Leaving the work basket? When you can / when not to get out

Zusammenfassung

Leaving the work basket of a mobile elevating work platform at height is generally prohibited, but is permitted in justified exceptional cases – for example, during special assembly work. Prerequisites include a comprehensive risk assessment, written training of employees, and the use of personal protective equipment against falls from a height (PPE) with suitable, tested anchor points.Exit may only be made via the openings provided on the side facing the building – climbing over railings or using ladders is prohibited.expressly prohibited.

In addition, a second, secured operator must accompany the person disembarking, ensure continuous communication, and the device must not be moved during the process.An existing rescue plan and sufficient distance from fixed structures are also mandatory to minimize the risk of crushing and falling. Only by adhering to all these measures is a safe exit from the platform even justifiable.

Leaving the work basket at height is a topic that repeatedly causes uncertainty. Some consider it strictly forbidden, while others simply do it – regardless of regulations or risks. The fact is: There are clear rules regarding when and how exiting is permitted.

In this guide, we explain when it is legally permissible to leave the basket , what you need to consider, and how you can effectively minimize risks.

Principle: Work platforms are not designed to be climbed over

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are not intended for the disembarkation of persons at height. They are designed to enable safe working at height directly from the work basket—not to serve as a replacement for a lift. Disembarkation is permitted only in justified exceptional circumstances —and even then, only under strict safety conditions.

Legal situation: What do standards and rules say?

Clear regulations apply to working with mobile elevating work platforms – including EN 280 and various DGUV regulations . Relevant principles include:

EN 280 – Construction and safety of mobile elevating work platforms
DGUV Information 208-019 – Safe handling of work platforms
DGUV Principle 308-008 – Training and commissioning of operators
DGUV Rule 101-005 – Hoistable personnel access equipment

Manufacturers usually explicitly prohibit exiting the vehicle in their operating instructions. Anyone who does so violates the intended use – and bears full responsibility.

When is it permitted to exit the work platform?

Exiting from the work basket may only take place if:

a risk assessment makes this necessary,
there is a written instruction from the entrepreneur ,
suitable PPE (personal protective equipment against falls from a height) is used,
and all technical, organizational and personal protective measures have been taken.

Specific risks when crossing

There are significant risks when leaving the stage at height, e.g.:

Fall due to unloading of the boom
Getting trapped between the cage and the structure
Injuries during ascent or descent
Falling tools or materials
Incorrect movements or jerky behavior of the stage

Therefore, only those who consciously assess the dangers and take precautions are allowed to leave the basket at height.

This is what safe crossing looks like in practice

If an exit is unavoidable, the following best practices apply:

Risk assessment and instruction

Document why the exit is necessary
Record in writing who is allowed to get off when and how
Ensure that all those involved are trained and instructed

Requirements for the stage

Only use devices that have a defined starting point on the correct side
No climbing over the railing – the exit must be near the ground or at ground level
Do not use aids such as ladders or boxes
Ideal: Platforms with a pivoting basket that can be aligned to the exit point

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Before leaving, the user must secure himself to a suitable external anchor point
The anchor point must:
- accessible from the stage
- static load capacity up to at least 10 kN
- structurally suitable (e.g. beams, concrete components)

Communication and support

A second, trained operator must be on site
This ensures the process from the ground and monitors the maneuver
Communication (e.g. via radio or voice command) must be possible at all times

Technical safety

No moving of the stage while climbing
Secure the control system against accidental activation (e.g. activate the emergency stop)
Observe safety distance from buildings – even when swinging or rocking

Rescue concept

A clear rescue plan must exist in case of emergency
The team needs to know how to bring the person back safely

Conclusion: Only those who are allowed to – and can – are allowed to get out at height

Leaving the work basket is not a standard procedure, but a special case with clearly defined rules. Anyone who ignores it not only risks their own safety but also legal liability for damage or accidents.

At BIBERGER, we support you not only with modern technology but also with the necessary know-how. If you're planning to carry out work involving overhead access, please contact us.

We help you choose the right stage, support you with risk assessment and ensure that your operation is safe and compliant with regulations .