IPAF Safe Working Load & Stability 2

Question 1

What is 'outrigger pad pressure' and why must it be within safe limits?

Accepted Answer

The force per unit area exerted by the outrigger on the ground — it must not exceed the ground's bearing capacity

Answer

Outrigger pad pressure is the load from the MEWP divided by the pad contact area. It must not exceed the ground's bearing capacity; otherwise the outrigger punches through the ground, causing the machine to tilt or overturn.

Question 2

What precaution should be taken when a MEWP is operating near an excavation?

Accepted Answer

Maintain a safe standoff distance determined by the depth, soil type, and machine weight to prevent edge collapse

Answer

Operating near an excavation risks edge collapse from the MEWP's surcharge load. A safe standoff distance must be calculated by a competent person based on excavation depth, soil conditions, and machine weight.

Question 3

What does 'dynamic stability' mean in the context of MEWP operation?

Accepted Answer

The stability of the MEWP when in motion — travel with a raised platform reduces stability compared to a stationary machine

Answer

Dynamic stability refers to the machine's stability when in motion. Travelling with an elevated platform significantly reduces stability compared to a stationary machine — most manufacturers prohibit or strictly limit this.

Question 4

What effect does uneven ground have on MEWP stability?

Accepted Answer

It tilts the machine, raising its centre of gravity relative to its base and increasing overturning risk — must not exceed tilt alarm limit

Answer

Uneven ground tilts the MEWP, shifting its centre of gravity and reducing its overturning margin. The tilt alarm indicates when the safe gradient limit has been reached and operation must stop.

Question 5

A MEWP operator wants to lean out of the platform to reach a work area. What should they do instead?

Accepted Answer

Reposition the MEWP so the work area is within reach without leaning — never lean out beyond the platform rails

Answer

Leaning out beyond the platform guard rails shifts the operator's weight outside the machine's designed stability envelope. The correct action is to reposition the MEWP so the task can be completed without leaning.

IPAF PAL Card Practice Test

IPAF PAL Card Practice Test

IPAF Safe Working Load & Stability 2