MEWP Combo (Scissor and Boom)
The Mobile Elevating Work Platform Operator course prepares workers to operate both scissor lifts and boom lifts safely and confidently. This full-day program combines classroom instruction with hands-on training to build the knowledge and practical skills required to operate MEWPs in accordance with Canadian safety standards.
Participants learn how to identify equipment types and components, perform pre-use inspections and function tests, interpret data plates and operator manuals, and apply safe work practices related to capacity, slope, and environmental conditions. The course includes hands-on training with one scissor lift and one boom lift to demonstrate real-world application of inspection, stability, and operational control.
Upon completion, participants are qualified to operate the classes of MEWPs covered in the training but are still required to complete site- and model-specific familiarization or orientation before using any make or model not covered during training, as required by both CSA B354.8 and equipment manufacturers.
This program aligns with CAN/CSA-B354.8:17 – Mobile Elevating Work Platforms: Operator (Driver) Training and incorporates inspection and operational elements from CAN/CSA-B354.7:17 – Safety Principles, Inspection, Maintenance and Operation. Successful participants demonstrate both theoretical and practical competence before receiving a three-year certificate of completion (industry best practice, not a regulatory requirement).
Topics Covered
- Regulatory framework, responsibilities (employer/supervisor/operator), and manufacturer instructions
- MEWP groups & types; selection for the job (scissor vs boom)
- Reading the operator’s manual, decals, and capacity charts
- Hazard recognition and controls: tip-over, entrapment/crush, electrical contact/arc, weather & wind, slopes/edges/ground conditions, traffic/pedestrians
- Pre-use inspection and function tests; defect reporting & lockout
- Workplace/site assessment and setup: support surface, overhead/underground hazards, barricades/spotters
- Safe operating practices: stability, platform capacity & reach limits, drive/elevate, positioning, traveling while elevated, shutdown/parking
- Fall protection on MEWPs: when required, anchor points, harness use, rescue considerations
- Emergency procedures: emergency lowering, ground controls, loss of power, incident response
- Energy sources: battery charging, fueling, ventilation
- Practical evaluation: operate one scissor and one boom to standard
- Post-course obligations: on-site familiarization to specific make/model; training records; retraining triggers
- Valid for 3 Years
The 3-year expiry is not a regulatory requirement (no matter what anyone else tells you). This is an industry best practice.
- 6-8 Hours
We budget for a full day of training. This isn’t a quick “turn on the machine and go home” course — it’s a focused, hands-on session that takes the time to build real competence.
Registration & Inquiries
AFAS BC
604.498.2922
#202-19232 Enterprise Way
Surrey, BC V3S 6J9
Fax: 1-866-569-9544
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm
AFAS Alberta
587.457.8688
4621 63rd Street, Unit 4
Red Deer, AB T4N 7A6
Direct: 403-352-6614
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm
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