Training

Operator

Prior to operating a MEWP, operators must complete the required training. The training will be a combination of classroom and on-the-job. Classroom training and hands-on, equipment-specific operational proficiency testing must be completed a minimum of once every three years to maintain authorization.

On-the-Job

The on-the-job portion of the training will be at the direction of the operating employee’s supervisor and will be instructed by a MEWP proficiency instructor who has been specifically designated by line management..

Classroom

The classroom portion is available as a SLAC course:

• ES&H Course [ forthcoming ]

The training may also be provided through an approved MEWP leasing company.

Coursework will include, at a minimum:

• Introduction to MEWP operation
• Safe operation and limitations of use
• Pre-use checks, inspections, and maintenance requirements (including battery charging)
• Operator duties
• Safety precautions of using a MEWP
• Determination of the safe working load of the MEWP, including persons and materials
• Barriers and signs, when required
• Condition and control over surrounding environment
• Safe working at heights
• Emergency lowering procedure
• Outriggers and stabilizers
• Checks prior to road travel
• Practical assessment (hands-on operational test)
• Written exam (70 percent correct to pass)

Fall Protection

For extensible or articulating boom aerial devices, operators must also have Elevated Work Surface (Fall Protection) training:

• ES&H Course 200, Fall Protection Authorized Person

This course is suitable for personnel who must wear and use fall protection equipment or must access unprotected elevated work surfaces as part of their jobs. This course is required initially and every three years thereafter.

Recordkeeping

Personnel who operate MEWPs will carry proof of authorization and operator training, such as an operator’s wallet card from an approved SLAC MEWP training course or other acceptable outside training firm.

Custodian

Custodians must be trained at least to the level of a qualified operator for the device in question.