PASMA stands for the Prefabricated Access Suppliers' and Manufacturers' Association, the UK's leading not-for-profit trade body and HSE recognised authority for the mobile access tower industry.

PASMA doesn't deliver training itself, though. Instead, it approves training centres and instructors, sets the curriculum and assessment criteria, and maintains the certification system, with the approved training centre issuing the certificate and card once a candidate passes.

A PASMA card is valid for five years, after which delegates need to complete a further PASMA course to renew their certification and continue demonstrating competence.

Access to that card has changed too: PASMA cards are now accessed primarily through the TowerSure app, available on iOS and Android. Physical plastic cards are being phased out, though they remain available on request at an additional cost for those without a smartphone or email.

Finally, it's worth distinguishing PASMA from IPAF, as the two are often mentioned together. Both relate to the Work at Height Regulations, but PASMA courses are specific to the safe use of mobile access towers, while IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) focuses on the safe use of powered access equipment such as MEWPs.