operation, Ontario Requirements, and Hazard Controls

Mobile elevated work platforms — including scissor lifts, boom lifts, and aerial work platforms — are a safer alternative to ladders and scaffolding for many tasks. But they carry their own serious hazards. Tip-overs, falls from platforms, and contact with overhead structures are among the most common MEWP incidents in Ontario.

Bullivant Health + Safety | bullivant.ca | 905-664-4943 | 158 S Service Road, Stoney Creek, ON
This resource is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

1. MEWP Types & Common Hazards

MEWP TYPES COMMON HAZARDS
  • Scissor lifts — extend straight up. Stable on level surfaces. Limited horizontal reach.
  • Articulating boom lifts — jointed arm extends up and over obstacles. Greater reach, more complex.
  • Telescopic boom lifts — extend in a straight line. Greatest height. Sensitive to ground conditions.
  • Personnel lifts (vertical mast) — single or double mast for light tasks. Limited height and capacity.
  • Tip-over from unstable ground, overloading, or undeployed outriggers
  • Falls from platform — the most common fatality mechanism
  • Electrocution from contact with overhead power lines
  • Contact with overhead structures during travel or elevation
  • Struck-by incidents involving ground-level workers below the platform
  • Mechanical failure from inadequate pre-use inspection

 

2. The Legal Framework

O. REG. 213/91, SECTION 144

An operator of an aerial device shall be trained in the safe operation of the aerial device to be used. The employer shall ensure that the training is provided and that records of the training are kept (Ontario Regulation 213/91 — Construction Projects)

  • O. Reg. 851 — applies to MEWPs in non-construction settings
  • CSA B354 Series — Canadian standards for MEWP design and safe use, referenced by Ontario regulations
  • Working at Heights Training (O. Reg. 297/13) — applies to construction workers using MEWPs where fall hazards exist

3. Operator Training & Pre-Use Inspection

Operator Training

  • Training must be specific to the class of equipment. Scissor lift training does not qualify an operator for an articulating boom lift.
  • Pre-operational training: controls, stability principles, load capacity, drive/work positions, emergency lowering procedures
  • Practical evaluation: observed operation of the specific machine class in realistic conditions
    Site-specific orientation: overhead clearances, surface conditions, exclusion zones, emergency procedures
  • Documentation: date, equipment class, trainer name, and worker acknowledgment

Pre-Use Inspection

  1. Check all fluid levels — hydraulic fluid, engine oil, fuel (or battery charge for electric machines).
  2. Inspect base and tyres — tyre condition, drive wheels, outrigger pads if equipped.
  3. Test all controls — platform controls, ground controls, emergency stop, and manual emergency lowering.
  4. Test drive functions — forward/reverse, steering, and braking at slow speed.
  5. Inspect platform — gate and chain function, floor integrity, harness anchor point condition.
  6. Check overhead clearances — confirm travel path is clear of power lines and structures.
  7. Assess ground conditions — levelness, bearing capacity, need for outriggers or cribbing.
  8. Record inspection and report any defects. Remove from service if safe operation is affected.

4. Safe Operating Principles

  • Wear a full-body harness anchored to the platform: required in Ontario whenever working in a MEWP. Attach to manufacturer-designated anchor point only.
  • Never exceed platform load capacity: includes workers, tools, and materials. Check the data plate.
  • Deploy outriggers/stabilizers as required: never elevate without setting outriggers per the manufacturer's manual.
  • Maintain minimum safe distance from power lines: 3-metre minimum from lines up to 750V. When in doubt, call before you go up.
  • Do not use a MEWP as a crane: do not attach rigging to the platform. MEWPs are rated for personnel and hand tools only.
  • Do not lean outside guardrails: or use ladders from the platform to gain additional height.
  • Be aware of wind: boom lifts are susceptible to overturning in high winds. Follow manufacturer's maximum wind speed rating.

 

ELECTROCUTION IS THE HIGHEST-CONSEQUENCE MEWP HAZARD

Contact with overhead power lines is the leading cause of fatal MEWP incidents. Power lines are not always visible or obviously active. Before elevating near any overhead line, contact the utility to identify and de-energize if necessary.

GENERAL INFORMATION NOTICE

This resource is for general informational purposes only. Consult O. Reg. 213/91, O. Reg. 851, the CSA B354 series, and the Ministry of Labour for requirements specific to your equipment and workplace.