New Training Requirements for Aerial Equipment Operators Effective March 1

A new ANSI A92 standard for aerial equipment is set to go into effect March 1, 2020. In addition to terminology and design changes, there are changes that directly impact training of operators and usage. These changes will improve safety for users and harmonize the American National Standards Institute and Canadian Standards Association standards with international standards (ISO and EN280), which are currently in place. ​

Summary:
Note: As of January 30, 2020, two new appeals have been made to the ANSI A92 standard that could result in delays.
https://www.liftandaccess.com/article/new-ansi-a92-mewp-appeals-delay-standards-further

Aerial Work Platforms have been renamed and will now be known as Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWP). Previously, Aerial Work Platforms were classified by product type like scissor lifts, boom lifts, etc.  They will now be broken into two groups. Group A are MEWPs such as scissor lifts, that move vertically but stay within the tipping lines of the machine. Group B are MEWPs such as boom lifts, that have platforms that extend beyond the machine’s chassis. Each of these Groups are further classified by travel type. Type 1 can only be driven in stowed position, Type 2 can be driven elevated but is controlled from the chassis, and Type 3 can be driven elevated but is controlled from the work platform. 

Employers should be familiar with new training requirements associated with each MEWP classification. In addition, safe use planning now requires a plan that is specific to the MEWP type, and includes a risk assessment.

Best Practices

• Training is required for each class of MEWP classification.
• Training must be provided in a manner that trainees can understand.
• Only properly trained, qualified and authorized personnel are permitted to operate the MEWP.
• Operators must be physically and mentally capable of operating the MEWP and can only operate MEWPs on which they have been trained and authorized. 
• Operator must ensure at least one occupant has the basic level of knowledge on how to operate the MEWP in case of an emergency.
• All occupants must have received fall protection training, and all occupants wear the appropriate personal fall protection equipment (PFPE) for the assigned task.
• Supervisors are responsible for ensuring safe use and developing risk assessments and safe use plans.
• Risk assessment must include a rescue plan for workers who may require rescue from a platform in an elevated position.
• Safe use planning includes understanding selection of the proper MEWP for the application.

• Safe use planning includes evaluation of site access, preparation of, and maintenance of the work site prior to using the MEWP. For example, operators are to stay at least ten feet away from power lines with any part of their body, conductive object or any part of the MEWP.

• Supervisors will be required to receive supervisor training to understand full scope of responsibilities. 

Design Changes Employers and Operators Need to Understand
Changes to the standards that affect the design of the equipment has a direct impact on manufacturers. However, as new equipment makes its way into the market, operators and employers should also be aware of how design changes will affect operational compliance. In fact, the user is now required to request familiarization from a dealer (rental company) before operating the equipment. Familiarization must be delivered to the person designated to receive the MEWP. 

• A decal or other means must be provided on the MEWP to mark the date of the last annual inspection and the date of the next future inspection. 
• There are now two categories for wind ratings—one for indoor use only machines and one for outdoor ready machines. The maximum wind rating must be listed at the control position.
• Outdoor machines shall not be used in wind conditions that meet or exceed 28 mph, or the recommendation by the manufacturer, whichever is lower.
• Active load and tilt sensing will sound an alarm and restrict movement to only safe movements.

Can I be cited by OSHA for non-compliance with ANSI A92?
ANSI standards are voluntary; OSHA regulations are law. The OSHA aerial lift standard continues to require only compliance with the (ANSI) A92.2-1969 standard, however, much has changed in MEWP design and usage since 1969. It’s always good practice to follow the most current ANSI standards. In addition, controlling contractors can implement the new standard as a best practice on their jobsites, requiring subcontractors to adhere to the standard.

Resources 

Guide to New Design, Safe-Use and Training Standards for MEPWs

Work/Aerial Work Platforms (A92)

New Standards on MEWPs

This Safety Flash was contributed by Scott Seppers, CHST, Trainer, Trivent Safety Consulting, in cooperation with SEAA’s Safety Committee. It is designed to keep members informed about ongoing safety issues and to provide suggestions for reducing risk. Best practices are gathered from a variety of sources. They may be more or less stringent than individual corporate policies, and are not intended to be an official recommendation from SEAA. Always get approval and direction from your company officers on any new practice or procedure as these best practices may not work for all situations.

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