What Is Inspection?
Work platform inspection covers the load-bearing structure, the lifting system and the anti-tip-over devices of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs). Because a platform lifts people, verification of the safety devices is especially critical.
Why Is It Done?
The aim is to prevent tip-over, fall and uncontrolled descent during work at height. A fault in the stability systems, if it goes unnoticed in service, can be directly fatal.
Which Equipment Is Covered?
- Scissor platforms
- Articulated (boom) platforms
- Telescopic platforms
- Vehicle-mounted platforms
- Vertical mast platforms
Legal Basis and Interval
There is no single universal interval. The inspection interval follows the most restrictive of three sources: the maximum period set by the applicable work-equipment legislation, the instructions in the manufacturer's manual, and the operator's risk assessment. Heavy duty, corrosive environments or shift work shorten it. The next inspection date is stated in the report.
Scope of Inspection
- Load-bearing structure and scissor/boom arms: cracks, deformation, corrosion
- Hydraulic system: cylinder, hose, leakage and anti-drop valves
- Outrigger (leg) system and automatic level control
- Tilt sensing and anti-overturning system
- Overload sensing system
- Basket: guardrail, gate, floor and anchor points
- Emergency lowering system and manual descent function
- Control units: platform and ground control, emergency stop
- Brakes, tyres and travel system
- Capacity plate, load chart and warning signs
Related Standards
- ISO/IEC 17020
- EN 280
- ISO 18893
- ISO 16368
- ISO 18878
Method and Equipment
- Calibrated test weights
- Inclinometer and level device
- Hydraulic pressure gauge
- Ultrasonic thickness gauge (when required)
- Magnetic particle equipment (at critical weld areas)
Inspection Process
- 1Preliminary Information and PlanningThe equipment inventory, capacity data, manufacturer's instructions and previous inspection reports are collected; the inspection date and site conditions are planned.
- 2Document ReviewThe declaration of conformity, user manual, maintenance records and, where applicable, records closing out earlier nonconformities are reviewed.
- 3Visual InspectionThe load-bearing structure, connections, guards and warning markings are checked visually; wear, deformation and corrosion are assessed.
- 4Function and Safety Device CheckSafety devices such as brakes, limit switches, emergency stop and overload protection are verified by operating them.
- 5Measurement and Load TestDepending on the type of equipment, a load test, pressure test or electrical measurements are carried out. Test values are set according to the manufacturer's limits and the relevant standard.
- 6Evaluation and ReportingFindings are graded as conforming / non-conforming / conditionally conforming; the report and the inspection label are issued.
- 7Follow-upIf nonconformities exist, a follow-up inspection is carried out once they have been corrected; the next inspection date is stated in the report.
Nonconformities
Failure of the anti-fall valves, a disabled tilt detection system or damage to the basket guard-rail are grounds for immediate withdrawal from service. A non-functioning emergency lowering system carries the same weight.
Inspection Report
- Details of the inspection body and the inspection personnel
- Equipment identification: make, model, serial number, capacity, year of manufacture
- Standard applied and scope of inspection
- Measuring instruments used and their calibration data
- Findings of the visual inspection and function check
- Load / pressure test values
- Nonconformities identified and their severity
- Conclusion (conforming / non-conforming / conditionally conforming) and the next inspection date
Accreditation
Inspection activities are carried out under ISO/IEC 17020, which requires the impartiality of the inspection body, the competence of its personnel and the validity of the inspection methods. Under the impartiality rule, a party that maintains or repairs an item of equipment cannot carry out the independent inspection of that same equipment. EUROLAB holds internationally recognised accreditation under ISO/IEC 17020, granted by accreditation bodies that are signatories to the ILAC mutual recognition arrangement; because accredited scope is defined per inspection type, it is confirmed in writing at the quotation stage.
Scope and authorisationsRelated Inspections
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the emergency lowering system tested separately?
It is the only means of safely lowering the person in the basket if the main power or the hydraulic system fails. Because it is rarely used, it often becomes non-functional in the field; for this reason it is actually operated at every inspection.
Who may carry out the inspection?
The inspection is carried out by an inspection body accredited under ISO/IEC 17020 and by inspectors authorised by that body. The impartiality of the inspection body is fundamental: the party that maintains the equipment cannot conduct the periodic inspection of that same equipment as an independent inspection.
Does the load test damage the equipment?
The test load is set from the rated capacity of the equipment and the standard applied, and stays within the design limits. A properly planned load test causes no damage. If the equipment carries a hidden defect, bringing it to light during the test is precisely the purpose of the test.
What happens if the inspection result is not conforming?
Depending on the severity of the nonconformity, the equipment is withdrawn from service or may be used under restricted conditions. Once the nonconformity is corrected, a follow-up inspection is carried out; the adverse report is retained together with the record of the correction.