IPAF MEWP Types & Categories 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What type of MEWP is a scissor lift typically classified as?
- A vertical-rise MEWP where the platform moves directly above the base (Correct answer)
- A boom lift with articulated reach capability
- A mast climber for facade access
- A personnel hoist for internal use only
Correct answer: A vertical-rise MEWP where the platform moves directly above the base
A scissor lift is a vertical-rise MEWP — the platform rises directly above the base using a pantograph scissor mechanism. It cannot reach horizontally beyond its base footprint in the extended position.
Question 2: What is the key operational difference between an articulated boom lift and a telescopic boom lift?
- An articulated boom has multiple joints allowing it to reach up and over obstacles; a telescopic boom extends in a straight line (Correct answer)
- Articulated booms are always smaller than telescopic booms
- Telescopic booms are for indoor use only
- Articulated booms cannot be used outdoors
Correct answer: An articulated boom has multiple joints allowing it to reach up and over obstacles; a telescopic boom extends in a straight line
An articulated (knuckle) boom lift has multiple articulating joints that allow it to reach around or over obstacles. A telescopic boom extends in a straight line and is typically used for longer horizontal or vertical reach.
Question 3: What is a 'vertical mast lift'?
- A compact, lightweight MEWP that raises the operator vertically on a single or dual mast, typically for indoor use (Correct answer)
- A large crane mast with an attached work platform
- A scaffold tower with powered base
- A type of boom lift used only outdoors
Correct answer: A compact, lightweight MEWP that raises the operator vertically on a single or dual mast, typically for indoor use
A vertical mast lift is a compact, lightweight MEWP that raises the operator on a vertical mast. It is typically used indoors for tasks requiring modest working heights in confined spaces.
Question 4: What determines the maximum number of persons permitted on a MEWP platform?
- The manufacturer's rated platform capacity (SWL) and the number of persons specified in the operator's manual (Correct answer)
- The site manager's discretion
- The available floor space in the platform cage
- The height at which the platform will be working
Correct answer: The manufacturer's rated platform capacity (SWL) and the number of persons specified in the operator's manual
The maximum number of persons is determined by the manufacturer's Safe Working Load (SWL) and the specified maximum occupancy in the operator's manual. Exceeding either creates a serious risk of overload and instability.
Question 5: Which IPAF category would cover a self-propelled scissor lift?
- 3a (Correct answer)
- 1a
- 3b
- 1b
Correct answer: 3a
IPAF category 3a covers self-propelled scissor lifts — the machine is self-propelled (Category 3) and moves only vertically (suffix a).
Question 6: What is the IPAF PAL card and what does it prove?
- A Powered Access Licence card proving the holder has been trained and assessed to operate specific MEWP categories (Correct answer)
- A planning and loading certificate for elevated platforms
- A personal accident liability card for MEWP users
- A site access pass for powered access areas
Correct answer: A Powered Access Licence card proving the holder has been trained and assessed to operate specific MEWP categories
The IPAF PAL (Powered Access Licence) card proves that the holder has completed IPAF-approved operator training and been assessed as competent to operate the MEWP categories shown on the card.
IPAF MEWP Types & Categories 2
What type of MEWP is a scissor lift typically classified as?