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
Assured First Aid & Safety provides mobile services for the Western Canada including Greater and Metro Vancouver areas; North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, New Westminster, Surrey, White Rock, Delta, Langley, Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Maple Ridge, Squamish, Whistler, Hope, Red Deer, Calgary & Edmonton