An In-Depth Look at the New ANSI A92 Standard
The new ANSI A92 standard takes effect next month, and it affects businesses that own and operate mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs). To better understand the updated standard, let’s answer some of the key questions surrounding it.
What Is A92?
A92 offers guidance for equipment design and manufacturing. It also defines user roles for equipment, such as operator, owner, and dealer.
ANSI has implemented several changes with A92, including:
✓ Aerial work platforms (AWPs) are now referred to as MEWPs.
✓ New guidelines replace existing guidelines related to the following product types: manually propelled, self-propelled booms and scissors, and under-bridge inspection devices.
✓ New safe use and training mandates apply to MEWPs.
✓ New training classifications have been developed based on a combination of group and type. Groups a and b are used based on potential MEWP configuration; group a MEWPs have a platform that is inside the tipping line, and group b MEWPs have a platform that can be positioned beyond the tipping line. Meanwhile, types 1,2, and 3 are based on an MEWP’s ability to travel; type 1 MEWPs cannot travel out of a stowed position, type 2 MEWPs have travel controlled by a chassis, and type 3 MEWPs can travel when elevated.
Compliance with the new version of A92 is crucial. If businesses understand what the updated standard covers, they can provide their workers with the proper training to safely use MEWPs going forward.
What Does New A92 Standard Cover?
The new A92 standard is divided into three sections:
1. Design (A92.20)
Section 20 of standard A92 provides design, calculations, safety requirements, and testing methods for MEWPs. It helps MEWP manufacturers and engineers develop and deliver safe machines.
Key factors included in A92.20 include:
✓ Load Sensing:
MEWPs must offer active load monitoring; if an MEWP becomes overloaded, the machine will stop working.
✓ Wind Force:
MEWPs intended for outdoor use require a lower platform capacity and/or increased rate in comparison to machines designed for indoor use. Also, MEWPs intended for indoor use must be clearly marked as such.
✓ Tires:
MEWPs designed for rough terrain must have solid and/or foam-filled tires.
✓ Tilt Sensing:
MEWPs must have a tilt sensor alarm, along with a mechanism that stops boom functions in the event that a machine’s incline exceeds a designated slope limit.
✓ Machine Markings:
MEWPs must be marked to designate when their most recent annual inspection was completed. They must also have an up-to-date manual on board.
MEWP manufacturers have been working diligently to update their equipment to meet A92.20 requirements before the standard takes effect. In doing so, they have dedicated time and resources to enhance the safety of machines and lower the risk of platform accidents.
2. Safe Use (A92.22)
A92.22 requires businesses to develop a safe use program for MEWPs. It also stipulates that businesses must perform a worksite risk assessment before work is completed.
During a worksite risk assessment, workers must:
✓ Determine the task that needs to be completed, along with the location and timing of assigned work
✓ Select the proper MEWP(s) for the job
✓ Examine risks to MEWP(s), work tasks, and other job requirements
✓ Identify rescue planning and other controls that can be used to help minimize risk
A safety plan must also be developed and shared with all workers. This plan must define the roles of those involved in an MEWP safe use program, including:
✓ Operator:
Trained and authorized to use an MEWP
✓ Occupant:
Understands MEWP use and safety
✓ Supervisor:
Tracks MEWP use and ensures safety protocols and processes are followed
✓ Technician:
Conducts MEWP maintenance based on the manufacturer’s requirements
A92.22 is an important consideration for workers who regularly use scissor lifts, boom lifts, and other MEWPs, along with worksite supervisors and safety managers. Together, these parties can develop and implement an MEWP safe use program to ensure that all work platforms are securely operated and managed at worksites.
3. Training (A92.24)
A92.24 outlines MEWP training requirements. It explains how businesses can prepare MEWP training materials, as well as how these materials should be delivered. Also, the standard defines the necessary elements to ensure workers receive effective MEWP training.
According to A92.24, all MEWP training must be performed by a qualified instructor who understands the following aspects as they relate to MEWPs:
✓ Safe use practices
✓ Manufacturer’s requirements
✓ Hazards
Additional training may be necessary to ensure a business has qualified instructors on hand to educate workers about MEWPs. Or, businesses can provide their workers with training courses to ensure they gain the insights they need to comply with A92.
How Can You Teach Your Workers About the New A92 Standard?
Workers must stay up to date about the new A92 standard, so they can properly use MEWPs. By developing and implementing a training program, a business can educate its workers about the updated standard. That way, workers can safely use MEWPs and minimize the risk of platform accidents.
At CertifyMe.net, we offer a large collection of online training courses for businesses that use forklifts and other MEWPs. Our courses are taught by industry professionals and enable workers to learn how to safely operate MEWPs. To learn more about our training courses, please contact us online or call us today at 1-888-699-4800.