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October 14, 2024
What are the Benefits of IPAF Training?
IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) is a globally recognised provider of operator training for those involved with working at heights. IPAF training covers both practical training and theory-based instruction, conducted at registered training centres across the UK. For those in the construction industry using access equipment like mobile vertical or mobile boom platforms, the IPAF training programme ensures awareness of all safety requirements when working at height.
Why Attend an IPAF Training Course?
In the UK, there are no strict legal requirements to obtain IPAF certification for working at height. However, many employers prefer workers to be conversant with working-at-height regulations and to have undergone appropriate safety training. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 mandate that employers ensure all employees who work at height are competently trained or supervised by a skilled person. IPAF courses offer a comprehensive range of classroom and practical instruction to meet these standards.
IPAF training courses are an effective way to consistently meet on-site health and safety regulations. Individuals aged 16 years or older are eligible to attend IPAF training courses, including the E-Learning for MEWP operators in all MEWP categories (1a, 1b, 3a, 3b). Upon successful completion, attendees receive an IPAF PAL (Powered Access Licence) card, which is valid for five years and acts as proof of their ability to operate various types of MEWPs safely.
Advantages of IPAF Training
Completing an IPAF training course provides several key advantages. Holding an IPAF PAL card can make workers more employable, especially as many roles in the construction industry require certified platform operators who have been trained to the highest standard. Most importantly, IPAF training courses teach safe work practices, including proof of platform operator training, which is critical given the potential risks of working at height. The training covers everything from risk assessment to the correct and safe usage of platforms, ensuring that workers are well-prepared to handle various types of MEWPs including static vertical and mobile boom platforms.
Some other benefits of completing an IPAF training course include:
- Correct and safe usage of platforms
- Safe usage of harnesses and protective equipment
- Understanding the effective use of MEWPs and working at height machinery
- Comprehensive risk assessment processes
- Emergency procedures and hazard recognition
- Safe assembly, usage, and dismantling of access platforms
IPAF training is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance when working at height, making it indispensable for those operating in high-risk environments.
At Access Towers, we are an official IPAF associate, which allows us to allocate delegates to IPAF training courses across London and South East England. To learn more about accessing IPAF training or any other Access Towers services, get in touch today by calling us on 0208 665 1181 or contacting us online.
What Do You Need to Know About IPAF Training?
Discover key details about IPAF training, including course duration, costs, and licence benefits. Whether you’re new to powered access equipment or looking to refresh your skills, this guide will answer your pressing questions and help you understand the importance of IPAF certification for safe and compliant work at height.
Contact Us Today for a Tailored IPAF Training Quote
What is IPAF training?
IPAF training focuses on the safe and efficient operation of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs), including boom lifts and scissor lifts. It combines practical training and theoretical elements to ensure operators are competent in handling these machines safely.
How much does IPAF training cost?
The cost of IPAF training varies depending on the course type and location. For an accurate quote, please contact us directly, and we’ll provide a tailored price based on your needs.
How long does an IPAF course take?
The duration of an IPAF course typically ranges from one to two days, depending on the specific course and the participant’s prior experience with MEWPs.
What does IPAF licence mean?
An IPAF licence, also known as a Powered Access Licence (PAL), is awarded upon successful completion of an IPAF course. It certifies that the holder is qualified to operate specific types of MEWPs safely.
Can I go in a MEWP without IPAF?
While it is not a legal requirement to hold an IPAF licence to operate a MEWP in the UK, it is highly recommended. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 mandate that employers ensure employees are competently trained, and IPAF certification is widely recognised as evidence of such competency.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered working at height?
Anything above ground level is considered Working at Height. Access Towers are a large provider of PASMA Training and sit within the top 5% in the UK, allowing us to train the full range of 1-Day PASMA Courses to suit any of your work at height Tower Training requirements.
What are the working at height regulations?
It is recommended by Health & Safety standards that those who are assembling Towers should be PASMA Trained. This will give operatives a 5-year qualification of competency for the use of mobile towers.
Do I need to have a licence/certificate to use the equipment?
Certifications will vary depending on what equipment you’re hiring. It’s always best to speak with our Hire Desk if you are unsure, where they can advise what will be best for you or in more advanced working conditions, we can install onsite.
What are the different training sessions you offer & who are they for?
Training courses are for anyone using the equipment, from commercially to domestically. These will range from PASMA Training for the use of Towers, IPAF Training for the use of MEWPS as well as various other courses such as Safety Harness Training and First Aid.
How do I know which equipment will be right for the job?
Our Hire Desk are trained across the full range of work at height stock available and will be able to advise and assist cost-free.
How quickly can you supply the tower(s)?
We aim for a next-day turnaround, this is dependent on the transport routes and how busy we are at the time. It works both ways and could be earlier than your requested date.