IPAF MEWP Operator study plan
IPAF MEWP Operator · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP) categories: boom, scissor, 1B, 3A and 3B
Distinguish MEWP categories 1A, 1B, 3A and 3B by chassis type, travel capability and intended use, and state which category a given scenario describes
Explain the structural and stability differences between boom and scissor platforms, including why scissor lifts are restricted to vertical travel on firm ground
Identify the main structural, mechanical and hydraulic components and safety devices on a typical boom and scissor platform
Locate and interpret the rated capacity, wind-speed and maximum-occupancy markings on a platform data plate
Your checkpoint
A one-page comparison table of categories 1A/1B/3A/3B with five decision rules for classifying a machine from a written scenario, self-scored at 80% or better
Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP) categories: boom, scissor, 1B, 3A and 3B
Sequence a pre-use inspection of a boom and a scissor platform from ground controls to platform controls, naming the checks at each step
Describe the harness and anchor-point requirements for boom-type platforms versus the fall-protection approach for scissor lifts
Explain ground-condition assessment and the use of spreader pads or mats on soft or sloping ground
Outline the emergency lowering procedures for a boom platform and a scissor lift when the operator is stranded aloft
Your checkpoint
A written pre-use inspection checklist of at least 25 numbered items covering both machine types, plus a 10-question self-test on emergency lowering scored at 80%
Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP) categories: boom, scissor, 1B, 3A and 3B
Apply the hierarchy of control to typical MEWP tasks such as work near edges, overhead obstructions and public interfaces
Calculate the effect of platform load, wind and slope on stability, and identify when a manufacturer must be consulted
Describe exclusion-zone, signage and barrier requirements when operating near pedestrians or traffic
Explain rescue planning, familiarisation training and the duties of the supervisor and the ground spotter
Your checkpoint
A written risk assessment for one realistic MEWP task, with at least eight hazards, a control for each, and a rescue plan, reviewed against a model answer
Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP) categories: boom, scissor, 1B, 3A and 3B & Mast climbing work platforms (MCWP)
Recall the core MEWP knowledge from weeks 1-3 without notes in a timed mixed-format test
Describe the purpose, typical applications and main structural components of a mast climbing work platform
Identify the base, mast sections, ties, work platform, drive unit and safety devices of an MCWP
Explain how MCWP loads are transferred to the structure and why tie design and spacing matter
Your checkpoint
A timed 40-question MEWP mock test scored at 80% or better, plus a labelled written description of MCWP components and load paths
Mast climbing work platforms (MCWP)
Describe MCWP erection, climbing and dismantling sequences and the roles of the competent persons involved
Explain tie installation, anchor verification and the checks required before and after each climb
Identify the safety devices on an MCWP, including overload detection, limit switches, end stops and emergency stop
State the wind-speed, loading and platform-configuration limits that apply and how they are monitored
Your checkpoint
A step-by-step written climb sequence of at least 15 steps, each with the check or sign-off required before proceeding
Mast climbing work platforms (MCWP) & Construction hoists (CH)
Outline MCWP pre-use inspection, daily checks and the handover between erection crew and platform users
Describe construction hoist types, their rated load and person capacity markings, and how these are verified before use
Explain hoist landing gates, interlocks, overrun and overspeed protection, and the role of the operator and the signaler
Identify the main causes of hoist and MCWP incidents and the controls that prevent them
Your checkpoint
A two-part written summary of MCWP and hoist safety devices with at least 12 devices, the failure each guards against and the check that confirms it works
Construction hoists (CH)
Describe construction hoist erection, commissioning, inspection and thorough-examination requirements and who may carry them out
Explain the emergency procedures for a hoist stranded between landings, including manual lowering and passenger communication
Apply load-calculation and load-distribution rules to a hoist car and state when the rated capacity must not be exceeded
Outline the duties of the hoist operator, the banksman and the site supervisor during passenger and material transport
Your checkpoint
A written emergency and rescue procedure for a hoist failure, covering at least four failure scenarios with the actions and responsible person for each
Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWP) categories: boom, scissor, 1B, 3A and 3B & Mast climbing work platforms (MCWP) & Construction hoists (CH)
Revise all three domains using a personal list of previously missed questions and weak facts
Complete full-length timed practice tests for each domain and review every wrong answer to its source rule
Rehearse the practical checks and verbal explanations expected at the operator assessment for each machine type
Confirm the exam-day logistics, permitted materials and identification requirements, and plan the final 48 hours of light revision
Your checkpoint
Three domain practice tests each scored at 85% or better, plus a one-page final revision sheet of no more than 30 key facts
Milestones
Week 2: Classify ten written machine and site scenarios into the correct MEWP category and name the required fall-protection approach for each, scoring at least 8 of 10
Week 4: Pass a timed 40-question MEWP mock test at 80% or better and correctly describe MCWP load paths in writing
Week 6: Explain at least 12 MCWP and hoist safety devices, the failure each guards against and the confirming check, without notes
Week 8: Score 85% or better on each of the three domain practice tests and complete the 30-fact revision sheet