IPAF Pre-Use Inspection — Questions and Answers
Question 1: How often should a pre-use inspection of a MEWP be carried out according to IPAF guidance?
- Weekly
- At the start of every shift before use (Correct answer)
- Monthly
- Only after an incident
Correct answer: At the start of every shift before use
IPAF requires a pre-use inspection at the start of every shift before operating the MEWP. This daily check ensures the machine is safe and fit for purpose before any work begins.
Question 2: During a pre-use inspection, which of the following should be checked on the MEWP's hydraulic system?
- The colour of the hydraulic fluid
- Hoses and fittings for leaks, damage, or chafing (Correct answer)
- The brand of hydraulic oil used
- Whether the hydraulic pump makes noise
Correct answer: Hoses and fittings for leaks, damage, or chafing
Hydraulic hoses and fittings must be visually inspected for leaks, damage, abrasion, or chafing. A hydraulic failure could cause the platform to drop unexpectedly, posing a serious risk to the operator.
Question 3: What action should an operator take if they discover a fault during the pre-use inspection?
- Use the MEWP carefully and report the fault at the end of the shift
- Tag the machine as defective, do not use it, and report to the supervisor (Correct answer)
- Attempt to repair the fault themselves before using the machine
- Ignore minor faults and only report major ones
Correct answer: Tag the machine as defective, do not use it, and report to the supervisor
If any fault is found during a pre-use inspection, the operator must not use the machine. It should be tagged as defective, taken out of service, and the fault reported immediately to the supervisor or responsible person.
Question 4: Which of the following is NOT typically part of a MEWP pre-use inspection checklist?
- Checking tyre condition and pressures
- Testing the emergency lowering controls
- Carrying out a load test at maximum capacity (Correct answer)
- Inspecting guardrails and gate catches
Correct answer: Carrying out a load test at maximum capacity
A load test at maximum capacity is not part of a daily pre-use inspection — it is carried out during thorough examinations by competent persons (usually every 6 months under LOLER). Pre-use checks focus on visual inspection and function tests.
Question 5: What document should be used to record the results of a MEWP pre-use inspection?
- The operator's personal diary
- A pre-use inspection checklist or report form (Correct answer)
- The machine's V5 registration document
- No documentation is required for daily checks
Correct answer: A pre-use inspection checklist or report form
All pre-use inspections should be recorded on a checklist or report form. This provides an auditable record, helps track recurring issues, and demonstrates compliance with PUWER and LOLER regulations.
Question 6: During a pre-use check, the operator should verify the emergency lowering system works. Why is this control critical?
- It allows the machine to travel faster in emergencies
- It provides a means to bring the platform down if the normal controls fail (Correct answer)
- It activates the fire suppression system
- It locks the platform in position during high winds
Correct answer: It provides a means to bring the platform down if the normal controls fail
The emergency lowering system is a backup method to bring the platform safely to ground level if the primary controls malfunction or the operator becomes incapacitated. It must be tested before every use.
IPAF Pre-Use Inspection
How often should a pre-use inspection of a MEWP be carried out according to IPAF guidance?