Five Steps to Performing a Site Risk Assessment

To develop an effective safe use program that complies with the new ANSI A92.22 & CSA B354.7 standards, it’s important to perform a site risk assessment before starting a job.

Here’s a step-by-step way to develop a standards-compliant site risk assessment…

Step 1 – Define the Task

Answer these questions:

• What specific tasks do I need to do to complete the job? 
• Where will I be working? 
• Will I need to transport machines?
• When does the work need to be finished? 
• Are there times of the day I can’t work?

Step 2 – Select a MEWP

Choose a MEWP that best matches the needs of the applications:

• Boom Lift
• Scissor Lift
• Vertical Lift

Step 3 – Evaluate Risks

It is important to completely understand the equipment and the environment you are working in.

• MEWP-related: Working at height, staying within rated capacity
• Job-specific: Avoiding power lines, accessing hard-to-reach areas
• Additional: Keeping workers on the ground safe, preventing unauthorized use of equipment

Step 4 – Identify Controls

After the risks are identified, it is important to implement procedures and measures to mitigate them.

• Safe work procedures: Use correct PPE, ensure understanding of fall arrest systems
• Proper training: For operators, occupants, supervisors and maintenance personnel
• Smart scheduling: Organize the work in ways that minimize exposure to hazards
• Rescue planning: May include self-rescue, assisted rescue and/or technical rescue 

Step 5 – Communicate

Once a safety plan has been developed, it should be shared with everyone who will be on site during the work. The updated standards outline new requirements for many roles as they relate to a safe use program.

• Operator is trained and authorized to operate the MEWP
• Occupant has basic knowledge of MEWP use and safety
• Supervisor monitors use of MEWP to ensure safety plan is followed
• Technician performs MEWP maintenance in line with manufacturer’s requirements 

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