Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) such as Genie Booms, Scissor Lifts and Telehandlers are used extensively in production and events for their designed purpose as an elevated platform to enable safe work at height typically in the construction and rigging or derigging of sets and venues.  They are also often used for purposes for which they were not specifically designed, such as hanging lights, diffusers and screens.

Their use for ‘normal’ purposes and for special production tasks carry significant risks which include falling from height, entrapment or crushing from parts of the machinery, objects or loads falling from height and machines overturning.  The latter is of particular concern when they are used to elevate large loads such as screens and large banks of lights in windy conditions.

Productions should understand the different types of platform and their safe use for the proposed purpose.

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Shooting Abroad? International Advice

Specialist: Alastair Kleissner

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Alastair has over 20 years’ experience working in Film, Theatre, and Events after gaining a BA in Technical Theatre and Stage Management from Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. He specializes in supporting productions in CDM compliance and rigging safety. Alastair is a highly respected member of the IOSH Theatre Advisory Group and the ABTT Safety Committee and is currently responsible for supporting clients both on productions and in their premises.

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Article last updated on Sep 18th, 2024

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