IPAF 3a Mobile Vertical Training

1. INTRODUCTION
Facilities, PAL Card overview and Pre-course theory test.
2. MEWP CATEGORIES
Different types of MEWP and their description and other courses available.
3. STRUCTURAL PARTS
Stabilising, levelling, chassis drive options, turntable, boom/scissor pack and MEWP selection.
4. REGULATIONS
ISO 18878, European, HASWA, PUWER, LOLER, MHSW, WAHR & RIDDOR.
5. PRE-USE INSPECTIONS/HANDOVERS
Thorough examinations, Familiarisation, Pre-Use Inspection, Identify Safety Items & Controls,
Defects & Emergency descent.
6. SAFE OPERATING METHODS & HAZARDS
Travelling to the workplace, Positioning/Terrain, SWL, Weather, Electrical Hazards, Harness
Statement, Do’s & Don’ts and Parking.
7. THEORY TEST
Individual written test with explanation of pass requirements. Failure means applicant will have to resit
the course on another day. Instructors can choose to use either Operator Theory Test Paper A or
Operator Theory Test Paper B.
8. PRACTICAL TRAINING
Introduction to the Actual Machine - Walk around and familiarisation with MEWP.
Major components - Identification of each component and its function.
Pre-use Checks and Inspection - 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
any additional points from the machine operations manual.
Starting/Stopping the Machine - Correct starting and shut down procedures.
Pre-Use Function Checks - Fully function the machine and carry out full emergency lowering
procedure.
Checks Prior to Road Travel – For example: 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) - Ensure route 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 two-thirds of full working
envelope so far as is reasonably practical, observe all safety practices. Large machines
capable of exceeding a height of 26 m should be fully elevated with the trainee on the
platform.
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.