Abu Dhabi Quality and Conformity Council (QCC), the entity responsible for developing the quality infrastructure in Abu Dhabi, has launched a special programme to qualify inspectors of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs). The programme is being formulated for the first time at an international level in collaboration with the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF), and more than 60 inspectors from the private sector in Dubai are participating in order to evaluate their efficiency on inspecting four different type of MEWPs.
The launch of the programme is a part of the ‘2018 proficiency testing programmes plan’, which was announced by the QCC at the beginning of the year. It includes 32 programmes covering 187 medical, environmental, construction, soil and inspection tests, aiming at improving the level of testing and inspection in Abu Dhabi in accordance with the best programmes, scientific methodologies, and modern techniques adopted internationally in the field of quality and standards.
Sultan Saeed Al Mehairi, director of information service and engagement, QCC, said: “The proficiency testing programme is aimed at raising the level of inspection in Abu Dhabi to the highest international standards. The QCC is keen to support the implementation of quality and safety standards and regulations in Abu Dhabi and contribute to the enhancement of the quality and safety of the devices, techniques and equipment used in various business sectors, including lifting equipment. This equipment is designed to allow people to work safely and efficiently, while maintaining productivity, in high places. It also provides an ideal alternative to traditional access equipment such as ladders and scaffolding.”
Jason Woods, Middle East & India representative of IPAF, said: “Our goal is to understand the knowledge of the inspector when carrying out the annual or bi-annual inspections on MEWPs. Throughout the Middle East, IPAF support and development is offered to all industrial sectors focusing on minimising accidents and incidents whilst working at height. We are very encouraged that QCC has taken the lead in the Middle East running such a program of assessment, this can only strengthen the standard of engineers we have in the field.”
The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) promotes the safe and effective use of powered access equipment across the globe by providing technical advice and information, influencing and interpreting legislation and standards and through safety initiatives and training programmes. I’m pleased to announce in 2017 IPAF Operator Training (ISO188/78) saw over 5,000 operators trained in the Middle East through our network of approved training providers.”
