MEWP Ignition key ?????????? Options  Watch this topic  Print this topic » Normal Threaded

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firesafety101		#1 Posted : 13 May 2013 18:44:56(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		I received a demonstration today how a MEWP can be powered up by using a Yale type key, (run of the mill front door key). Is this a well known 'trick".
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Betta Spenden		#2 Posted : 13 May 2013 19:44:32(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		Yes. Electrical screw driver also works if you know what you are doing. But dont tell anyone. Crack on.
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Charlie Kilkenny		#3 Posted : 13 May 2013 19:54:44(UTC)
Rank: New forum user		A problem I’ve experienced in the past, similar problem to plant (i.e. a dumper trucks) where a generic key starts them all, so it’s difficult to instigate any kind of control over the keys. The only real way of ensuring MEWPs aren’t used by unauthorised personnel is to ensure when they are not in use they are physically secured to a structure with a chain and padlock.
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CarlT		#4 Posted : 13 May 2013 21:36:40(UTC)
Rank: Forum user		Hi Firesafety1, Being employed by a really big access rental company I can say with some authority that yes this is an issue but actually there are various means of securing the machines without the use of chains and padlocks which any good set of bolt croppers or grinding disc can get through. If you would like some more information just pm me and I will fill you in. Carl
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firesafety101		#5 Posted : 13 May 2013 22:28:33(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		I was surprised to see it started up with the front door key but even more surprised, no astonished to hear it is commonly known by H&S professionals like ourselves. Surely the issue should be addressed to ensure one key fits one machine otherwise what's the point is us looking to ensure the key is not left in the ignition? Does this happen with other machinery such as fork lift trucks?
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paul.skyrme		#6 Posted : 13 May 2013 23:31:51(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		Yep! I had a MEWP key for years without a licence, as I needed it for other machines. I did not realise I had it though, till I did a MEWP course! Plant keys are very standard. Unique keying is not an issue, in fact it could & would be detrimental in many situations, plus costly. Just manage the situation correctly.
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Palmer20061		#7 Posted : 14 May 2013 07:24:48(UTC)
Rank: Forum user		If you're worried about anyone using your MEWPs you can get them with 'key pad' ignition, so that the operator has to know the number. Controls are also 'dismountable'.
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Mr.Flibble		#8 Posted : 14 May 2013 11:35:02(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		I recently found out the keys to our LLOP's (Low Level Order Picker) will also fit the FLT's! Seems the MHE suppliers use the same standard barrels for different trucks! I had the barrels changed!
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SP900308		#9 Posted : 14 May 2013 12:09:31(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		Presumably the insurers know about this apparently widespread problem? Also, could this be a potential maintenance (isolation) issue depending on the plant / equipment and maintenance activity?
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David Bannister		#10 Posted : 14 May 2013 12:30:11(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user		Never knew about this. Firesafety, thanks for raising it. Makes a bit of a mockery of many key control regimes and I will be more aware of the potential for unauthorised use of plant. I did know that in the 1970's on a new estate in Manchester, every 6th front door had identical keys. The lock-suppliers took the easy way out and the architects didn't give two hoots about the eventual tenants.
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