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Aerial Lift/MEWP Training & Certification

Meets all aerial lift training requirements set by OSHA. Covers both boom and scissor lifts.

 

We Offer Six Types of Aerial Lift Safety Trainings

Our OSHA Aligned MEWP operator certification courses not only cover both boom lifts and scissor lifts but are also updated to reflect the most recent changes made to the ANSI A92 standard for mobile elevated work platforms. Whether you want aerial lift certification in as little as two hours with our online training or a more robust, customizable option like you get with our DIY training kits or on-site training, we can help you get the health and safety training you want in the way you want it and at a price you can afford.

 
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Online Training

Online training is for those who prefer self-paced training from any location and/or for employers who need to assign and monitor employee training progress and exam scores.

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Training Kits

The training kit is for those who want the freedom of doing the training themselves. It is an PowerPoint Presentation (PPT) that you can present yourself to a group of trainees.

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Train the Trainer

Train the Trainer courses are online and meant to certify a individual to use the training kit to train others. Training kit and materials are included with the Train the Trainer online course for no additional cost.

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Online Training - Competent Person
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Online Training – Competent Person

Competent person training takes a more in-depth approach to safety on the job. The competent person trainings covers everything regular employees need plus the additional responsibilities placed on the competent person/employee.

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Training Kit - Competent Person
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Training Kit – Competent Person

Competent person training takes a more in-depth approach to safety on the job. The competent person trainings cover everything regular employees need plus the additional responsibilities placed on the competent person/employee.

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Train the Trainer - Competent Person icon

Train the Trainer – Competent Person

Competent person training takes a more in-depth approach to safety on the job. The competent person trainings cover everything regular employees need plus the additional responsibilities placed on the competent person/employee.

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What’s in the Aerial Lift (MEWP) Training Course?

Our Aerial Lift Safety Training course is regulation-aligned, and our online version fulfills classroom training requirements. Each class contains sections on equipment and anatomy, maintenance and inspections, safe operations and stability, common hazards, and more.

This presentation includes intermittent practice quiz questions to prepare for the final written exam included with the boom and scissor lift training course. In addition to the written aerial lift test, this course also includes a checklist for employers to use when administering a practical exam as required. 

Estimated Training Length: Because everyone learns and progresses at different speeds, the amount of time you spend taking this training will vary. However, the estimated time for this training is 2- 2.5 hours.

Training Scope: Course Goals: Intended Audience:
 

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For most courses, we offer OSHA trainings in English and Spanish, CAL/OSHA trainings in English, and Canada trainings in English. See all of our options!

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MEWP Certification Standards

U.S. Standards

  • ANSI A92.2 – Vehicle Mounted Elevating and Rotating Aerial Devices
  • ANSI A92.3 – Manually Propelled Elevating Aerial Platforms
  • A92.5 – Boom Supported Elevating Work Platforms
  • A92.6 – Self-Propelled Elevating Work Platforms
  • A92.8 – Vehicle Mounted Bridge Inspection and Maintenance Devices
  • A92.20 – Design, Calculations, Safety Requirements, Test Methods for MEWPs
  • A92.22 – Safe Use of MEWPs
  • A92.24 – Training Requirements for MEWP Operators
  • 1910 Subpart F – Powered Platforms, Man lifts, Vehicle Mounted Work Platforms
  • 1910.23 – Guarding Floor and Wall Openings and Holes
  • 1910.28 – Safety Requirements for Scaffolding
  • 1910.29 – Manually Propelled Mobile Ladder Stands and Scaffolds (Towers)
  • 1910.67 – Vehicle Mounted elevating and rotating work platforms
  • 1910.333 – Selection and Use of Work Practices Shipyards
  • 1915.71 – Scaffolds or Staging Construction
  • 1926, Subpart L – Scaffolds
  • 1926.21 – Safety Training and Education
  • 1926.451 – General Requirements
  • 1926.452 – Additional Requirements to Specific Types of Scaffolds
  • 1926.453 – Aerial Lifts
  • 1926.454 – Training Requirements
  • 1926.501, 502 – Duty to have Fall Protection
  • 1926.556 – Aerial Lifts
  • CAL/OSHA Requirements

  • ANSI A92.2 (Vehicle Mounted Elevating and Rotating Aerial Devices)
  • ANSI A92.3 (Manually Propelled Elevating Aerial Platforms)
  • A92.5 (Boom Supported Elevating Work Platforms)
  • A92.6 (Self-Propelled Elevating Work Platforms)
  • A92.8 (Vehicle Mounted Bridge Inspection and Maintenance Devices) 
  • A92.20 (Design, Calculations, Safety Requirements, Test Methods for MEWPs)
  • A92.22 (Safe Use of MEWPs)
  • A92.24 (Training Requirements for MEWP Operators)
  • Article 6 Powered Platforms and Equipment for Building Maintenance
  • 3638 Equipment Instructions and Marking
  • 3639 Factors of Safety in Design of Work Platform Assembly
  • 3640 Maintenance and Repairs
  • 3642 Platform Equipment
  • 3643 Guarding of Moving Parts
  • 3645 Stability on Inclined Surfaces
  • 3646 Operating Instructions (Elevating Work Platforms)
  • 3648 Operating Instructions (Aerial Devices)
  • 3626 Mobile Work Platforms
  • Canada Standards

  • CAN/CSA B354.1 – (PORTABLE ELEVATING WORK PLATFORMS)
  • CAN/CSA B354.2 – (SELF-PROPELLED ELEVATING PLATFORMS)
  • CAN/CSA B354.4 – (SELF-PROPELLED BOOM SUPPORTED)
  • CAN/CSA B354.5 – (MAST CLIMBING)
  • CAN/CSA B354.6 – (DESIGN)
  • CAN/CSA B354.7 – (SAFE USE)
  • CAN/CSA B354.8 – (TRAINING)
  • CAN/CSA C225 – (VEHICLE MOUNTED AERIAL DEVICES)
  • CAN/CSA Z259 – AND SUBSECTIONS (FALL PROTECTION, ARREST)
  • CAN/CSA Z271 – (SAFETY CODE FOR ELEVATING PLATFORMS)
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    Train the Trainer Certification

    The Train the Trainer option is used to certify a trainer to teach others using the included training kit. It incorporates the online course with an additional train the trainer module, as well as the training kit. This option results in an regulation-aligned lifetime trainer certification from Hard Hat Training. This certification is not company-specific, meaning you can take it with you should you change employers.

    Why Do I Need Aerial Lift Safety Training?

    In line with regulations, anyone who operates heavy equipment must receive training prior to operating the machine on their own. Requirements for refresher training and other processes are very specific. Most other equipment doesn’t have such specific OSHA training requirements, but it’s wise to follow the same guidelines.

    When it comes to refresher health and safety training, the standards in some instances (like forklifts) are very specific: operators must be re-evaluated every three years to see if they are still competent to operate the equipment. Best practices say to apply this same rule to all types of equipment. A so-called “free-pass” cannot be awarded based on experience, age, or time on the job. The extent of the evaluation is to be determined by the employer but should include a written and practical examination that proves continued competency.

    Stay Informed On All Things Aerial Lift (MEWP)

    Did You Know?

    Falls are the leading cause of death in the U.S., killing more than 200 U.S. construction workers annually.

    1,380 workers were injured operating an aerial or scissor lift from 2011-2014.

    From 2011-2014, 87 workers died while operating a scissor lift. (Source: CDC).

    An average of 26 construction workers die each year from using aerial lifts. (Source: eLCOSH.org).

    NIOSH uses the term ‘aerial lifts’ as an overarching term to capture multiple types of lifts, such as scissor lifts and boom lifts. It is important to note that both OSHA and ANSI standards vary for different types of lifts. (Source: CDC.gov).

     
     

    Aerial Lift Safety Training/MEWP Training Frequently Asked Questions

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    Do you offer group training online enabling everyone to take the training at one time on a single computer?

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    Yes, this is a custom option. To sign up please fill out our group training sign up forms. We will notify you via email when everything set up for your aerial lift group training. Because this is a custom option in order to get your certificates from a group training you must email us the names of the trainees who passed the exam so we can reply with each individual’s certificate.

    How do you give safety training OSHA requires?

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    You have a few different options when it comes to health and safety training to get aligned. Our options include:

    1. DIY Safety Training Kits: Comes with all the training material necessary to conduct employee training for an unlimited number of people, plus it’s reusable View Kits.
    2. Online Safety Training Courses: Pay per person. This is a great option for companies who need to assign and monitor employee training progress View Online Courses.
    3. Train the Trainer Safety Courses: An option for those who want to train a specific individual to train others. View Train the Trainer Courses.
    4. Onsite Training: We come to you to train your people at their own worksite. Get an Onsite Quote.

    Do you offer a aligned OSHA aerial lift safety training PowerPoint option?

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    Yes, our Aerial Lift Training Kit . contains a aligned OSHA aerial lift training PowerPoint presentation (aka: boom and scissor lift training PowerPoint presentation) along with training videos, exams, the student manual, posters and more.

    What other health and safety training courses do you offer?

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    Personal Protective Equipment Training, Forklift Training, Skid Steer Training, Rigger Training, Driver Safety, HAZWOPER Training (24 hour course), Crane Safety Training, Chemical Hazards, Confined Spaces Training and Hazardous Communication Training are among our most popular courses. We have been providing training solutions for 10+ years. Rest assured that all of our courses are 100% OSHA or CANADA aligned (whichever applies). Safety and health training does not have to be difficult and confusing. Let us help. View our Course Catalog to find everything you might need to complete employee training and get aligned and create a safety culture at your company preventing injury and illness.

    What is the difference between the different types of aerial lifts?

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    First, scissor lifts and boom lifts are not the same. In fact, they fall under different standards. But there are very similar principles involved with safely operating them, so we’ve combined them into one training program. Now, over the years various types of aerial lifts have come into the market. Each is better suited to handle certain jobs when compared to others. For this reason, it is vital you understand what type of aerial lift is best for the job at hand.

    Generally speaking, there are five main types you should be familiar with

    Scissor Lifts: Scissor lifts are perhaps the most common type of aerial work platform. Some have cushion tires for work in warehouses. Other scissor lifts have pneumatic tires and can traverse over rough terrain. They scissor up and down vertically and, depending on the type, can hold multiple workers at a time.

    Scissor lifts have controls on the platform and ground controls. They are self-propelled when lowered. Fall arrest gear may be required.

    Boom Lifts: Boom personnel work platforms are also a very common sight. They come in the form of stiff booms that do not extend outward, just up and down. Other boom lifts, called telescopic boom lifts, telescope out and have a higher reach. Both have controls that allow the operator to drive when lowered, or to raise, lower, tilt or rotate the boom as needed. Fall arrest gear is always required.

    Articulating Boom Lifts (Knuckle Boom Lifts): Another type of hydraulic boom lift, these lifts knuckle or bend at various points along the boom. This allows operators to maneuver around obstacles or down into areas straight booms might not otherwise reach. Fall arrest gear is again required.

    Vertical Lifts: Vertical lifts are typically used by one worker. The basket is attached to a mechanism that extends up and down a mast. They are great for small spaced. Fall arrest gear is required.

    Vehicle Mounted Aerial Lifts: This type of aerial lift is commonly known as a bucket truck. They are primarily used by companies that deal with electrical wires, tree trimming, or signage. The buckets are often insulated for work around power lines. Some buckets, though, are made of metal and have a winch and hoisting capabilities.

    How often is aerial lift training required?

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    OSHA requires aerial lift training for aerial lift operators–on that there is no question. Where confusion exists is how often operators need aerial lift refresher training or recertification. Outside of the initial safety training class, it is common to hear of companies saying aerial lift training is required every three years. We are one of them. And here’s why:

    As far as this 3-year aerial lift certification goes, OSHA regulations are very specific when it comes to forklifts and a couple of other pieces of equipment. However, on everything else they are not so clear. They just state the employer must regularly provide safety training for their aerial lift operators. Following industry best practices, we’ve adopted this 3-year term in order to help employers comply with the general standard of regularly providing and proving aerial lift training. Ultimately, it is up to the employer to determine how frequently their aerial lift operators need to be trained. Many of our customers require it more often, annually even. Others may stretch it out a bit. In working with OSHA, though, it is our experience that they like to see employers adopt the strictest standard when the regulations are not clear. For instance, we know of companies that didn’t train every three years and were reprimanded by OSHA for not offering additional training more often. It is not uncommon for OSHA to refer to the forklift standard as the pattern by which training should be carried out for other pieces of equipment. On a side note, OSHA is slowly but surely making training requirements specific for other pieces of equipment so there are no gray areas. Mobile cranes and aerial lifts, for instance, are all undergoing potential changes to the regulations that will reference training specifically.

    So, with that in mind, we say aerial lift operators must be re-evaluated every three years to determine if they are still competent enough to operate. We also state that this every-three-year bucket truck evaluation is the maximum time that should be allowed to pass before an operator receives aerial lift re-certification. According to OSHA there are several instances that will require additional aerial lift training and observation before the three year period is up:

    – Aerial lift operator is observed in an accident or a near miss
    – Aerial lift operator received a poor evaluation or is observed driving in a dangerous manner
    – The aerial lift operator is assigned to drive a different type of aerial lifts or the workplace has changed significantly enough to require additional bucket truck training (such as being transferred from operating an aerial lift used to hoist signs to a bucket truck used for trimming trees).

    I’ve received safety and health scissor lift training. Can I operate an aerial boom lift or cherry picker?

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    Not likely. OSHA requires aerial lift operators to receive aerial lift training for each type of aerial lift. On this term, “type,” there is much confusion. Generally speaking, by “type” OSHA means scissor lift vs. boom lift vs. hydraulic personnel lift vs. vehicle mounted aerial lift vs. telescopic boom lift, etc. For example, say you have always operated a scissor lift in a warehouse but have suddenly been asked to operate a boom lift on a construction site. In this case, you would need additional boom lift training specific to telescopic boom aerial lifts.

    If you have received scissor lift training in a warehouse and have always operated a Genie scissor lift, but then are asked to operate a JLG scissor lift, you should be just fine to operate under the same scissor lift training certification received previously. Keep in mind though, controls can differ greatly from brand to brand, so in some cases, you may need additional instruction or a quick refresher training to make sure you are clear on what each control does.

    I’ve operated scissor lifts for 30 years. Do I need to take a class, a written exam, and a practical exam still? Or can I just take a written test?

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    No matter how long you’ve been on the job, OSHA requires scissor lift training, a scissor lift written exam, and a practical scissor lift evaluation. There is no way around it. This goes for other types of aerial lifts too. The extent of the classroom training can be adapted by the instructor according to student needs. The written exam proves mental competency and understanding of the safety principles taught. And the practical evaluation proves the scissor lift operator not only understands but is capable of operating the machine safely. In the opinion of many, the practical evaluation is of the greatest overall value, but all components are necessary. Our aerial lift training online courses (scissor lift training) and our aerial lift training powerpoint kits (scissor lift training) both meet these requirements and include exams.

    I received aerial lift training/scissor lift training at a different job. Do I need to be trained again by my new employer?

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    Scissor lift training, boom lift training, bucket truck training–this is a common question, especially among laborers-for-hire who may sub out from job to job. Technically, it is your current employer who is responsible for saying whether or not you have been trained specifically for the type of aerial lift and job. For example, if you bring a scissor lift training certificate or wallet card to your new employer, they do not have to accept it. It is their right to require you to take their own training class. This is because if there is an accident, they will likely be responsible and need to prove to OSHA that they trained you on scissor lift operations.

    Can you explain aerial lift certification? Who can train, evaluate, and certify operators?

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    This, above all, causes a lot of confusion. Bottom line, OSHA states that employers are responsible to train their employees. Generally speaking, there are three ways they can do this:

    In terms of using a 3rd part of an employee safety training companies materials (like our aerial lift training powerpoint kits or our aerial lift training classes online) OSHA does not recognize one company over another. They simply state that ‘training needs to occur’ and ‘here are the things an aerial lift operator should be trained on.’

    When we do live training or offer aerial lift training online, people often assume we are the ones certifying the trainees. This is not true for any training company. We are simply assisting the employer by providing live aerial lift training or the training materials needed to help them aerial lift certify their employees.

    How do I take the aerial lift practical evaluation if I take aerial lift training online?

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    The online aerial lift training class covers OSHA requirements for the classroom portion. Many employers prefer online training because they know exactly what aerial lift training the operator will receive. In live classes, the training sometimes varies. A written exam is included at the end of our online training courses. After the aerial lift class and exam are finished, you and your safety managers will have immediate access to a practical evaluation checklist. This can be printed off and used by your supervisor to help him or her evaluate you on the aerial lift. When done, they can sign it and file it with your exam. This will satisfy OSHA requirements for aerial lift certification.

    Do I have to wear fall protection in an aerial lift?

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    It depends. Fall prevention is a major concern at every worksite. Yet there is a lot of confusion. Depending on where you live, some standards require fall arrest gear (body harness, lanyard, anchorage point) at four feet above ground level, and other places require it at six or ten feet. You need to be familiar with your specific area. However, to make simple, fall protection is always required on aerial lifts.

    On both scissor lifts and self-propelled boom lifts, the safety railings and gates constitute fall protection. Additionally, harnesses and lanyards are required at all times on boom lifts.

    As far as scissor lifts are concerned, the guardrail is the minimum type of fall protection required. The reason for this is some scissor lifts are not rated to withstand the added weight of a fall. If fall protection was worn, the sudden increase could cause the scissor lift to tip, thus injuring others too. However, some scissor lifts are appropriately load rated, so certain manufacturers may require operators to wear fall arrest gear 100% of the time. Before you tie into a scissor lift, check the operator’s manual to determine if your particular lift allows for fall arrest systems.

    Can I use a scissor lift, aerial lift, bucket truck, or boom lift to hoist a load?

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    No. Scissor lifts, aerial lifts, bucket truck, and boom lifts are not typically designed for this purpose. The one exception would be certain types of bucket trucks used in the sign industry. These vehicle mounted aerial lifts come equipped with a winch and hoisting capabilities. They are specifically designed to lift loads. But you should never use your aerial lift to lift a load if it was not manufactured to do so. Doing this will affect the stability and tipping point of your aerial lift and can easily lead to tip over. Consult your operator’s manual and aerial lift manufacturer if you have questions.

    My trainee scored 80% on the training exam. Did he pass or fail?

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    Contrary to popular belief, OSHA does not dictate what a passing score entails. That is ultimately up to the employer whose responsibility it is to certify, or authorize, their employee to operate an aerial lift. If you want to pass him at 80%, fine. But what if a question or two among the 20% missed could lead to an accident or death? Is it worth it? Our recommendation is that you always go over any missed questions with your trainees—even if they just missed one. Once they understand the principle missed, have them write their initials by the correct answer. That way, you are protecting them and those around them from potential accidents in the future.

    What is a MEWP?

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    MEWP Definition: MEWP is an acronym that stands for Mobile Elevating Work Platform. Basically, they are machines that elevate workers without the use of scaffolding.

    When do the new ANSI standards and MEWP regulations go into effect?

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    Aerial equipment owners and operators must be in alignment by December 10, 2019, with the new ANSI aerial lift training requirements. Our Aerial Lift Training fulfills that requirement through your choice of a DIY classroom training kit, online training or onsite training. You will receive your aerial lift certification and wallet card immediately upon finishing the training and passing the included exam with a score of 80% or higher (you get two chances at the exam).

    What are the most common types of aerial lifts?

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    There are several different machines that are considered MEWPs or Aerial Lifts. Some of the most common are as follows (in no particular order):

    • Scissor lifts
    • Bucket trucks
    • Knuckle booms
    • Boom lifts
    • Boom trucks
    • Telehandlers

     

    See Purchase Options

    For most courses, we offer OSHA trainings in English and Spanish, CAL/OSHA trainings in English, and Canada trainings in English. See all of our options!

    View Purchase Options

    Details Preventing Aerial Lift Accidents

    What Happened

    Aerial lifts are notorious for horrific accidents. Managing certain details prevents aerial lift accidents, but this is often set aside.  Just recently, a double-death case was discussed in which two workers fell 70 feet to their deaths. The aerial lift was set up on a slope, where it tipped. Other factors were involved in the accident as well, but are difficult to confirm. Some say that ground quality also contributed to the tragic tip.

    Details matter when preventing aerial lift accidents. It is highly probable that the main reason the Genie failed was simply setting up on a slope. However, the combination of multiple missed or skipped details also contributed to the tragedy. We will share four of many details that promote the greatest assurance of safety.

    Detail #1

    The first detail to keep tabs on aerial lift accidents is pre-shift inspections. It sounds so simple and it is, but it is also often rushed or ignored. Know that your aerial lift is in proper working order before performing a task. Inspections also allow adjustments when needed.

    Pre-shift inspections also include testing each function, confirming the lift mechanism runs smoothly and can hold the weight, and other maintenance is updated, such as tires and other needs.

    Detail #2

    Understand your individual aerial lift’s stability set-up, which is the second important detail to bear in mind. Often this stability is adjusted by weight, especially the weight the machine is lifting. This stability can also shift when over-extending. Know the manufacturer’s individual recommendations for your aerial lift. For OSHA Requirements on aerial lifts, see here.

    Detail #3

    Like a chef knows his knife, know your machine. Each aerial lift, even of similar brand and make, have subtle differences. This determines whether a job’s outcome is positive or negative. Practice running the machine smoothly. Spend time using the machine in safe environments.

    Detail #4

    The final detail for combatting aerial lift accidents is paying attention to your environment. Basically, this can mean pedestrians, weather, and parking on or near slopes. Be especially cautious with hazardous jobs on the aerial lift, such as welding or cutting tree limbs. If you are the lift operator, maintain regular visual and audio contact with those on the lift.