UDT qualifications – are they necessary to work on mobile platforms?

Mobile platforms are machines used for work at heights. These are particularly demanding and high-risk tasks. For this reason, people operating such devices must have appropriate authorizations. 

UDT authorizations and the use of mobile platforms

Persons operating mobile platforms must undergo appropriate training. After completing the course, it is also necessary to take the state exam and obtain a positive result. It's also worth knowing that UDT authorizations are issued only for a specific period of time. After it expires, they must be renewed.

Read also: Working with an aerial work platform in the field – how to designate the danger zone around the machine and ensure safety?

Categories of UDT authorizations

UDT authorizations are divided into several categories. The division used to be a bit simpler - it included I P and II P permits. Curleasely There are as many as five categories of authorizations granted by the Office of Technical Inspection:

  • for stationary mobile platforms – valid for 10 years,
  • for hanging mobile platforms – valid for 10 years,
  • for mast mobile platforms – valid for 10 years,
  • for movable mobile platforms – valid for 5 years,
  • for platforms on railway vehicles – valid for 10 years.

What does UDT training include?

During UDT training to obtain qualifications to operate mobile platforms students learn theory regarding various issues. The most important of them include:

  • activities performed before, during and after work,
  • types of hanging platforms,
  • construction of devices,
  • safeguards used in lifts,
  • health and safety rules applicable at work,
  • tests and strength tests,
  • technical supervision regulations,
  • preparation for work depending on curlease conditions.

The course also covers practical skills. Students learn how to properly control the device to maintain the safety of workers at heights and other people present around the operating machine.

What does the UDT licensing exam consist of?

Scissor lift in the hall
The UDT exam includes a theoretical part (selection test) and a practical part (platform operating tasks).

The UDT licensing exam consists of a theoretical and practical part, regardless of the supported device. The first stage consists of 15 closed questions. Passing is possible by obtaining 11 correct answers. The second part consists of practical tasksregarding the operation of the platform.

Please remember that you can only take part in the exam after presenting appropriate documentation. You must bring your ID card or passport to the test. After completing the exam with a positive result, a special qualification certificate is issued.

Do I have to undergo UDT training before the exam?

UDT training is not required before taking the qualification exam, but such a step is advisable. During the course, you can learn all the most important issues under the supervision of employees delegated by the Office of Technical Inspection. Students also receive access to materials covering the entire theory.

Who can obtain UDT qualifications?

UDT permissions can only be obtained by people who meet three conditions - they are over 18 years old, have at least primary education and have undergone tests that have not shown any health contraindications to the operation of such equipment. 

UDT training courses are aimed at beginners and those who already have experience in operating mobile platforms but want to renew their qualifications or expand and update their knowledge. Such courses are organized only by entities designated by the Office of Technical Inspection. They are conducted under the supervision of certified instructors and cover precisely defined topics.

Which mobile platforms require UDT authorizations?

UDT authorizations are required for many models of mobile platforms. The basic types of such machines are:

  • self-propelled on wheeled or tracked chassis,
  • built on trailers,
  • built on cars.

These devices are also divided into scissor-type, telescopic and articulated. Training for individual machines is very similar. The issues may only vary depending on the design of the equipment and the necessary safety rules.

UDT authorizations for suspended mobile platforms

Mobile platforms are also suspended devices. Their operation also requires specific permissions. They were once classified as category II P by the Office of Technical Inspection. Such authorizations are issued for 10 years. The rules for obtaining permits to operate these machines are similar to those for classic mobile platforms.

What are the risks of working without UDT authorizations?

Working without appropriate qualifications for mobile work platforms may involve high risk. This not only increases the likelihood of an accident, but also has legal consequences. In the event of an inspection and the lack of authorizations is revealed, both the employer and the employee are exposed to high financial penalties.

It is worth remembering that operation of the device by untrained people may lead to its premature wear. This is another loss for the employer, so it is in his interest to organize training for his employees.

Are you looking for a place where you can take part in professional UDT training? We invite you to familiarize yourself with our offer!