Your initial EWP training course got you a Yellow Card that allows you to work on certain types of elevated work platforms. This card is typically valid for five years, at which point you have to renew it if you want to continue working in this field.
This isn't as simple as paying a renewal fee and getting a new card for the next five years. You will have to prove your competency again. What does this involve?
What Happens During an Online EWP Renewal?
When you get a notification from the Elevating Work Platform Association of Australia (EWPAA) that your Yellow Card is coming up for renewal, you'll be told that you can do this online. During this process, you declare that you qualify for accreditation and pay a fee to renew the card.
During this online renewal, you also have to answer some test questions. You need to answer these questions correctly before your card will be renewed. These questions allow the EWPAA to validate your eligibility for a new Yellow Card. They show that your operating knowledge is sound and up-to-date and that you are fit to continue using EWPs.
If you answer these questions correctly, then your card is renewed. If you don't answer any of them correctly, then you can have another try. However, you're limited to three attempts to pass the online renewal test. If you don't do this, your card won't be automatically renewed.
What Happens if You Don't Pass the Online Renewal Test?
If you can't answer the test questions correctly in your three attempts, then you may have to undertake a new EWP training course before your Yellow Card will be renewed. You may also be guided to do this if you haven't been using EWPs regularly or recently.
You also won't be able to take the test if your card expired more than six months ago. If you have this time gap, then you need to book yourself in for new training before you will get a new card.
While a delay in renewing your card may give you a work headache, remember that it's better to take some training again if you need it. This ensures that you operate your platforms safely and efficiently.
If you need or want refresher EWP training, talk to training companies. They can explain which course you need to take to get your licence renewed again.