Periodic testing of Insulated EWP Trucks

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Electrically Insulated EWP Trucks require regular, 6 monthly, re-testing as per AS/NZS1418.10:2011 to ensure the insulation properties are still providing protection to workers in the bucket. They also require a higher level of testing, known as Acceptance testing every 10 years, and also after an incident or rebuild.

In order for the re-testing of an Insulated EWP to go smoothly and ensure the maximum probability of achieving a pass result for your asset, it is extremely important to present the unit in a clean and well-prepared state.

Mobile Test ‘n’ Cal are a national company specialising in HV Testing, including Insulated EWP testing, and have many years of experience in this discipline of compliance testing. Here are some tips from Mobile Test ‘n’ Cal to help in your preparation prior to testing:

  • As per the AS/NZS1418.10:2011 National Standard, testers are required to test your Mobile Elevated Working Platform (MEWP) as it is presented to testing service provider; therefor it is important that your MEWP is clean and free of any visual damage prior to test.
  • When cleaning your MEWP, wash the inside and outside of all insulating inserts at least 48 hours before testing.
  • Moisture can be a leading cause of test failures. In order to assist with the drying process, elevate the Boom up in the air to reduce the drying time.
  • Don’t wash your MEWP within 12 hours of any scheduled test because it may not dry in time and will more than likely fail the electrical tests.
  • Polish the surface of the Boom to ensure that the water sprayed onto the Inserts during the Wet Tests will bead over the surface, as opposed to pooling into a big puddle. Water pooling is not recommended and can also lead to failure. Products such as PolyWater Boom Wash and PolyWater Boom Wash, distributed by Mobile Test ‘n’ Cal, are ideal for this task.
  • Visually inspect your MEWP for any damaged or missing covers. If necessary replace or repair them prior to testing. This includes but is not limited to chips, and cracks.

Unfortunately, testing providers cannot do this work for you, due to the drying times required, and also the wording of the standard. As such, it is vital that this is done by you, prior to testing, and allowing enough time for drying.

It is also important to note than rain or even high humidity can adversely affect testing results. As a general rule, a truck that has been in the rain within 24 hours of a test, will more than likely not pass electrical tests. This can be even longer in high humidity or cold temperatures, where drying times are extended further. As such, wherever possible, it is suggested to store an EWP in a dry safe environment leading up to testing.

As you can see, EWP testing, even when using an expert external service provider like Mobile Test ‘n’ Cal, still requires preparation and planning on your part to ensure a pass result. The above information will help you prepare the EWP to ensure you maximise the chances of a pass.

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