EWP Licences Explained for Employers: What Your Operator Actually Needs
- Mateusz Claude
EWP licensing catches employers out because the rule doesn’t follow common sense: it isn’t about how high the platform goes, it’s about the type of machine and one specific measurement. Put an unlicensed operator on the wrong machine and you’re the PCBU wearing the fine. Two minutes here saves that conversation.
The one rule that matters
The high-risk work licence (WP class) is required for boom-type elevating work platforms where the boom can extend 11 metres or more. That’s it. The two details people miss:
The 11 metres is the boom length capability of the machine, not the height you happen to work at on the day. Working at 6 metres in a 13-metre knuckle boom still needs a WP licence.
Scissor lifts don’t need a WP licence at any height, because they’re not boom-type. Neither do boom EWPs under 11m. For all of those, the accepted industry standard is the EWPA Yellow Card (or equivalent verified training) for the machine type.
What to check before an operator touches the machine
For an 11m-plus boom: a current WP high-risk licence, photo ID, and familiarisation with the specific machine. For scissor lifts and sub-11m booms: Yellow Card or equivalent for that machine type, plus a verification of competency if your site requires it. On top of that, the general construction induction (white card) and your site induction. Harness and anchor training belongs in the conversation for boom work as well.
Who wears the risk if it’s wrong
The PCBU, which on your site means you. Checking a licence takes one minute. The alternative involves SafeWork, your insurer, and a very uncomfortable incident report. When we supply EWP operators, licences are sighted and recorded before day one and we send them with the paperwork, so your verification is a formality rather than a scramble.
Operator only, or operator plus spotter?
Most boom work is safer and faster with a ground spotter, and some sites mandate it. A two-person booking (operator plus a labourer as spotter and ground support) often outperforms a solo operator on productivity alone, before you count the safety benefit.
Frequently asked questions
Does a WP licence cover scissor lifts too?
A WP licence covers the boom-type machines it was issued for. Scissor lifts sit outside the high-risk licence system; operators still need verified training such as the Yellow Card.
Can your operators work nights and weekends?
Yes. Night shifts, weekend work and shutdowns are standard for our EWP operators; loadings are quoted up front on the same call.
Do you supply the EWP as well?
We supply the operators; machines can be arranged through Perfect Group’s plant division as a package. Ask when you call.
Need a ticketed EWP operator this week? Call 02 8015 6150. Tell us the machine type and the site, and we’ll confirm the operator and the exact rate on the call.
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