At RTITB, our Safety Chain methodology informs everything we do. As we know that applying this structured approach to training delivers measurable improvements in safety, efficiency, and compliance. This supports the Accrediting Bodies Association for Workplace Transport (ABA) recent announcement in introducing an updated Basic Operating Skills Test for Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) (ABA categories 1A, 1B, 3A, 3B).
The changes follow a growing demand for more meaningful, outcome-based training. Whether it’s a boom lift, scissor lift, or vertical mast platform, the risks are high – and training must be practical, relevant, and rigorous.
This update isn’t just about ticking boxes for compliance. It’s about raising industry standards and ensuring that operator training delivers lasting value. By enhancing how MEWP operators are assessed, we can strengthen safety culture, improve operational performance, and embed best practices that reduce risk.
From 1st November 2025, the revised MEWP Basic Operating Skills Test will become mandatory for all ABA-accredited bodies. This includes RTITB, AITT, ITSSAR, LANTRA, and NPORS.
The updated assessment includes three core enhancements:
- A more robust practical test – assesses real-world proficiency, ensuring operators can apply their skills confidently and safely in practical workplace scenarios.
- A comprehensive pre-use inspection test – reinforces daily safety habits that prevent costly accidents and equipment failures, fostering a culture of proactive risk management.
- An enhanced theory test format – promoting a deeper understanding of operational procedures and safety regulations, leading to more competent and informed MEWP operators.
As instructors and trainers, it’s crucial in shaping safe and competent operators. Training effectiveness isn’t just about candidates passing a test. It’s about ensuring they can apply their knowledge consistently in the workplace.
The updated MEWP test reinforces the importance of thorough training, rigorous assessment, and ongoing competency. All of which are core elements of the RTITB Safety Chain methodology.
RTITB is committed to making this transition smooth for instructors, trainers, and companies. By 1st September 2025, RTITB training and testing materials will be fully updated, including the TrainingFriend App, MyRTITB Portal, and the RTITB eLibrary. A revised LTG16 MEWP Trainers’ Guide will be available reflecting the new test format and training standards.
Additionally, in July 2025, a discounted pre-order will become available ensuring instructors and trainers can plan for the go live date in advance.
By embracing these updates, trainers and instructors play a direct role in strengthening workplace safety, enhancing operator skills, and driving industry-wide improvements. Let’s work together to keep standards high and workplaces safe.
Workplace transport is one of the highest-risk areas in any logistics, warehousing, and construction operation. MEWPs offer essential access – but they also pose unique challenges. These changes help raise the bar for everyone involved.
By embracing this updated test, instructors and trainers can:
- Demonstrate leadership in safety.
- Improve the competence of their workforce.
- Contribute to fewer incidents, lower costs, and stronger compliance.
As the industry evolves, so must training. And together, we can ensure every operator not only understands the rules – but knows how to apply them under pressure.
If you have any questions regarding the updated testing standards, please reach out to our friendly team.
Gavin Hutchinson, Senior Technical Services Manager
With over 25 years of dedicated experience in the logistics and warehousing sector, Gavin has a profound understanding of the logistics and transport industry’s intricate operations. For the past 23 years, he has been a registered and qualified RTITB lift truck instructor, imparting comprehensive operator and instructor training for countless individuals, ensuring the smooth and safe operation of machinery and equipping instructors with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively train others on lift truck operations. Gavin also has experience as an Auditor and Examiner. He has been with RTITB for 9 years and currently leads the RTITB Technical team to uphold the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
Find Gavin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavin-h-22478744/