IPAF PUWER, LOLER & Operator Responsibilities

Question 1

How does LOLER apply to MEWP operations?

Accepted Answer

MEWPs are lifting equipment used to lift persons — they must be thoroughly examined every 6 months under LOLER

Answer

MEWPs lift persons and are therefore subject to the most stringent LOLER requirements. This includes thorough examination every 6 months (not 12 months) and all LOLER planning and competency requirements.

Question 2

Under PUWER, who is responsible for ensuring a MEWP is suitable for its intended use?

Accepted Answer

The employer or any person with control of the MEWP

Answer

PUWER places responsibility on the employer or any person with control of the work equipment. When hiring, both the hire company and the hirer share responsibility for ensuring suitability.

Question 3

What must an operator do before using a hired MEWP for the first time on site?

Accepted Answer

Carry out a pre-use inspection, verify the LOLER certificate is current, confirm their training covers the machine's category, and read the operator's manual

Answer

Before using a hired MEWP, the operator must carry out a pre-use inspection, check the LOLER certificate is current, confirm their PAL card covers the machine's IPAF category, and familiarise themselves with the specific machine's controls.

Question 4

What is the operator's legal duty under PUWER if they identify a defect during MEWP operation?

Accepted Answer

Stop using the MEWP, secure it, and report the defect to the responsible person

Answer

Under PUWER, operators have a duty to report defects. If a defect is identified during operation, the MEWP must be stopped, secured, and the defect reported immediately. Continuing to operate defective equipment is illegal.

Question 5

Under LOLER, what must be done before a MEWP is returned to service after a structural repair?

Accepted Answer

A thorough examination by a competent person must confirm the equipment is safe for use

Answer

After a structural repair, LOLER requires a thorough examination by a competent person to confirm the equipment is safe before it is returned to service, regardless of the quality of the repair.

IPAF PAL Card Practice Test

IPAF PAL Card Practice Test

IPAF PUWER, LOLER & Operator Responsibilities