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The new Singapore Standard SS 616:2016 code of practice for safe use of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) was launched at an event on 15 November 2016 in Singapore. The standard covers the safety requirements for the protection of persons working with MEWPs including the basic safety principles, operation, maintenance and inspection of MEWPs.
SS 616 complements the Approved Codes of Practice/Singapore Standards related to lifting equipment and work at heights. The standard serves to provide more guidance on lifting equipment to help optimise workers’ health and safety on the job.
IPAF South East Asia Regional General Manager, Raymond Wat who sits on the drafting panel and who presented a paper at the launch event, said, “IPAF welcomes the new standard specifically for MEWPs which will help to keep the industry safer in Singapore. As the use of MEWPs increases we want to make sure that lifting equipment is properly maintained, safely deployed and operated, and lifting activities are well-planned and well-managed to minimise the risks of accidents.”
Tim Whiteman, IPAF CEO & Managing Director said, “IPAF welcomes the launch of the Singapore standards covering MEWPs. The principles of safe use of MEWPs are the same across the world and it is excellent to see the consideration of other international standards in the development of country specific ones.”
The event provided attendees with an overview of the standards and how they can improve personal and workplace safety and health; legislative requirements relating to lifting equipment and general requirements on lifting equipment, safety criteria and clearance for lifting activities.
Those attending the launch Included workplace safety and health professionals, engineers, contractors and supervisors; environment, Health & Safety consultants, safety officers and academics; occupier, manufacturers/suppliers and all personnel involving with lifting equipment and activities; representatives from relevant government agencies.
