Is it ever acceptable to PLAN to exit a MEWP whilst at height, in order to do some work? After working closely with a LA Inspector in the past on this topic, I have always considered that whilst it may be acceptable to use a MEWP as a safe method of access (assuming no other safer method is readily available) and as long as the work was unplanned, of short duration and necessary for other reasons. As an example: Access is needed on a roof for an emergency repair which can't be delayed; the work is of short duration and all appropriate safeguards, etc. will be in place. On the other hand - if access to the roof is routinely required, then a safe method of access must also be pre-planned and using a MEWP to routinely gain access is not acceptable. I'm getting heat from one of our locations as they wish to fit some new equipment which requires some penetrations in the roof, around 9 meters AGL. It's a typical flat roof with skylights. Now I know all the WAHR stuff and I am telling them they must install scaffolding to gain access, protect the skylights, etc., all the usual 'planning the work and planning for rescue' stuff. But they are insisting that they be allowed to use MEWPs for access to the roof, as scaffolding out will add significantly to their costs, and are not budgeted for (Lack of planning on their part, I know!). I am standing firm on this, as my assertion is that the work is planned, therefore part of the planning must provide for a safe method of access/egress and using a MEWP to provide this is less safe and indeed is not recommended at all. I would be interested in your views pro or con, all are welcome.

IPAF website also indicates as per annex b BS8460:2005 http://www.ipaf.org/en/resources/faqs/ MAT

It is possible with rigorous controls in place to plan an exit from MEWP basket IMO. Like all things it must be properly assessed, equipment suitable and the most practical means of access/egress at height.

Stick to your principles, they are bang on! You risk assessment MUST show that accessing the roof via MEWP is the reasonable and practicable (didn't say reasonably practicable!) way. And it simply can't if you can put up an access tower. The only time I have ever allowed access via MEWP was into a bird cage scaffold slung inside a HRSG around the main tube / evaporator, 34 meters from ground. Simply could not get to the area to weld out the tube harps any other way, lots of additional precautions needed to do it safely detailed in the RA.