New EWP Code of Practice

Safe Work Australia has released a new code of practice —the model Code of Practice: Elevating Work Platforms. This Code brings together and replaces the two previous SWA guides on managing, inspecting, and maintaining EWPs, providing a single, practical reference for PCBUs and workers.

With elevating work platforms remaining a common source of workplace risk – working with mobile plant and risk of fall from heights – this new Code offers clearer guidance on identifying hazards, implementing effective control measures, and ensuring equipment is properly maintained and operated.

The MBA ACT encourage all members who use or manage EWPs to familiarise themselves with the changes to support safer worksites and meet their WHS obligations, including these key requirements:

1. PCBUs must manage all risks associated with EWPs including noise and psychosocial hazards
2. Selection of the right EWP for the task is critical
3. Operator competency and training are mandatory
4. Rigorous inspections and maintenance are required
5. Control measures for key hazards include overturning, electrical contact, crushing, falls and ground failure

New model Code of Practice: Elevating Work Platforms now published

Safe Work Australia has released the model Code of Practice: Elevating Work Platforms. The model Code of Practice: Elevating Work Platforms (EWP) provides practical guidance to employers and other duty holders on how to manage the risks to health and safety associated with elevating work platforms.

Elevating work platforms (EWPs) are powered mobile plant designed to lift or lower people and equipment from a base support.

The new model Code is designed to support employers and other duty holders in understanding and fulfilling their responsibilities. It outlines:

• common risks associated with EWP use
• examples of effective control measures
• guidance on inspection, maintenance, and the proper use of EWPs.

The model Code of Practice will replace two existing guides – the guide to managing the risks of elevating work platforms and the guide to inspecting and maintaining elevating work platforms.

Learn more and download the model Code of Practice: Elevating Work Platforms.

If you have any questions or need further guidance, please don’t hesitate to contact our Work Health and Safety Team:

📞 (02) 6175 5900
📧 workplace@mba.org.au