IPAF PAL card

The PAL card (Powered Access Licence) is recognised worldwide across industries as proof of platform operator training to the highest standard. 

It is issued by the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) to platform operators who successfully complete a training course at Nationwide Platforms IPAF-approved training centres.

The IPAF training programme was developed by leading industry professionals and is certified by TÜV as conforming to the international standard ISO 18878 Mobile elevating work platforms – operator (driver) training.

Those who successfully complete IPAF training are awarded the Powered Access Licence Smart (PAL) card, the most widely held and recognised proof of training for platform operators. The PAL Smart card is valid for five years and shows the machine categories that the operator has been trained on. It also features the holder’s photo and signature, and can be verified on IPAF’s website (www.ipaf.org).

The data in the SMART PAL card chip can be read by a card reader fitted to the machine, such as Nationwide Platforms innovative SkySentry™️‎ Telematics system. The reader can be set up to accept certain data which in turn will allow the machine to be operated. This data includes whether or not the cardholder (operator) is trained, to what level and in which machine categories.

You can get your PAL card by completing the IPAF 3A / 3B training course at any of our IPAF accredited training centres across the UK. You can book your course here.

Who needs a PAL card

If you need to work at height and use access equipment:

• IPAF believes that you should receive basic training.
• In addition to your main job, e.g. electrician, painter, decorator, cleaner, you will acquire a new skill.
• Platforms are designed to be easy to use and offer a safe way to work at height, but with basic training, you will use the equipment more effectively and safely.

If you are an employer:

You can be sure that legal requirements have been fulfilled if your platform operators have the PAL card.
Most legislation, covering health and safety obligations, accident prevention and work at height regulations, require you to provide employees with proper and adequate training in the use of work equipment.
IPAF training to the highest standards means that your platform operators will also work more efficiently and productively.

For further information, download the IPAF PAL card leaflet here:

Source: www.ipaf.org