Enquire Online Now
If your job involves working at height, then you’ve probably heard of IPAF training. But, what does it mean, who needs it and why is it so important in the workplace to be fully trained?
Let’s break down everything you need to know about IPAF training and how it can keep you safe.
What does IPAF mean?
IPAF stands for the International Powered Access Federation. This is the globally recognised body that promotes the safe use of powered access equipment, including: MEWPs (mobile elevating work platforms), scissor lifts, cherry pickers, boom lifts, and vehicle-mounted platforms.
IPAF develops training programmes that are delivered by accredited providers like us at 2 Start Training, ensuring that operators are properly qualified to use the equipment safely.
What actually is IPAF Training?
The IPAF training course teaches you how to safely and legally operate powered access equipment. The training involved covers:
- Pre-use checks and daily inspections
- Safe operating procedures
- Understanding hazards and avoiding risks
- Emergency lowering procedures
- Responsibilities under health and safety law
At the end of your IPAF training, successful students will receive the IPAF PAL card. This is the industry standard qualification that proves you are competent to operate access equipment.
Do you need IPAF Training?
If you operate MEWPs, scissor lifts, or cherry pickers as part of your job, then you should take IPAF training. It may also be useful for those who work in construction, warehouse staff, cleaning, maintenance or utilities, as well as if you are responsible for managing staff members who use them.
Types of IPAF Training
There are different types of IPAF training categories depending on what type of equipment you’ll be using. You can train in one or multiple categories depending on your role, and what equipment you need to be using.
- 1B – Static Boom (vehicle or trailer mounted platforms)
- 3A – Mobile Vertical (scissor lifts)
- 3B – Mobile Boom (self-propelled booms or cherry pickers)
IPAF Training at 2 Start
Our IPAF courses are designed to give you the knowledge and skills to safely operate equipment and work at heights. We offer several IPAF courses including:
- IPAF Demonstrator Training – Our IPAF 1b, 3a or 3b demonstrator training are typically 1-day courses, covering both theory and practical training. Choose from an individual Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) or a variation of the three types of MEWPS offered to complete your demonstrator training for.
- IPAF Operator Training – Our IPAF operator training courses are 1-day and will build on your skills and knowledge on operating the Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP). From a singular operator course (choosing 1b, 3a or 3b) or book a multiple MEWP course (a combination of the 1b, 3a & 3b MEWPs) and learn how to operate these types of machinery.
- IPAF MEWPS for Managers – MEWPs for Managers, short for Mobile Elevating Work Platforms, is an e-learning course designed for those who plan, supervise, or manage work at height using IPAF equipment. Throughout the course, you’ll explore your legal responsibilities and how to ensure safe and effective MEWP operations. You’ll also gain insight into planning jobs, conducting risk assessments, and selecting the right equipment.
- IPAF Harness Inspection and Safety – Complete Harness Inspection & Safety training and build your skills to become authorised to complete harness inspection checks, and complete examinations on harness safety used to MEWPS.
Why is it important?
IPAF training is predominantly for safety. Working at heights can carry serious risks, and specific IPAF training gives you skills and knowledge to minimise these risks. The other thing is that employers have a legal responsibility to ensure staff are trained to use equipment such as MEWPs safely.
Holding a valid IPAF PAL card also improves employability as it’s often a requirement in construction and other industries.
Take the next step towards safer, smarter working at height by booking your IPAF course here.
