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QCVN 20:2015/BLDTBXH – The National Technical Regulation on Occupational Safety for Platforms Used for Lifting People was compiled by the Department of Work Safety and issued by the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs under Circular No. 48/2015/TT-BLDTBXH dated December 8, 2015, after obtaining appraisal opinions from the Ministry of Science and Technology.
General Provisions
1. Scope of Application
The QCVN 20:2015/BLDTBXH stipulates safety requirements for platforms used to lift people to working positions (hereinafter referred to as platforms for lifting people).
The QCVN 20:2015/BLDTBXH does not apply to:
a. Fixed equipment used to lift people to various heights.
b. Firefighting equipment.
c. Unmanned work cages suspended from lifting devices.
d. Passenger elevators or elevators for people and materials.
e. Equipment assisting people to access elevated positions.
f. Platforms lifting operators on industrial trolleys.
1.2. Subjects of Application
2.1. Organizations and individuals involved in designing, manufacturing, importing, distributing, installing, and using platforms for lifting people (hereinafter referred to as enterprises).
2.2. Relevant agencies, organizations, and individuals.
1.3. Terminology
The following terms in this standard are defined as follows:
1.3.1. Authorized Personnel
Persons assigned or approved to perform one or more tasks at one or more specific positions in the workplace.
1.3.2. Platform Manager
An organization or individual directly using, owning, renting, or authorized to manage the platform.
1.3.3. Maintenance
Maintenance activities such as inspection, lubrication, refueling, cleaning, adjustment, and replacement of platform components.
1.3.4. Operation
Performing the platform’s functions within its design parameters and in compliance with the manufacturer’s instructions, management rules, and applicable regulations.
1.3.5. Operator
The person controlling the operation of the platform.
1.3.6. Stability
The condition under which the platform remains upright. Technically, this is when the total overturning moment is less than the total stabilizing moment.
1.3.7. Rated Load
The maximum allowable load the platform can operate safely, including people, tools, and materials used on the platform.
1.3.8. Working Area
The space in which the platform is designed to bear specific loads and forces under normal operating conditions.
Technical Requirements
A platform for lifting people must at least include a working platform with controls and a supporting frame, with possible extensions.
2.1. Requirements for Platforms
2.1.1. The height of the platform guardrail must not be less than 1100 mm, measured from the platform surface to the top of the guardrail. The distance between the intermediate guardrail and the top edge of the toe board must not exceed 550 mm. The toe board height must not be less than 100 mm, measured from the platform surface.
2.1.2. The dimensions of the working platform must accommodate the number of permitted personnel, tools, and materials. The platform width must not be less than 500 mm, and the working area must be at least 0.25 m² per person.
2.1.3. The platform surface must be anti-slip, securely fixed, and removable only when necessary.
2.1.4. Openings in the working platform surface must be small enough to prevent the passage of spherical objects with a diameter of 15 mm.
2.1.5. Proper drainage points must be designed to prevent water accumulation on the platform surface.
2.1.6. Suspended working platforms must be equipped with emergency escape devices for operators in case of power failure.
2.1.7. Platform doors must be designed to close and lock securely in a fixed position. The doors should only open intentionally by the operator and ensure safety.
2.1.8. Platforms must include measures to avoid collisions with surrounding objects and prevent risks to personnel or nearby areas.
2.1.9. Platforms must have systems to limit platform movement speed. If the speed exceeds 1.4 times the specified limit, it must be immediately restricted.
2.1.10. Platform control switches must be easily accessible and positioned safely. They must include a lockable switch or equivalent to prevent unintentional operation by unauthorized personnel. An emergency stop switch must also be installed at the operator’s location for immediate shutdown in case of malfunction.
2.1.11. The platform’s upper surfaces and areas accessible to operators must be free of sharp edges or protrusions that could cause injury.
2.1.12. Platforms used for electrical installations must be insulated from the ground to prevent electric shocks to operators.
2.1.13. Any modifications or additions to the platform must only be carried out with approval from authorized agencies.
2.2. Requirements for Safety Devices
2.2.1. Platform safety pins must be securely fixed to prevent accidental disengagement.
2.2.2. Platforms for lifting people must be equipped with safety devices to prevent operation outside permitted positions unless the balance system is properly adjusted as per instructions.
2.2.3. In cases of safety risks, the platform’s safety devices must deactivate any unsafe movements unless specified otherwise.
2.2.4. Safety devices must be protected against hazards that could damage or reduce their functionality. They must be adjustable with tools and easily accessible for inspection.
2.2.5. Signal transmission electrical wires must be installed and protected to prevent environmental or external damage.
2.3. Requirements for the Brake System
2.3.1. Platforms must be equipped with a braking system, and the brakes must always be ready even when the actuator is not in operation.
2.3.2. The braking system must ensure the platform can stop and hold in cases where it is subjected to a load 1.5 times the rated load for manually operated mechanical platforms and 1.25 times the rated load for other platforms. The braking system must be protected against accidental release.
2.4. Requirements for the Hydraulic System
2.4.1. The hydraulic system must be equipped with pressure-limiting devices (e.g., relief valves) before the first control valve. If different maximum pressures are used in the hydraulic systems, more than one pressure-limiting device must be installed.
2.4.2. Pipes and joints must withstand at least twice the maximum allowable pressure without experiencing residual deformation.
2.4.3. Each hydraulic circuit must be equipped with measurement devices to accurately monitor its operating parameters.
2.4.4. Each hydraulic system’s fluid reservoir must be equipped with devices to easily monitor the fluid level in the tank.
2.4.5. Safety Testing Requirements for the Hydraulic System
2.4.5.1. Before conducting hydraulic system tests, the compliance of the technical specifications of the hydraulic system components, as well as pipe joints and connectors, must be checked against the manufacturer’s technical documentation.
2.4.5.2. Hydraulic system testing must be carried out using the working fluid as specified in the machine’s operating manual. The temperature of the working fluid must comply with the allowable temperature during operation and should be measured at the point where the working fluid is poured into the reservoir or at another location specified in the user manual. The fluid level and condition in the reservoir must be inspected.
2.4.5.3. When testing the safety operation of the hydraulic equipment, the following must be checked:
2.4.5.3.1. The operation of the control components;
2.4.5.3.2. The operation of all safety valves;
2.4.5.3.3. Devices preventing load drop in case of pipe failure;
2.4.5.3.4. The operation of signaling devices and monitoring instruments;
2.4.5.3.5. The adjustment of pressure-limiting devices;
2.4.5.3.6. The protection of pipes against mechanical damage;
2.4.5.3.7. Convenient and safe access to components requiring adjustment or replacement;
2.4.5.3.8. Protection of the hydraulic system’s pressure adjustment components to prevent unauthorized interference;
2.4.5.3.9. The lifting and lowering capability of the hydraulic system.
2.5. Requirements for Inspection and Testing of Platforms
2.5.1. Platforms within the defined scope must meet the minimum inspection requirements specified in ISO 18893:2004 Mobile Elevating Work Platforms – Safety Principles, Inspection, Maintenance, and Operation and the minimum testing requirements specified in ISO 16368:2010 Mobile Elevating Work Platforms – Design, Calculations, Safety Requirements, and Test Methods.
The inspection and testing requirements outlined in ISO 18893:2004 and ISO 16368:2010 related to the following standards are not mandatory:
2.5.1.1. ISO 18878: Mobile Elevating Work Platforms – Operator (Driver) Training.
2.5.1.2. ISO 4302: Cranes – Wind Load Assessment.
2.5.1.3. ISO 4305: Mobile Cranes – Determination of Stability.
2.5.1.4. ISO 20381: Mobile Elevating Work Platforms – Symbols for Operator Controls and Other Displays.
2.5.1.5. IEC 60204-32:2008: Safety of Machinery – Electrical Equipment of Machines – Part 32: Requirements for Hoisting Machines.
2.5.1.6. IEC 60947-5-1:2000: Low-Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear – Part 5-1: Control Circuit Devices and Switching Elements – Electromechanical Control Circuit Devices.
2.5.2. All inspection and testing results, along with the name and address of the person conducting the inspection and testing, must be recorded, stamped, and signed by the relevant parties.
2.5.3. Requirements for Design Inspection
Design inspection must be conducted to verify that platforms are designed to meet safety standards. This process must include:
2.5.3.1. Drawings showing the main dimensions and specifications of the platforms.
2.5.3.2. Descriptions of the platform’s working capabilities.
2.5.3.3. Information about materials used.
2.5.3.4. Electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic circuit diagrams.
2.5.3.5. User manuals.
2.5.3.6. Calculations.
These documents must provide all necessary information for verification and calculation purposes.
2.5.4. Production Process Inspection
Production process inspection must confirm the following:
2.5.4.1. The documents supporting the production process comply with safety requirements.
2.5.4.2. Components conform to the drawings.
2.5.4.3. Cables, chains, and hydraulic systems have quality certifications.
2.5.4.4. The quality of special welds on load-bearing components is ensured.
2.5.4.5. The structure and installation of components (especially safety devices) comply with regulations.
2.6. Requirements for Platform Operators
2.6.1. Only individuals aged 18 and above, in good health, possessing sufficient expertise, and trained with a certified occupational safety certificate are allowed to operate platforms.
2.6.2. Operators must be trained in the following subjects:
2.6.2.1. Selection of appropriate platform types.
2.6.2.2. Purpose and use of manuals, warnings, operational instructions, and safety rules.
2.6.2.3. Pre-operation inspections.
2.6.2.4. Factors affecting platform stability.
2.6.2.5. Common hazards and prevention measures.
2.6.2.6. Workplace inspections.
2.6.2.7. General knowledge of platform usage and functions, including emergency situations.
2.6.2.8. Safe maneuvering.
2.6.2.9. Practical platform operation.
2.6.2.10. Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the task.
2.6.3. Before operating a specific platform, operators must become familiar with:
2.6.3.1. Manufacturer’s warnings and instructions.
2.6.3.2. Specific control functions of the platform.
2.6.3.3. Functions of each safety device on the platform.
2.7. Requirements for Platform Labeling
2.7.1. All platforms, whether newly manufactured, circulating in the market, or in use, must be labeled in accordance with regulations.
2.7.2. The labels must be placed in a clearly visible position and must include the following basic information:
2.7.2.1. Name and address of the manufacturer/supplier or responsible unit.
2.7.2.2. Country of manufacture.
2.7.2.3. Serial number or production number.
2.7.2.4. Year of manufacture.
2.7.2.5. Unladen weight (kg).
2.7.2.6. Rated load capacity (kg).
2.7.2.7. Rated load capacity including the number of allowed personnel and equipment weight (kg).
2.7.2.8. Maximum allowable tilt angle.
3. Regulations on Safety Management in Manufacturing, Importing, Circulating, Installing, and Using Platforms
3.1. Technical Documentation of Platforms Includes:
3.1.1. The general specification must include:
3.1.1.1. Name and address of the manufacturer;
3.1.1.2. Model, identification code, and year of manufacture;
3.1.1.3. Load capacity and allowed number of people;
3.1.1.4. Type of drive and control system.
3.1.2. Drawings of the operating principle diagram and general assembly of the platform with key dimensions and parameters.
3.1.3. Key dimensions of the equipment and main technical characteristics of the system (control devices, safety devices, overload protection mechanisms), and standards applicable to the platform.
3.1.4. Procedures for inspection, load testing, troubleshooting, and fault resolution.
3.1.5. Operation, installation, and disassembly instructions, which must include the following:
3.1.5.1. Detailed safety operating instructions for the platform.
3.1.5.2. Information on transport and storage.
3.1.5.3. Information on inspection, repair, and periodic maintenance.
3.1.5.4. Assembly and disassembly of platform components.
3.1.6. Certificates of quality and origin for the components of the platform.
3.2. Safety Conditions for Domestically Manufactured Platforms
3.2.1. Complete technical documentation as specified in Section 3.1 of this Regulation.
3.2.2. Domestically manufactured platforms must be certified and declared in conformity with Section 4.1 of this Regulation, based on certification by a conformity assessment organization designated by the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs.
3.2.3. The manufacturing unit must declare conformity and register conformity certification after receiving conformity certification.
3.2.4. Conformity markings must be affixed before being placed on the market.
3.2.5. Platforms must be subject to supervision and inspection by the product quality inspection authority under the Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs.
3.3. Safety Conditions for Imported Platforms
3.3.1. Complete technical documentation as specified in Section 3.1 of this Regulation.
3.3.2. Imported platforms or their components must be certified in conformity with Section 4.1.
3.3.3. If platforms are imported under bilateral or multilateral agreements exempting quality inspection, such platforms are exempted from import inspection.
3.3.4. If imported platforms do not meet the requirements in Section 3.1, they must be inspected at the port of entry by a conformity assessment organization designated by or recognized under international agreements that Vietnam is a member of.
3.3.5. Imported platforms must undergo quality inspection as per regulations and are subject to penalties for violations.
3.3.6. Conformity markings and labels must be affixed before circulation in the market.
3.4. Safety Conditions for Platforms Circulating in the Market
Platforms circulating in the market must comply with the following requirements:
3.4.1. Ensure the platforms have been certified and affixed with conformity markings.
3.4.2. Adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for storage and circulation.
3.4.3. Comply with quality inspection procedures and regulations, subject to penalties for violations.
3.5. Requirements for Installation and Maintenance of Platforms
3.5.1. Platforms may only be installed if the following conditions are met:
3.5.1.1. Complete technical documentation as specified in Section 3.1.
3.5.1.2. Domestically produced platforms must be certified and declared in conformity; imported platforms in disassembled form must be certified and complete customs clearance upon installation.
3.5.1.3. Components must be compatible and meet the technical requirements of the manufacturer.
3.5.1.4. Warning signs must be placed to prevent unauthorized access to the installation or maintenance area.
3.5.2. Requirements for Units Performing Installation and Maintenance:
3.5.2.1. Have business registration for activities in this field.
3.5.2.2. Employ technically trained staff and skilled workers certified in occupational safety.
3.5.2.3. Possess sufficient technical equipment for installation, maintenance, and repair.
3.5.2.4. Be responsible for installation and maintenance as per contractual agreements.
3.5.2.5. Provide guidance on operation, maintenance schedules, periodic inspection, and emergency measures.
3.5.2.6. Develop safety measures for the installation and maintenance process in compliance with national safety standards and manufacturer guidelines.
3.6. Safe Management of Platform Usage
3.6.1. Platforms must be operated, maintained, and serviced according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3.6.2. Technical managers, operational managers, and operators must undergo initial and annual occupational safety training and be certified.
3.6.3. Safety Requirements for Platform Use:
3.6.3.1. Only use platforms in good technical condition and within the inspection validity period.
3.6.3.2. The following records must be kept by the platform manager:
3.6.3.2.1. Technical documentation and platform history (including purchaser’s name, location, and operational start date).
3.6.3.2.2. Annual and periodic inspection records, including identified defects and repair plans. These must be retained for at least 10 years.
3.6.3.2.3. Records of repairs, inspections, and replacements with dates and responsible personnel.
4. Certification of Conformity and Technical Safety Inspection
4.1. Certification of Conformity
- Conformity for domestically produced platforms follows Method 5 (sample testing and production assessment).
- Imported platforms follow Method 7 (batch testing) or Method 8 (full product inspection).
4.2. Technical Safety Inspection
- Fixed platforms must be inspected initially and periodically, not exceeding 3 years per cycle.
5. Inspection and Penalties for Violations
State labor inspectors are responsible for enforcing this regulation, and violations will be handled according to the law.
6. Responsibilities of Organizations and Individuals
Organizations and individuals must comply with all provisions of this Regulation.
7. Implementation
The Department of Work Safety, Ministry of Labor, Invalids, and Social Affairs, oversees and guides implementation.
This Regulation takes effect 6 months after the signing date of Circular No. 48/2015/TT-BLDTBXH, dated December 8, 2015.
