IPAF MEWP Operator cheat sheet

Category 1B covers boom-supported MEWPs where the platform extends beyond the chassis/wheelbase; the machine must not be driven with the boom elevated except where the manufacturer permits and the route is assessed.

Boom types: articulated (knuckle) booms reach over obstacles; telescopic (straight) booms give greater horizontal reach; trailer-mounted booms are towable but not self-propelled.

Rated capacity is platform load only and excludes the operator's tools unless stated; the load chart applies at the working radius shown on the platform placard, not at the boom angle.

Structural stability depends on outriggers or axle-lock/wheel-base widening; outrigger pads must bear on ground verified for load, and floats must be fully deployed before elevation.

Wind: observe the manufacturer's maximum rated wind speed; platform sail area rises with boom length and attachment of panels/signage, so added attachments require re-checking the rating.

Emergency lowering: know the manual descent procedure (auxiliary pump, cable release, or gravity valve) and confirm it is functional at the pre-use inspection.

Harness anchorage: a full-body harness with adjustable lanyard is attached to the designated anchor point inside the platform; the lanyard is kept short to prevent ejection over the guardrail.

Boom MEWPs are not designed to be used as cranes; never attach loads, ropes, or tag lines to the platform or boom except as permitted by the manufacturer.

Category 3A covers scissor lifts that can be driven with the platform elevated; travel is permitted only on firm, level ground within the manufacturer's rated slope and floor-loading limits.

Scissor platforms are rated for a distributed load across the deck; point loads on a single guardrail or deck plate can exceed local limits even when total load is within capacity.

Stability is governed by the base width and extension deck position: extension decks retract before travel, and outrigger-equipped models require all outriggers set and level before elevation.

Guardrails and gates are part of the fall-protection system; the entry gate must self-close and latch, and the platform must not be entered by climbing the scissor structure.

Pothole protection devices deploy automatically on elevation; if the device is damaged or blocked, the machine must be taken out of service until repaired.

Floor loading: point load per wheel or outrigger pad must be checked against the slab rating; spreader plates distribute load where the slab capacity is marginal.

Scissor lifts are not anchorage-rated for fall arrest in most designs; a harness, where required by site rules, is used with a short restraint lanyard to an approved anchor, not for arrest.

Tilt and overload interlocks prevent elevation or drive beyond limits; bypassing them or operating with a fault displayed is prohibited.

Category 3B covers scissor-type MEWPs restricted to travel with the platform in the lowered position; the machine must be driven only stowed, then elevated on station.

Classification logic: group 1 = cannot travel when elevated; group 3 = can travel when elevated; type A = push-around/vertical lift with no rotating structure; type B = boom or rotating structure extending beyond the chassis.

Category 1A = push-around vertical lifts; 1B = boom MEWPs that cannot travel elevated; 3A = scissor lifts that can travel elevated; 3B = scissor lifts that cannot travel elevated.

A MEWP is a mobile machine intended to move persons to working positions; it is not a crane, and lifting of persons by non-MEWP plant (forklifts, excavators) requires a specific risk assessment and is generally prohibited.

Selection rule: match the category to the task - reach over an obstacle needs a boom (B); large stable deck area on a flat slab favours a scissor (A); restricted travel with platform up requires group 3.

Ground conditions drive category choice: wheel loads, outrigger pressures, and slope limits differ between 3A and 3B machines even at similar platform heights.

Familiarisation: the employer must ensure the operator is familiar with the specific model before use, covering controls, load chart, emergency lowering, and restraints.

Daily pre-use inspection covers tyres, outriggers, guardrails, gates, decals, battery/fuel, hydraulic leaks, emergency stops, and the function of tilt and overload interlocks.

An MCWP is a temporarily installed machine with a working platform that climbs a mast; it is not a MEWP and is covered by its own standard (EN 1495) rather than EN 280.

MCWP rated load is typically expressed as a uniformly distributed load over the platform length; concentrated loads and eccentric loading are limited by the manufacturer's data.

Mast ties to the structure are engineered at specified vertical intervals; the tie spacing and anchor design come from the manufacturer or a competent engineer, never improvised.

The base must be founded on a designed foundation or spreader arrangement; the mast is plumbed within the manufacturer's tolerance before climbing.

Climbing operation is controlled from the platform or a designated station; personnel must not be on the platform during climbing unless the manufacturer's procedure explicitly permits it.

Tie anchors into concrete must be checked for pull-out capacity; anchor testing or specified embedment is required where the structure's capacity is unverified.

Platform gates and end guards must be closed and the platform levelled before work; the platform is not used as a crane and must not be loaded beyond the rated UDL.

Erection, alteration, and dismantling are carried out by trained, competent persons under a documented method statement, with the completed installation handed over and recorded.

A construction hoist (builder's hoist) is a temporary rack-and-pinion or rope-suspended lift for persons and/or materials on a construction site; it is covered by EN 12159 (persons/materials) and EN 12158 (materials only).

Personnel hoists require a car with gates, landing doors at every landing, and interlocks that prevent movement unless all gates and doors are closed and locked.

The rated load and number of persons are stated on a plate in the car; load must be evenly distributed and the passenger limit is absolute regardless of weight.

Landing doors must be self-closing and interlocked; the landing edge must have edge protection, and the gate must not be defeated to speed loading.

Mast ties to the building are designed at specified intervals; free-standing height above the top tie is limited by the manufacturer's data and must never be exceeded.

The hoistway or landing area beneath the hoist must be barriered against access; the area under the car is a no-go zone while the hoist is in motion.

Operators must hold the appropriate competence and be authorised; the car is not driven with the door open, and the emergency stop and alarm must be tested at each shift.

Overload detection, overspeed/braking tests, and the final inspection before first use are documented; periodic thorough examination by a competent person is required at statutory intervals.

Pre-use checks: controls, emergency stop, horn/alarm, tilt and overload interlocks, guardrails, gates, anchors, tyres, outriggers, fluid levels, and decals must all be verified before the first lift.

Rescue plan: a means of lowering an incapacitated operator from the platform must be prepared before work starts; calling emergency services alone is not a rescue plan.

Emergency lowering methods differ by machine: auxiliary hydraulic pump, manual descent valve, or brake release - the operator must be trained on the specific model's method.

Exclusion zones: the area beneath and around the platform is barriered for the full working radius, including the sweep of a rotating boom.

Overhead hazards: check for power lines and observe the relevant approach distance; contact with an energised line requires the operator to stay in the platform until isolated.

Slope and ground: operate only within the rated slope; use spreader plates where point loads exceed slab capacity, and never operate near unshored excavations or openings.

Weather: stop when wind exceeds the rated maximum, when lightning is near, or when ice/snow compromises the deck and controls.

Handover and familiarisation: the operator is familiarised with the specific model, and the machine is not used if it has been modified or has a safety device out of service.

Load calculation: rated capacity minus operator mass minus tools, materials, and any attachments equals available payload; never exceed the plate figure in total.

Platform load is rated for a uniformly distributed load; concentrated loads on guardrails or deck edges can locally exceed the deck's design and must be spread.

Fall protection: where the manufacturer or site requires it, a full-body harness with a short restraint lanyard is anchored to the designated point; the lanyard prevents ejection over the guardrail.

Guardrails, mid-rails, toe boards, and gates are the primary fall-protection system; the platform must not be used with any of these missing or damaged.

Never climb on the guardrail, use ladders or boxes inside the platform, or stand on the mid-rail to gain height; use the correct machine for the reach required.

The platform must not be used as a crane; tag lines and ropes are attached only where the manufacturer permits and must not create a snagging or pull-off hazard.

Stability is reduced by wind, side loads, and uneven ground; check the rated wind speed and keep the platform clear of structures that could trap it.

Exiting at height: only where the manufacturer permits and a specific risk assessment, anchorage, and edge protection are in place for the transition.

Battery machines: check state of charge, charging area ventilation, and that charging is done with the machine off and in a designated area; do not charge near ignition sources.

Diesel/LPG machines: check fuel level, no leaks, and that exhaust is not routed into an enclosed space; carbon monoxide can accumulate in enclosed or partially enclosed areas.

Pre-use inspection is recorded daily; the machine is tagged out of service if any safety device, guard, or structural item fails.

Thorough examination: MEWPs are subject to periodic thorough examination by a competent person at intervals not exceeding those set by the applicable regulations and the manufacturer.

Documentation to hold: operator training/familiarisation record, machine logbook, thorough examination report, and the manufacturer's manual on the machine.

Modifications: attachments, extra signage, or repairs that affect stability, capacity, or controls require manufacturer approval and re-rating before use.

Defects found during inspection must be reported and the machine isolated; operating a machine with a known defect is a breach regardless of task urgency.

Record keeping: keep inspection and examination records available at the point of use so the operator can confirm the machine's status before starting work.

Position the machine so the platform is over the work area, not over unprotected edges, openings, or traffic routes; the base must be on ground verified for load.

Overhead power lines: observe the required approach distance for the line voltage; if contact occurs, stay in the platform and warn others away until the line is isolated.

Floor loading: check slab capacity against wheel and outrigger point loads; use spreader plates and, where required, an engineer's check before positioning.

Excavations and openings: keep the machine back from unshored edges by at least the distance required by the ground conditions; the base must not be undermined.

Traffic and pedestrians: barrier the working radius and use a signaller or traffic management where the machine moves near vehicles or pedestrians.

Wind: the platform acts as a sail; stop when the rated wind speed is reached, and account for wind funnelling between buildings and for sudden gusts.

Confined or enclosed spaces: check ventilation and exhaust routing for combustion-powered machines; battery machines are preferred indoors.

Emergency services access must be maintained; the machine must not block fire routes, hydrants, or escape routes while positioned.

The operator must be trained to the correct category, familiarised with the specific model, and authorised by the employer before operating.

The operator is responsible for the pre-use inspection, for not exceeding rated capacity, and for stopping work if conditions become unsafe.

The operator must follow the manufacturer's manual and the site's method statement; where they conflict on a safety point, the more restrictive applies.

Fitness: alcohol, drugs, and medication that impair alertness are incompatible with operating; fatigue and medical conditions must be declared.

The operator must not allow unauthorised persons to operate the machine and must secure it against use when left unattended.

Reporting: defects, near misses, and incidents are reported immediately; the machine is isolated until assessed.

Teamwork: the operator follows the signaller's directions where one is appointed and maintains communication with ground personnel.

Continuous improvement: lessons from incidents and near misses are fed back into the method statement and pre-use checks.

1B = boom MEWP that cannot travel with the platform elevated; reposition stowed, then elevate. Driving elevated is prohibited unless the manufacturer's rating and route assessment allow it.

3A = scissor MEWP that can travel with the platform elevated; travel is limited to firm, level ground within rated slope and floor-loading limits.

3B = scissor MEWP that cannot travel elevated; drive stowed, then elevate on station.

Push-around vertical lifts (1A) are moved manually and elevated only when stationary on firm ground.

Selection: reach over an obstacle → boom (B); large stable deck on a flat slab → scissor (A); restricted travel with platform up → group 3.

The category marking is on the machine's data plate; never assume a machine can travel elevated without confirming the plate and manual.

When in doubt, treat the machine as group 1 (no travel elevated) and reposition stowed.

MCWP and CH are both temporarily installed and require a documented erection/dismantling method statement by competent persons.

Both require designed ties or anchors to the structure at specified intervals, with the free-standing height limited by the manufacturer.

Landing and platform gates must be interlocked: the CH car cannot move unless doors are closed, and the MCWP platform must be level and gated before work.

Access to the MCWP platform and to CH landings must be protected with edge protection and self-closing gates.

The area beneath both must be barriered as a no-go zone during operation.

Both require a handover and recorded final inspection before first use, and periodic thorough examination thereafter.

Personnel must never ride on a materials-only hoist (EN 12158) or on an MCWP platform during climbing unless the procedure permits.

A rescue plan for an incapacitated operator at height must be prepared before work starts and briefed to the team.

Emergency lowering methods differ by machine: auxiliary pump, manual descent valve, or brake release; the operator must know the specific model's method.

If the platform cannot be lowered, secure the scene, call emergency services, and keep the casualty supported and warm; do not attempt an improvised descent.

Suspension trauma: a person hanging in a harness after a fall must be rescued quickly and kept horizontal; time from suspension to rescue is critical.

Power line contact: stay in the platform, warn others away, and wait until the line is isolated; do not touch the machine and ground simultaneously.

After any incident or near miss, the machine is isolated, the scene preserved, and the event reported and investigated before return to service.

Emergency stops and alarms are tested at each shift; a machine with a failed emergency stop is out of service.

Point load per wheel or outrigger pad = (machine mass + payload) distributed over the contact points; check against slab or ground capacity.

Spreader plates increase the contact area and reduce pressure; the plate must be stiff enough to distribute load without punching the slab.

Outriggers must be fully deployed on firm ground with floats/pads; partial deployment or blocking on loose material is prohibited.

Slope limits are stated by the manufacturer; operate within them and never on ground that could collapse or is undermined by excavation.

Check for buried services, basements, and suspended slabs; a structural engineer's check is required where capacity is uncertain.

Drainage covers, trenches, and backfilled areas may not support the machine; verify before positioning.

Wind and side loads increase the effective load on the base; stop when the rated wind speed is reached.

Controls are typically proportional with a dead-man/enable switch; releasing the enable switch stops all functions.

Tilt interlocks prevent elevation or drive beyond the rated slope; overload interlocks prevent lifting beyond rated capacity.

Pothole protection devices deploy on elevation on scissor lifts; a damaged or blocked device puts the machine out of service.

Emergency stop buttons are located on the platform and ground controls; both must function.

Ground controls allow lowering in an emergency and must be operable by a trained person; the platform controls are the normal operating position.

Familiarisation covers the specific model's controls, load chart, emergency lowering, restraints, and interlocks; it is recorded.

Never bypass or disable an interlock; a machine with a defeated safety device must be isolated and reported.

Keep the platform clear of unprotected edges and openings; the base must be set back from unshored excavations by the distance required by ground conditions.

Do not trap the platform against a structure: entrapment between the platform and an overhead structure is a recognised fatal risk; keep clear and use a spotter where visibility is limited.

Maintain the required approach distance from overhead power lines for the line voltage; treat all lines as live until isolated.

Barrier the full working radius, including the sweep of a rotating boom and the area beneath the platform.

Where the platform must be exited at height, only the manufacturer's permitted method with a specific risk assessment, anchorage, and edge protection is used.

Check for fragile surfaces, skylights, and false ceilings that the platform or operator could fall through.

Maintain escape routes and emergency access; do not block fire routes or hydrants.

Define the task: working height = platform height + operator reach (commonly ~2 m); confirm the machine's rated working height exceeds the task.

Reach over an obstacle → boom (B); large stable deck on a flat slab → scissor (A); restricted travel with platform up → group 3.

Check access route: door widths, floor loading, slope, and overhead obstructions along the route to the work area.

Confirm the machine's category from the data plate before planning travel with the platform elevated.

Consider power source: battery for indoor/confined spaces, diesel/LPG for outdoor with ventilation considerations.

Plan the rescue method and confirm the machine's emergency lowering function before starting.

Brief the team on the method statement, exclusion zones, and communication/signalling arrangements.

Final inspection before first use is recorded and covers structure, ties, gates, interlocks, brakes, and emergency devices.

Periodic thorough examination by a competent person follows at statutory intervals and after alteration or repair.

Tie anchors are checked for capacity; anchor testing or specified embedment is required where the structure's capacity is unverified.

Landing doors and platform gates must self-close and interlock; defeating an interlock is prohibited.

The area beneath the MCWP and CH is barriered as a no-go zone during operation.

Handover documentation includes the method statement, inspection records, and the manufacturer's manual.

Defects are reported and the installation isolated until assessed and repaired.

Stop when wind exceeds the manufacturer's rated maximum; platform sail area rises with boom length and added attachments.

Account for wind funnelling between buildings and for sudden gusts; a calm ground reading does not guarantee calm at platform height.

Stop in lightning, ice, or snow that compromises the deck and controls; clear the deck before resuming.

Indoor use: battery machines are preferred; combustion machines require ventilation and exhaust routing to prevent carbon monoxide accumulation.

Heat and cold affect battery performance and hydraulic behaviour; follow the manufacturer's temperature limits.

Visibility: use a signaller where the operator's view is obstructed; maintain communication with ground personnel.

After severe weather, inspect the machine and its base before resuming work.

Hold the operator training/familiarisation record, machine logbook, thorough examination report, and the manufacturer's manual on the machine.

Pre-use inspection is recorded daily; the machine is tagged out of service if any safety item fails.

Thorough examination intervals follow the applicable regulations and the manufacturer; records are kept available at the point of use.

Modifications affecting stability, capacity, or controls require manufacturer approval and re-rating before use.

Employer duties include selection, training, familiarisation, supervision, and provision of a safe system of work.

Operator duties include pre-use inspection, respecting capacity, and stopping work when conditions become unsafe.

Report and investigate incidents and near misses; feed lessons back into the method statement and checks.

1B: boom MEWP that cannot travel with the platform elevated; reposition stowed, then elevate.

3A: scissor MEWP that can travel with the platform elevated; travel limited to firm, level ground within rated slope and floor loading.

3B: scissor MEWP that cannot travel elevated; drive stowed, then elevate on station.

1A: push-around vertical lift; moved manually and elevated only when stationary on firm ground.

Group 1 = no travel elevated; group 3 = travel elevated; type A = no rotating structure extending beyond chassis; type B = boom or rotating structure.

Confirm the category from the data plate and manual before planning travel with the platform elevated.

When in doubt, treat the machine as group 1 and reposition stowed.

Available payload = rated capacity − operator mass − tools/materials − attachments; never exceed the plate figure in total.

Rated capacity is a uniformly distributed load; concentrated loads on guardrails or deck edges must be spread.

The load chart applies at the working radius shown on the platform placard, not at the boom angle.

Attachments such as panels or signage increase sail area and may require re-checking the wind rating.

Never use the platform as a crane; tag lines and ropes only where the manufacturer permits.

Check the plate for the number of persons and the total load; the person limit is absolute regardless of weight.

Report and isolate the machine if the overload interlock activates; do not reset and continue without assessment.

Guardrails, mid-rails, toe boards, and gates are the primary fall-protection system; the platform must not be used with any missing or damaged.

Where required, a full-body harness with a short restraint lanyard is anchored to the designated point; the lanyard prevents ejection over the guardrail.

A restraint lanyard is not a fall-arrest system; it is kept short enough to prevent the operator leaving the platform.

Scissor lifts are generally not anchorage-rated for fall arrest; follow the manufacturer's and site's requirements.

Never climb on the guardrail or use ladders/boxes inside the platform to gain height.

Exit at height only where the manufacturer permits and a specific risk assessment, anchorage, and edge protection are in place.

Inspect harness, lanyard, and anchor before each use; damaged equipment is removed from service.

Verify ground capacity against wheel and outrigger point loads; use spreader plates where slab capacity is marginal.

Outriggers fully deployed on firm ground with floats/pads; partial deployment or blocking on loose material is prohibited.

Operate within the manufacturer's slope limits; never on ground that could collapse or is undermined by excavation.

Check for buried services, basements, and suspended slabs; an engineer's check is required where capacity is uncertain.

Keep the base set back from unshored excavations by the distance required by ground conditions.

Drainage covers, trenches, and backfilled areas may not support the machine; verify before positioning.

Barrier the full working radius, including the sweep of a rotating boom and the area beneath the platform.

Know the specific model's emergency lowering method: auxiliary pump, manual descent valve, or brake release.

Test the emergency lowering function at the pre-use inspection where the manufacturer permits.

A rescue plan for an incapacitated operator at height must be prepared before work starts and briefed.

If the platform cannot be lowered, secure the scene, call emergency services, and keep the casualty supported; do not attempt an improvised descent.

Suspension trauma: rescue quickly and keep the casualty horizontal; time from suspension to rescue is critical.

Power line contact: stay in the platform, warn others away, and wait until the line is isolated.

After any incident, isolate the machine, preserve the scene, and report and investigate before return to service.

Battery machines: check state of charge; charge with the machine off in a designated, ventilated area away from ignition sources.

Diesel/LPG machines: check fuel level and no leaks; exhaust must not route into an enclosed space because carbon monoxide can accumulate.

Battery machines are preferred indoors and in confined spaces.

Heat and cold affect battery performance and hydraulic behaviour; follow the manufacturer's temperature limits.

Check hydraulic hoses and fittings for leaks and chafing at the pre-use inspection.

Do not refuel or charge near open flame or while the machine is running, per the manufacturer's instructions.

A machine with a fuel or hydraulic leak is out of service until repaired.

Daily pre-use inspection covers tyres, outriggers, guardrails, gates, decals, battery/fuel, hydraulic leaks, emergency stops, and tilt/overload interlocks.

The inspection is recorded; the machine is tagged out of service if any safety item fails.

Thorough examination by a competent person follows at statutory intervals and after alteration or repair.

Defects are reported immediately and the machine isolated; operating with a known defect is a breach regardless of urgency.

Keep the logbook, thorough examination report, and manufacturer's manual on the machine.

Modifications affecting stability, capacity, or controls require manufacturer approval and re-rating before use.

After severe weather or an incident, inspect the machine and its base before resuming work.

The operator must be trained to the correct category, familiarised with the specific model, and authorised by the employer before operating.

Familiarisation covers the model's controls, load chart, emergency lowering, restraints, and interlocks, and is recorded.

The operator is responsible for the pre-use inspection, for not exceeding rated capacity, and for stopping work if conditions become unsafe.

Alcohol, drugs, and impairing medication are incompatible with operating; fatigue and medical conditions must be declared.

The operator must not allow unauthorised persons to operate the machine and must secure it against use when unattended.

Follow the manufacturer's manual and the site's method statement; where they conflict on a safety point, the more restrictive applies.

Report defects, near misses, and incidents immediately; the machine is isolated until assessed.

An MCWP climbs a mast and is covered by EN 1495, not EN 280; it is not a MEWP.

Rated load is typically a uniformly distributed load over the platform length; concentrated and eccentric loads are limited by the manufacturer.

Mast ties to the structure are engineered at specified vertical intervals; tie spacing and anchor design come from the manufacturer or a competent engineer.

The base is founded on a designed foundation or spreader arrangement; the mast is plumbed within tolerance before climbing.

Climbing is controlled from the platform or a designated station; personnel must not be on the platform during climbing unless the procedure permits.

Tie anchors into concrete must be checked for pull-out capacity; anchor testing or specified embedment is required where capacity is unverified.

Erection, alteration, and dismantling are by trained, competent persons under a documented method statement, with a recorded handover.

Personnel hoists require a car with gates, landing doors at every landing, and interlocks preventing movement unless all gates and doors are closed and locked.

The rated load and number of persons are stated on a plate in the car; the passenger limit is absolute regardless of weight.

Landing doors must be self-closing and interlocked; the gate must not be defeated to speed loading.

Mast ties are designed at specified intervals; the free-standing height above the top tie is limited and must never be exceeded.

The area beneath the hoist is barriered as a no-go zone while the hoist is in motion.

The emergency stop and alarm are tested at each shift; the car is not driven with the door open.

Overload detection, overspeed/braking tests, and the final inspection before first use are documented; periodic thorough examination follows at statutory intervals.

Working height = platform height + operator reach (commonly ~2 m); confirm the machine's rated working height exceeds the task.

Reach over an obstacle → boom (B); large stable deck on a flat slab → scissor (A); restricted travel with platform up → group 3.

Check the access route: door widths, floor loading, slope, and overhead obstructions along the route to the work area.

Confirm the machine's category from the data plate before planning travel with the platform elevated.

Consider power source: battery for indoor/confined spaces; diesel/LPG for outdoor with ventilation considerations.

Plan the rescue method and confirm the emergency lowering function before starting.

Brief the team on the method statement, exclusion zones, and communication/signalling arrangements.

Entrapment between the platform and an overhead structure is a recognised fatal risk; keep clear and use a spotter where visibility is limited.

Maintain the required approach distance from overhead power lines for the line voltage; treat all lines as live until isolated.

If contact occurs, stay in the platform, warn others away, and wait until the line is isolated.

Keep the platform clear of unprotected edges and openings; the base is set back from unshored excavations by the distance required by ground conditions.

Check for fragile surfaces, skylights, and false ceilings that the platform or operator could fall through.

Barrier the full working radius, including the sweep of a rotating boom and the area beneath the platform.

Maintain escape routes and emergency access; do not block fire routes or hydrants.