MEWP (Mobile Elevated Work Platform) Courses

A MEWP (Mobile Elevated Work Platform) is a mechanical device used to provide temporary access for people to work safely at height. The main types include scissor lifts (Category 3a), which move vertically only, and boom lifts (Category 3b), which include articulated and telescopic booms that provide both vertical and horizontal reach. Other types include vehicle-mounted platforms and mast climbers. MEWPs are commonly known by names such as cherry pickers, scissor lifts, aerial work platforms, and access platforms.

While there is no single statutory licence required to operate a MEWP in the UK, the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and PUWER 1998 require that operators must be competent, which means they must have received adequate training. In practice, most employers and principal contractors require RTITB or IPAF certification as proof of competence. Many construction sites will not allow you to operate a MEWP without a valid operator card. An RTITB MEWP licence is widely regarded as the industry standard.

The RTITB MEWP Operator Licence is valid for 3 years from the date of successful completion. After 3 years, you will need to complete a refresher course to renew your certification. We recommend booking your refresher before your licence expires to ensure continuous compliance. Your licence is registered on the RTITB national database, making it easy for employers and site managers to verify your qualification.

Category 3a covers scissor lifts — platforms that move vertically only, with no horizontal outreach capability. These are commonly used in warehouses, retail environments, and for indoor maintenance. Category 3b covers boom lifts, including both articulated and telescopic booms, which can extend both vertically and horizontally. These are used on construction sites and outdoors where you need to reach up and over obstacles. You can train on one or both categories depending on your needs.

Yes, we offer on-site MEWP training across the entire UK. On-site delivery is often more cost-effective for businesses with multiple operators to train, and has the advantage of training your team on your own equipment in the actual environment they will be working in. We bring all necessary training materials. Contact us for a tailored quote based on your location, number of delegates, MEWP categories required, and specific equipment.

You should wear safety footwear (steel toe cap boots), comfortable clothing suitable for practical outdoor work, and a high-visibility vest or jacket. A safety harness and lanyard are required when operating boom lifts (Category 3b) — we can provide these if you do not have your own. Bring something to write with for the theory elements. All training equipment, including MEWPs, is provided by us.

RTITB and IPAF are both recognised accrediting bodies for MEWP operator training in the UK. Both qualifications are widely accepted across the industry and demonstrate operator competence. The main difference is the accrediting body behind the certification. RTITB accreditation is particularly well-recognised in warehouse, logistics, and material handling environments, while IPAF has a strong presence in construction. Most employers accept either qualification.

You can book by calling us on 020 3026 4629, completing the enquiry form on this page, or emailing us directly. For on-site training or group bookings of multiple delegates, contact us for a personalised quote. We offer flexible scheduling to suit your business needs, and finance options are available through Payl8r for individual bookings.