IPAF Course

IPAF Training – Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) Operator Training

Course Overview

IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) training is designed for individuals who need to operate Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) safely and competently in construction, maintenance, facilities management and other industries where working at height is required.

The course combines classroom-based learning with practical training to develop the knowledge and skills needed to operate powered access equipment safely. Delegates learn how to identify potential hazards, carry out pre-use inspections, understand equipment limitations and follow the correct operating procedures.

IPAF training helps promote safe working practices, reduce the risk of accidents and ensure operators understand their responsibilities when using mobile elevating work platforms.

What Is Involved in the IPAF Training Course?

The course covers the essential theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to operate the relevant category of powered access equipment. Training is delivered by qualified instructors and includes a theory assessment and a practical assessment.

1. Health and Safety Legislation

Delegates learn about the relevant health and safety legislation and guidance relating to the use of powered access equipment.

Topics include the responsibilities of employers and operators, safe systems of work, risk assessments and the importance of following site-specific safety procedures.

2. Introduction to MEWPs

Delegates are introduced to Mobile Elevating Work Platforms and their applications within the workplace.

Training explains the different types of powered access equipment, their intended uses and the importance of selecting the correct machine for the task.

The course may cover equipment such as:

• Scissor lifts and vertical personnel platforms.
• Boom lifts, including articulated and telescopic booms.
• Static and mobile elevating work platforms, depending on the selected category.

3. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

Understanding the hazards associated with operating MEWPs is an essential part of the training.

Delegates learn to identify potential risks, assess working conditions and apply appropriate control measures before and during operation.

Topics include:

• Uneven ground and unsuitable surfaces.
• Overhead obstructions and electrical hazards.
• Crushing and trapping hazards.
• Working near pedestrians, vehicles and other plant.
• Wind, weather and environmental conditions.
• Falling objects and dropped tools.
• Safe positioning and exclusion zones.

Delegates are taught the importance of following the manufacturer’s instructions and site risk assessments at all times.

4. Pre-Use Inspections and Equipment Checks

Before operating a MEWP, operators must understand how to check that the equipment is safe and suitable for use.

Training covers pre-use inspections, functional checks and the identification of visible damage, defects or faults.

Delegates learn the importance of checking relevant safety devices, controls, tyres, wheels, guardrails and other components applicable to the equipment being used.

They also learn how to report defects and why equipment must not be used if it is unsafe.

5. Safe Operating Procedures

The course explains how to operate powered access equipment safely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Delegates learn about the correct use of controls, safe positioning, movement of the platform and maintaining stability during operation.

Training also covers the importance of respecting the machine’s rated capacity, avoiding unsafe manoeuvres and maintaining awareness of people and hazards in the surrounding work area.

6. Working at Height and Fall Prevention

Delegates learn about the risks associated with working at height and the precautions required to protect themselves and others.

Topics include maintaining safe working positions, using guardrails correctly, preventing falls and understanding the circumstances in which suitable personal fall protection equipment is required.

The course also explains the importance of following equipment-specific instructions and site procedures when working from elevated platforms.

7. Practical MEWP Training

The practical element allows delegates to apply their classroom knowledge under the supervision of a qualified instructor.

Depending on the category being undertaken, practical training may include:

• Carrying out pre-use inspections.
• Identifying and checking operating controls.
• Positioning the machine safely.
• Operating the platform through its intended movements.
• Manoeuvring the equipment where applicable.
• Raising, lowering and positioning the platform.
• Recognising hazards and maintaining safe working distances.
• Parking and securing the equipment after use.

Practical exercises are designed to develop operator confidence and demonstrate the ability to use the relevant equipment safely.

8. Emergency Procedures and Rescue Awareness

Delegates learn about the importance of emergency procedures when working with powered access equipment.

This includes understanding emergency lowering systems, knowing how to respond if the machine malfunctions and being aware of the arrangements required to assist an operator who cannot return the platform to ground level.

Training reinforces the importance of understanding the machine’s emergency controls and following the site’s emergency and rescue plan.

IPAF Training Categories

IPAF training is available for different types of powered access equipment. The appropriate category depends on the machine the delegate needs to operate.

Common MEWP categories include:

• Category 1a: Static vertical platforms.
• Category 1b: Static boom platforms.
• Category 3a: Mobile vertical platforms, including many scissor lifts.
• Category 3b: Mobile boom platforms, including many self-propelled boom lifts.

The precise category should be selected according to the equipment and the operator’s intended duties. Additional training categories and specialist courses may also be available.

Who Should Attend IPAF Training?

IPAF training is suitable for individuals who operate or need to operate powered access equipment as part of their job, including:

• Construction workers and site operatives.
• Maintenance engineers and technicians.
• Electricians and installation teams.
• Facilities management personnel.
• Warehouse and industrial maintenance staff.
• Contractors and subcontractors.
• Workers involved in installation, inspection and repair activities at height.

Delegates should select the appropriate course category for the type of equipment they will be using.

Course Duration and Assessment

The duration of an IPAF course depends on the equipment category, the training route and the delegate’s experience. Course arrangements should be confirmed when booking.

Assessment generally includes a theory test and a practical assessment. Delegates must demonstrate an understanding of the course content and the ability to operate the relevant equipment safely.

Successful delegates may receive an IPAF Powered Access Licence (PAL Card), subject to meeting the applicable training and assessment requirements.

The PAL Card provides evidence of the relevant IPAF training and is generally valid for five years, subject to the applicable scheme requirements.

Benefits of IPAF Training

Completing IPAF training helps operators develop the knowledge and practical skills required to use powered access equipment safely.

Key benefits include:

• Improved awareness of working-at-height hazards.
• Greater confidence when operating MEWPs.
• A better understanding of equipment checks and safe operating procedures.
• Improved ability to identify and manage workplace risks.
• Increased awareness of emergency procedures.
• Evidence of relevant operator training for employers and site managers.
• Support for safer working practices across construction and maintenance activities.

Book Your IPAF Training Course Today

Ensure your workforce has the knowledge and practical skills required to operate powered access equipment safely and effectively.

Our IPAF training options help delegates develop their competence, understand their responsibilities and apply safe working practices when using Mobile Elevating Work Platforms.

Contact us to discuss available course categories, dates, locations and delegate requirements.

Book your IPAF training today and take the next step towards safer working at height.