Working at height is a daily reality for Australian arborists. This article explores some key methods for enhancing operator safety when working at height, with a focus on the benefits of using Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) equipped with advanced safety features like Niftylift’s ClipOn and SiOPS systems.
Whether pruning, performing maintenance or clearing hazards, arborists face inherent risks working at heights. Ensuring operator safety is a critical priority, and modern equipment, safety protocols, and innovations have made significant advancements in mitigating these risks. Here are a few important factors affecting operator safety.
Comprehensive training and certification
The foundation of Enhancing operator safety is training.
In the arbor industry, training isn’t just about knowing how to cut branches safely, but also about how to use tools and equipment effectively. Arborists must complete working-at-height certifications to ensure they are aware of the risks and are trained in both rescue and emergency procedures. Additionally, they need specific training on the safe operation of MEWPs. Understanding how to manoeuvre the machines, position them correctly, and assess the work environment is vital for reducing risk.
Use of personal protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE plays a significant role in protecting arborists from injury. Arborists should always wear helmets with visors or face shields, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw protective clothing, and safety boots with reinforced toe caps. High-visibility clothing is also essential, especially in environments where other vehicles or equipment are in operation. While PPE is the last line of defence, it is a crucial part of any comprehensive safety approach.
Harness systems and fall protection
In traditional tree climbing, arborists use harnesses, ropes, and pulleys to access high branches. However, as the industry increasingly adopts modern equipment, harness systems are also used in conjunction with MEWPs. This provides an extra layer of fall protection. Niftylift’s ClipOn Harness Attachment Detection System takes this one step further by ensuring operators are securely attached before operating the MEWP. ClipOn detects whether the operator is correctly harnessed and restricts the platform’s movement if a proper connection isn’t detected. This feature is essential in ensuring compliance with safety standards and minimising the risk of operator error.
Adopting modern equipment: the benefits of MEWPs
MEWPs have transformed the way arborists work at height. Not only do they provide stable platforms, but they also allow operators to work in difficultto- reach areas with enhanced safety and efficiency. MEWPs reduce the need for climbing trees or using ladders, both of which present greater risks of falls and injuries. For arborists, the ability to position themselves safely and precisely while operating heavy-duty cutting tools is invaluable.
Niftylift’s range of MEWPs is particularly suited for the arbor industry due to its lightweight design and advanced safety features. The SD170 and SD210 self-drive platforms are ideal for tree-care professionals. These versatile machines offer excellent manoeuvrability, even on rough terrain, while providing the reach and stability needed for working at height. Their compact design allows easy access to confined spaces, while outriggers ensure a stable working platform, even on uneven ground. This makes the SD170 and SD210 perfect for the diverse challenges encountered in the arbor industry, where both height and terrain can vary greatly.
SiOPS: preventing operator entrapment
One of the key risks when using MEWPs is operator entrapment, where the operator could become trapped between the machine and another structure, leading to serious injury. Niftylift’s SiOPS (Sustained Involuntary Operation Prevention System) is designed to prevent this. SiOPS instantly stops all machine functions if it detects the operator has been pushed against the controls. This feature offers an essential layer of protection, enhancing operator safety, particularly when working in dense environments, such as near tree trunks, branches, or other obstacles commonly encountered in arbor work.
Work safely and efficiently
Safe working at height in the Australian arbor industry relies on a combination of training, protective equipment, modern technology, and comprehensive planning. MEWPs, with innovations like Niftylift’s ClipOn and SiOPS systems, provide arborists with the tools they need to work more safely and efficiently. By adopting these advanced solutions and continuing to prioritise safety in every aspect of their work, arborists can minimise risk and focus on maintaining Australia’s urban forests and natural environments.
For more on Niftylift’s MEWPs, visit niftylift.com.au.