QG
03
RPD WHS · Quick Guide

EWP & Ladders

The right platform for the task — and never a ladder where the work needs more. Get the access right before you go up.

Field guideOwner · Site SupervisorRPD WHS Manual V8.0
Start safeControl the riskStop when it changes
Scroll the journey
1

When it applies

If you're doing any of this, this guide is in play.

Boom lifts
Scissor lifts
Ladders
Inspection & painting
Sealant & facade access
2

Before you start

Before the work begins, the Site Supervisor confirms — and you check your own work area.

Ground condition

Exclusion zone

Overhead hazards

Traffic / public

Emergency lowering

Equipment inspection

3

The controls

Work down the hierarchy — collective protection first, PPE last. PPE never carries the job on its own.

EliminateDesign the hazard out
SubstituteUse a lower-risk method
IsolateSeparate people from the hazard
EngineeringGuard, extract, contain
AdminSWMS, permits, training, signage
PPELast line — fitted & worn

The RPD rule

Use the EWP within manufacturer limits. Wear a harness where required. Ladders must be industrial, secured and used only for short tasks.

Within limitsHarness where requiredIndustrial laddersShort tasks only
Hold point — never skip

A boom-type EWP above 11 m requires a high-risk work licence.

Confirm the operator holds the right licence and card before the platform leaves the ground.

5

Stop & escalate

See any one of these? The job stops until it's fixed — no exceptions.

  • Platform can't be levelled
  • Controls conflict with resident / public access
  • Weather makes use unsafe
Stop work→ tell the Site Supervisor → don't restart until the control is back and the SWMS is reviewed.
6

What gets recorded

The job isn't done until the evidence exists. Live records go in Breadcrumb.

Breadcrumb · live site

  • Plant inductions
  • SWMS
  • Worker licences / cards
  • Pre-starts & toolbox talks
  • Access controls for EWP zones