IPAF Study Guide 2026

The tilt alarm warns when the machine has exceeded its safe gradient. Without it, the operator may not know when the machine is at risk of overturning. It is a critical safety device and must be repaired before use.

MEWPs are used to lift persons and therefore require LOLER thorough examination every 6 months. At 7 months the certificate has expired and a new examination must be carried out before the machine is used.

The emergency stop button immediately shuts down the engine or power source and stops all machine movement. It is used when there is an immediate danger and all motion must cease instantly. Note: it does NOT lower the platform — the emergency lowering system is separate.

Drive control checks include confirming forward and reverse function, speed control operation, and — crucially — that the drive cut-out or speed reduction interlock activates when the platform is elevated (a key stability safety feature).

The two primary rescue methods are: ground-level emergency lowering using the machine's base emergency controls (the preferred method), or aerial rescue where another elevated means is used to reach the operator.

The priority is to lower the platform to ground level using the emergency controls (fastest way to access the casualty), call emergency services (can be done simultaneously by another person), then administer first aid once the casualty is at ground level where treatment is safer and more effective.