Blog
24 February 2023
To get the most out of your machinery, it’s essential to keep it in good working order. This means regular servicing and maintenance, which will help to keep your powered access platforms performing as effectively as possible, for as long as possible, while reducing the risk involved in working at height.
The legal essentials
A safe and successful lifting operation depends, in part, on the safety of the equipment involved. Therefore, any businesses that undertake lifting operations, or provide lifting equipment for others, such as GTAccess, are held responsible for managing the risks to avoid injury or damage.
Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, it’s a legal requirement that all powered access platforms are inspected and tested regularly. Lifting equipment, such as powered access platforms, must undergo thorough examinations before first use, when installed or assembled at a new site, or when exposed to any conditions which have the potential to cause any deterioration.
In addition, all lifting equipment must be checked regularly while in service, at least once every six months. Failure to comply with the necessary requirements can result in fines or imprisonment, as well as the serious injury, or even death, of workers.
What does a service typically cover?
Equipment servicing provides an early warning of any problems that could result in costly repairs, project delays, and, most importantly, potential accidents. A thorough examination of equipment will assess:
· Structural integrity
The technician carrying out the service will look at the overall condition of the platform, including any outriggers and footpads, all metalwork, and the basket, cage, or deck.
· Any signs of wear and tear
In addition to searching for any signs of corrosion or breakdown in key areas, and highlighting the need for any necessary repairs, the technician will ensure that essential safety notices are clear and visible.
· Safe operation of key functions
There are several key features on powered access platforms which should be assessed to ensure they are in full working order. The technician performing the examination will look at the hydraulic systems, including the oil level and condition, as well as the stability of any tyres, tracks, or wheels, and the operation of controls and emergency mechanisms.
· Electrical diagnostics and repairs
The inspection will include an assessment of the platform’s control switches, to ensure they are operating correctly with no issues, as well as battery efficiency, checking water levels, and the condition of both terminals and connectors.
The benefits of a service plan
Maintaining your powered access platforms is not only a smart business move, but a legal requirement. Armed with this knowledge, businesses can ensure they create a regular servicing schedule to ensure they are working to regulations, while ensuring the safety of their team members.
However, organisations can make life even easier by investing in a service plan, and leaving the details to the professionals. Maintenance and service plans can typically be tailored to the size and specific needs of your business, and offer benefits including:
· Industry compliance
Having a service plan in place can help you and your business stay compliant with the HSE Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).
· Reduced downtime
If your equipment was to breakdown, or a fault was to occur, it could lead to long delays or a complete project standstill. Regularly servicing and Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) of your powered access platforms is the best way to reduce downtime and ensure your investment keeps on working for you, day after day.
· Reduced costs
In addition to lost productivity, broken or faulty equipment can be costly. Not only does a service plan spread the cost of MEWP servicing and maintenance evenly throughout the year, but it can eliminate any unforeseen expenses of repairing your powered access lift, scissor lift, boom, or cherry picker.
· Expert support
Whether you need to urgently resolve a problem with your powered access platform, or require general maintenance advice, a service plan gives you access to highly skilled experts who will have the right knowledge to quickly, and effectively, deal with any issues whenever they arise.
At GTAccess, our support won’t end with the sale of a powered access platform.
We have a dedicated and experienced team of mobile service engineers on call, backed up with a comprehensive stock of parts, ready to keep your equipment in top condition and LOLER compliant. To speak to a member of our team about our service plans, please get in touch.