IPAF - the International Powered Access Federation - has published a new online training course for aerial work platform 'spotters' whose job it is to assist the tradesmen working from the platform to safely position the lift, particularly when visibility is limited, helping to avoid hazards and obstacles.
The ‘MEWP Spotter’ trainer course, as it is being called, is theory based and takes around two and a half hours to complete, and is done entirely online. Participants who pass a final test receive a qualification valid for five years. The training covers spotter responsibilities, safe positioning, exclusion zones, communication methods such as hand signals, and hazard awareness.
IPAF training manager Paul Roddis said: “This new course demonstrates what is possible when IPAF works in partnership with its contractor members to develop practical solutions for the industry. Together, we have created something exceptional that I firmly believe will save lives. If you’re involved in helping an operator to safely manoeuvre an aerial work platform into position, this is the course for you. Likewise, we recommend the course is also taken by operators, supervisors and site managers, to ensure everyone on site understands the spotter’s role, hand signals and where the spotter should be safely positioned.”
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