IPAF Operator Training Course 3a & 3b (E-Learning Theory)

The IPAF Operator Training Course (3a & 3b) with E-Learning Theory requires delegates to successfully complete their online element the day before the practical assessment. Designed for anyone who operates a Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP), such as scissor lifts or boom lifts, this course helps delegates comply with the duties placed upon employers and employees by law, and the International Powered Access Federation licence is recognised all over the world. Anyone who'd prefer to complete both theory and practical elements in a single day, rather than the online-then-in-person format here, should look at the standard IPAF Operator Training Course (3a & 3b) instead.

Candidates should allow two to three hours for their online training on a compatible device such as a PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone. It's vital that the device has a camera, since IPAF uses facial recognition to confirm identification throughout the course and test. Delegates should also make sure they combine this with harness-specific training, such as the IPAF Harness Awareness, User and Inspection Course (HA-HU-HI), if that skill set isn't already covered.

Delegates must also 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 of the full IPAF course, candidates will be:

• Fully aware of the relevant Health and Safety regulations
• Able to manoeuvre the machine as required
• Fully aware of accident prevention and control
• Able to drive the MEWP proficiently and safely
• Fully aware of the needs regarding personal protection
• Able to correctly position and carry out the required tasks in a correct and proper manner

This course will cover the following topics:

• 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
• Practical Operating Test
• Multiple Choice Test Paper

Candidates undertake their theory via e-learning, which takes around two to three hours, followed by a practical assessment at the approved training centre venue. 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.

This IPAF course designed for anyone who uses Cherry Pickers and Scissor Lifts.

For the e-learning theory element, delegates are required to take their online training on a compatible device such as a PC, Mac, tablet or smartphone, and it's vital that the device has a camera, since IPAF uses facial recognition to confirm identification throughout the course and test. The correct delegate email address must be supplied at the time of booking, since the IPAF link will not work if the registration email is forwarded to a different address, and the e-learning must be completed before attending the course or the delegate will be refused entry.

For the practical assessment, candidates must be at least 16 years old, literate, physically fit, and must have completed and passed the e-learning element before attending. 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. Users should also 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.