How to Do a Daily Inspection of an EWP

A daily, pre-use inspection of an Elevated Work Platform (EWP) is not optional - it is a legal safety requirement under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Qld) and your best protection against equipment failure at height.

Who should inspect it?

Only a trained, competent operator should carry out the inspection. Boom-type EWPs that can reach 11 metres or more require a High Risk Work Licence (WP class). The operator should also be familiar with the manufacturer’s manual and the site induction.

When to inspect

• At the start of every shift, before first use
• When operators change over
• After relocating the unit to a new area or site

The pre-use checklist

1. Visual: check the chassis, platform, guardrails and decals for damage; check tyres, wheel nuts and hydraulic hoses
2. Fluids and power: hydraulic oil, engine oil and coolant, battery charge, and any fuel or oil leaks
3. Platform: clean floor, secure guardrails and toe boards, and a working entry gate
4. Controls and safety devices: emergency stop, ground-control override, tilt/overload alarms, limit switches
5. Functional tests: smooth raise/lower, boom extend/retract, drive, steering and brakes
6. Emergency systems: manual emergency descent, backup lowering device, fire extinguisher

Record it

Log every inspection in a daily logbook or digital system. This is required under the WHS Regulation 2011 (Qld) and gives you documented proof of risk management if WorkSafe Queensland ever asks.

If you or your team need formal EWP training, EDB Training Services covers scissor and boom lift operation, inspection procedures and emergency response.