IPAF Rescue Procedures

Question 1

What is an 'entrapment' on a MEWP and why is a rescue plan important?

Accepted Answer

When the operator in the platform cannot lower themselves — a rescue plan ensures a safe, fast response to extract them

Answer

When the MEWP's wheels get stuck in soft ground

Answer

When the MEWP is blocked in a corridor

Answer

When the MEWP's battery runs out during operation

Question 2

What are the two primary methods of rescuing an entrapped MEWP operator?

Accepted Answer

Ground-level emergency lowering using the base controls, or aerial rescue using another elevated platform or ladder

Answer

Using a rope thrown from ground level

Answer

Only waiting for the operator to recover

Answer

Tilting the machine to lower the platform

Question 3

Before operating a MEWP, what rescue information must every operator know?

Accepted Answer

The location and operation of the ground-level emergency lowering controls and the site's rescue procedure

Answer

Only the general emergency number

Answer

Rescue procedures are only for supervisors to know

Answer

Rescue information is provided during the MEWP's annual service

Question 4

What is the role of a 'dedicated competent observer' during MEWP operations in risk areas?

Accepted Answer

To monitor the operator and machine from ground level, and to initiate rescue immediately if entrapment or emergency occurs

Answer

To assist the operator from another MEWP

Answer

To control access to the exclusion zone

Answer

To complete the pre-use check for the operator

Question 5

Why should a MEWP operator always wear a harness with a lanyard attached to the designated anchor point?

Accepted Answer

To prevent being ejected from the platform in the event of a sudden jolt, collision, or platform failure

Answer

Because harnessing is compulsory for all work at height regardless of MEWP type

Answer

Harnesses are only required on boom lifts, not scissor lifts

Answer

To attach tools so they do not fall from the platform

Question 6

What is 'suspension trauma' and why is it relevant to MEWP rescue?

Accepted Answer

A potentially life-threatening condition caused by hanging in a harness for too long — rescue must be rapid and the casualty treated carefully when lowered

Answer

A type of structural failure in suspension-boom MEWPs

Answer

Trauma caused by the vibration of MEWP travel

Answer

Only relevant if the harness was incorrectly fitted