Ontario EWP Pre-Use Safety Inspection Checklist

Date: 2025-10-07

Inspector: [INSPECTOR NAME]

Location/Area: [LOCATION/AREA]

Department: [DEPARTMENT]

Purpose

To ensure the safe operation of Elevated Work Platforms (EWPs) and compliance with Ontario regulations before each use. This checklist helps identify potential hazards and ensures that all safety measures are in place to protect operators and others in the vicinity.

Instructions for Use

1. Complete this checklist before operating the EWP at the start of each shift.
2. Inspect each item carefully and mark whether it passes or fails.
3. If an item fails, take corrective action immediately and document the action taken.
4. Sign and date the checklist to verify completion.

Frequency

This checklist should be completed: Before each shift

Safety Checklist

1. Documentation and Manuals

Item	Pass	Fail	Comments
Operator's manual is present and accessible in the weather-resistant storage compartment. Check: Verify the manual is present in the designated compartment and is readable. If failed: Obtain a replacement manual and store it in the compartment. Do not operate the EWP without the manual.			_________________
Supplement regarding exiting the platform is available with the operator's manual. [4] Check: Confirm that the supplement, specifically addressing safe exiting procedures, is included with the operator's manual. If failed: Obtain the supplement and ensure it is stored with the operator's manual.			_________________

2. Pre-Operational Inspection

Item	Pass	Fail	Comments
Check for any visible damage to the EWP structure, including cracks, dents, or corrosion. Check: Visually inspect all structural components. No visible damage should be present. If failed: Remove the EWP from service and report the damage for repair by qualified personnel.			_________________
Inspect all wiring and electrical components for damage or exposed wires. Check: Wiring should be intact, properly insulated, and free from damage. If failed: Repair or replace damaged wiring before operating the EWP.			_________________
Verify that all safety devices, including emergency stop buttons, alarms, and horns, are functioning correctly. Check: Test each device to ensure proper operation. If failed: Repair or replace any malfunctioning safety devices before use.			_________________
Check the condition of tires or tracks for wear, damage, and proper inflation/tension. Check: Tires should be properly inflated and free of cuts or bulges. Tracks should be properly tensioned and free of damage. If failed: Inflate tires to the correct pressure or replace damaged tires/tracks.			_________________
Inspect hydraulic hoses and fittings for leaks or damage. Check: No leaks should be present. Hoses and fittings should be in good condition. If failed: Repair any leaks and replace damaged hoses or fittings.			_________________
Confirm that all guards and safety rails are in place and properly secured. Check: All guards and rails should be present and securely fastened. If failed: Reinstall or repair any missing or damaged guards and rails.			_________________

3. Functional Tests

Item	Pass	Fail	Comments
Test all EWP functions, including lifting, lowering, and platform rotation, to ensure smooth and proper operation. Check: Each function should operate smoothly and within specified limits. If failed: If any function is not working correctly, remove the EWP from service and arrange for repair.			_________________
Verify that the EWP's operating controls are clearly labeled and functioning as intended. Check: Each control should be clearly marked and operate the corresponding function. If failed: Replace any damaged or missing labels and repair any malfunctioning controls.			_________________
Check the functionality of the tilt alarm and ensure it activates when the EWP is on uneven ground. Check: The alarm should sound when the EWP exceeds the allowable tilt angle. If failed: Do not use the EWP on excessively uneven ground. Repair or replace the tilt alarm if it is not functioning correctly.			_________________

4. Personal Fall Protection Equipment (PFPE)

Item	Pass	Fail	Comments
Ensure that a suitable full body harness and lanyard are available and in good condition. [1] Check: Harness and lanyard should be inspected for damage, wear, and proper fit. If failed: Replace any damaged or worn PFPE.			_________________
Verify that the lanyard is appropriate for the EWP and allows for 100% tie-off when exiting the platform. [2] Check: Lanyard length and type should be suitable for the task and allow continuous fall protection. If failed: Use a lanyard that provides continuous fall protection.			_________________

5. Work Area Assessment

Item	Pass	Fail	Comments
Check the work area for hazards such as overhead obstructions, power lines, and unstable surfaces. Check: The work area should be free from hazards that could interfere with the safe operation of the EWP. If failed: Remove or mitigate any identified hazards before operating the EWP.			_________________
Ensure that the ground surface is firm and level and capable of supporting the EWP's weight. [1] Check: The ground should be stable and able to bear the EWP's load without sinking or shifting. If failed: Relocate the EWP to a stable surface or use outriggers/stabilizers if available.			_________________
Assess wind conditions and ensure they are within the EWP's safe operating limits. [3] Check: Wind speed should not exceed the manufacturer's specified limits for platform exit. If failed: Do not operate the EWP in high wind conditions.			_________________

6. Safe Operating Procedures

Item	Pass	Fail	Comments
Review and understand the safe operating procedures for the specific EWP model. Check: Operator should be familiar with all operating procedures and safety guidelines. If failed: Review the operator's manual and receive additional training if needed.			_________________
Ensure that a rescue plan is in place to address potential emergencies during work at height. [3] Check: A documented rescue plan should be available and understood by all personnel. If failed: Develop and communicate a rescue plan before starting work.			_________________

General Requirements

Item	Pass	Fail	Comments
Only trained and authorized personnel are allowed to operate the EWP. Check: Verify that the operator has received proper training and authorization. If failed: Provide training to unqualified personnel before allowing them to operate the EWP.			_________________
Operators must comply with all applicable jobsite, local, provincial, and federal rules and regulations. [1] Check: Ensure operators are aware of and adhere to all relevant safety regulations. If failed: Provide operators with information on applicable safety regulations.			_________________

Failed Item Procedures

1. If any item on this checklist fails, remove the EWP from service immediately.
2. Report the failed item to the supervisor or designated personnel for repair.
3. Do not operate the EWP until all repairs have been completed and the item passes inspection.

Documentation Requirements

Maintain records of all pre-use inspections, including the date, inspector's name, and any corrective actions taken.

Checklist Completion

Overall Status: ☐ Pass     ☐ Fail     ☐ Corrective Actions Required

Inspector Signature: Date:

Supervisor Review: Date:

Corrective Actions Completed By: Date:

References and Standards

• Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
• CSA B354 series of standards for aerial work platforms

This checklist must be retained for [RETENTION PERIOD].

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