Quick answer
HSE says great care must be taken to select the most appropriate MEWP and ensure its use is properly planned and managed. For a practical first check, HSE asks about height, application, ground conditions and operator competence. The final machine and work method still need to be assessed for the real site.
Selecting the right MEWP
Working height is only one factor. HSE guidance highlights the need to select the right MEWP for the job and site, and specifically discusses ground conditions, outriggers, weather, nearby hazards and material handling. A hire enquiry should therefore describe the task, access route, work position, surface or ground and any outreach requirement.
Operator training and familiarisation
HSE states that MEWP operators should have attended recognised operator training and have evidence listing the categories they are trained to operate. It also says operators need familiarisation with the controls and operation of the specific make and model they are using.
How often does a MEWP need a LOLER thorough examination?
HSE states that lifting equipment used to lift people must be thoroughly examined at six-monthly intervals, or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person. Other pre-use checks, inspections, servicing and maintenance duties may also apply.
What do IPAF 3A and 3B mean?
IPAF lists Mobile Vertical (3A) for scissor lifts and mobile vertical personnel platforms, and Mobile Boom (3B) for self-propelled booms. IPAF also lists Static Boom (1B) for equipment such as booms on outriggers, trailers or vehicle-mounted platforms, and Push Around Vertical (PAV) for push-around vertical platforms.
Ground conditions and stability
HSE says MEWPs should be used on firm and level ground and warns about features such as trenches, manholes and uncompacted backfill. Its detailed GEIS6 guidance also asks about ground bearing capacity, slopes, outriggers, point loads, supporting slabs and the route to the work position.
Who confirms the final machine?
Powered Access Hire UK can help structure a requirement and match it to independent suppliers, but it does not replace a competent site assessment, operator training, the machine manual or the supplier’s confirmation of the exact equipment for the task.
QUESTIONS
QUICK ANSWERS
Do I need IPAF to operate a scissor lift?+
HSE says MEWP operators should have attended a recognised operator training course and hold evidence showing the categories they are trained to operate. The exact training and site requirements should be confirmed for the work being undertaken.
What is IPAF 3A?+
IPAF defines 3A as Mobile Vertical and gives scissor lifts and mobile vertical personnel platforms as examples.
What is IPAF 3B?+
IPAF defines 3B as Mobile Boom for self-propelled boom-type MEWPs.
How often is a MEWP LOLER inspection required?+
HSE states that equipment used to lift people must be thoroughly examined every six months, or in accordance with a competent person’s examination scheme.
Does a valid LOLER report mean a machine is automatically suitable for my job?+
No. Examination status and task suitability are different questions. The machine still needs to be appropriate for the work, site, operator and current conditions.
PRIMARY SOURCES
SOURCE MATERIAL
These links are provided so key factual claims and market references can be checked at source. Information can change, so the current source should be reviewed for project-specific decisions.
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