Personnel who will be responsible for the safe use of powered access platforms, scissor lifts, booms and/or cherry pickers should attend the IPAF dual training course. Category 3a (Scissor Lifts only) and 3b (Boom or Cherry picker lifts only) are recommended for single use categories.
Course Summary
The IPAF operator dual category training course is to provide anyone who supervises, manages or uses powered access with an understanding of the need for safe operational procedures, the prevention of accidents, emergency descent operations and the employees and employers responsibilities, when using cherry pickers, scissor lifts, aerial work platforms and trailer mounted booms. IPAF (The International Powered Access Federation) is the industry recognised body and authority for Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPS) and powered access equipment. This includes cherry pickers, scissor lifts, push around verticals (PAVs) and or access platforms.
Our IPAF 3a & 3b Operator Training Course
The IPAF boom and scissor lift training course consists of both theory and practical instruction including:
- Theoretical aspects of the operation of an access work platform
- Understanding and identification of operational hazards
- Procedure, benefits and requirements of pre-operational inspection
- Benefits and procedures of full function testing
- Identification and procedures of specific hazards on site
- Understanding the limitations of machine application
- Applying and understanding the correct starting procedure
- Identifying the proximity of all hazards including overhead
- Travelling with the machine with the platform in the correct position
- Positioning the machine correctly in relation to the task
- Levelling the machine and deploying the stabilisers
- Stowing the equipment and tools safely on the platform
- Safety harness use
- Correctly lowering and raising the platform
- Travelling and slewing correctly
- Dismounting and mounting the machine correctly
IPAF Categories 3a & 3b cover the operation of mobile vertical lifts (3a) & mobile boom lifts (3b).
Category 3a (Mobile Vertical Lifts): Usually called scissor lifts
Category 3b (Mobile Boom Lifts): Mobile boom machines are any self-propelled booms (also known as cherry pickers)
At the end of the IPAF theory session, you will take a short theory test which, if you pass, will allow you to take the practical session in the afternoon. A practical assessment will follow, which, after successful completion will entitle you to an IPAF PAL card valid for five years.
Candidates are required to bring suitable PPE with them on this course:
- Safety harness
- Hard hat
- Steel capped boots
- High visibility vest
- Safety gloves
No formal qualification or experience is necessary, but it would be beneficial if delegates had a basic understanding of working at height regulations and health and safety at work act 1974.
FAQs
What is IPAF Training?
IPAF (The International Powered Access Federation) is the industry recognised body and authority for Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPS) and powered access equipment.
Do I pay for my training in advance?
Yes you do, you can pay online when you book your course, or call 0845 872 3411 and pay with a credit card over the phone. Customers with credit terms, please call Training Plus to book your course on 0845 872 3411.
Who is the Accrediting Body?
IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) is a non profit organisation dedicated to promoting the safe and effective use of powered access worldwide.
What is a PAL card?
IPAF’s PAL Card (Powered Access License) is the proof provided to all persons who successfully complete training and testing on an IPAF machine-based course.
How do I add a category to my IPAF Card?
If operators want to add a category to their PAL Card, they need to successfully complete the IPAF approved Theory Test Paper. In addition to this, they must achieve the required standard when operating each of the machine categories that they wish to add on to their PAL Card.
If demonstrators want to add a category to their PAL Card, they must do the operator theory test and practical test on that category, then do the demonstrator course
Can IPAF training be done on site?
Yes, provided that there are suitable facilities and equipment. Please discuss with the TrainingPlus team if this is required – 0845 8723411 or sales@trainingplus.com
Who keeps the card and certificate?
IPAF suggests that the operator should have the issued card on his/her person at all times when working with MEWPs and the employer should keep the certificate.
Can candidates who have never used a MEWP participate in the operator course?
Yes, however, this may affect the length of the course and/or the candidates’ likelihood of passing.