Mobile elevating work platform training program gets an upgrade

Responding to the release of revised Australian Standards for the manufacture and operation of mobile elevating work platforms (AS/NZS 1418.10:2025 and AS 2550.10:2025), alongside ongoing advances in elevating work platform technology, the Elevating Work Platform Association (EWPA) has updated its Yellow Card training program — to help ensure new operators are trained to safely operate modern equipment and meet current industry best practice.

The updated program introduces clearer machine categorisation, enhanced information on major hazards such as electrocution, expanded guidance on new safety technologies, and — to improve engagement and learning outcomes — greater use of images and video, EWPA said. To support more consistent, high-quality training delivery nationwide, additional trainer resources have also been developed.

"Operator competency can’t be treated as a one-off exercise,” said Nicolas Chiew, EWPA National Training Manager. “Equipment, standards and work practices continue to evolve, and training has to evolve with them if we want to keep improving safety outcomes,” Chiew adding: “The new Australian Standards are an important response to the evolution of machines and the environments they operate within.”

Developed in consultation with equipment manufacturers, hire companies, Australian Standards committee members, safety regulators and experienced trainers, the revised training package places greater emphasis on training quality, with updated delivery materials aligned with the 2025 Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) Standards.

Participants can, upon successful completion, also be issued with the nationally recognised RIIHAN301E Operate Elevating Work Platform unit of competency, EWPA said. The updated program is now being delivered through EWPA’s national network of approximately 185 Accredited Trainers, who collectively conduct around 4800 training sessions and issue an average of 28,000 new Yellow Cards each year.

EWPA said its Yellow Card training program is aligned with current Australian Standards, WHS legislation and registered training organisation requirements, and is independently quality assured against ISO 19011 and ASQA frameworks. To reflect changes in equipment, legislation and industry best practice, EWPA also said that the program is continuously reviewed with industry stakeholders.

Image credit: iStock.com/RyanJLane. Stock image used is for illustrative purposes only.