IPAF MEWP Operator key terms

A machine with a platform intended to raise people to a work position, where the platform is supported by a structure that is not permanently fixed to the ground and can be moved to different locations.

A MEWP whose platform is supported by a boom or articulated arm that can be raised, lowered and often rotated, allowing the operator to reach up and over obstacles rather than only straight up.

A MEWP that raises its platform vertically using crossed, linked supports; it can only elevate straight up and cannot reach out over an obstruction, so it must be positioned directly beside the work.

A classification for a MEWP that can travel with its platform raised, where travel is controlled from the platform but only with the machine in a specific, restricted configuration such as a lowered or stowed setting.

A classification for a MEWP that can travel with its platform raised and can be driven from the platform in more than one configuration, with travel controlled from the platform and the machine operating on a firm, level surface.

A classification for a MEWP that can travel with its platform raised, driven from the platform, and is permitted to work over rough or unimproved ground rather than only firm, level surfaces.

A work platform that climbs a vertical mast or masts fixed to a building or structure, used mainly for facade work; it is assembled on site and is not a self-propelled mobile machine.

A temporary power-driven machine installed on a construction site that raises and lowers a car or platform along a guided vertical path to carry people, materials or both between levels.

The three-dimensional volume, defined by height, outreach and rotation limits, within which a MEWP's platform may legally and safely be positioned; staying inside it prevents overloading and structural failure.

The maximum load, including people, tools, materials and any attached equipment, that the manufacturer states the platform or hoist car may carry in a given configuration.

The turning effect produced by the weight of the platform, occupants and materials multiplied by their distance from the machine's tipping point; it is what stability systems monitor to prevent overturning.

The ability of a machine to resist overturning under the loads and forces it is designed for, achieved through counterweight, outriggers, base width and correct set-up on suitable ground.

A retractable leg or beam extended from a machine's chassis and set down on a pad to widen its support base and keep the machine level during lifting work.

The force per unit area that a machine's wheels, tracks, outrigger pads or mast base impose on the surface beneath; exceeding the surface's capacity causes sinking, settlement or collapse.

Adjusting a machine so its base is horizontal within the manufacturer's tolerance before elevating; an unlevel machine can overturn or lose its rated capacity, so levelling is checked every time it is set up.

A device that senses when a machine is standing on ground steeper than the permitted slope and warns the operator, often preventing elevation or travel until the machine is repositioned or levelled.

Moving a MEWP while people remain in an elevated platform; permitted only for machines and configurations rated for it, with the operator aware of speed, slope, surface and overhead hazards.

The system of harness, lanyard, anchor point and platform guarding that restrains or arrests a person in the platform, used as required by the machine type and the risk assessment.

A designated, manufacturer-approved attachment on the platform or boom designed to take the load of a fall arrest or restraint system; it must never be improvised from rails or other parts.

A short lanyard, often adjustable, that stops the wearer from reaching or climbing over the platform edge rather than arresting a fall after it happens.

The barrier of rails and toe boards around a platform or landing that stops people and materials from falling off the edge; it must be complete and secure before the platform is used.

A low vertical upstand along the floor edge of a platform or landing that prevents tools, materials and feet from sliding off the edge.

A manual or auxiliary control system that lets a trained person bring the platform down when the normal power supply or controls fail, so occupants are never stranded aloft.

A secondary power source, often a battery-driven pump, that allows limited platform movement and functions when the main engine or power supply stops.

A set of controls at the machine base, used for set-up, testing and emergency recovery; they usually override platform controls and must be secured so they cannot be operated accidentally.

The control station inside the work platform from which the operator drives, steers and elevates the machine; the operator keeps control of it whenever people are in the basket.

A control, such as a foot switch or hold-to-run lever, that must be continuously held for machine movement to occur and that stops movement immediately when released.

A clearly marked, readily reachable button or switch that cuts power to machine movements at once; it is tested before each use and reset only by a competent person.

A sensing system that detects when platform or car load exceeds the rated capacity and prevents further movement, usually with a visible and audible warning to the operator.

The force that wind exerts on a platform, its occupants and any carried materials; machines have a maximum permitted wind speed above which use must stop and the platform be lowered.

A structural connection that anchors a mast climbing work platform's mast to the building at set intervals to keep it stable and vertical as the platform rises.

The fixed point cast into or attached to the structure to which a mast tie or similar restraint is connected; its strength and condition must be verified before use.

The enclosed or open carrier of a construction hoist in which people or materials travel between landings; it must not be used for people unless designed and permitted for passenger service.

The gate or door at each hoist landing that stays closed and locked except when the car is present and level with the landing, preventing falls down the shaft.

A safety device that prevents a machine from moving unless a guard, gate or door is closed and locked, and stops movement if it is opened while the machine is running.

The toothed drive arrangement by which a construction hoist or MCWP climbs a toothed mast; the pinion engages the rack and provides positive, non-slip lifting.

Someone with the training, knowledge and practical experience to carry out the task, such as inspecting, erecting or operating a machine, and who can recognise and avoid the associated dangers.

The checks an operator makes before every shift, covering controls, guards, tyres, fluid levels, warning devices and damage, recorded as required and reported if faults are found.

A pre-arranged procedure naming who will recover a person stranded, injured or suspended in a platform or hoist car, how, and with what equipment, before work starts.