Who Needs MEWP Operator Training?

Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) are essential tools in many industries for work at height, and proper operator training is crucial to promote a safe work environment for everyone on the job site. Whether working on a construction project or doing facility maintenance, key groups of individuals should consider completing MEWP operator training.

Equipment Users

The primary audience for MEWP operator training is, of course, those who will directly operate the equipment, including (but not limited to):

• Contractors and subcontractors
• Construction workers
• Maintenance personnel
• Installation or repair technicians
• Anyone who uses this type of equipment for elevated work tasks

Operator training helps to:

• Understand the equipment's operational features and how to operate safely
• Learn about safety protocols and safe practices when working around MEWPs

Supervisors and Managers

Anyone directly supervising MEWP operators, including site supervisors and project managers, is considered a "supervisor" under the ANSI A92 standard and must take specific supervisor training. Those overseeing projects that involve MEWPs need to be trained on:

• Proper MEWP selection
• Potential MEWP hazards and how to protect against them
• MEWP rules, regulations and standards
• Storing manufacturer’s operation manuals

In addition to the supervisor training, supervisors may also want to take MEWP operator training, even if they will not be operating the machines themselves. This ensures that they can understand basic MEWP operation principles, recognize safety concerns and effectively manage their team’s use of MEWPs.

Safety Officers & Trainers

Health and safety professionals play a crucial role in maintaining an organization’s safe work environment. Those who are responsible for educating should also be well-versed in these machines’ operation, including:

• Understand specific risks associated with MEWPs
• Develop effective safety measures and procedures
• Enforce compliance with safety standards

Administrative Personnel

Staff handling machine scheduling, equipment allocation or compliance documentation should have a basic understanding of MEWP operation and safety.

Students and Apprentices

Individuals in vocational training programs or apprenticeships that involve working at heights should receive MEWP operator training as part of their education. This prepares them for future work environments.

Why MEWP Operator Training Matters

Comprehensive MEWP operator training across these groups offers several benefits, including:

• Enhanced Safety: Reducing the risk of accidents and injuries on job sites
• Regulatory Compliance: Meeting legal requirements for MEWP operation and workplace safety
• Improved Efficiency: Ensuring proper use of equipment, leading to more efficient operations and less downtime
• Emergency Preparedness: Equipping personnel to respond quickly and effectively in crisis situations

Organizations can create a workplace safety culture by ensuring that all relevant personnel receive appropriate MEWP training while meeting their legal and ethical obligations to protect workers and the public.

MEWP Operator Training from JLG

JLG offers industry-leading MEWP training courses through JLG University and its network of qualified trainers, who have completed the Train-the-Trainer program and demonstrated their expertise, to bring safety and confidence to employers and employees. From online supervisor training to MEWP operator and equipment service training, JLG’s comprehensive training fits everyone’s needs.

Learn more about JLG training solutions at JLG University.