The dangers associated with EWPs are well known.

WorkCover NSW has warned companies using elevated work platforms (EWP) to have appropriate safety procedures in place following the fifth serious incident in less than a year.

One worker has been killed and several others seriously injured since May 2012 after either falling from an EWP while not wearing a safety harness or the EWP toppling over.

John Watson, general manager of WorkCover NSW's work health and safety division, says working from heights can be dangerous and these incidents tragically show that a fall can result in serious injury or death.

"The dangers associated with EWPs are well known and, where appropriate, workers using these devices should wear a fall arrest device connected to a dedicated anchor point on the EWP.

"These steps are not only simple, but well known in the industry.

"Workers should also be given adequate information, instruction, training and supervision to work safely with these devices and follow the procedures that are set out."

He says that since July 2012, safety inspectors have conducted almost 200 inspections of EWPs throughout NSW to help operators understand their responsibilities and improve safety.

The WorkCover safety alert, "Overturned boom-type elevated work platforms", provides advice on the control measures required to prevent EWPs from overturning.