A Complete Guide to IPAF Training for Working at Heights Safely

Working at heights is a major part of many construction, maintenance, and industrial tasks, and ensuring that it’s done safely is crucial. To facilitate this, the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) offer recognised training courses that enable workers to safely operate mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs) such as scissor lifts, cherry pickers and boom lifts.

Who are IPAF?

IPAF is a global organisation promoting the safe and effective use of powered access equipment. IPAF is a not-for-profit organisation, owned by members in related industries such as contractors, distributors, rental companies, manufacturers and also users.

One element of IPAF’s overall offering is the IPAF training programme for platform operators, which is designed to ensure that individuals are sufficiently trained and competent to operate MEWPs in compliance with legal requirements and industry standards.

Training and the resulting IPAF certification is recognised internationally. It is a requirement in many countries for anyone operating powered access platforms. 

IPAF training courses

There are a wide range of IPAF training courses for different types of powered access platforms. These include:
•    IPAF 3a (Scissor Lifts): Safe operation of vertical platforms.
•    IPAF 3b (Boom Lifts): Operation and safety for self-propelled booms, truck mounts, and trailer-mounted platforms.
•    IPAF PAV (Push Around Vertical): Training on manual power platforms.
•    IPAF MEWPs for Managers: This course ensures that supervisors and managers understand the legal and safety obligations of working at heights with MEWPs.

What does IPAF training entail?

IPAF training is designed to cover both theoretical and practical aspects of working with powered access platforms, ensuring all delegates understand the risks and proper procedures for working at heights:

These include:
•    Pre-use Inspections: How to conduct safety checks before operating equipment.
•    Risk Assessments: Understanding potential hazards and risks, assessing them and relevant control measures.
•    Safe Operation: Proper use of MEWPs in different environments and terrains.
•    Emergency Procedures: What to do in case of an emergency or equipment failure.
•    Use of Harnesses & PPE: Correct use of fall arrest systems and personal protective equipment (PPE).
•    Theory and Practical Exams: Trainees are required to pass both theoretical and practical assessments in order to pass and receive their IPAF certification.

Why IPAF Training is Important for Working at Heights Safely

There are a number of reasons why IPAF training is important for those working with powered access equipment; these include:

•    Legal Compliance: IPAF training ensures compliance with regulations that employers have a legal obligation to meet, such as the Work at Height Regulations 2005. 
•    Preventing Accidents: IPAF training equips workers with the knowledge and skills to mitigate the risks of working at heights such as falls, equipment problem and operator error. 
•    Competency: IPAF certification ensures that operators are competent in using MEWPs, which increases safety and efficiency on site.
•    Global Recognition: IPAF certification is recognised worldwide.

Who is eligible?
Anyone who meets the following can undertake an IPAF training course:

•    Operates scissor lifts, boom lifts, or other MEWPs.
•    Works with powered access equipment as part of a team.
•    Supervises or manages others using MEWPs.
•    Is responsible for site safety or risk assessments where powered access equipment is in use.

What is the IPAF PAL Card?

Workers who have successfully passed their IPAF training receive the IPAF Powered Access License (PAL) Card, which is valid for five years. This card proves that the holder has undergone comprehensive training and is competent to operate MEWPs safely.
The PAL Card can be used on digital platforms to verify qualifications, helping employers quickly check certification on-site.