
Mobile Elevated Work Platforms - Theory, Scissor Lift & Self Propelled Boom
This comprehensive course is designed to give learners knowledge of the Mobile Elevated Working Platforms (scissor lift and self-propelled boom lifts) their operational mechanics and their specific applications.
- Duration
- 1 day
- Topic
- Machinery
- Next session
- 9 Oct 2026

At a glance
Course details
Duration: 1 day
Unit Standards:
| Unit # | Name | Level | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23966 | Describe types of elevating work platforms (EWPs), and industry requirements for their use. | 3 | 2 |
| 23960 | Assess the worksite, prepare and operate a scissor lift elevating work platform (EWP) | 3 | 3 |
| 23962 | Assess the worksite, prepare and operate a self-propelled boom lift elevating work platform (EWP) | 4 | 5 |
Overview
Mobile Elevated Work Platforms - Theory, Scissor Lift & Self Propelled Boom course overview
Curriculum
What you'll cover
This course is designed for:
- Workers who need to safely operate scissor lifts and boom lifts as part of their day-to-day work.
- Teams working in construction, warehousing and logistics, arboriculture, landscaping, maintenance and facilities management, utilities, emergency services, and film production.
- Health and safety professionals, supervisors, and site leaders overseeing MEWP use who need a practical understanding of safe set-up, operation, and work-at-height controls.
- Employers and PCBUs wanting operators to apply better judgement around worksite assessment, hazards, permits, and emergency procedures.
Our approach
+IMPAC's Mobile Elevated Work Platforms - Theory, Scissor Lift & Self Propelled Boom training approach
IMPAC’s Mobile Elevated Work Platforms: Theory, Scissor Lift and Self-Propelled Boom training is built around how operators actually work on site, not just what they need to memorise in a classroom. Trainers take learners through equipment checks, worksite assessment, ground conditions, positioning, and safe operating decisions so the practical reasons behind each step are clear.
The course combines guided instruction with hands-on practice on both scissor lifts and self-propelled boom lifts. Learners work through realistic workplace scenarios covering hazards, exclusion zones, permits, shutdown requirements, and the kinds of changing conditions that can affect safe operation once work is underway. The training also reinforces how rescue planning, fault reporting, and stop-work decisions fit into safe operation in real workplaces.
Format
Course format and duration
Upcoming sessions
Public courses – Book now
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Enquire nowFAQ
Frequently asked questions
This course is suited to workers who operate scissor lifts or self-propelled boom lifts as part of their work. It is particularly relevant in construction, maintenance, warehousing, facilities management, utilities, and other environments where elevated access equipment is used to carry out tasks safely at height.
Workers using scissor lifts or self-propelled boom lifts need the appropriate knowledge, practical instruction, and supervision for the equipment and work being carried out. Training requirements depend on the equipment, workplace, and level of risk involved, but operators should not use MEWPs without understanding hazards, controls, and safe operating procedures. Many sites also require formal operator training before MEWP use is authorised.
Yes, learners need written and spoken English equivalent to NCEA Level 1 (Year 11) or an IELTS score of 5.5 or higher. Unit Standard 23966 is a prerequisite for Unit Standards 23960 and 23962. If a learner may need additional support, please contact our team before enrolment to discuss available support options.
The course runs for 1 day. That time is used to cover key theory, practical operation using actual scissor lifts and self-propelled booms, and assessment requirements, while allowing learners to practise safe operating techniques and equipment controls.
Yes, this course includes one on-course assessment to confirm learners can apply the required knowledge and practical skills for safe MEWP operation.
This course covers NZQA Unit Standards 23966, 23960, and 23962. Together, those standards cover MEWP types and industry requirements, plus the worksite assessment, preparation, and operation of scissor lifts and self-propelled boom lifts.
IMPAC recommends refresher training at least every three years to help operators maintain safe operating practices, hazard awareness, and confidence using MEWPs in changing workplace environments. Refresher training may also be needed where equipment types, site conditions, procedures, or operational risks change.
Yes, this course is available for in-house delivery nationwide, and public courses may also run in Auckland and Christchurch depending on demand. In-house training can help organisations train operators together while relating the learning to their own equipment, site conditions, and work environment.
Please bring the following to training:
- Closed footwear
- A driver’s licence or another form of photo identification
For public face-to-face courses, morning tea and lunch are provided. If you have specific dietary requirements such as allergies, vegan, or gluten-free needs, please contact IMPAC at training@impac.co.nz at least two working days before training. Please note that dietary preferences cannot be accommodated.
Pricing depends on the delivery method.
In-house: $3400 + GST for up to 8 persons.
Public (face-to-face): $490 + GST per person.
Continue learning
Further study options
If you’re continuing your learning journey in health and safety, this course can contribute towards IMPAC’s Certificate in Applied Workplace Health and Safety Practices (Level 3), which leads to the New Zealand Certificate in Workplace Health and Safety Practice (Level 3).
This course is a elective module within the programme, allowing you to build on your existing training while working towards a recognised qualification over time. Browse all Machinery training courses.
This programme is approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority under section 439 of the Education and Training Act 2020, and Impac Services Limited is accredited to provide it under section 441 of the Education and Training Act.
What's next
Next steps
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