Q

How often does my Elevating Work Platform need to be serviced in order to comply with Standards Australia?

According to Standards Australia 2250.10-2006, to comply with regulations an Elevating Work Platform requires service every 90 days. A routine inspection needs to be completed every 90 days and an annual inspection needs to be completed once every 12 months. In total, three routine inspections and one annual inspection need to be completed each year.

Once the machine has reached 10 years of age it requires a Major Inspection to ensure it is still safe and in perfect working order. This then needs to be repeated every five years. If you fail to keep up with inspections and an accident occurs, the owner of the machine is liable for damages. Remember, safety first!

Q

What things do I need to check for when purchasing a second hand machine?

Remember that Australia has extremely high safety standards compared to other countries. Machines that comply in Europe or the USA may not be compliant in Australia, even though they may appear to be the same and less expensive. The following is a quick check list:

- Check the Compliance Plate matches what is advertised. Eg. Platform height, date of manufacture, model type and serial number
- Check the maintenance history, including retrofits and safety upgrades etc.
- Check the operational instructions are available and decals are in place and legible
- Check the Ten Year Test requirement. If completed, sight the Major Inspection Checklist. This will confirm who did the testing, as well as their qualifications. Also confirm who carried out the Non-Destructive Testing in Australia and if they meet the requirements of AINDT (Australian Institute of Non Destructive Testing)
- Check the Warranty Claims terms and ease of obtaining spare parts and professional advice