Locations

• Kent
• London East (HVO)
• London West (HVO)
• Luton

Locations 

• Kent 

• London East (HVO) 

• London West (HVO) 

• Luton 

About the IPAF 3A and 3B Operator Training Course 

The IPAF 3a and 3b Operator Training Course provides essential instruction for those operating Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) such as scissor lifts and boom lifts (also known as cherry pickers). Designed to promote safe working at height, this course combines classroom learning with hands-on training and assessment. 

Successful candidates will receive an IPAF Certificate of Training and a PAL (Powered Access Licence) Card, internationally recognised as proof of MEWP competence. 

 

MEWP Categories Covered 

This course qualifies operators in the following IPAF categories: 

• 3A: Mobile Vertical (e.g. scissor lifts, vertical personnel platforms) 

• 3B: Mobile Boom (e.g. self-propelled and articulated boom lifts) 

Course Duration 

• Duration: 1 full day 

• Format: Classroom tutorials, theory exam, practical training, practical assessment 

 

Course Programme 

1. Arrival & Induction 

• Welcome by IPAF-certified trainer 

• Pre-course knowledge check (multiple-choice practice quiz) 

2. Classroom Tutorials 

Topics include: 

• Health & Safety at Work Act 

• Working at Height Regulations 

• Accident prevention and PPE 

• Use of the IPAF Operator Safety Guide (take-home resource) 

3. Theory Assessment 

• Open-book, multiple-choice assessment 

• Based on tutorial content 

4. Practical Training 

Candidates will: 

• Perform pre-use machine inspections 

• Wear and adjust a safety harness correctly 

• Learn manual and auxiliary descent procedures 

• Operate MEWPs safely and navigate hazards 

5. Practical Assessment 

• Conducted to IPAF standards 

• Must be passed for certification 
   

Certification 

Successful delegates will receive: 

• IPAF 3A and 3B Certificate of Training 

• Digital PAL Card via the IPAF ePAL app (includes digital logbook and safety resources) 

• Optional physical PAL Card + Certificate: £15 + VAT (must be requested before course start) 

Why Take This Course? 

• Required for operating MEWPs legally on most UK job sites 

• Reduces the risk of accidents and equipment damage 

• Boosts employability and workplace safety compliance 

• Certification valid for 5 years 

 

As Europe’s largest provider of IPAF training, we help you stay safe, certified, and compliant when working at height. 

Course Objectives

The course aims to ensure delegates can: 

• Safely prepare and operate MEWPs in categories 3A and 3B 

• Conduct pre-use inspections and safety checks 

• Operate machines while elevated (as permitted by manufacturer) 

• Comply with UK health and safety legislation and IPAF guidance 

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for: 

• Site operatives using scissor or boom lifts 

• Construction and industrial contractors 

• First-time users of MEWPs 

• Operators needing to renew expired IPAF PAL Cards 
   

Candidate Requirements 

To attend this course, delegates must: 

• Be physically fit and in good health 

• Be able to read and understand safety notices and manuals 

• Bring appropriate PPE: 
  
  Hard hat (with chin strap preferred) 
  Safety harness with short adjustable lanyard 
  Hi-vis vest 
  Safety footwear 
  Eye protection