IPAF Operator Training Course 3a, 3b & 1b

The IPAF Operator Training Course (3a, 3b & 1b) brings together the operating knowledge of three types of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs): 3a, mobile vertical platforms such as scissor lifts; 3b, mobile boom lifts such as a cherry picker; and 1b, single static booms such as a truck-mounted boom. If your work involves a combination of any of these platforms, this one day course gives you everything you need to know to operate them safely, starting with classroom-based tutorials before moving into practical sessions. Anyone only needing scissor lift and boom lift qualifications can save time on the IPAF Operator Training Course (3a & 3b) instead, without the additional static boom element covered here.

It's against the law to operate these platforms without the relevant qualifications, and the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) licence is internationally recognised; you can also book this course if you need to renew your operator licence. You'll need to demonstrate that you can use each type of MEWP competently to pass. Delegates whose work also involves harness inspection or use should look at the IPAF Harness Awareness, User and Inspection Course (HA-HU-HI) alongside this course.

Delegates must bring specific PPE and photo ID: a passport or photocard driving licence, safety helmet, safety boots or shoes, gloves, hi-vis vest, and a full body harness with adjustable restraint lanyard, without which the practical element cannot be completed. All IPAF certification is issued electronically via ePAL, so students need to download the app onto their device to access any certification they hold; it's recommended delegates do this before the course begins, and a physical PAL card or certificate can be requested at booking for an extra cost.

On successful completion, you will understand:

• The relevant health and safety regulations
• Employers' legal responsibilities
• Employees' legal responsibilities
• The different categories of MEWP
• How to drive each type of machine safely
• How to manoeuvre MEWPs confidently
• Accident prevention and controls
• Pre-use inspections and testing
• Safe operating methods and personal protection
• How to correctly position and carry out tasks

This one-day course covers the following subjects:

• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• Limitations of MEWPS
• Controls, safety devices and warning alarms
• Routine inspection and servicing requirements
• Preparation for work on a MEWP
• Ground and site conditions
• Safe operating techniques
• Emergency lowering procedures
• Manufacturers instruction manuals
• Fall arrest/restraint equipment

This IPAF course requires candidates to undertake a written test and practical assessment for each piece of machinery. On successful completion, delegates access their certification via the ePAL app. Should a physical PAL card and/or certificate be required, this must be requested at time of booking and will be charged at an extra cost. The licence is internationally accepted and is valid for five years.

If you work at height, or need to operate an access platform at work, this course is for you. It could be that you're an electrician, decorator, construction worker, window cleaner, farm worker or retail fitter, there are MEWPs for every type of work in any scenario.

Candidates attending the IPAF Operator Training Course (3a, 3b & 1b) must meet the following entry requirements: be at least 16 years old, be literate with a good level of comprehension, and be physically fit.

Since the safe use of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms requires delegates to consult safety notices and thoroughly understand the manufacturer's instruction manual, literacy and language comprehension are important requirements for any MEWP user. Similarly, since the assembly and use of MEWPs can be physically demanding, users should be physically fit and in good health, and should generally not have problems with eyesight or hearing, heart disease, high blood pressure, epilepsy, fear of heights or vertigo, giddiness or difficulty with balance, impaired limb function, or alcohol, drug dependence or psychiatric illness. Anyone with concerns about literacy, language comprehension or fitness should raise them with their employer, who can assess and put suitable measures in place.

Each delegate must also bring the following PPE: photo ID, either a passport or photocard driving licence, a safety helmet, safety boots or shoes, gloves, a hi-vis vest, and a full body harness with adjustable restraint lanyard. You will not be able to complete the practical element of the training without a suitable harness.