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In this blog, we explore everything you need to know about IPAF training.
IPAF training is a training course that teaches operators everything they need to operate powered access equipment safely, such as cherry pickers, scissor lifts and other boom lifts in a safe way.
IPAF stands for The International Powered Access Federation, which is an organisation that promotes the safe use of powered access equipment.
An IPAF training course covers every aspect of using and operating a MEWP (mobile-elevated work platform) safely. Including:
There are a number of different IPAF training courses, you can choose from. If you’re unsure what would be best for you then please get in touch and one of our friendly team members will be happy to help find the perfect course for you. At Star Platform, we offer the following IPAF training courses:
Our MEWPs for managers course is for site supervisors who will be working around and with MEWPs. This is essential training for a range of fields including everything from facilities management to retail to foremen.
The operator training course will include a practical training session, as well as a theory section followed by a practical assessment and a theory assessment. The practical training will allow you to gain hands-on experience using the MEWPs, bringing you one step closer to becoming an accredited IPAF operator.
Out Static Vertical 1A Training will inform operators on the best practices when it comes to using static vertical personnel platforms and award a ePAL card at the end of the course. 1A+ offers practical training for operators using static vertical machines in challenging environments.
In this course, operators will learn how to drive, manoeuvre, and position static booms. This course will cover the awareness of health and safety regulations, accident prevention, pre-use checks and inspections, and more. For those needing to operate a static boom in challenging conditions, the 1b+ course offers practical training with an emphasis on challenging conditions.
This training is for push around verticals, which are small static vertical machines that don’t require a driver to operate. They are mobile elevating work platforms that, as the name suggests, can be physically pushed around.
This IPAF training is for experienced operators and will teach operators how to use Insulated Aerial Devices, which are predominantly used in the power plant sector for access to overhead power lines. Operators will have to have completed a 1B training course a minimum of six months before beginning this course.
This training course will cover a series of fall protection measures as well as appropriate harness use. Undergoing this training can be the difference between serious injury and returning to your job the next day. During this training, operators will be given practical exercises that will give them the skills required to use body harnesses in a safe and practical way.
The price of IPAF training will depend on the training provider you choose, the course you are attending and the location. If you’re interested to find out how much an IPAF training course is with Star Platform, please get in touch or take a look at our IPAF course booking page.
After completing an IPAF training course, you should have all the knowledge required to operate a powered access platform safely and efficiently, including all relevant health and safety regulations. It is important to choose a reputable training provider to ensure you receive the best training.
Some parts of an IPAF training course can be completed online (depending on your training provider). However most IPAF training courses require you to attend a practical training session and an in-person practical assessment.
Yes, IPAF training can be completed in-person at a training centre of your training provider. IPAFtraining courses include a theory training session (which sometimes can be completed online if more convenient), a practical training session, as well as a theory assessment (again can be sometimes completed online) and a practical assessment.
The practical training session and practical assessment will be required to be in person at a training centre of your provider.
A PAL Card (Powered Access Licence Card) is awarded at an IPAF training centre once you successfully complete an IPAF operator course. This indicates that you have successfully completed the IPAF training needed to use mobile elevating work platforms. A PAL card will be issued virtually, however you can purchase a physical PAL card if you wish.
An IPAF licence and PAL card will be valid for five years. This should be renewed in the last year prior to expiry. You will need an up-to-date log book and your old IPAF certification to renew your licence.
To check if your PAL card is still valid, visit the official IPAF website.
Technically the training provided by employers doesn’t have to be IPAF training. However, an IPAF training course will cover all the relevant health and safety legislation and guidance on how employees will work at height safely.
Read our blog to find out more about the legal requirements around IPAF training.
According to the 2022/23 annual report completed by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the leading cause of death for workers is falls from height. In 2022/23, there were 40 deaths, 11 more than the previous year.
Even a fall from a low height, 2m or under, can be fatal. This emphasises the importance of regular adequate training to ensure all your workers are safe when working at height and doing their job.
The length of your IPAF training will depend on the course you choose and the training provider you go with. Usually, an IPAF training course takes between one to two days to complete. Some courses will only take half a day.
Your PAL Card must be renewed in the final year, prior to expiry. Licence renewal can be done before the expiry date by contacting one of the training centres near you. There is no renewal test.
You will have to have proof of your current IPAF operator training (your old PAL card, or certificate) and your log book with a minimum of 60 valid entries, with 10 being in the last year. If your PAL Card passes its expiry date without renewal, you will have to take the full operator course again.
If you’re interested in becoming an IPAF training instructor, we’ve put together a blog that explores how to become an IPAF instructor and what to expect. From the qualifications you need to the usual daily duties and tips to help you on your way, we’ve got the information you need to help you decide whether this role is a good fit.
If you are interested in booking an IPAF training course for you or your employees, then you can do so using our online booking system. Alternatively, if you’re unsure on what IPAF training course is best, then please get in touch and one of our friendly IPAF training experts will be happy to help.
Alternatively, if you’re ready to hire a powered access platform, we have both diesel and electric cherry pickers, scissor lifts, or low-level platforms to choose from—we have over 4,000 powered access machines in our fleet and access to over 10,000 platforms nationally.
Alternatively, if you’re looking to purchase or hire electric or hybrid powered access platforms, then you’re in the right place. At Star Platforms, we have new and used access platforms for hire and for purchase.
If you need help choosing the right solution for your needs and requirements, then our team at Star Platforms can help – get in touch today.
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