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MEWP Types & Categories Flashcards

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  1. What does MEWP stand for?

    Answer: Mobile Elevating Work Platform

    MEWP stands for Mobile Elevating Work Platform. This is the generic term used in UK regulations for all types of powered access equipment, including scissor lifts, boom lifts, and vertical mast platforms.

  2. What does IPAF stand for?

    Answer: International Powered Access Federation

    IPAF stands for International Powered Access Federation. IPAF is the trade association for the powered access industry and administers the PAL (Powered Access Licence) card scheme.

  3. What is the difference between a Category 1 and Category 3 MEWP in the IPAF classification system?

    Answer: Category 1 MEWPs are static (non-self-propelled) and Category 3 are self-propelled

    In the IPAF classification, Category 1 MEWPs are static (towed or pushed into position, not self-propelled), while Category 3 MEWPs are self-propelled and can travel under power.

  4. What is the difference between a suffix 'a' and suffix 'b' in the IPAF category system (e.g. 1a vs 1b)?

    Answer: Suffix 'a' indicates a vertical-only platform; suffix 'b' indicates a platform that can travel in any horizontal direction from its base

    In the IPAF system, suffix 'a' indicates the platform can only move vertically (scissor type), while suffix 'b' indicates the platform can travel horizontally from its base position (boom type).

  5. Which IPAF category covers a self-propelled boom lift?

    Answer: 3b

    IPAF category 3b covers self-propelled boom lifts — machines that are self-propelled (Category 3) and capable of working horizontally away from the base (suffix b).

  6. Which IPAF category covers a static scissor lift (non-self-propelled)?

    Answer: 1a

    IPAF category 1a covers static scissor lifts — the machine is non-self-propelled (Category 1) and moves only vertically (suffix a), such as a push-around scissor or trailer-mounted platform.

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  1. ipaf.org — Eligibility, renewal, test delivery, score validity, exam information · verified Oct 2026