IPAF Operator Training (Classroom)

MEWP categories

Different types of MEWP and their description and other courses available

Structural parts

Stabilising, levelling, chassis drive options, turntable, boom/scissor pack and MEWP selection.

Regulations

Pre-use inspection/ handovers

Thorough examinations; familiarisation; pre-use inspection; identify safety items & controls; defects & emergency descent.

Safe operating methods and hazards

Travelling to the workplace; positioning/terrain; safe working load (SWL); weather; electrical hazards; harness statement; do’s and don’ts and parking.

Theory test

Each candidate must take a written test. The Instructor provides and explanation of pass requirements including stipulation that should a candidate fail they will be required to re-sit the course on another day. Instructors can choose to use either Operator Theory Test A or B.

Practical training

• Introduction to the machine – walk around and familiarisation with the MEWP
• Major components – identification of each component and its function
• Pre-use checks and inspections – carry out all the required checks/inspections on the following items; tyres, main frame, turntable, fluid levels, hoses, electrical cables, booms, cage, brakes, steering, lights, travel, controls, (lower/upper), pins/retaining bolts and decals, and any additional points from the machine operations manual.
• Starting/stopping the machine – correct starting and shut down procedure
• Pre-use function checks – conduct a full function check of the machine and carry out full emergency lowering procedure
• Checks prior to road travel – for example: power take off (PTO) disengaged, booms retracted, stabilisers retracted, machine secure, e. g. no loose objects.
• Planning the route – gradients, access, overhead obstructions, and ground conditions.
• Travelling the route and manoeuvring the machine (where applicable) – ensures the route is clear, use of assistant to signal, etc., practice close manoeuvring and observe correct driving practices (tail swing, etc.).
• Setting the machine for work – practice setting up, barrier off requirements, road requirements, stabiliser set-up and carry out stabiliser deployment checks.
• Basic operational practice – carry out operational functions at 75% of the operating envelope so far as is reasonably practical, observe all safety practices.
• Typical work applications – carry out practice applications observing all safety practices
• Parking the machine – ensure that the machine is correctly parked, engine stopped, brakes applied, keys removed and clearance of all obstacles. Correct refuelling procedures, diesel, LPG. Battery checks, charging and safety precautions.

Practical assessment

Individual verbal questions from the operator verbal question paper and practical test based on the use of the MEWP Operator Practical Test Plan with explanation of pass requirements. Should a candidate fail the practical assessment they will be required to re-sit the course on another day.

Course evaluation

Use of IPAF log books (over five years the log book should have at least 60 entries, with at least 10 in the last year).

The Powered Access License card (PAL), that is given upon passing the course, is recognised by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Major Contractors Group (MCG) and is valid for 5 years.

The course is recognised by CITB and HAE and satisfies the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER).