Updated MEWP Testing Standards: What Employers Need to Know Before November 2025

Stricter rules for Mobile Elevating Work Platform tests are coming—make sure your staff are prepared and properly certified.

If you operate a workplace where Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) are in use—like scissor lifts, cherry pickers or boom lifts—there’s an important update coming that you’ll want to know about. From 1st November 2025, the way MEWP operators are assessed is changing across the UK. As the owner of Wight Training Services, I want to break it down clearly, so you can make sure your staff stay safe and compliant.

The Accrediting Bodies Association (ABA) is rolling out a new, standardised version of the Basic Operating Skills Test for MEWPs. This includes practical assessments, pre-use checks, and theory exams. The goal? To raise the bar on safety and make sure every operator—whether they’re using a scissor lift in a warehouse or a boom lift on a construction site—has the skills and awareness needed to do the job properly.

“It’s a big step forward,” says Tim Benton. “These updated tests reflect real-life working conditions much better and focus on the key things that keep people safe on the job.”



So, what’s changing?

1. Stronger Practical Assessments
Operators will be tested on more realistic and varied tasks, with a closer focus on safe handling and operation in real work environments.

2. More Emphasis on Pre-Use Inspections
A new inspection component will require operators to demonstrate proper checks before using any equipment—something I’ve always highlighted during training sessions. It’s often the first line of defence in preventing accidents.

3. Updated Theory Test
The theory exam now includes 20 multiple-choice and 5 multiple-selection questions, ensuring operators not only know how to use the equipment but understand the regulations, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.

“This isn’t about making things harder—it’s about making sure operators are genuinely ready for the job,” I often tell employers. “Too often we see people with a certificate who’ve never faced the real risks involved. That’s what these changes are fixing.”

What should you do now?

From 1st May 2025, these new tests can be used by accredited providers like Wight Training Services—but by 1st November, they’ll be mandatory. I recommend planning your staff’s refresher or new training sessions sooner rather than later, so they can benefit from the new standard and avoid any last-minute scrambles later in the year.

If your team operates MEWPs and you’re based on the Isle of Wight, I’d be happy to come to your site, assess your current needs, and ensure your operators are trained and tested to meet the new ABA standards.

Let’s make sure your workforce stays safe, efficient, and fully certified.

Get in touch today to book your training or ask any questions about the updates.