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In the mobile elevating work platform (MEWPs) industry the terms “certified” and “qualified” are often used interchangeably in connection with employees who maintain this type of equipment. Although “training*” for your technicians, both in the shop and in the field, are required in most countries, there are no regulations or standards requiring “certification.” The term “certification” implies that there is some mechanism of enforcement, not unlike a driver’s license. Currently, regulatory entities, such as OSHA in the United States, do not require certification (licensing) for trained personnel, nor do they require any proof of training to be carried by the employee.

However, both OSHA and ANSI define and use the term "qualified" to describe requirements for personnel working with or on MEWPS. In general, this definition states that mechanics, trainers, operators and all other "employees" conducting training, working on or operating MEWPS are determined to be “qualified” (competent) by the employer based on a demonstration of proficiency (knowledge) regarding the MEWP.

It is important to note that MEWP manufacturers like Genie do not have a part in determining that an employee is qualified but does have a responsibility to provide training materials that will enable the employer to administer the appropriate level of training to ensure that the employee is qualified.

This same basic concept is in place in all other regulated countries. However, throughout the world, local, jobsite, employer or other authorities may dictate that employees working on or with MEWPS meet certain minimum requirements and be certified (licensed) according to certain unregulated requirements.

If you have questions regarding training requirements for your technicians, please feel free to contact the Genie Product Safety team at 425-895-6347.

*This includes training for operators, trainers and mechanics in all countries currently enforcing MEWP standards.