FIND A CONTRACTOR BUYER'S GUIDE
BECOME AN INDUSTRY PARTNER
MCAA Logo
MEMBER LOGIN JOIN
NEWS
World of Concrete 2026 Registration Is Open ↗

Safety Tips for the Mast Climbing Work Platform

Words: Dan KamysThe Mast Climbing Work Platform is a tool of the trade primarily used to position personnel, along with their necessary tools and materials, to perform their work. The major causes of injury/fatality include lack of training*, improper use, falls, inadequate guardrail protection, collapses, improper planking and inadequate inspection.
  • MCWP’s should be operated, used, erected and dismantled only by personnel who have been properly authorized, trained and familiarized with the specific model/machine.

  • Equipment should not be accessed or operated unless supervised by a Competent Person at point of use.

  • A pre-start inspection must be completed, by a Competent Person, at the beginning of each shift prior to use.

  • Do not exceed the maximum load limitations (main deck and extensions) for the configuration of the MCWP, including both personnel and material.

  • Make sure all inspections and maintenance are performed as required and according to manufacturer’s instructions. Report problems or malfunctions to the Competent Person.

  • When dismantling, do not remove the ties unless the base and remaining ties can support the MCWP configuration without tipping.

  • Make sure extensions are fully planked with scaffold grade plank or equivalent and properly secured.

  • When moving operating the MCWP, always look in the direction of travel.

  • Always install guardrails and mast guards. Ensure access gates and other access locations are protected with guardrails.

  • Do not operate a MCWP under the influence of drugs, alcohol or other substances.

  • Use all required personal fall protection equipment during erection, dismantling or when a fall hazard exists. Maximum distance from front unguarded edge to face of structure is 14” except for plastering/lathing which is 18”.

  • Only use normal operating controls for the MCWP. Do not bypass or override the normal operating controls or safety devices.

  • Check for hazards such as overhead obstructions, building protrusions, high voltage lines, inadequate base support, drop offs, debris and other unsafe conditions.

  • Do not alter ties, platform or base without the written authorization of the manufacturer and Competent Person.

  • Verify ground compaction or base conditions.

  • Be aware of weather conditions and how they can affect the use of the MCWP.
* For guidance on training contact the manufacturer.

For additional guidance on training, refer to ANSI A92.9, OSHA Regulations, or the IPAF/SIA US Mast Climbing Work Platform Safe Use Guidelines. Courtesy of OSHA Alliance Program and Scaffold Industry Association.
 0
From Day One to Long-Term Success: Onboarding Strategies for Contractors
January 2026

The construction industry is facing one of its toughest challenges in decades. Companies are struggling to find enough skilled workers while competing to keep the ones they have. At the same time, projects are becoming more complex, deadlines are tighter,

Matt Dibara
Business Management
Read More
Finding the Right PPE for Your Work
January 2026

When it comes to PPE, one thing’s for sure: safety isn’t one size fits all. The work you’re doing, where you’re doing it, and even what time of year it is, can all make a big difference in what gear actually works. Price, comfort, and job performance all

Greg Brown
Safety Library
Read More
Back Injuries: The Real Cost and How to Prevent Them
January 2026

The mention of back injuries makes mason contractors cringe, and for good reason. Masons lift heavy objects every day, all day long. When a person sustains a back injury, it is serious. It affects every part of their life, from their ability to perform wo

Zach Everett
Safety Library
Read More
Detailing for Durability: The 2026 Guide to High-Performance Stone Veneer Transitions
January 2026

Some of the most expensive failures involving manufactured stone veneer installations don’t come from the stone at all, but rather from the material transitions and flashing around it. Transitions are weak points in the overall cladding where water can fi

Jeff Tew
Technical Talks
Read More