IPAF Training Courses
Cherry Picker, Scissor Lift & Static Boom Lift Training Courses
Nationwide Platforms is the largest provider of IPAF training courses throughout Europe. We have training centres located throughout the UK, from Aberdeen to Cornwall, ensuring that we'll have one local to you. We also offer some online courses so you can fit your training around your other commitments.
FIND YOUR NEAREST IPAF ACCREDITED TRAINING CENTRE
Why complete IPAF training courses?
We're accredited by IPAF and all of our courses are delivered by our highly trained, award-winning instructors.
These courses have been designed by IPAF (International Powered Access Federation) to ensure you are compliant with health & safety regulations when using powered access equipment.
Book your IPAF training course online today.
Which IPAF course is right for me?
Not sure which course is right for you? Here are who each of the IPAF standards cover:
IPAF 3A – Scissor Lift Training
This course teaches you how to use scissor lifts safely. You’ll learn how to set up, drive, and operate mobile vertical lifts of different sizes and power types.
IPAF 3B – Cherry Picker & Mobile Booms Lift Training
This course covers cherry pickers and boom lifts. It shows you how to move, position, and control mobile booms, including articulated and telescopic types.
IPAF 1B – Van Mounted & Static Boom Lift Training
This course focuses on static boom lifts, such as van- or trailer-mounted platforms. You’ll learn how to set them up and operate them safely on-site.
IPAF FAQs
What is IPAF?
IPAF is a global group that works to keep powered access equipment safe and effective. It is a not-for-profit organisation.
What does IPAF stand for?
IPAF stands for International Powered Access Federation.
What is IPAF training?
IPAF training teaches people how to use powered access equipment safely. It covers both theory and practice for operating MEWPs, like scissor lifts and cherry pickers.
What is an IPAF licence?
An IPAF licence, or PAL card, shows that the holder has passed training and can use powered access equipment safely.
How long does an IPAF certificate last?
An IPAF certificate, or PAL card, is valid for five years from the date of training.
How much is IPAF training?
The cost of IPAF training varies depending on the training provider and the specific course. It's best to contact your local training centre for current prices.
What does IPAF 3a and 3b cover?
In IPAF terms, 3a refers to Mobile Vertical Lifts, like scissor lifts, and 3b refers to Mobile Boom Lifts, like cherry pickers.
Does IPAF cover harness training?
IPAF training does not cover harness use. For this, you need courses like Harness Awareness, Harness User, or Harness Inspection.
What is IPAF qualification?
An IPAF qualification signifies that the holder has been trained to a high standard in operating powered access equipment and understands the safety procedures surrounding their use.
What does an IPAF licence cover?
An IPAF licence covers the operation of certain types of powered access equipment, such as scissor lifts, cherry pickers, and boom lifts. The specific types of equipment are designated by categories on the PAL card.
Is it a legal requirement to have an IPAF?
IPAF certification is not a legal requirement. But many employers in construction, maintenance, and other industries still expect it for safe working.
Do you need IPAF for a pop-up?
If you use a pop-up lift or other powered access equipment, IPAF certification is recommended. It helps you work safely and efficiently.
What happens on an IPAF course?
During an IPAF course, participants receive both theoretical knowledge and practical skills training. The course covers topics like legislation, safety guidelines, pre-use checks and maintenance, and operating powered access equipment.
How do I get an IPAF certificate?
You can get an IPAF certificate by completing a training course through an approved training centre. Upon successful completion of the course, you'll receive your PAL card.
How long is IPAF valid for?
An IPAF PAL card is valid for five years.
What countries is IPAF recognised?
IPAF is recognised in countries around the globe, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
What is an IPAF operator?
An IPAF operator is trained to use powered access machines like boom lifts, scissor lifts, and cherry pickers safely.
How do I get my IPAF certificate?
To get your IPAF certificate, you'll need to successfully complete a training course at an approved IPAF training centre.
Do I need an IPAF licence?
If you operate powered access equipment, such as a scissor lift or cherry picker, it's strongly recommended to have an IPAF licence. This is to ensure your own safety and to comply with many employers' requirements.
IPAF 3A and 3B Operator Training Course
22/01/2026 - 29/06/2026The IPAF 3a and 3b Training Course instructs an operator to prepare and operate various types of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) including cherry pickers, scissor lifts, and mobile booms such as articulated & electric boom lifts
IPAF 3A and 3B Operator Training Course [London]
26/01/2026 - 03/09/2026The IPAF 3a and 3b Training Course instructs an operator to prepare and operate various types of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) including cherry pickers, scissor lifts, and mobile booms such as articulated & electric boom lifts
IPAF 3A and 3B Operator Training Course [SAT]
31/01/2026 - 14/02/2026SATURDAY BOOKINGS
The IPAF 3a and 3b Training Course instructs an operator to prepare and operate various types of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) including cherry pickers, scissor lifts, and mobile booms such as articulated & electric boom lifts.
IPAF 3A Operator Training Course
The IPAF 3a Training Course instructs an operator to prepare and operate various types of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) namely scissor lifts.
The machine categories included are:
- Mobile Scissor Lifts (3a): Scissor lifts, mobile vertical personnel platforms
IPAF 3A Operator Training Course [London]
The IPAF 3a Training Course instructs an operator to prepare and operate various types of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) namely scissor lifts.
The machine categories included are:
- Mobile Scissor Lifts (3a): Scissor lifts, mobile vertical personnel platforms
IPAF Competent Assessed Person (CAP) Programme
The IPAF CAP programme provides up-to-date guidance for platform engineers on compliance with regulatory requirements and evidence that individuals are competent persons to plan, manage or conduct thorough examinations of powered access platforms.
IPAF Harness Awareness and Harness User
The IPAF Harness Awareness and User course is a combination of the Harness Awareness and Harness User courses. This course is essential for those who DO need to use or wear a harness themselves. Delegates should first take the Harness Awareness course and then attend one of our training centres to take the Harness User practical assessment.
IPAF Harness Awareness and Harness User [London]
The IPAF Harness Awareness and User course is a combination of the Harness Awareness and Harness User courses. This course is essential for those who DO need to use or wear a harness themselves. Delegates should first take the Harness Awareness course and then attend one of our training centres to take the Harness User practical assessment.
IPAF Harness Awareness, User and Inspection Training Course
23/01/2026 - 18/03/2026The IPAF Harness User, Awareness and Inspection course is essential for anyone who will personally conduct statutory inspections on behalf of an organisation. Candidates who are responsible for inspecting their company’s personal fall protection equipment (PFPE) and maintaining inspection records (including those required by law), should first take the Harness Awareness and Harness User courses, followed by the Harness Inspection course.
IPAF OP: Mobile Boom 1B [London]
This programme is designed for the operators of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and those looking to renew their operator licences.
IPAF OP: Mobile Boom 3B [London]
The IPAF 3b Training Course instructs an operator to prepare and operate various types of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) namely Boom lifts.
The machine categories included are:
Mobile Boom Lifts (3b): Boom lifts
IPAF OP: Mobile Vertical/Mobile Boom/Static Boom 3A 3B 1B [London]
02/02/2026 - 26/05/2026This programme is designed for the operators of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and those looking to renew their operator licences.
IPAF Online Operator Theory
IPAF's eLearning provides a flexible and enhanced online learning experience for the mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) operator. It provides the same high-quality theory training as in the classroom and can be completed on a range of devices anytime, anywhere, at your own pace. IPAF’s eLearning for MEWP operators is available for all MEWP categories (1b, 3a, 3b)
IPAF OP: Mobile Vertical/Mobile Boom/Static Boom 3A 3B 1B
22/01/2026 - 29/05/2026This programme is designed for the operators of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and those looking to renew their operator licences.
IPAF OP: Static Booms 1B [SAT]
This programme is designed for the operators of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and those looking to renew their operator licences.
IPAF Site Assessment (for MEWP Selection)
Choosing the right Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) for a working at height task can be a complex challenge. Being confident and sufficiently knowledgeable to select the right platform for the job directly reduces risk. Correct platform selection also improves the effectiveness and efficiency of MEWP operation, reducing unnecessary costs and ensuring site safety. The course guides candidates through the process of determining the right powered access unit or units for a given task.
IPAF: MEWPS for Managers Virtual Classroom
Our IPAF’s MEWPs for Managers course can now be delivered virtually. The course is delivered via video conference with a Nationwide Platforms instructor. It provides the same high quality training as the classroom based course, with the benefit of sitting the course in the comfort of your own home.
Our IPAF’s MEWPs for Managers course can now be delivered virtually. The course is delivered via video conference with a Nationwide Platforms instructor. It provides the same high quality training as the classroom based course, with the benefit of sitting the course in the comfort of your own home.
The course covers what managers need to know for safe and effective use of MEWPs on site. This includes - planning the job, risk assessment and selecting the right equipment for cost-efficiency and risk mitigation.
IPAF: MEWPs for Managers
The IPAF MEWPs for Managers course is essential training for anyone who supervises or plans working at height. Developed in conjunction with major contractors, the course covers topics including the correct selection of platforms, regulations associated with work at height, emergency procedures, equipment maintenance and pre-use checks. Practical demonstrations are also included if machines are available.
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
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IPAF ePAL
From May 2021 all candidates who undertake IPAF training and pass will get their licence digitally through IPAF’s new app, ePAL.
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