IPAF Ground Conditions and Stability

Question 1

Before positioning a MEWP, what must be assessed about the ground conditions?

Accepted Answer

The load-bearing capacity, levelness, presence of voids or underground services, and surface condition

Answer

A thorough assessment of ground conditions must cover load-bearing capacity (can it support the machine's total weight?), levelness (is it within the machine's gradient limits?), presence of underground services (drains, cables, voids), and surface condition (soft, wet, loose, or unstable ground).

Question 2

What is the primary risk of operating a MEWP on ground that is not level?

Accepted Answer

The machine may overturn due to the shifted centre of gravity

Answer

Operating on unlevel ground shifts the machine's centre of gravity, significantly increasing the risk of overturning — the most dangerous type of MEWP incident. Most MEWPs have a maximum operating gradient of 3-5 degrees, and exceeding this can be fatal.

Question 3

What precaution must be taken when positioning a MEWP near an excavation or trench?

Accepted Answer

Maintain a safe distance equal to at least the depth of the excavation from the edge, to prevent collapse

Answer

A MEWP must be positioned at a safe distance from excavation edges — generally at least equal to the depth of the excavation. The weight of the MEWP can cause the excavation sides to collapse, potentially overturning the machine into the trench.

Question 4

Why are spreader plates used under MEWP outriggers?

Accepted Answer

To distribute the point load over a larger area, preventing the outrigger from sinking into soft ground

Answer

Spreader plates distribute the concentrated point load from the outrigger foot over a much larger surface area. Without them, the outrigger can sink into soft ground, causing the machine to tilt and potentially overturn, especially when the platform is elevated with a load.

Question 5

A MEWP is to be used on a suspended floor (such as a car park deck). What additional assessment is required?

Accepted Answer

The structural load capacity of the floor must be confirmed by a competent person before the MEWP is positioned

Answer

Before placing a MEWP on a suspended floor, the structural load-bearing capacity must be assessed by a competent structural engineer. The combined weight of the MEWP, operator, materials, and dynamic loads during operation must not exceed the floor's design load.

IPAF PAL Card Practice Test

IPAF PAL Card Practice Test

IPAF Ground Conditions and Stability