What is this standard about?
It’s about mast climbing work platform (MCWP) safety. It offers recommendations and guidance on the installation, dismantling, maintenance and thorough examination of MCWPs. It also gives recommendations and guidance on their safe use.
Who is this standard for?
Users will come from many industry sectors including:
Building construction and maintenance
Telecommunications
Tree surgery
Rental industry
Training companies
The standard will be used by:
Employers, managers, supervisors and operators of MCWPs
Safety professionals
Training and educational establishments
Trade and industry federations
Rental companies
Manufacturers
Enforcement authorities and standard agencies
Why should you use this standard?
Working at height is a high risk activity. Using this standard maximizes the likelihood that appropriate MCWPs are selected for use and that they are positioned, used, maintained and examined safely.
What’s changed since the last update?
Since BS 7981:2002 was published there have been significant technical developments affecting machine design, safety and working practices. Major changes to the standard include:
a) Greater detail on the implementation of a risk assessment
b) Simplification of the responsibilities for the safe operation of an MCWP, including:
The removal of the term “user” and its replacement with “operator”
The introduction of recommendations for the “appointed person (user)” and the“appointed person (supplier)”
The recommendation for a trained installer to remove and reinstall a top tie
Clarification of the role of the demonstrator
c) The replacement o...