IPAF launches global safety campaign

This year’s campaign focuses on the serious and often fatal consequences of mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) overturns. 

These incidents can result in operators and occupants being ejected from the platform and create complex rescue scenarios for those trapped at height during a partial overturn.

The latest statistics informing this year’s campaign reveal that:

The safety campaign emphasises when overturns can occur, the potential hazards and risks – from injuries and fatalities to disruption of worksite and psychological impact – as well as ways to manage and minimise the risks.

It is being led by Brian Parker, head of safety and technical at IPAF, and Alana Paterson, head of health, safety and environment at Taylor Woodrow and chair of the IPAF International Safety Committee. 

Reflecting on the launch of the campaign, Parker said: “MEWP overturns continue to be a major cause of serious injuries and fatalities in our industry. 

“With the launch of IPAF’s 2025 global safety campaign – Stop Overturns: Safety Starts on the Ground! – we are reinforcing a crucial message: ground conditions matter. 

“By understanding the risks and implementing proper safety measures, we can prevent overturns, protect lives, and create safer work environments worldwide.” 

Parker added: “Let’s work together to make a measurable impact and aim for a measurable decrease in MEWP overturns globally.”

Recognising the global reach of the campaign, IPAF has developed new industry guidance: The Assessment of Ground Conditions and Supporting Structures for The Safe Use of MEWPs. 

The guidance is split into two parts: 

As part of the campaign, IPAF is urging industry participation, implementation of recommended safety measures, and the reporting of incidents to facilitate ongoing safety improvements. 

For more information about Stop Overturns – Safety Starts on the Ground! and other IPAF safety campaigns, visit www.ipaf.org/safe.