What critical aspect must be checked before starting work with an EWP?

Checking the condition of the ground surface is crucial before starting work with an Elevated Work Platform (EWP) because it directly impacts the stability and safety of the EWP during operation. An insecure or uneven ground can lead to tipping, swaying, or an inability to support the weight of the platform and operator. It is essential to ensure that the ground is level, firm, and capable of supporting the EWP's weight to prevent accidents such as falls or collapses.

In contrast, aspects like the color of the EWP, the specific model being used, or even the total weight it can carry do not address the immediate safety concerns related to the work environment. While understanding the weight capacity is important for operational safety, it is the condition of the ground that primarily determines whether the EWP can be used safely in a particular location. Hence, assessing the ground condition is a foundational step in ensuring the safe operation of any EWP.