Brian Parker, head of safety and technical at IPAF, said:聽鈥淭he rapid adoption of battery-powered MEWPs (mobile elevated work platforms) brings clear benefits in terms of emissions reduction, noise control, and operational efficiency, but it also introduces new responsibilities.聽While modern batteries are increasingly robust, a battery鈥檚 performance and safety are directly linked to how well it is maintained, which is an ongoing challenge in rental and high-utilisation environments.聽
鈥淭his guidance is designed to help the industry understand battery-related risks and implement best practices that support safe, reliable, and sustainable operations throughout the equipment lifecycle.鈥澛�
The includes a technical guidance document, three toolbox talks and two safety posters. Together, it聽supports owners, rental companies, operators, and maintenance providers in managing batteries safely and effectively throughout their service life.聽
It has been developed to outline best practice for the safe use, charging, storage, inspection, maintenance, and disposal of the various battery types fitted to MEWPs, including flooded lead-acid (FLA), AGM, gel, and lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.聽