Cherry Picker, Scissor Lift & Static Boom Lift Training Courses 

Nationwide Platforms is the largest provider of IPAF training courses throughout Europe. We have 30 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.  Anyone who operates a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWPs) e.g a cherry picker or scissor lift requires an IPAF PAL Card and IPAF Licence that should be renewed every 5 years.

Book your IPAF training course online today.
 

IPAF 3A and 3B Operator Training Course

20/03/2024 - 06/02/2025

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

from £220.00 per person

IPAF OP: Mobile Vertical/Mobile Boom/Static Boom 3A 3B 1B

22/03/2024 - 02/08/2024

This programme is designed for the operators of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and those looking to renew their operator licences.

from £365.00 per person

IPAF OP: Static Booms 1B Training Course

21/03/2024 - 15/07/2024

This programme is designed for the operators of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) and those looking to renew their operator licences.

from £181.00 per person

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.

from £176.00 per person

IPAF MEWPS for managers online

IPAF's MEWPs for Managers training course covers what managers need to know for safe and effective use of MEWPs on site, including planning the job, conducting a risk assessment, selecting the right equipment for optimum cost-efficiency and mitigating all possible risks. This course has been designed to be completed solely on eLearning, on compatible PCs and tablet devices.

from £115.00 per person

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.

from £65.00 per person

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

Any IPAF course that covers the 3A standard which teach you the principles behind safely operating scissor lifts of various heights and fuel sources.

IPAF 3B – Cherry Picker & Mobile Booms Lift Training

Any IPAF course that covers the 3B standard which teach you the principles behind safely operating cherry pickers and boom lifts of various heights and fuel sources.

IPAF 1B – Van Mounted & Static Boom Lift Training

Any IPAF course that covers the 1B standard which teach you the principles behind safely operating van mounted and static boom lifts of various heights and fuel sources.

IPAF FAQs 

What is IPAF?

IPAF is a not-for-profit organisation that promotes the safe and effective use of powered access equipment worldwide.

What does IPAF stand for?

IPAF stands for International Powered Access Federation.

What is IPAF training?

IPAF training is a safety training course aimed at providing theoretical and practical instruction on the safe and efficient operation of powered access equipment like MEWPs (Mobile Elevating Work Platforms).

What is an IPAF licence?

An IPAF license, also known as a PAL (Powered Access Licence) card, is proof that the holder has been trained to operate 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?

While specific harness training is not covered under general IPAF training, there are dedicated courses like Harness Awareness, Harness User and 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?

While not a legal requirement, many employers in industries where powered access equipment is used regularly, such as construction or maintenance, require workers to hold an IPAF certification to ensure safe work practices.

Do you need IPAF for a pop-up?

Yes, if you're operating a pop-up vertical lift or similarly powered access equipment, having an IPAF certification is recommended to ensure safety and efficiency.

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 someone who has completed IPAF training and can safely operate powered access equipment such as boom lifts, scissor lifts, and cherry pickers.

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 for your own safety and to comply with many employers' requirements. 


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

Find out more
IPAF PAL Card

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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IPAF epaf app

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