Why proper shutdown and logging matter at the end of an EWP shift

Outline

• Opening: End-of-shift discipline isn’t glamorous, but it’s the glue that keeps worksites safe and predictable.

• Why it matters: safety, next user readiness, and clear records.

• The right move: why the correct choice is “properly shut down the equipment and complete logs” and what that means in practice.

• How to shut down properly (general steps you can adapt to different platforms)

• The logs: what to record and why it matters for safety and maintenance

• Common missteps and their costs

• Quick reference checklist for closing time

• A final thought: safety culture is built on small, consistent actions

Article: End-of-shift EWP procedures—why shutting down and logging matters

If you’ve spent any time on an elevated work platform (EWP), you know the drill isn’t flashy. It’s not about dramatic moves or heroic last-minute saves. It’s about finishing a shift with discipline: secure the machine, log what happened, and hand off to the next person without surprises. Think of it like locking the door after you leave a room—nothing fancy, but absolutely essential.

Why end-of-shift procedures matter

Let me explain what’s at stake. When the workday ends, the platform could be parked at a height, the engine still running, or the controls left in a confusing state. Each of these possibilities creates risk: a possible move if someone bumps a control, a trip hazard from an overheated engine, or a misread of the platform’s condition by the next operator. Shutting down properly minimizes those hazards and sets a clear baseline for maintenance and inspections.

Then there’s the logging part. The notes you jot tell a story about how the machine performed during the shift. Was there a weird sound? Did a gauge flicker? Were we low on fuel or battery charge? These details help the shop catch small issues before they become big problems. They also prove that the equipment was attended to, which is important for accountability and regulatory compliance. In other words: good logs are a safety net for everyone who touches the machine, from operators to mechanics to supervisors.

What “properly shut down” means in practice

Here’s the thing: the exact shut-down steps can vary by model and manufacturer. Brands you’ve heard of—Genie, JLG, Snorkel, Skyjack—each have their quirks. But the core idea is universal: reduce risk, secure the platform, and make a clean, documented handoff to the next shift. If you ever feel uncertain, consult the operator’s manual for your specific unit. For now, here’s a solid, generally applicable checklist you can adapt:

• Lower the platform to the designated resting height and ensure it’s clear of obstructions.

• Return the platform controls to a neutral, safe position and turn off the power. If there’s an engine, shut it down; if it’s battery-operated, power down and disconnect if required by your site.

• Engage the parking brake or apply wheel chocks if your setup calls for them.

• Secure gates, outriggers, or stabilizers according to the platform’s SOPs. Make sure there’s no risk of unintended movement when the operator leaves.

• Remove or secure the keys per your site rules. In some workplaces, the keys stay with the runner or are kept in a lockbox; in others, a handover form is used.

• Perform a quick on-site safety check to confirm that the area around the machine is safe and that there’s no loose tools or debris nearby.

• Return the controls to a “safe” state and ensure any maintenance or service indicators are visible to the next user.

If you’re working with a manual that emphasizes lockout/tagout or other formal procedures, follow those exactly. Most sites treat the end-of-shift shutdown like a critical step in the equipment’s lifecycle for that day. It’s not extra paperwork; it’s part of keeping people and machines in sync.

The logs—the quiet backbone of the operation

Now, about the logs. What should you record? Here’s a practical starter list:

• Hours or usage since the last inspection

• Any anomalies or unusual noises, vibrations, or warning lights

• Battery charge level or fuel status at shutdown

• Performance notes: did any controls respond sluggishly or differently than usual?

• Inspections performed (pre-shift, post-shift) and the outcome

• Maintenance requests or issues needing follow-up

• Any environmental or workspace concerns encountered during the shift

The goal is simple: create a reliable narrative that’s easy for someone else to read and act on. You don’t need to craft a novella, just concise, factual notes. A couple of quick phrases can save a lot of time later: “Cab throttle intermittent at full extension—return to base,” or “Left rear tire near 4 psi; report before next use.” Clear logs reduce guesswork and help crews plan the next steps more smoothly.

Common missteps—and why they bite back

We all know the temptation to skip a step because it feels like a chore or because the next operator will take care of it. Here are a few frequent missteps and their consequences:

• Leaving the equipment running: yep, it wastes fuel, creates emissions, and invites someone to move the controls unintentionally.

• Parking without securing: a platform can drift, a wheel can roll, or someone can trip over stray cords. Not fun and not safe.

• Handing the keys without a proper handover: the next operator might assume the unit is in ready-to-use condition or that the logs are clean, leading to miscommunication and avoidable issues.

• Skipping logs or writing vague notes: ambiguity invites misinterpretation. You might save a minute now, but you’re creating hours of headache for someone down the line.

The big picture: safety culture lives in the small routines

This isn’t just about rules. It’s about a work culture where safety gets attention in every shift. The end-of-shift shutdown and logging habit communicates care, responsibility, and accountability. It tells your team, “We respect the equipment and the people who will use it next.” That respect compounds—fewer near-misses, better maintenance planning, and more predictable project timelines.

A quick reference you can use tomorrow

• Shut down the platform and power sources fully

• Lower the platform to a safe resting position

• Secure the machine (brakes, outriggers, gates as required)

• Remove keys or secure per site policy

• Check the surrounding area for safety hazards

• Complete a concise shift log with any issues, fuel/battery status, and inspection notes

• Store the log where the next operator can find it easily

Think of this as the closing act of a shift. You don’t want to leave a loose end hanging; you want the next operator to walk in with confidence, not questions.

A little tangent that fits here

While you’re thinking about end-of-shift routines, it’s natural to connect them with the morning start-up rituals. A good day on an EWP starts with fresh checks: fluid levels, battery health, hydraulic pressures, and a quick walk-around to spot leaks or bent rails. When both ends of the day line up—careful shutdown, precise logs, and a tidy pre- and post-use routine—the equipment, the crew, and the project gain reliability. It’s a small system, but it pays big dividends in safety and efficiency.

Brand voices you might have heard on a site

Manufacturers like Genie, JLG, and Skyjack aren’t just names on a spec sheet. They’re part of a broad ecosystem of safety-tested, maintenance-friendly platforms. Operators who know their machine inside and out appreciate the importance of proper shutdown and robust record-keeping. If you ever need a quick refresher, their manuals and service bulletins are a good companion to your company’s SOPs.

Closing thought

End-of-shift procedures aren’t glamorous, but they’re essential. Properly shutting down and logging isn’t just a checkbox; it’s a commitment to safety, accountability, and smooth operations for the whole team. The next operator will thank you for handing over a machine that’s secure, documented, and ready to work. And you’ll sleep a little easier knowing you did your part to prevent accidents, miscommunications, and costly delays.

If you’re curious about how different platforms handle shutdown nuances, or you want to swap notes on what makes a good log entry, I’m all ears. After all, the best safety habits don’t happen by accident—they grow from conversation, practice, and a shared respect for the work we do.