By Damian Edge, Senior IPAF Instructor
Keeping your MEWP stable is vital for your safety when working at height. If the platform tips or overturns unexpectedly, you risk your life if you’re catapulted from the cage. That’s why MEWPS fitted with outriggers should always be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, reducing ground pressure and increasing stability. When deployed, spreader plates should be used without exception when using boom type MEWPs fully supported by their outriggers. With all other MEWPs, spreader plates should also be used with outriggers unless a specific risk assessment indicates that they are not necessary.