MOT exemption for HGV-mounted MEWPs ends

The end of the current exemption for HGV-mounted Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) from annual MOT inspections in the UK is imminent, with new legislation coming into force from May.

IPAF is reminding members that, following a government consultation in 2017, the Goods Vehicles (Plating and Testing) Regulations 1988 were amended and are effective from 20 May 2018.

Under the new regulations, MEWPs mounted on a HGV-based chassis with a Gross Vehicle Weight up to 44 tonnes are required to undertake road worthiness inspections at an approved MOT inspection site. There is also a requirement for these vehicles to be submitted to Whole Vehicle Type Approval before being registered for the first time.

Larger MEWPs that come under Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2003 (STGO) rules will continue to be exempt.

The MOT-compliant roadworthiness inspection can be conducted at the same time as their existing regular inspection, maintenance and thorough examinations. Each vehicle must have a MOT roadworthy certification by May 2019.

IPAF was one of the key respondents to last year’s government consultation and has also worked in close conjunction with machinery operators, rental companies and other industry bodies to ensure a practical inspection policy.

IPAF will continue to keep members abreast of the changes to legislation; to read or download the UK Government’s official response to the recent consultation on lifting the exemption for MOT inspection on certain categories of HGV vehicles click here.