Working at heights inherently demands the utmost attention to safety. When it comes to operations involving Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), this attention is amplified.
These machines are essential for productivity and efficiency across various sectors, including energy, construction, industrial maintenance, logistics, and events.
Using these machines requires in-depth and strict knowledge of Brazilian regulatory standards (NRs) and technical standards.
Ignoring these requirements poses risks not only to workers’ lives but also to the financial and legal health of companies.
The Impact of Regulatory Compliance on Height Operations
Safety in working at heights is not optional; it is a legal and ethical requirement, a non-negotiable factor.
Strict adherence to safety standards ensures:
- the physical integrity of workers, preventing serious and fatal accidents;
- the promotion of a safer work environment, where the team can operate with confidence and focus on productivity;
- cost reduction related to absences, fines, and labor lawsuits;
- social responsibility, strengthening your market image.
On the other hand, neglecting these standards can lead to:
- heavy fines and shutdowns of projects or equipment, halting operations;
- civil and criminal lawsuits in the event of accidents, with severe financial and reputational consequences;
- loss of credibility with clients and partners, directly affecting the ability to generate new business and remain competitive in the industry.
Also read: Platform or Scaffold: Which is Better?
Height Work Standards
The complexity of height work operations, involving people at high elevations, load movements, electrical risks, and instabilities, requires a robust regulatory foundation.
Some of the main Brazilian standards include:
NR 35 – Work at Height
The Regulatory Standard (NR) No. 35 is the fundamental and most comprehensive standard for any activity performed above 2 meters from the lower level, where there is a risk of falling.
It establishes the minimum requirements and protective measures for working at heights, involving planning, organization, and execution to ensure the safety and health of workers.
NR 35 for working at heights includes the use of elevating platforms: Risk Analysis (RA), Work Permit (WP), Training and Qualification, Fall Protection Systems, and Emergency and Rescue Procedures.
NR 18 – Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP)
The Regulatory Standard No. 18, updated in 2021, defines the concept of Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP). Previously, it was called Platform for Work at Height (PWA) – a broad concept that excluded some specifications.
NR 18 is one of the first regulatory instruments in construction safety and health, defining the Conditions and Work Environment in the Construction Industry.
It complements NR 35 by detailing specific requirements for using elevating platforms on construction sites, including inspections and maintenance, ground conditions, operator qualification, among other aspects.
ABNT NBR 16776 – Design, Manufacturing, and Maintenance of MEWPs
Although not a Ministry of Labor standard, the ABNT NBR 16776 – Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWP) – Design, Manufacturing, Maintenance, Safety Requirements, and Test Methods is a fundamental pillar for safety.
It establishes the technical requirements to ensure that the equipment, from its design, is safe and built according to demanding standards.
While NRs focus on safe usage procedures and the responsibilities of those involved, NBR 16776 ensures the equipment’s integrity and safety. It is a seal of quality and technical compliance.
ABNT NBR 15655-1 – Motorized Elevating Platforms for People with Reduced Mobility
The ABNT NBR 15655-1:2009 (with its ISO 9386-1, MOD modification) addresses the Requirements for Safety, Dimensions, and Functional Operation – Part 1: Vertical Elevating Platforms for people with mobility impairments.
In summary, it establishes the technical and safety requirements to ensure that vertical elevating platforms designed for transporting people with reduced mobility (standing, seated, or in a wheelchair) are safe and functional.
Risk Management at Heights: Practices to Avoid Failures and Accidents
Effective risk management for working at heights starts with meticulous planning, including Preliminary Risk Analysis (PRA) and Work Permit (WP), identifying hazards such as ground conditions, weather, and interferences.
These documents ensure that all control measures are defined before operations begin.
Continuous training and proper equipment use are also crucial pillars. Beyond initial training, promote training refreshers and familiarization with new technologies.
The team should inspect PPE and CPE daily. A safety culture encourages identifying and reporting unsafe conditions.
Finally, active supervision and continuous improvement are indispensable. A qualified supervisor should monitor procedure compliance.
Audits and incident analysis (including “near-misses”) provide data to optimize plans, ensuring dynamic risk management aligned with best practices.
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Choosing the Right Supplier: Beyond Rental, the Role of Specialized Support
To ensure safety, efficiency, and legal compliance in working at heights, seek a partner offering specialized and comprehensive support.
Tecnogera provides support that makes a significant difference in risk management, transforming equipment rental into a true strategic partnership.
Our fleet undergoes detailed maintenance, with preventive inspections ensuring perfect operation of equipment and safety devices.
Moreover, having technical support and safety consulting is invaluable. The ideal partner offers guidance in selecting the right platform and has a team ready to assist with any questions or issues.
At Tecnogera, you’re not just renting a machine but a complete solution with the necessary knowledge to operate safely and in compliance.
Contact us, request a quote, and discover how our elevating platforms and 24/7 support can enhance safety and efficiency in your operations.
