Understanding EWP Unit Standards in New Zealand: A Comprehensive Guide

While formal unit standard training is not mandatory under New Zealand law, the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 requires employers to ensure operators are properly trained and competent to use elevated work platforms (EWPs). Unit standards provide a structured, nationally recognised way to demonstrate this competency. Alternatively, EWP training can be provided that is more focused on a person’s specific job; or it can be generic online training such as that offered on this website, plus a practical assessment conducted at your workplace by a supervisor.

Note: once you have the unit standards, you do not need to do another unit standard course again, just refresher training.

The Core Knowledge Standard: Unit standard 23966

Unit standard 23966 serves as the foundation for all EWP training. This Level 3 standard covers the essential knowledge of different types of EWPs and industry requirements for their use. It requires operators to demonstrate understanding of EWP types, their suitability for various purposes, safety features, and industry requirements related to legislation and best practice guidelines. This standard is a prerequisite for all other EWP unit standards.

The Most Common Standards: 23960, 23962

Two unit standards are particularly common in New Zealand:

Scissor Lifts (23960)

This Level 3 standard focuses on assessing worksites and operating scissor lift EWPs. It’s popular because scissor lifts are widely used in construction, maintenance, and industrial settings. The standard covers worksite assessment, preparation, operation, fault reporting, and proper shutdown procedures.

Self-Propelled Boom Lifts (23962)

As the most comprehensive standard at Level 4, this qualification addresses the operation of self-propelled boom lift EWPs (telescopic and knuckle boom). These machines offer greater reach and flexibility than scissor lifts but require more skill to operate safely. The standard includes detailed training on assessing ground conditions, understanding load limits, and managing the specific risks associated with boom-type platforms.

Specialised Standards

Some unit standards cater to specific industry needs:

Vertical Personnel Lifts (23964)

This Level 3 standard is particularly relevant for indoor applications, such as theatres, retail environments, and warehouses. It covers the operation of vertical lift EWPs, which are typically more compact and suitable for working in confined spaces.

Truck-Mounted EWPs (23961)

This Level 3 standard is essential for utility workers, particularly those servicing power lines. It covers the unique challenges of operating truck-mounted platforms, including setup procedures, outrigger placement, and working near electrical hazards.

Trailer-Mounted EWPs (23963)

At Level 3, this standard is valuable for operators who need to transport their EWP between sites without using a truck. It includes training on towing procedures, setup requirements, and the specific operational characteristics of trailer-mounted platforms.

The Importance of Proper Training

While unit standards provide excellent structured learning, employers can use alternative training methods if they meet or exceed the unit standard requirements. Any training programme should cover:

• Legal requirements and safety regulations
• Equipment familiarisation and safety features
• Pre-operational inspections
• Risk assessment and hazard management
• Emergency procedures and rescue plans
• Practical operation skills
• Maintenance requirements

Consideration must be given to the high number of people in these industries who have:

1. English as a second language
2. Learning difficulties
3. Infrequent use of an EWP.

For these people, online training with a longer access time to the course materials is a preferable option as it gives literacy and language support, plus the ability to return to the materials over a period of time to ensure that the concepts are retained in memory.

You can use our online EWP course here to meet these requirements.

Industry-Specific Considerations

Different industries may require specific combinations of unit standards, or equivalent training. For example:

• Construction workers often need units 23966, 23960, and 23962
• Electrical line workers typically require units 23966 and 23961
• Theatre technicians frequently complete units 23966 and 23964
• Maintenance contractors might benefit from units 23966 and 23963

Maintaining Competency

Initial training is just the beginning. Operators should receive regular refresher training, typically every three years, to maintain their skills and stay current with safety requirements and technological advances.

Documentation and Compliance

Employers must maintain records of all EWP training, including:

• Completed unit standards or equivalent qualifications
• On-the-job training records
• Refresher training certificates
• Site-specific inductions
• Regular competency assessments

The Role of Supervision

Newly trained operators should work under supervision until they demonstrate consistent competency. The length of supervision depends on various factors, including:

• The complexity of the EWP being operated
• The working environment
• The operator’s previous experience
• The specific tasks being undertaken

Looking Forward

While New Zealand’s unit standards system provides an excellent framework for EWP training, the key focus should be on ensuring operators are genuinely competent and capable of working safely. Whether through unit standards or equivalent training, the goal is to create a skilled workforce that can operate EWPs efficiently and safely in any working environment.