IPAF OPERATOR TRAINING

With a high pass rate and supportive, qualified trainers, gain your IPAF access platform operator certificate with Horizon Platforms today! We will be with you every step of the way to ensure you can achieve your operator IPAF card with ease and confidence. 

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

After completing the IPAF Operator Course, the candidate will demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the operation of powered access platforms in an exam and obtain 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 (IPAF 1a training course)
  Vertical personnel platforms (static)
• Static Boom (IPAF 1b and 1b+ training courses)
  Self-propelled booms (outriggers), trailers/push-around, vehicle-mounted platforms
• Mobile Vertical (IPAF 3a and 3a+ training courses)
  Scissor lifts, vertical personnel platforms (mobile)
• Mobile Boom (IPAF 3b and 3b+training courses)
  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 many 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 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 to 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 selecting a course or want to discuss training course locations, contact our friendly team here or via Live Chat when available.

IPAF Operator Course FAQs

What is IPAF?

IPAF stands for the International Powered Access Federation and is a not-for-profit organisation promoting the safe and effective use of powered access equipment. 

Why should I take IPAF Operator Training?

By law, you must be trained and licensed to operate a MEWP. IPAF Training is recommended as you'll have thorough and accredited training records from your training, which can be supplied during a legal enquiry should an accident occur. This will protect both you and your company name. 

What does IPAF Operator Training Involve? 

IPAF Operator Training is essential for those seeking an MEWP Operator Licence. The candidate must complete both practical and theoretical aspects of the course 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 and the other practical-based.

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

What are the IPAF Training requirements?

To partake in IPAF Training, you must be aged 16 years+.

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

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

What IPAF Operator Training should I take?

The type of IPAF Operator Training you need depends on the MEWP you intend to use.

• For a static boom lift, you will need 1b IPAF Training
• For a mobile scissor lift you will need 3a IPAF Training
• For a mobile cherry picker you will need 3b IPAF Training

We also have a combined IPAF 3a and IPAF 3b course as well as a 1a, 3a and 3b combined course for those working with multiple MEWPs, as well as a PAV course for push-around platforms. 

Head over to our blog for more advice on how to choose the right IPAF Training Course. 

Where is IPAF Training carried out? 

Training can be completed at either Horizon Platforms’ depot, on-site at your own workplace or 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 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. 

How long does IPAF Operator Training last?

After completing your IPAF Operator Course, your Powered Access Licence will last for five years. You should renew your training in the year before your licence expires.

How do I become an IPAF Instructor?

If you would like to train further IPAF Operators for your company, you can take the Horizon Platforms IPAF Instructor Course. 

Please remember that you must be an IPAF Operator and IPAF Demonstrator qualified before taking this course, as well as being first aid trained and having taken our MEWPs for Managers Course. 

Why should I do my IPAF Operator Training with Horizon Platforms?

When you undertake IPAF Training with Horizon Platforms, you’ll learn from highly qualified instructors. You’ll have the option of training in our custom Wakefield MEWP training centre, at one of our partner sites or at your own place of work, whichever you prefer. 

We keep a record of all candidates who train with us, providing you with full evidence of accredited training and licensing in the event of an enquiry. We also proudly boast a 96% pass rate on our courses, so you can confidently train with us. 

Discover our IPAF Training FAQs to learn more.