IPAF OPERATOR TRAINING

Our IPAF Operator Course is designed to teach candidates safe and proper use of powered access platforms, including cherry pickers and scissor lifts. 

Upon completion of the IPAF training course, the candidate will have demonstrated sufficient knowledge of the operation of powered access platforms and obtained a Powered Access Licence (PAL Card).

At Horizon Platforms, we can deliver IPAF Operator Training Courses at our well-equipped training centre or at a location which suits you.

There are 4 categories of powered access machinery that an operator licence can be obtained:

  • Static Vertical (1a)
    Vertical personnel platforms (static)
  • Static Boom (1b, 1b+)
    Self-propelled booms (outriggers), trailers/push-arounds, vehicle-mounted platforms
  • Mobile Vertical (3a, 3a+)
    Scissor lifts, vertical personnel platforms (mobile)
  • Mobile Boom (3b, 3b+)
    Self-propelled booms

MEWP training courses can be booked for a single category or multiple categories. 

IPAF COURSE CONTENT & LENGTH

The aim of this course is to instruct an operator to prepare and operate various types of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs). 

It features 3 to 4 hours of self-paced online training, followed by in-person practical training and an exam. The duration of the practical section depends on a number of factors and can range from a few hours to 1 day. Get in touch and we will let you know the specific duration of your course.

IPAF COURSE FORMAT

Our IPAF operator training courses are delivered via a mixture of e-learning and in-person training, followed by a practical exam. 

  • 3 to 4-hour online training (link provided upon registration).
  • In-person practical training.
  • In-person theory and practical exam.

IPAF COURSE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

To guarantee the safety of candidates and instructors, we require candidates bring the following to their in-person practical training and exam.

  • Safety footwear
  • Hard hat
  • Hi-vis vest/t-shirt/sweatshirt
  • Harness and Lanyard

IPAF COURSE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Age 16 years+.

For the practical you must have completed your eLearning in advance. If you have not done this prior to arriving for your practical test, you will not be able to take the practical exam.

Any prospective delegate must be in good health and fit enough to climb into and out of the machines.

IPAF OPERATOR COURSES AVAILABLE

View the range of courses on offer from our IPAF-approved test centre. From single modules to combined operator courses, there’s everything experts need to get qualified. If you need help with selecting a course or want to discuss training course locations, contact our friendly team here or via Live Chat when available.


IPAF 1b

1b: Static Boom

Online theory (4 hour course) and practical at our depot for the 1b category.

More info
IPAF 1b 3a 3b

1b/3a/3b: Combined Course

Online theory (4 hour course) and practical at our depot for 1b/3a/3b categories.

More info
IPAF 3a

3a: Mobile Scissor

Online theory (4 hour course) and practical at our depot for the 3a category.

More info
IPAF 3b

3b: Mobile Vertical

Online theory (4 hour course) and practical at our depot for the 3b category.

More info
IPAF 3a 3b

3a/3b: Combined Course

Online Theory (4 hour course) and practical at our depot for 3a/3b categories.

More info
IPAF PAV

PAV: Push Around Vertical (Classroom)

Half day course with theory and practical at our depot for full PAV category.

More info

What Does IPAF Operator Training Involve?

IPAF operator training is essential for those looking to obtain their MEWP operator licence. The candidate must complete both practical and theory aspects of the course in order to gain sufficient knowledge to pass. Once the training units have been completed, the candidate will face two assessments, one of which will be a theory test whilst the other will be practical-based.

Read our Ultimate guide to Access Platform Training for more information.

Where is IPAF Training Carried Out?

Training can be completed at either Horizon Platforms’ depot, on-site at your own workplace or at one of our partner sites across the country. The theory aspect of the training can be performed both online and in person, but the practical must be carried out in person.

Not only does obtaining a MEWP operator’s licence allow you to use access platforms safely, but it also enables you to undertake higher-level courses such as MEWPs for Managers and IPAF Demonstrator.

Looking for more advice on IPAF Training? Read our access platform FAQs. 

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