Below are short descriptions of each MEWP training course category, based on the information sourced directly from AITT and ITSSAR. Ensure that before organising your course, you are receiving training in the correct category.
Here are the most common MEWP categories:
(1a) Static Vertical
1a Static Vertical systems are MEWPs which exclusively elevate vertically and can only be operated when stationary. These MEWPs can be moved around and driven into position, as long as they are stowed and are not being used. In order to begin use, they must have outriggers or stabilisers deployed before the platform is elevated. These systems tend to come in the form of trailers with scissor lift mechanisms but can vary.
(1b) Static Boom/Cherry Picker
1b Static Booms (or cherry pickers) are MEWPs capable of both vertical and horizontal platform movement, enabling them to reach further and in different directions. They can appear as road-legal, drivable vehicles like vans and trucks, as towable trailers or on a dedicated track-mounted chassis.
There is a large amount of variety in the static boom category, but all share a single trait – in order to be operated and used, the MEWPs must be stationary. In the same way as the 1a static vertical MEWPs, these platforms must have jacks or stabilisers deployed before they can be elevated.
(3a) Mobile Vertical
3a Mobile Vertical systems only permit vertical elevation but benefit from the variety of lift mechanisms they can use, as well as from being self-propelled. Mobile Vertical MEWPs can utilise scissor, vertical mast or sigma lift systems to elevate users above the ground and don’t require jacks or stabilisers to be used, meaning that they can be driven and moved during elevation.
On occasion, for large 3a MEWPs with a particularly high maximum elevation, there are height restrictions in place for when stabilisers must be used. Whilst these systems are still in the 3a category, when this elevation height restriction is exceeded, they must remain stationary during usage.
(3b) Mobile Boom/Cherry Picker
3b Mobile Booms conclude the primary MEWP categories and can appear in many different forms. Utilising both telescopic and articulated elevation mechanisms, mobile booms have extensive reach potential and benefit from being self-propelled and mobile even when elevated or in use. These vehicles can be powered through a variety of means and give complete freedom to the user.
