International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) has announced the launch of a new eLearning MEWP Spotter Training Course, designed for individuals who assist mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) operators in safely manoeuvring equipment on site.
The course is delivered entirely online, offering a flexible, theory-based learning experience that candidates can complete at their own pace. Through the use of interactive graphics, videos and real-world scenarios, learners are guided through the key principles of safe MEWP spotting across a variety of worksite environments.
Typically taking around two and a half hours to complete, the course concludes with an online assessment. Successful candidates receive a qualification valid for five years.
A MEWP Spotter plays a critical role in supporting safe operations at height, observing activities in real time and communicating with the operator to help avoid hazards that may not be visible from the platform. The role has increasingly been adopted by contractors as part of their risk management processes, helping to reduce incidents and improve overall site safety.
The course covers essential areas including:
- The responsibilities of a MEWP Spotter
- Safe positioning and exclusion zone management
- Recognised hand signals and communication techniques
- Key hazards and risk mitigation
- Principles of safe MEWP operation
The introduction of standardised training for MEWP Spotters represents a positive step towards improving competence and consistency across the industry, supporting safer working practices for those involved in work at height.
The course is now available through IPAF-approved training centres.