As part of on-going efforts to reduce the risks associated with working at height, a newly revised Mobile Elevated Work Platform ( MEWP ) standard has been issued across major projects at Sellafield, incorporating valuable insights and lessons learned over the past 12 months.
Originally introduced in February last year, the MEWP standard was developed by the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Hub to enhance safety measures for working at height across all our projects.
This has led to the appointment of over 40 MEWP co-ordinators and the replacement of a host of MEWPs with models that now have enhanced safety features. New MEWP management plans were also introduced across the supply chain.
This updated version builds on that foundation, ensuring our practices remain aligned with the highest safety standards and reflect our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement.
Within the construction industry, incidents involving MEWPs occur at three times the rate seen in other sectors. We’re determined to stay ahead of that curve and ensure that everyone working with MEWPs is Knowingly Safe.
The use of MEWPs has increased significantly across major projects, driven by the progression of several in-flight projects through various construction phases. Over the past 12 months, the Hub has reviewed our progress and incorporated lessons learned into revision two of the standard.
Key updates
Some of the key highlights are that it is now mandatory that all scissor platforms must have electronic secondary guarding as a feature. And the MEWP hazard screening sheet has been updated following 12 months of learning.
Additional clarity has also been added with new sections on disciplined MEWP operations and emergency arrangements following Hub feedback.
There is an updated criteria for defining complex tasks and definitions introduced for two-handed controls and intelligent anchor points – the latter in response to learning from one of our projects.
This revision marks a significant step forward in our journey to make working at height safer and more efficient. By embedding these changes, we continue to lead the way in construction safety and ensure that every team member working with MEWPs is equipped with the knowledge and tools to operate safely.
MEWP co-ordinators from each organisation are set to attend an upcoming Major Projects MEWP co-ordinator session. This session will cover the revised standard in detail, provide an opportunity to raise any issues or feedback, and include a meeting with Steve Harnwell, major projects delivery director, the executive sponsor for the MEWP standard.
Pride in MEWP Standard
Mark Atkinson, health and safety manager on our Sellafield Product and Residue Store Retreatment Plant (SRP), said: “We are very proud of our MEWP standard. Its focus is beyond compliance and we believe powered access safety should be a culture, not a checklist.
“Powered access equipment is widely regarded as one of the safest methods for enabling work at height but, like any equipment, there is always scope for further improvements in its safe use.
“With work at height continuing to pose one of the most significant risks across major projects and broader industries, I believe this standard will keep us ahead of the curve.
“If you are not aware of it, and are influencing MEWP work within your organisation, please review the update and its safety critical information.”
To access the new MEWP standard go to: MoC Website: Folder ‘MEWPS’.
Within the construction industry, incidents involving work at height, are high risk. So as part of 
Our safety team were busy at the Sellafield SHEQ Conference, showcasing the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Hub and the positive changes it has brought in.