NPORS N109 MEWP Scissor Lift Course
Scissor lifts are widely used for installing lighting, fitting ductwork, carrying out maintenance and reaching services above floor level. Although the platform travels vertically, the operator still has plenty to consider. The floor must support the machine, the route needs to be clear and there must be enough space above the platform.
Our NPORS N109 MEWP Scissor Lift Course covers the checks, controls and practical skills needed to use this type of access platform at work. Beginners can complete full training, while regular operators can book refresher instruction or an experienced worker assessment.
Courses are available at our training centre in Wellingborough. We can also deliver training at suitable workplaces across the UK.
Tell us which scissor lift you use and how much experience you already have. We will recommend a course that matches the operator rather than placing everyone on the same programme.
Call Construction and Plant Training Services on 01234 604 151 to discuss available dates and prices.
Who Is the N109 Course For?
The course is suitable for anyone who needs to operate a scissor lift as part of their job.
Candidates often include electricians, maintenance engineers, installers, decorators, warehouse operatives and construction workers. Scissor lifts are also used in factories, distribution centres, retail units and other premises where temporary access at height is needed.
Previous MEWP experience is not required. A complete beginner can start with the controls and basic manoeuvring before progressing to work at height.
Operators who already use scissor lifts may only need preparation for the NPORS assessment. Refresher training and test-only options are also available where appropriate.
Employers can arrange training for one person or a group of operators.
Scissor Lift Training Options
The amount of training required depends on the candidate’s experience, the machine and the work they are expected to carry out.
Novice Training
Novice training begins with the machine’s components, safety systems and operating controls.
The first practical exercises are carried out with the platform lowered. Candidates learn how to steer, stop, position and prepare the machine before moving on to lifting and lowering exercises.
More demanding tasks are introduced as the operator becomes comfortable with the controls. These can include using the extension deck, positioning close to a work area and operating with limited clearance.
A beginner needs enough time to build steady control. The aim is not to rush through a list of exercises, but to make sure the operator understands what must be checked before each movement.
Experienced Operator Training
This route is intended for people who already use scissor lifts but need preparation before taking the test.
An operator may be confident driving the machine yet less familiar with inspection records, emergency lowering or the terminology used during an NPORS assessment.
The instructor can concentrate on those areas rather than repeating skills the candidate already performs correctly.
Refresher Training
A refresher may be useful when someone has not operated a scissor lift recently or is moving to a different type of machine.
Employers may also arrange refresher training following a workplace review, change of duties or introduction of new equipment.
Experienced Worker Assessment
Assessment-only may be suitable for operators who can inspect, prepare and operate a scissor lift without instruction.
Candidates choosing this route should already understand platform capacity, ground conditions, overhead hazards, emergency lowering and correct shutdown procedures.
We can discuss your experience before confirming whether a test-only booking is appropriate.
What Does the NPORS N109 Course Cover?
Training is based on the scissor lift used during the course and the information provided in its manufacturer’s handbook.
You will learn how to identify the machine’s main components, controls, warning devices and emergency systems. The instructor will also explain the operator’s responsibilities and what should happen when a defect is found.
Course content can include:
- Pre-use and running checks.
- Ground and platform controls.
- Emergency stops and lowering systems.
- Safe access to and from the platform.
- Steering, braking and travelling.
- Working in open and restricted areas.
- Ground conditions, slopes and floor openings.
- Safe working load and platform capacity.
- Raising and lowering the platform.
- Using an extension deck where fitted.
- Overhead structures and power lines.
- Pedestrian and vehicle movements.
- Exclusion zones and communication.
- Parking, isolation and machine security.
The exact practical exercises will depend on the scissor lift and training area available.
Pre-Use Checks and Defect Reporting
A scissor lift should be inspected before the start of work, even if another operator used it earlier in the day.
Checks can include the tyres or wheels, guardrails, access gate, controls, alarms, emergency stops, hydraulic system and power supply. The platform, scissor mechanism and extension deck should also be examined for visible damage.
Operators need to know which faults can affect safe use of the machine.
A scissor lift should not remain in service simply because it can still travel or raise the platform. A damaged gate, faulty emergency control or hydraulic leak may be enough to stop work until the defect has been investigated.
Daily checks do not replace scheduled maintenance or formal examination. They give the operator an opportunity to identify problems before anyone is raised from the ground.
Checking the Route and Work Area
The operator should inspect both the travel route and the position from which the platform will be raised.
Warehouse floors can contain drainage channels, thresholds, ramps and damaged surfaces. On construction sites, additional hazards may include soft ground, trenches, temporary covers and partly completed floor areas.
The machine must be used on a surface that can support its weight and operating forces.
The area above the platform is equally important. Beams, lighting, ductwork, sprinkler systems and electrical cables may enter the lifting path. The operator needs to check the available clearance before raising the platform.
People and vehicles should be kept away from the operating area where necessary. Barriers or an exclusion zone can help prevent someone walking beneath the platform or into the path of the machine.
Platform Capacity and Safe Positioning
The safe working load covers everyone and everything carried on the platform.
Tools, equipment and materials must be included when calculating the load. Staying within the stated number of occupants does not automatically mean that the platform is within its weight limit.
Loads should be distributed sensibly and kept secure. Materials that restrict access, obstruct the controls or create a trip hazard should not be carried loosely around the platform.
Many scissor lifts are fitted with an extension deck. Before it is used, the operator should check its condition, locking system and clearance from nearby structures.
Extending the deck does not increase the total safe working load.
The base of the machine should be positioned carefully before the platform is raised. Good positioning reduces the need to lower and move the machine repeatedly during the task.
Travelling With the Platform Raised
Some scissor lifts allow limited travel while the platform is elevated. The manufacturer may restrict the permitted height, gradient or operating mode.
Elevated travel should only take place when the machine has been designed for it and the manufacturer’s limits are followed.
Before moving, the operator should check the ground, overhead clearance and direction of travel. Potholes, floor openings and small changes in level can become more serious when the platform is raised.
The machine should be driven slowly, without sudden steering or braking.
Where the route cannot be kept clear, the safer option may be to lower the platform before repositioning the machine.
Emergency Lowering and Rescue Arrangements
The emergency controls should be located and checked before the platform is raised.
If the operator becomes unwell or the platform controls fail, someone at ground level may need to lower the machine. That person should know where the controls are and how they work.
The rescue arrangements should reflect the machine, task and location. They may need to consider loss of power, restricted access or a platform that cannot be lowered normally.
Waiting until something goes wrong is too late to start working out how the operator will be brought down.
Harness Use in a Scissor Lift
Guardrails provide the main fall protection on a scissor lift.
Whether a harness is also required depends on the manufacturer’s instructions, the risk assessment and the rules of the site. A harness should not be used as a substitute for keeping the gate closed, remaining inside the guardrails and operating the platform correctly.
Where restraint equipment is required, it must be suitable for the task and attached only to an approved anchor point.
A separate harness user, inspection or rescue course may be needed for duties that go beyond normal scissor lift operation.
NPORS N109 Theory and Practical Assessment
Candidates complete theory and practical assessments.
The theory test checks your understanding of the machine, its operating limits, workplace hazards and emergency procedures.
During the practical assessment, you will be expected to inspect and prepare the scissor lift before manoeuvring it into position. You will then complete a series of travel, lifting and access tasks.
The assessor will consider your observations, route selection, control of the machine and awareness of people and structures around you.
The assessment is not only about reaching the required height. You must show that you can plan each movement, respond to changing conditions and leave the machine secure at the end of the task.
Experienced worker candidates are assessed to the same operating standard as those who complete novice training.
How Long Does the N109 Course Take?
Course duration depends on the operator’s experience and the route selected.
A beginner needs more guided practice than someone who uses scissor lifts regularly. The machine, number of candidates and training location can also affect the programme.
Some experienced operators only require targeted preparation before assessment. Others may have practical experience but need more time to meet the full testing standard.
We will discuss your background before recommending the course duration.
NPORS Scissor Lift Card Options
After passing the assessment, the N109 MEWP Scissor category can be recorded on the appropriate NPORS card or registration.
The route depends on where you work and whether you hold the relevant vocational qualification.
Traditional NPORS Card
The Traditional NPORS Card is generally used outside the construction industry, where a card displaying the CSCS logo is not required.
Registration can be issued for either 3 or 5 years. The required period should be agreed when the course is booked.
NPORS CSCS Trained Operator Card
Candidates working in construction who do not hold the relevant NVQ or SVQ will normally follow the red Trained Operator route.
The card is valid for 2 years. During this period, the operator must complete the applicable vocational qualification before progressing to the Competent Operator Card.
Applicants must also meet the current Health, Safety and Environment test requirements.
NPORS CSCS Competent Operator Card
The blue Competent Operator Card is available to operators who have passed the relevant assessment and hold the required NVQ or SVQ.
It is valid for 5 years and includes a CPD record or operator logbook.
Card acceptance can vary between employers and projects. Check the requirements of the site where you intend to work before booking.
Is an NPORS Scissor Lift Ticket a Licence?
Scissor lift licence, MEWP licence and scissor lift ticket are common terms used by operators and employers.
The result of the NPORS process is an operator card or registration showing the N109 MEWP Scissor category. It is not a government-issued driving licence.
The card provides evidence that the operator has completed the relevant training or assessment. Familiarisation may still be required before using a different make or model at work.
Employers are also responsible for authorising operators and making sure they understand the conditions at the workplace.
Training in Wellingborough
You can complete the NPORS N109 MEWP Scissor Lift Course at our training centre in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire.
Centre-based training is a practical option for individuals and businesses that do not have access to a suitable scissor lift or controlled training area.
Contact us before making travel arrangements so that we can confirm the date, machine and course format.
On-Site Scissor Lift Training Across the UK
We can also deliver NPORS scissor lift training at suitable customer sites.
For on-site delivery, the customer will normally need to provide:
- A serviceable scissor lift suitable for the N109 category.
- The manufacturer’s handbook.
- Current inspection and examination records.
- A controlled area for training and assessment.
- Suitable ground and enough overhead clearance.
- Relevant site documentation.
- Appropriate welfare and theory-training facilities.
We will review the proposed machine and location before confirming the booking.
NPORS or IPAF Scissor Lift Training?
NPORS and IPAF provide separate routes for operators of mobile access equipment.
The right option may depend on your employer, the project and the cards or qualifications you already hold. Some employers request a particular scheme, while others will consider either route for the correct machine category.
CPTS provides both NPORS and IPAF training.
Check the requirements of the employer or principal contractor before deciding which course to book.
Book Your NPORS N109 MEWP Scissor Lift Course
Contact Construction and Plant Training Services to arrange novice training, refresher instruction or an experienced worker assessment.
When requesting a quote, tell us:
- How much scissor lift experience you have.
- The type of machine you intend to operate.
- Which NPORS card route you require.
- How many candidates need training.
- Whether you prefer Wellingborough or on-site delivery.
Call 01234 604 151 or send us an enquiry to discuss available dates and prices.
FAQ - NPORS N109 MEWP Scissor Lift Course
What is the NPORS N109 MEWP Scissor Lift Course?
The NPORS N109 MEWP Scissor Lift Course provides training and assessment for operators of scissor-type Mobile Elevating Work Platforms. It covers machine checks, travel, platform controls, ground conditions, work-area hazards, emergency lowering, platform extensions and shutdown procedures.
Do I need previous scissor lift experience?
No. Complete beginners can take a novice course that starts with machine familiarisation and basic control exercises. Experienced operators can complete targeted preparation, refresher training or an assessment-only route, depending on their current ability.
Can I take the N109 experienced worker test only?
Yes, provided you can inspect, prepare and operate the scissor lift without instruction. You should understand platform capacity, emergency lowering, ground conditions, overhead hazards, elevated travel, platform extensions and correct shutdown procedures.
How long does the NPORS scissor lift course take?
The duration depends on your previous experience, the machine being used, the number of candidates and whether you require full training or assessment only. We will review your experience before recommending an appropriate programme.
Can I drive a scissor lift with the platform raised?
Some scissor lifts allow limited travel with the platform elevated, but this must only be done within the manufacturer’s operating limits. The route, ground, overhead clearance, visibility and direction of travel must be checked before the machine moves.
Do I need to wear a harness in a scissor lift?
Harness requirements depend on the manufacturer’s instructions, risk assessment and site rules. Where restraint equipment is required, it must be suitable for the task and attached only to a designated anchor point. A separate harness course may be needed for some duties.
Is an NPORS scissor lift ticket a licence?
Scissor lift licence and MEWP ticket are common industry terms. After successfully completing the assessment, you can receive an NPORS card or registration for the N109 MEWP Scissor category. It is an operator qualification rather than a government-issued driving licence.
How long is an NPORS scissor lift card valid?
A Traditional NPORS registration can be issued for 3 or 5 years. The red NPORS CSCS Trained Operator Card is valid for 2 years. The blue Competent Operator Card is valid for 5 years and normally requires the relevant NVQ or SVQ.
Do I need a CITB Health, Safety and Environment test?
You must meet the current Health, Safety and Environment test requirements when applying for an NPORS card carrying the CSCS logo. The relevant NPORS or CITB touch-screen test must normally have been completed within two years before the card application.
Can the N109 course be delivered on our site?
Yes. We can deliver NPORS scissor lift training at suitable sites across the UK. You will normally need a serviceable machine, the manufacturer’s handbook, current inspection records and a controlled area with suitable ground and enough clearance for the required exercises.
How much does the NPORS N109 course cost?
The price depends on the candidate’s experience, the amount of training required, the number of people attending and the location. Contact us with these details and we will provide a quotation based on your requirements.
