IPAF Training Courses

More than 100,000 operators are trained each year to the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) standard, ensuring users can prepare and safely operate various types of MEWPs.

IPAF is the global industry standard for powered access training, and IPAF certification for operators is a Powered Access Licence, also known as a PAL card. This is certified to international standard ISO 18878, meaning it is widely accepted as evidence that operators are competent and adequately trained.

Typically courses are delivered from dedicated training centres. However, for your convenience, we can arrange training days at your own facilities. All courses are a mix of theory and practical training.

The comprehensive list of IPAF’s Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) courses is as follows:

Operator Training - 1a, 1b, 3a, 3b

Learn how to safely and efficiently drive, position, set up, and elevate access platforms. You can undertake this course on boom and scissor lifts, as well as trailer and vehicle-mounted platforms.

1a and 1b are for what IPAF terms “static” booms and scissor lifts. These are machines that deploy stabilisers – also known as outriggers - so they cannot be driven when elevated.

3a and 3b courses deliver qualifications for self-propelled machines, which can be driven whilst elevated. Typically these are scissor, boom, or mast lifts; as well as cherry pickers.

• Static Vertical (1a, 1a+)
• Static Boom (1b, 1b+)
• Mobile Vertical (3a, 3a+)
• Mobile Boom (3b, 3b+)

Push Around Vertical (PAV) Training

Specifically for operators of what IPAF terms “push around vertical”, which includes micro-scissors and low-level access platforms. Trainees learn how to safely and competently manoeuvre, set up and operate the equipment.

PAL+ Training (additional one day)

PAL+ is the highest level of IPAF operator training, and is only available to those who already hold a PAL card. It is designed for operators working in higher-risk and more challenging environments like steel erection, working on challenging terrain, or in confined spaces with overhead obstacles. As with standard IPAF operator training, it is certified to international standard ISO 18878.

MEWPS for Managers (MM) Training

Specifically designed to teach supervisors and managers how to plan and safely co-ordinate the operation of any type of Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP). This one-day course covers health and safety regulation awareness; guidance on accident prevention; and protection of personnel.

MEWP Harness Use & Inspection (H) Training

This course covers the correct condition and fitting of harnesses, and focuses on the appropriate protection and safety equipment for a range of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs). It can be tailored to your address safety equipment required for your specific access platforms.